The Ultimate 2025 Guide: 2 Must-Visit Las Vegas Aquariums (Plus The Iconic One That Closed)

Planning your trip to the Entertainment Capital of the World in late 2025? While Las Vegas is primarily known for its world-class casinos and spectacular shows, it also boasts some surprisingly deep-sea adventures right in the middle of the desert. As of December 15, 2025, there are two primary, must-see aquatic attractions that offer completely different experiences, ranging from a major conservation-focused exhibit to a thrilling water slide through a shark tank.

This guide provides the most up-to-date information for 2025, including current ticket prices, operating hours, and a crucial update on one of the Strip's most iconic wildlife habitats that is now permanently closed. Whether you are a marine life enthusiast or just looking for a unique family-friendly experience, these two destinations are essential additions to your Las Vegas itinerary.

The Essential Las Vegas Aquarium Experiences for 2025

The Las Vegas Valley is home to a variety of unique attractions, but when it comes to true, large-scale aquariums, two spots stand out. One is a massive, immersive experience on the Strip, and the other is a dazzling, integrated pool resort feature in Downtown Las Vegas.

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1. Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay: Celebrating 25 Years of Marine Life

The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay is not just a standard fish tank; it is one of North America's largest and most impressive aquatic exhibits, housing over 2,000 animals, including more than 100 sharks. The facility is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), focusing heavily on marine conservation and education.

2025 Update: The 25th Anniversary Celebration

A major draw for visitors in 2025 is the celebration of the aquarium's 25th Anniversary. The official Anniversary Weekend is set for June 20-22, 2025, featuring discounted admission and exclusive activities for the public. Throughout the summer, look for special promotions like "$10 Tuesdays" for Nevada locals, making it a prime time to visit and experience this incredible collection of aquatic life.

What to Expect at Shark Reef Aquarium

• The Shipwreck Tunnel: The highlight of the aquarium is a 1.3-million-gallon main tank, viewed through a clear, walk-through tunnel that gives you the sensation of being on the ocean floor, surrounded by various species of sharks, giant sea turtles, and exotic fish.
• Unique Species: Beyond the famous sharks, you will encounter rare species such as Komodo dragons, golden crocodiles, giant rays, and various venomous fish and jellyfish displays.
• Undersea Explorer VR Theater: For an added layer of immersion, the optional Undersea Explorer VR Experience uses cutting-edge technology to offer a deep-sea dive simulation, often bundled with the general admission ticket.

Shark Reef Aquarium 2025 Essential Details

• Location: Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119.
• Operating Hours: Generally opens at 10:00 AM daily, with closing times typically between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Always check the official Mandalay Bay website for specific times, as hours can vary for special events.
• Ticket Prices (General Admission): Prices for adults start around $29, with children's tickets (ages 5-12) being slightly less. Bundled tickets that include the VR Experience are also available, often starting around $32.
• Discounts: Nevada residents can often secure a discounted ticket (e.g., $3 off general admission) by purchasing in person with a valid ID.

2. The Tank at the Golden Nugget: The Ultimate Shark Pool Experience

Located in Downtown Las Vegas on Fremont Street, The Tank at the Golden Nugget offers a completely different, and arguably more thrilling, aquatic encounter. This is not a traditional walk-through aquarium but a $30 million pool complex built around a 200,000-gallon shark tank.

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The main attraction is the three-story water slide, which plunges riders down a clear tube that runs directly through the center of the shark habitat. This unique feature has made The Tank a must-see for anyone seeking an adrenaline-fueled aquatic experience in Las Vegas.

What to Expect at The Tank

• The Shark Tank Pool: The main pool area is surrounded by the aquarium, which is home to a variety of sharks (including nurse and sand tiger sharks), rays, and other exotic marine life.
• The Water Slide: Known as the "Shark Chute," this slide offers a fleeting but exhilarating view of the sharks as you pass through the clear acrylic tunnel.
• Luxury Amenities: The complex also features private cabana rentals, a waterfall, and the Hideout, an adults-only pool area for a more relaxed experience.

The Tank 2025 Essential Details

• Location: Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino, 129 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101 (Downtown Las Vegas).
• Access for Non-Guests: Unlike many Strip pools, The Tank is accessible to non-hotel guests via a day pass. The fee for a day pass varies by the day of the week and the season, typically ranging from $25 to $40 per person (for ages 3 and up).
• Operating Hours: Pool and slide hours are seasonal and depend heavily on the weather. It is highly recommended to call the Golden Nugget directly for the most accurate daily operating hours.

A Crucial Update: The Permanent Closure of The Mirage Dolphin Habitat

For decades, one of the most famous aquatic attractions in Las Vegas was Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat at The Mirage. However, for those planning a 2025 visit, it is essential to know that this iconic attraction is permanently closed.

The facility, which housed white tigers, white lions, leopards, and a dolphin habitat, officially closed its doors after more than 30 years on the Strip. The closure is part of the transition of The Mirage property to the new ownership of Hard Rock International, which plans to redevelop the site to include the Guitar Hotel structure. This closure solidifies the Shark Reef Aquarium and The Tank as the two main destinations for marine life and shark viewing in the Las Vegas area.

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Topical Authority: Why Las Vegas Aquariums Matter

The presence of large-scale aquatic exhibits in an arid desert environment like Las Vegas highlights the city's commitment to creating immersive, world-class entertainment. The Shark Reef Aquarium, in particular, contributes significantly to marine conservation efforts, providing a crucial educational platform for millions of visitors each year. By visiting these attractions, you are supporting institutions that play a role in the protection and study of endangered species and marine ecosystems globally. These attractions offer a perfect, family-friendly counterpoint to the city’s other forms of entertainment, from the high-stakes gaming tables to the vibrant nightlife.

When planning your trip, consider purchasing discount tickets online or through local deal sites, and always check for the latest hours and any special 25th-anniversary promotions at Mandalay Bay to ensure the best possible experience in late 2025.