Las Vegas’ amazing animal offerings add pizzazz to any party. Here’s a look at five of the very best ways to give your gathering a wild kingdom vibe.
Shark Reef Aquarium, Mandalay Bay
“This popular venue is available for group buyouts of 20 up to 2,000 guests,” says Stephanie Glanzer, vice president of sales for Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. “For VIP events or those wanting a more intimate space, we offer Seascape Ballroom, a private venue within Shark Reef Aquarium with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook 30 sharks and other magnificent aquatic creatures. A truly unique experience.”
The venue showcases a massive, 1.3 million-gallon seawater tank that shows off other sealife beyond the scary sharks, including unique golden crocodiles, piranhas and sea turtles. Feeding encounters and tours can be arranged for groups.
Yoga Among the Dolphins, The Mirage Spa
Downward Dog, meet Diving Dolphin. The Spa at the Mirage is now offering Yoga Among the Dolphins at Sigfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat, where attendees can “strike the pose” while surrounded by spacious viewing windows showing off the captivating creatures. Courses are open to the public, though groups should plan ahead as space is limited.
“Yoga Among the Dolphins is a special, one-of-a-kind workout,” says Bryan Gay, vice president of sales for The Mirage. “Within an underwater viewing area, guests are surrounded by these charismatic dolphins, creating a serene, relaxing environment that enhances the yoga experience.”
Wildlife Habitat, The Flamingo Las Vegas
Wildlife Habitat, a 15-acre animal oasis that is free and open 24 hours a day, presents a superb setting for a small group seeking to enjoy some downtime. Verdant plant life from around the globe and hundreds of creatures—ranging from Chilean flamingos to black swans and albino catfish—are joined by ample water features like koi ponds and cascading waterfalls, and special programs are held each day at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. on the venue’s Flamingo Island.
Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary
The Gilcrease is truly for the birds, in a good way. Dedicated to preserving endangered species, it is host to exotic winged wonders from all over the globe—from South American macaws to Australian cockatoos to African lovebirds and many more feathered friends. Adding to the animal magnetism are earthbound creatures running the gamut from desert tortoises to miniature horses. Occasional special events are held at the venue, which launched back in 1970, and organized tours can be arranged with advance notice.
Silverton Casino and Lounge
For something a bit different, the Silverton Casino and Lounge showcases a 117,000-gallon aquarium populated by countless tropical fish, sharks, manta rays—and mermaids! Live diver feedings are on tap at 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., with the mermaids on display during afternoons and early evenings Thursday through Sunday.
