Is There a Zoo in Nevada?

Nevada is famous for its bustling cities, especially Las Vegas, and its vast deserts, but it also offers several interesting zoos and wildlife attractions. Families, travelers, and animal enthusiasts can enjoy seeing exotic animals, learning about conservation, and participating in educational programs. This guide explores whether there are zoos in Nevada, where they are located, admission fees, parking availability, and the major highlights of each facility.


1. Las Vegas Zoo (Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat)

Where Is It?

While Las Vegas does not have a traditional large-scale zoo, **Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat** at The Mirage offers an intimate wildlife experience. It spans several acres and features exotic animals in a semi-natural habitat.

Admission Fees

Adults: \$22
Children (4–12): \$17
Children under 4: Free

Additional experiences such as dolphin interactions may have separate fees.

Parking

Parking is available at The Mirage and is generally free for hotel guests or paid for other visitors.

Highlights

Big Cats: White tigers, lions, and leopards.
Dolphin Habitat: Interactive experiences with dolphins.
Educational Programs: Keeper talks and animal facts.
Exotic Birds: Various parrot and tropical bird species.
Photo Opportunities: Guests can take photos in designated areas.


2. Las Vegas Springs Preserve Wildlife Exhibits

Where Is It?

Located near downtown Las Vegas, the **Springs Preserve** combines desert landscapes with small-scale wildlife exhibits. While not a full zoo, it provides opportunities to see native Nevada animals and learn about local ecosystems.

Admission Fees

Adults (13+): \$20
Seniors (60+): \$18
Children (5–12): \$12
Children under 5: Free

Memberships and annual passes are available for frequent visitors.

Parking

Parking is free on-site for all visitors.

Highlights

Desert Animals: Foxes, owls, tortoises, and other native species.
Botanical Gardens: Displays of native desert plants.
Interactive Exhibits: Educational programs for kids and families.
Trails and Walking Paths: Scenic paths showcasing the desert ecosystem.
Special Events: Seasonal programs including wildlife talks and workshops.


3. Las Vegas Zoo Alternative: Animal Ark

Where Is It?

Animal Ark is located near Reno and serves as both a wildlife sanctuary and educational center. It is one of Nevada’s main destinations for seeing exotic and native animals in a safe and controlled environment.

Admission Fees

Adults (13+): \$15
Children (4–12): \$10
Children under 4: Free

Private tours and special programs may require additional fees.

Parking

Parking is free on-site with spaces for both cars and buses.

Highlights

Native Nevada Animals: Coyotes, bobcats, and other desert species.
Exotic Species: Lions, tigers, and bears rescued from private ownership.
Educational Programs: School field trips, tours, and conservation workshops.
Interactive Opportunities: Animal feedings and behind-the-scenes tours.
Conservation Focus: Emphasis on rescue and rehabilitation of wild and exotic animals.



4. Flamingo Wildlife Habitat (Las Vegas)

Where Is It?

The Flamingo Wildlife Habitat is located at the Flamingo Hotel and is a free, small-scale zoo-like experience featuring exotic birds and wildlife.

Admission Fees

Free for all visitors.

Parking

Parking is available at the hotel, free for guests, or paid for other visitors.

Highlights

Exotic Birds: Flamingos, swans, and ducks.
Koi Ponds: Colorful fish in scenic ponds.
Turtle and Small Animal Exhibits: Turtles, fish, and other small wildlife.
Walking Paths: Scenic garden paths for leisurely strolls.
Photo Opportunities: Visitors can take pictures in designated areas.


Other Nevada Wildlife Attractions

Springs Preserve Desert Demonstration Gardens (Las Vegas): Native plants and small wildlife exhibits.
Reno’s Animal Ark Sanctuary: Large-scale wildlife sanctuary and educational center.
Eldorado Canyon Wildlife Exhibits (near Boulder City): Small desert animal exhibits with educational programs.

These locations provide alternative ways to experience wildlife in Nevada even if there are not many traditional large zoos.



Comparison Table

| Zoo or Wildlife Attraction | Location | Adult Admission | Parking | Highlights |
| ------------------------------- | ------------ | --------------- | ---------- | ----------------------------------------------- |
| Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden | Las Vegas | \$22 | Paid/Hotel | Big cats, dolphins, exotic birds |
| Springs Preserve | Las Vegas | \$20 | Free | Desert animals, botanical gardens, trails |
| Animal Ark | Reno | \$15 | Free | Exotic and native animals, educational programs |
| Flamingo Wildlife Habitat | Las Vegas | Free | Paid/Hotel | Flamingos, koi ponds, small animal exhibits |
| Eldorado Canyon Exhibits | Boulder City | Varies | Free | Desert wildlife, educational programs |



Final Thoughts

Nevada may not have many traditional large-scale zoos, but it offers a variety of smaller wildlife attractions and sanctuaries that provide memorable experiences for families and animal enthusiasts. From the exotic big cats and dolphins of the Secret Garden in Las Vegas to the rescue-focused Animal Ark near Reno, visitors can see a mix of native and exotic species.

Whether you’re looking to explore desert wildlife, interact with dolphins, or enjoy scenic gardens with birds and small animals, Nevada’s zoos and wildlife attractions offer educational, fun, and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.