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Animal Attractions in Las Vegas Hotels

June 30, 2004 at 8:58 AM | 0 Comments

Kirk Kerkorian owns just about everything in Las Vegas, and after his acquisition of the Mandalay Group, he also owns most of the animal attractions in Sin City as well.  

The Mandalay Bay has the Shark Reef, which has over 100 species of sharks, exotic fish, and reptiles.  Giant sea turtles, great hammerhead, lemon and tiger sharks swim together in the same tank.  The jellyfish tank is my favorite; the pink flourescent lighting in the tank and the gentle rhythmic pulsing of the jellyfish is fascinating and calming.  Hours are 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., last entry at 10 p.m.  $14.95 for adults and $9.95 for kids.

The Mirage has the Siegfried & Roy's White Tigers and Dolphin Habitat (no word on whether Monticore is there).  The tigers are oftentimes just lying about, but their size alone is impressive.  Hours are 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekends.  Admission is $12 for adults and free for children under 10.

The MGM Grand hosts the Lion Habitat.  Mr. Kerkorian has bought and sold hotels with the MGM name a few times.  The old MGM is now Bally's, which Kerkorian sold in 1986.  The Lion Habitat is open from 11 to 11 and is free.