Living in Las Vegas for 20 years has given me a deep appreciation for the unique experiences this city offers, and few places encapsulate that blend of luxury and thrill like the famed pool at the Golden Nugget – The Tank. The Tank isn’t just any hotel pool – it’s a destination unto itself, offering a rare mix of excitement and relaxation that can only be found in Downtown Las Vegas. From its towering 200,000-gallon shark tank aquarium to the thrill of its waterslide that sends guests zipping through the center of the tank, this pool is unforgettable.
Let’s take a deep dive into the various aspects of The Tank and explore everything you need to know for your next visit. I’ll share insider tips, honed from years of living in this city, to ensure you make the most out of your experience.
The Tank Overview
The Tank at the Golden Nugget is unlike any other hotel pool in Las Vegas. Its main attraction is the massive shark tank aquarium, which gives the pool area its name. Built with clear acrylic walls, the aquarium allows guests to swim up close and personal with sharks, rays, and other exotic fish.
Design and Layout
- Aquarium Size: The 200,000-gallon tank is home to a variety of marine life, including five species of sharks and numerous tropical fish.
- Waterslide: A three-story waterslide lets guests shoot through a transparent tube that passes directly through the shark tank. You get the thrill of seeing sharks swim inches from you as you zoom past.
- Poolside Cabanas: For a more exclusive experience, the pool area offers private cabanas where you can relax in comfort with personalized service.
- Waterfalls: Scattered around the pool, waterfalls create a serene backdrop to the overall lively environment.
- Upper-Level Lounge Pool: The Tank features a second pool on the upper level, which overlooks the main pool and offers a quieter, more relaxed setting.
Prime Viewing Locations
When it comes to soaking in the best views of The Tank’s aquarium, where you position yourself is everything. Here are some of the prime viewing locations and tips for getting the most out of them.
Close to the Glass
- Front Row Seats: Grab one of the lounge chairs directly in front of the acrylic glass for the best view of the sharks and rays. These spots go quickly, so aim to arrive early (before 10 a.m. is recommended) to claim a prime position.
- Nighttime Viewing: The pool is open late, and the aquarium is particularly stunning when lit up at night. This is the perfect time for quieter viewing when the daytime crowds thin out.
- Interactive Experience: While it’s a viewing pool, take advantage of the underwater ledge near the tank. It’s a perfect spot to rest and enjoy an uninterrupted view of the sharks.
- Shade Considerations: These prime viewing areas get full sun for most of the day, so apply sunscreen frequently or consider rotating into the shaded spots near the waterfalls.
Upper Deck Lounge Pool
- Quieter Atmosphere: For those who want a more relaxed setting while still having views of the tank, the upper deck is ideal. It’s less crowded and gives a bird’s-eye view of the pool below.
- Private Cabanas: The upper deck also offers cabanas, though these tend to be in high demand due to their more secluded nature.
- Adult Poolside Vibe: The upper deck tends to attract an older crowd, making it a great spot if you’re looking to avoid the more energetic vibe of the main pool area.
- Service Quality: Being on the upper level can mean quicker access to servers and a more personalized poolside experience.
The Thrill of the Waterslide
The Tank’s signature waterslide is a can’t-miss experience for guests who enjoy a bit of adrenaline. Shooting through a clear tube while sharks and other marine life swim inches away is a surreal experience. Here’s how to make the most out of your ride.
Maximizing Your Slide Experience
- Wait Times: The slide can get busy, particularly in the afternoon. Arrive early to beat the lines, especially on weekends.
- Ride Height: At three stories tall, the slide offers a decent drop, but it’s smooth and enjoyable for all ages, making it a family-friendly thrill.
- Fast Pass Option: The Tank offers a Fast Pass option for guests who want to skip the line. This option can be purchased for quicker access.
- Safety First: Follow safety instructions. The slide has a height restriction (at least 48 inches), so check the rules ahead of time if you’re traveling with younger children.
- The Tube Experience: The tube is only a brief portion of the overall slide experience, so don’t blink! It’s over quickly, but the view of sharks as you pass through the acrylic section is jaw-dropping.
Tips for Waterslide Thrills
- Go Early: Beat the crowds by heading to the slide first thing in the morning when it opens.
