Lion Habitat Ranch: What to Know Before You Go

A working lion sanctuary in Henderson, about 20 to 25 minutes from the Strip, with roots that trace back to the lions of the MGM Grand.

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A Rescue Sanctuary, Not a Traditional Zoo

Lion Habitat Ranch is a nonprofit animal sanctuary in Henderson that grew out of the lion exhibit that used to live at the MGM Grand on the Strip. When that exhibit closed, the lions needed a permanent home, and this ranch became it. The organization has been caring for lions at this Henderson location since 1989, and today its focus is rescue, conservation, and giving these animals a good life rather than putting on a show.

Get Close, Not Hands-On

You’ll walk right up to the lion habitats and spend as much time as you want watching them, and keepers are out on the grounds throughout the day to answer questions. Federal regulations mean there’s no direct contact with the lions, which is exactly how it should be for animals like these. If you want to go further, the ranch offers a paid lion feeding add-on where you help provide part of a lion’s meal from a safe distance. It’s a popular way to make the visit more hands-on.

Ozzie’s Legacy, and Who You’ll Meet Today

For years, the ranch’s beloved giraffe Ozzie was almost as big a draw as the lions, famous for his daily paintings and his feeding sessions with visitors. Ozzie passed away in 2024 after an injury, and the ranch still honors his memory. On today’s visit you’ll meet the resident tortoises, a flock of vibrant parrots with keeper-led bird chats, and other residents like ostriches and emus. There’s a paid tortoise encounter add-on if you want an up-close feeding and photo moment. Since animal experiences can change, I’d check the ranch’s current site for what’s bookable the week you visit.

Self-Guided and Outdoors

This is a self-guided visit, so you set your own pace walking the grounds rather than following a set tour route. It’s entirely outdoors, so plan around the desert heat in summer and know that the ranch does close for heavy rain. Most visits run an hour or two depending on how long you linger at each habitat and whether you add an animal experience.

Address, Hours, and Tickets

Lion Habitat Ranch is at 382 Bruner Avenue in Henderson, just south of St. Rose Parkway, about 20 to 25 minutes from the Strip depending on traffic. It’s open Thursday through Tuesday with the gate opening at 10am, last admission at 1pm, and closed to the public on Wednesdays. Hours shift a little seasonally, so double-check before you drive out. Tickets, discounts, and add-on experiences change from time to time, so check the current site for tickets rather than relying on an old price. Wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection and water, and know it’s cash- and card-friendly at the ticket booth.

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