One of Mother Nature's greatest predators is also one of man's greatest exhibits, and the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is proof of this. Over 95,000 square-feet of exhibit space showcases an impressive variety of oceanic life, reptiles and invertebrates. Located near the convention center of the super-sized Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, the Shark Reef Aquarium brings something new to the Las Vegas atmosphere. Travelers will get to leave behind the glitz and glam of Sin City for a trip into the deep blue, where they'll come face to face with the ocean's gliding monsters.
When to go to the Shark Reef Aquarium
Since the Shark Reef Aquarium is indoors, there is really no bad time to visit. Climate controlled environments make it a comfortable walkthrough at any time of year.
Must see/do at the Shark Reef Aquarium
Though the sharks are the big climax of this zoological facility, there are some pretty nifty displays to be seen. Children of all ages will get a kick out of the Touch Pull, which is typically filled with Horseshoe Crabs and a selection of rays.
Before heading into the aquarium, guests are treated to a brief walkthrough of a jungle-like atmosphere. Here, they'll see Komodo Dragons and a Burmese Python.
Admission to the Shark Reef Aquarium
Being Las Vegas, you can expect to pay a bit of a premium to get into this underwater exhibit. Tickets can be purchased online or at the aquarium's box office, stating at $12.
Parking at the Shark Reef Aquarium
Like any resort exhibit, the best parking is going to be inside the resort's parking garage. There is parking in the Convention Center lot, but this is typically closed off unless there is an event. If the garage is full due to an on-site event, guests can park at the Luxor and walk over via a connecting walkway.
Public Transportation to the Shark Reef Aquarium
The local bus line drops off right in front of Mandalay Bay. Travelers can take the 104 or SDX busses to Mandalay Bay's entrance.
Food at the Shark Reef Aquarium
Though the aquarium itself has no dining options, Mandalay Bay is filled with plenty of places to eat. Slice of Vegas pizzeria is located on the walkway between Luxor and Mandalay Bay and offers a menu of unique pizzas. For casual dining, Citizens Kitchen & Bar and the House of Blues offer toned down atmospheres.
For fine dining, look to Charlie Palmer Steak, Mix, and Red Square Restaurant & Vodka Lounge.
Insider tip for visiting the Shark Reef Aquarium
Anyone with the gaul to go diving with sharks can partake in the Dive with Sharks Program. Participants will get to dive in the 1.3 million gallon tank to get an up-close and personal look at the marine life, including the toothed feature attractions.
Guests also looking for something festive should visit the Shark Reef Aquarium during Halloween and Christmas for some great seasonal displays with an underwater backdrop.
Author's bio: Mark is a Vegas local and freelance writer with expertise in Las Vegas nightlife, entertainment, and video gaming. Visit Mark on his Facebook and Twitter pages for more!