Think of Las Vegas, and in all likelihood, it's bright lights, bars, casinos, and fancy shows that come to mind. A city in the Nevada desert is an unlikely place for a zoo full of diverse animals, however, the legendary Mystic Falls is indeed just that - except with a twist.
A whole host of 'animals' are on show for all to discover in this unique park full of fascination, and who said animals have to be alive to be enjoyed? Now before jumping to disturbing conclusions as a result of that last statement (no animals were harmed in the making this place), keep reading on to learn all about the mysterious park in the desert that enchants and entertains animal-loving visitors of all ages.
The Secret Wild Heart That Beats At The Center Of Las Vegas
Mystic Falls Park is an extraordinary attraction that excites kids and adults alike; its stunning gardens and amazing animalistic sights make it an absolute must for any Las Vegas itinerary. Stroll through the magical place, and it's easy to forget that it is indeed Las Vegas, with the sounds of water flowing, birds chirping, lions roaring, and wolves and bears grizzling and grumbling. These 'animals' however intimidating they might seem are in fact no threat to guests, for they're all non-sentient creatures that are part of this wild (yet fake) park.
From the largest beast to the smallest critter, every single bird, beaver, bear, lion, and wolf, is an animatronic attraction - and each looks and sounds convincingly like the real deal. Expertly designed and created and incredibly mesmeric, the animals in this mechanical menagerie are stunning and fascinating, and the whole park in which they 'live' is a realistic way to explore and learn about nature - right in the middle of Vegas of all places.
Experience Wild Animals Up And Close
Located about 15 minutes from the iconic Las Vegas Strip within Sam's Town Hotel and Gambling Hall, Mystic Falls Park is the one and only place in Vegas to experience an almost-authentic walk through nature, whilst coming face to face with the most skittish of critters and the mightiest of animals - all for a one-of-a-kind, enriching, and educational experience that many real-life animal parks can't deliver so intimately. It promises a wonderful retreat in between wining and dining and partying one's way through Vegas, offering respite and the chance to explore something utterly unique in this rampant desert city that never sleeps.
It's not just the robotic animal installations that fascinate curious visitors though; in addition, the park and its lush forest boast an array of life-like flora, as well as man-made natural formations that look true enough to even fool nature buffs. There are cascading waterfalls, flowing brooks, fake rocks, sticks, shrubbery, trees, and a whole host of foliage adding to the outdoor ambiance - that's actually indoors.
Thanks to just how tranquil, serene, and real it all looks and feels, it's extremely easy to forget that the entire 25,000 square-foot atrium is actually inside a Las Vegas casino - until the lions roar, the wolves howl, and the bears growl; all sounds that transport visitors into the wild world of nature beyond a mere peaceful stroll through the woods.
Behold One Of Las Vegas's Most Awe-Inspiring Shows
One of the park's main spectacles is the 10 minute-long Sunset Stampede laser light and fountain event, which involves an impressive show full of bright neon lights and lasers, awesome music, and dancing fountains, all harmoniously working to the beat of the music whilst the animatronic animals screech, howl, sing, and roar. And these aren't just any old fountain displays either - some appear to shoot water into the skies as far as eight stories high, which is a gob-smacking feat in itself before being mind-blowingly beautiful.
The Sunset Stampede show was in fact first launched in 1994 to tell the story of the Western pioneer experience in the most impressive, unique way possible. But modern times have seen it upgraded to include state-of-the-art lights and laser technology, which makes each and every musical show better than ever and constantly developing. It's not a mere once-every-now-and-again show-stopper either; visitors to Mystic Falls Park can enjoy several shows per day - just listen out for the howling wolves who signal the start of this stupefying show that intelligently and creatively combines the art of modern technology with nature's beauty and majesty.
Mystic Falls Park and its animals also change with the seasons; things are spiced up throughout the festive Christmas period during which displays are spruced up to include snow and winter imagery in the iconic laser show. The park and its robotic inhabitants are also transformed into a collective winter wonderland hub overflowing with festive features, including enormous Christmas trees, garlands, streamers, ornaments, thousands upon thousands of sparkling lights, and, get this: animated teddy bears that have seemingly come to life - dancing, playing, and entertaining the park's guests. Even the animatronic critters don Santa hats, which make for festive photo opportunities for visitors as they stroll through the blankets of snow that decorate the atrium's floor and features.
The Legend And Legacy Of Sam Boyd
Overall, no matter the time of year, Mystic Falls Park is one of the most incredible ways to experience animals and get up close and intimate with nature - and yes, right in the middle of Las Vegas. It's one of the city's most beautiful and engaging hidden gems and is amongst its top family-friendly features perfect for travelers of all ages (and bravery levels).
Lastly, it's also worth noting that Sam’s Town - the hotel that houses Mystic Falls Park - is also a great spot and holds significant Las Vegas history. This classic Vegas hotel and casino is named after Samuel A. Boyd - a well-known businessman, developer, and casino manager who championed Vegas's gaming and showbiz industry, and who then went on to influence and change these industries around the world.
Sam Boyd's revolutionary ideas and developments in Las Vegas are what made the city as it is in the modern-day, and are the reasons why so many globetrotters of all ages and demographics flock to experience the city's vibrant beating heart and its energized atmosphere that everyone around the planet wants a piece of.