Las Vegas is considered the entertainment capital of the world. In addition to mega resorts, and non-stop gaming action, the city also offers lots of animal attractions. If I get a dollar every time I hear someone say, "Las Vegas is an adult playground and there is nothing for kids to do here", I will have enough money to build my own casino. Not everyone gambles and most casinos have activities and attractions tailored towards families.
In addition to the long list of ways to entertain kids in Las Vegas, listed below are a few of the many animal attractions, the whole family will enjoy.
At more than 1.6 million gallons of saltwater, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay Hotel is home to 15 species of sharks, giant rays, endangered green sea turtles, piranha and golden crocodiles.
Featuring 14 exhibits and more than 100 species of aquatic animals, the Shark Reef Aquarium is an attraction the whole family will enjoy.
Home to more than 300 exotic birds, a flock of Chilean flamingos and African penguins to name a few.
Location: Flamingo Hotel Las Vegas
Open 24 hours daily
Admission: Free
Imagine swimming inches away from sharks and other marine animals, this is now reality at The Tank at the Golden Nugget Hotel in downtown Las Vegas.
The $30-millon pool at Golden Nugget, features five species of sharks and various game fish encompassing the 200,000-gallon shark aquarium, which is the centerpiece of the three-story pool complex. Complete with waterfalls and a great water slide that speeds adventurous guests through the aquarium. The shark species include sandtiger sharks, brown sharks, Pacific blacktip sharks, nurse sharks and a zebra shark. There are also southern stingrays and a wide variety of large game fish in the colorful reef habitat.
The Tank is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The pool is be open year-round, but may close during inclement weather.
Watch the aquatic life gently glide by at Silverton Casino's 117,000-gallon saltwater aquarium. Considered one of the "Best Free Attractions" in Las Vegas, the aquarium features an artificial reef and is home to more than 4,000 tropical fish, eels, three species of stingrays and three species of sharks.
This 117,000-gallon reef aquarium is large and impressive. You will be transported to a tropical oasis where you can admire free Interactive fish feeding shows daily at 1:30pm, 4:30pm and 7:30pm.
Also, don't miss the live mermaid swim! Mermaid swims are scheduled Thursday from 2:15pm - 8:45pm, Friday and Saturday from 2:15pm - 9:45pm and Sunday from 11:30am - 6:45pm.
In addition, the Mermaid Lounge features two 500-gallon jellyfish aquariums lit with LED lights.
Open 24 hours daily
Admission: Free
Don't leave the kids behind! There are many fun things for them to do too. The casinos have realized it's good business to create a family oriented environment. Vegas strip is now full of activities tailored to kids and families. Here is a comprehensive list of activities for kids in Las Vegas.
