Lori Ballen, the owner of this website, benefits from purchases made through her affiliate links.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this site are affiliate links. Portions of this content are generated by AI.
I get this question a lot, so let me answer it straight. Las Vegas does not have a traditional city zoo right now. The old Southern Nevada Zoological-Botanical Park, which people called the Las Vegas Zoo, closed back in 2013. There is a nonprofit working to build a brand new zoo for the valley, but it is still in the planning stages. The good news is you do not need a zoo to see incredible animals here. As a lifelong Las Vegan, these are the spots I actually send friends and family to when they want to spend a day around wildlife.
Get the best things to do in Las Vegas in your inbox — free.
Where to see animals in Las Vegas
Lion Habitat Ranch
This is the closest thing we have to a real animal sanctuary experience, and it is my favorite for anyone who loves big cats. It is a nonprofit home for rescued lions, and you can watch them, learn their stories, and get close to a tortoise, ostriches, emus, and parrots. Longtime visitors may remember Ozzie the giraffe, a local favorite who passed away in August 2024, so giraffe feeding is no longer part of the visit. Tip: The lion feeding and up-close experiences sell out, so book your time slot ahead on the official site. See the full Lion Habitat Ranch guide →
Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
If you want a true aquarium, this is the one. It is an accredited animal care facility and it is packed with sharks, sea turtles, a giant octopus, rays, and a walk-through tunnel that kids love. You will also spot a Komodo dragon, piranha, and pufferfish along the way. It is fully indoors and air-conditioned, which makes it a perfect summer afternoon. Tip: Buy tickets online ahead of time and go earlier in the day to beat the crowd. See the full Shark Reef guide →
Flamingo Wildlife Habitat
This one is a hidden gem and it is completely free. Tucked behind the Flamingo hotel, it is a lush little oasis of Chilean flamingos, ducks, koi, turtles, and a rescue pelican with waterfalls and shady paths. It is an easy, no-pressure stop if you are already walking the Strip and want a break from the casinos. Tip: Mornings are cooler and the birds are most active, so aim for the daily keeper talk around 10am. See the full Flamingo Wildlife Habitat guide →
Springs Preserve
If you want to see the animals that actually live in our part of the world, this is the place. Springs Preserve has live desert wildlife, botanical gardens, walking trails, and a seasonal butterfly habitat, all built around the natural spring that started Las Vegas. It is educational without feeling stuffy, and it is one of my go-to spots with out of town visitors. Tip: Wear good shoes and bring water. There is a lot of ground to cover outdoors. See current Springs Preserve events →
A few quick tips
Hours and pricing change with the seasons at every one of these, so always check the official site before you drive out. The two ticketed spots that book up fastest are Lion Habitat Ranch and Shark Reef, so reserve those ahead. Flamingo Wildlife Habitat is free, and Springs Preserve and Shark Reef are both great when the summer heat has you looking for shade or air conditioning.
And yes, keep an eye out for that future Las Vegas zoo. When it finally opens, I will update this page.
Get the Best of Las Vegas in Your Inbox
Animal habitats, new attractions, shows, events, and hidden gems around the valley — a few good ideas in your inbox. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Join the Ballen Vegas newsletter — local tips from a lifelong Las Vegan. We’ll never share your email.
Book a Las Vegas animal experience
Tours, tickets, and experiences for your Las Vegas trip.
Some links are affiliate links; we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Thinking about moving to Las Vegas?
There’s a reason so many people fall for this city. If you’re considering a move — or wondering what your current home is worth — my team would love to help.
Get My Home Value → Contact Lori
Lori Ballen
REALTOR® with Keller Williams Realty Las Vegas, leading The Ballen Group. A lifelong Las Vegan sharing the best of the valley.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this site are affiliate links. Portions of this content are generated by AI.
