Inside Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas Strip, Shark Reef Aquarium brings together sharks, rays, sea turtles, reptiles and tropical fish across 14 exhibits. Its central draw is the shipwreck-themed shark tank, where a walk-through glass tunnel gives you views of sharks swimming above and around you. Look for the jellyfish, piranhas and Komodo dragon, too. Children can get close to stingrays at the touch pool, and admission includes an immersive VR experience. It’s an indoor stop for families or anyone wanting time with marine life away from the Strip’s heat.
The shipwreck tank and glass tunnel
The aquarium’s central exhibit is a large shark tank designed around a shipwreck. A glass tunnel runs through the water, giving you a view of sharks and other sea life from below as they pass overhead. The tank is the main reason to take your time here, especially if you want to watch the sharks move through the exhibit rather than hurry on to the next display.
The shipwreck setting continues the aquarium’s undersea theme. Viewing areas are designed to bring you close to the water, with a wreck-like backdrop around the tank. The darker sections can make it harder to see where you’re walking, so keep an eye on children as you move between exhibits.
Animals beyond the sharks
Sharks share the exhibits with a broad mix of marine and freshwater life. You can look for green sea turtles, rays, piranhas, tropical fish and jellyfish, as well as reptiles such as crocodiles, pythons and a Komodo dragon. The variety makes the visit useful for children who are drawn to different animals, and gives adults plenty to see beyond the main tank.
The stingray touch pool is one of the interactive stops. Children can encounter the rays at close range, while other exhibits are viewed from behind the glass. If you’re considering an animal-feeding program, check the details before you go: these experiences can carry an extra fee.
Planning a visit with children
Shark Reef is inside Mandalay Bay at 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, making it an indoor activity on the Strip. The route through the exhibits is easy to follow, and a visit can take around 45 minutes if you keep moving. Give yourself longer if you want to pause at the shark tunnel, spend time at the touch pool or take in the VR experience.
The VR attraction is included with admission and sits down the hall from the aquarium itself. It uses moving seats, and young children may not be allowed to take part, so check the age requirements before you plan around it. Advance ticket purchase is recommended. Weekdays or less busy periods are practical choices if you want more room to look at the exhibits.
FAQ
Where is Shark Reef Aquarium?
It is inside Mandalay Bay at 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd in Las Vegas.
How long does a visit take?
About 45 to 60 minutes is a reasonable visit, with more time if you linger at exhibits or take part in the VR experience.
Is the VR experience included?
The VR experience is included with admission. It is down the hall from the aquarium, and young children may not meet its age requirements.
Can children touch stingrays?
Yes. The aquarium has an interactive stingray touch pool.
