The Mirage animal attractions, along with the actual hotel and resort along the Las Vegas strip are a world almost unto themselves. With a flashy sign that is not the biggest or tallest, it is definitely the best situated. A volcano that shoots steam tinted red with lights every five minutes after dark reminds everyone that The Mirage is there. The property that was previously dubbed "The Castaway" opened as the Mirage in 1989 with 3,044 rooms. The Y shaped building was and is still a sight to behold. Sitting on 100 acres, this three winged resort was the first hotel casino resort built on the strip in 15 years. It has 24 carat gold tinted glass spangles, as architect Joel Bergman went all out.

The Mirage animal attractions have always been part of the beauty of the resort. Siegfried and Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin habitat is one of the most unique attractions in the area. Home to six animal breeds that are very rare including the royal white tigers of Nevada, heterozygous Bengal tigers, white lions of Timbayati, a panther, an Asian elephant, and a snow leopard, the eclectic couple designed this jewel of to be a safe haven for these animals.

Another of the Mirage animal attractions, the dolphin habitat adds to the Mirage theme with the idea that a desert oasis would include these graceful creatures. There is a 20,000 tank saltwater aquarium behind the front desk that is home to puffer fish, angel fish, and other exotic and beautiful sea life. Recently updated, a four inch thick acrylic window gives visitors a view of eels and sharks swimming side by side with sea bass and puffer fish. The new life support system includes the newest technology to support new artificial corals. The old reef system was donated the Las Vegas Natural History Museum.

The Mirage animal attractions as well as the rest of the resort are definitely a sight to see. With exotic beauty unexpected in the middle of the dessert, it definitely lives up to its name. From an erupting volcano to white tigers and dolphins, it seems that nothing here is expected. With plenty to offer in the way of entertainment and restaurants as well, including the Mirage Buffet and California pizza, there is very little reason to leave the property during your visit. A trip to the Mirage is like a trip to another world, with necessities provides and beauty prevailing at every turn.