Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay?
What makes it 92% Kids-Friendly: Hands-on touch pools, shark tunnel walk, and optional stingray feeds provide vivid learning, while stroller-wide aisles and safety rails keep ages 5-12 comfortable for a 2-hour visit.
Positives:
- Family-Friendly Design: Wide aisles and strollers allowed make it easy to navigate with young children.
- Hands-On Learning: Touch pool and VR theater engage kids and keep them entertained.
Challenges:
- Timed Entry: You must select a specific entry time when buying tickets; early or late slots may fill up.
- Age Restrictions: VR requires kids 5+, and some feeding experiences require minimum ages.
What is Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay?
- A state-of-the-art marine aquarium within Mandalay Bay Resort showcasing sharks, rays, sea turtles and exotic fish in themed habitats
- A 1.6-million-gallon central exhibit anchored by a 300-foot acrylic tunnel simulating a sunken shipwreck
- Fourteen distinct galleries presenting diverse environments, from vibrant coral reefs to ethereal jellyfish displays
What is so special about Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay for with kids?
- Walk through the 300-foot shark tunnel at eye level.
- Let kids learn at the interactive touch pool.
- Enjoy family-friendly VR films about marine life.
- Explore themed exhibits of turtles, eels and jellyfish.
- Benefit from stroller access and indoor climate control.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the tunnel walk, VR show and touch pool without rushing young kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Shark Tunnel Walk:
Stroll through a 300-foot acrylic tunnel beneath sharks, rays and tropical fish in a shipwreck tank.
Tip: Go at opening to avoid crowds. Let kids identify fish using exhibit labels.
Interactive Touch Pool:
Gently touch horseshoe crabs and stingrays in the shallow pool next to the classroom area.
Tip: Have children keep flat hands. Visit midday when staff are at the pool for questions.
Undersea Explorer VR Theater:
Enjoy a 360° 3D film on a motion platform that simulates swimming with marine life.
Tip: Kids must be 5 or older. Grab your seat early as shows fill quickly.
Explore Themed Exhibits:
Discover 14 exhibits showcasing sea turtles, eels, jellyfish and a sunken temple scene.
Tip: Use stroller for younger kids and pause at low-light exhibits for rest.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
- Buy Online in Advance: Reserve entry times ahead to secure morning slots and avoid sold-out shows.
- Use Mandalay Bay Parking: If you stay at Mandalay Bay, show your room key at the valet for free parking.
Reviews of Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Veronica Montes
We took our time to really look at the animals and enjoy the company. We stayed for around an hour. We loved just seeing all the sharks and turtles swim over us and truly loved seeing it. The staff is super friendly answered any questions we had.
Karlie Hill
I haven't been here since I was a kid growing up in Vegas.. now as an adult I took my husband and we had the best time! It was a perfect date and so beautiful and amazing that you can enjoy something like this on the strip!! 10/10 definitely recommend and cant wait to go back! I also completely forgot you can pet sting rays! (They don't have their barbs) so cool!
B
This was a cool place to visit if you’re anywhere by the Mandalay! The staff are very knowledgeable and happy to talk with you about the animals, there’s also a touch pool where you can touch the sting rays which was fun. The shark tunnel was a great way to see the sharks and a few of the bigger fish, especially since it’s set in a shipwreck area. The only thing that let this down was it was quite...
Landon Bellamy
I had a lot of fun with this! Located at the very southern edge of the strip in the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, it can be quite the trek to get here. The staff isn’t the best, but I liked the experience. This is VERY well themed and perfectly conveys the theme of the resort. The aquarium is educational and has a lot! I liked the shark aquarium and the Komodo Dragon the best. Overall, I would ...
Melina Dhana
We had an excellent experience today at the Mandalay Bay Aquarium. A place that can be described as relaxing, where you can see several interesting species of sea creatures. You can also enjoy a six-minute 3D video show that makes you feel like you're diving underwater with sharks. Very interesting experience. I have to say that the entrance fee is a bit pricey considering how small the place is ...
When is the best time to visit Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay (Las Vegas, United States)?
The indoor aquarium is a perfect escape from Las Vegas heat in summer. Weekdays are less crowded during school months.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 4 General Admission Tickets | USD 110.96 |
| Snacks or Drinks | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 130.96 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Address: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, USA
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About Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 702-632-4555Average price
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