VegasChatter

The ranch is at the end of an easy to miss side road, just past M Resort on Saint Rose Parkway. Theoretically, you could walk from the resort, but it would be cheap enough to just grab a cab if you are staying at the M, or if you arrived at the resort via the shuttle bus that runs from the Fashion Show Mall. Don't let the off-Strip location deter you.

The ranch is quite large. All the cats have enough space to run. And, they will run at spectators. They seem much feistier than at MGM. For $20, you can tour the facility, watch the trainers and check out the lion cubs. Each adult female lion eats $22.20 of zoo diet every day so visitors are a necessity. The monthly budget for food tops out at $20,816.90. Your entrance fee isn't going to waste.

The cubs are currently the main attraction. And, for good reason. They are the best show in Vegas. But, BUT, they are only available to interact with visitors for one more weekend. They'll stop on January 6th. So, book quickly. The former photo sessions with the cubs at MGM were a quick snap-and-leave deal. These sessions enable you to spend some quality time with the cute critters.

The terms are simple. Up to two people, six minutes and $200. The lion cubs are chosen for their momentary friendliness and you'll get to play with them, interact and, if lucky, even feed them. If you have house cats, they fit you out with a zippered hazmat suit and booties. Germs are a natural concern.

The six mini males and one female play with their human mom when not in the spotlight. And, provide many ahhhhh moments. The visit is well worth it and something you'll not soon forget. You are looking at D.J. in our photos. We'll not forget him.

If you want to spend time with the big cats, the trainer for a day program will let you spend up to four hours with the adult lions including food preparation, feeding and help them take a bath. Plus, the cleaning of the cages. It's not all peaches and cream. Price for that really rare experience is $800.

Interested? Probably best to keep checking in with the Ranch's website as they expand and alter their available programs. The lions are healthy, happy and well taken care of. The cubs in these photographs were rejected by their parents so they are extra special to the staff. The circle of life.

This is a unique Vegas experience that we highly recommend.

The Lion Habitat Ranch is in Henderson, located at 382 E. Bruner Avenue in Henderson. Very close to the M Resort. Weekend hours are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Because you are dealing with live animals, it's best to check the website for updated details before you head out.