Las Vegas is quickly turning into a family friendly destination thanks to the year round good weather and activities that are appropriate for all ages. While it’s the lights of the Strip that attract many visitors, there are other choices just a few miles from the glitz and gaudiness of typical Vegas that are just right for families.
Lion Habitat Ranch
Located 11 miles from the Las Vegas Strip lies the Lion Habitat Ranch, home to the famous MGM lions. For years, these lions were on display on the MGM grounds, but now they roam the 12 acres near Henderson, NV. Owner and operator Keith Evans has worked with lions for over 45 years and continues to oversee their daily care. Upon entering the facility, we saw Bentley, whose mighty mane and large size let us know who was king of the jungle. With over 40 lions, the handlers are kept busy feeding, cleaning, organizing and bathing the lions.
The grounds of the habitat are well maintained and very clean. The lions even had air-conditioned boxes where they can cool off in the desert heat. Possibly the cutest attraction there, besides the one year old giraffe, were the lion cubs. Right after the cubs are born, Keith and his wife introduce themselves into the pack and start to hand feed mom and babies. This allows for trust to be built between both parties. Mom continues to allow them to feed her cubs until they are old enough to eat on their own. This facility is of the few in the country who hand feed lions.
The mission of this conservation ranch is to educate the public and provide these animals with proper care. It costs the ranch roughly $20,000 a month to feed the lions. That’s quite a butcher bill! As we were walking through the tour, the connection between the handlers and the lions was obvious. Keith, along with his employees, have made this habitat a family friendly location that offers a unique look at a magnificent creature.
Cowabunga Bay
After a visit with the lions, you might be ready for a cool down. Luckily, Cowabunga Bay, Las Vegas’ newest water park, has you covered. Only open a few months, this brand new, very clean, water park has something for everyone. With the largest wave pool in Nevada, dozens of slides, kids’ cove and lazy river, there is more than enough to do. Cowabunga Bay also has cabana rentals and thrilling water slides for the adults. Tube rentals and life jackets are conveniently free, a big bonus for families.
Ethel M. Chocolate Factory
Lastly, if you are in the mood for a little chocolate (let’s be honest, who isn’t), the Ethel M. Chocolate factory in Las Vegas is a great place to go entertain kids. This facility allows visitors to stroll through the chocolate making process to see how their candies are handcrafted to perfection. Also because it is a part of the Mars Company, you might even get to spot your favorite candy bar treats! And of course at the end of the tour you get to sample the chocolate. This factory is located in the middle of a gorgeous cactus and botanical garden that features 300 varieties of cactus and desert plants. It's a perfect way to work off those extra calories and give the kids a chance to explore the unique desert flora.
Lisa, Thanks for the great article. I have lived in Henderson, NV for 1 months and I guess I missed the Lion ranch. I never even heard about that place Otherwise, I have done all the things you have mentioned in the article. We also visited the Henderson wash, the lake Mead rec area, the Clark County Museum etc.
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