[Editor’s Note: Our new blogger, Floridian “Dapper” Dave Kamsler, is a Vegas veteran, having made more than 50 trips, ranging from three days to three weeks, in his Vegas “career.” He estimates that he’s spent 3% of his life in Las Vegas hotel rooms. He’s a CPA who’s also done some sportscasting on radio and television, and he was one of only 39 winners (out of 206,000 entrants) in FanDuel’s 2019 NFL Survivor Pool, so he’ll have some insight to offer on sports as well. Most of all, he’s stayed at plenty of places and done plenty of things in Vegas that you’ve only heard about — and many that you haven’t — so he’ll offer up trip reviews and photos to help you discover and enjoy more of our favorite city. Take it: Dave.]
Hey, remember when the MGM Grand used to have live lions? I’m sure you never stopped to think about it, but those lions didn’t actually live on the casino floor. The lived off-site and were transported to the MGM Grand every day. (And no, there’s no truth to the rumor that the lions were banned from the casino for counting cards!)
The lions still live in Vegas, even though they haven’t been at the MGM in years. And you can still see them—at the Lion Habitat Ranch in Henderson, around the corner from the M Resort.
If you feel like escaping the Strip for half a day, take a little side trip down to Henderson. It’s a quick 20-minute car ride from the south end of the Strip to the M, whose Studio B buffet is one of the best in town. Then take a 20-minute walk or a 5-minute ride to the Lion Habitat Ranch, located at 382 Bruner Avenue.
The Ranch is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides sanctuary and care for the lions and other animals, including birds and even a giraffe named Ozzie (the only giraffe living in the state of Nevada). Their hours vary seasonally, so check the website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information, but they’re usually open Thursday through Monday. Admission options vary, as several “up- close” tours can be booked. I went with the Behind the Scenes Tour, which is a private guided tour with one of their trainers.
I learned a lot about these majestic creatures. My wife and I are crazy cat people and it was fun to see the lions behave as larger versions of our cuddly pets – rolling on the ground and showing their bellies to indicate trust and rubbing up against the trainer to show affection. I even got to help feed Ozzie.
The Ranch is also home to some beautiful exotic birds, such as parrots and ostriches.
I’d recommend allocating about two hours for your visit in order to see everything. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, since that’s a long time to be out in the hot Vegas sun if you’re not used to it.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, cap off your little Henderson adventure with a visit to Bad Owl Coffee (10575 S. Eastern Avenue), a Harry Potter-themed coffee shop.
Lions, lunch, and Harry Potter — and you can be back in your hotel room before your friends have even finished sleeping off their hangovers.