It was a little over a year ago, back in late December 2011, that rumors that the MGM Grand Lion Habitat, which had been in operation at the resort-casino since July 1999, was to close were officially confirmed. The attraction remained open until early 2012 but welcomed its last guests at the end of January. The change was part of the property's ongoing "360-degree" makeover, which also saw the end of the road for Studio 54, and the last we heard there are plans to convert the the space formerly occupied by the lions into a live-music venue.
However, all is not lost for lion fans, since the big cats who formerly spent time on display on the Strip are now all housed at the Lion Habitat Ranch in Henderson, located at 382 E. Bruner Avenue (near St. Rose Parkway and Las Vegas Boulevard South), which had always been their base. There are actually around 40 lions and cubs residing there and it's open to the public every weekend from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $20 for adults, who may each bring one child along for free. "Trainer for a Day" sessions are also available by appointment at the cost of $800 per person.
There are currently a half-dozen baby lions at the Ranch, but current "cub interaction" sessions end January 6 and a call to the facility revealed that they're not sure when there will be more offspring on the way, since the lions bred prematurely last fall, rather than in the spring. Become a fan on Facebook for updates and news and visit the official website for more information or to book a private session or group party.