- Multiple Rides: If you’re a slide enthusiast, plan your day to go back several times when the line thins out in the late afternoon.
- Catch it at Night: The slide is even more exhilarating at night when the pool lights cast an eerie glow through the aquarium.
- Don’t Wear Goggles: Some guests attempt to wear goggles on the slide, but they’re often dislodged during the ride, so it’s better to go without.
- Secure Your Belongings: Lock up any loose items before going down the slide; even flip-flops can get lost!
Renting a Cabana
For those who prefer a more private and luxurious poolside experience, renting a cabana at The Tank can be a great investment. Cabanas come with a variety of amenities that make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Cabana Benefits
- Private Space: Cabanas provide a shaded, private area to relax away from the crowds. Each comes equipped with plush seating and a flat-screen TV.
- Dedicated Service: With a cabana, you’ll have dedicated cocktail and food service, so you won’t have to wait in line at the bar or grill.
- Enhanced Comfort: Cabanas feature ceiling fans, refrigerators, and plenty of towels, making them the perfect retreat on hot summer days.
- Guest Limits: Each cabana is designed to accommodate up to six guests, making it a good option for small groups or families.
- Booking in Advance: Cabanas often sell out, particularly on weekends, so be sure to book yours well in advance of your stay.
Pro Tips for Renting a Cabana
- Reserve Early: Cabanas are a hot commodity. Book your cabana at least a week or more before your visit, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.
- Strategic Location: Choose a cabana near the pool’s edge for quick access to both the water and views of the aquarium.
- Share with Friends: If you’re traveling with a group, split the cost of a cabana to make it more affordable. It’s a fantastic way to have a premium pool experience without breaking the bank.
- Midweek Deals: Prices tend to be lower during weekdays, so if your schedule allows, consider booking your cabana Monday through Thursday for better rates.
- Ask for Extras: When booking, ask about add-ons like extra chairs or upgraded beverage packages to customize your cabana experience.
Dining and Drinks at The Tank
What’s a day by the pool without some great food and drinks? The Golden Nugget offers plenty of poolside dining options, ensuring you won’t have to leave your lounger to enjoy a meal or cocktail.
Food and Drink Highlights
- The Hideout Bar & Grill: This is the go-to spot for casual poolside dining. They serve up classic American fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and fresh salads.
- Cocktail Service: The pool’s bar menu features an array of tropical drinks and cocktails. From margaritas to mojitos, you’ll find the perfect refreshing beverage.
- Craft Beer: If you’re a beer enthusiast, the poolside bar also offers a selection of local craft brews.
- Smoothies & Non-Alcoholic Options: The bar serves a variety of smoothies and non-alcoholic drinks for families or those looking to cool off without alcohol.
- Delivery to Cabanas: If you’ve rented a cabana, take advantage of the dedicated food and drink service for a seamless dining experience.
Tips for Poolside Dining
- Order Early: To avoid long wait times, place your food orders earlier in the day before peak lunch hours hit.
- Hydrate Between Cocktails: The desert heat can be unforgiving, so make sure to alternate between cocktails and water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Snack Packs: If you have kids with you, ask for snack packs or small plates that are easy to share by the pool.
- Lighter Fare: Stick to lighter options like salads and wraps to avoid feeling too full while swimming and lounging.
- Frozen Treats: On hot summer days, don’t forget to grab a frozen cocktail or smoothie – they’re perfect for cooling off in the heat.
Family Fun at The Tank
While The Tank is a thrilling spot for adults, it’s also very family-friendly. With the waterslide, aquarium, and shallow areas of the pool, kids will have plenty to keep them entertained. Here’s how to make the most of The Tank if you’re traveling with children.
Family-Friendly Amenities
- Shallow Areas: Parts of the pool have shallow sections that are great for younger children to splash around safely.
- Waterslide Rules: The waterslide is open to children who meet the height requirement (48 inches), making it a big hit for adventurous kids.
- Life Jackets: Complimentary life jackets are available for children, so don’t worry if you forgot to pack your own.
- Poolside Games: The Tank often hosts poolside games and activities for kids, especially during the summer months.
- Parents’ Rest Area: For parents, the cabanas or lounge chairs near the shallow end provide a perfect spot to relax while keeping an eye on the kids.
Tips for Families
- Early Morning Swims: Get to the pool early in the day if you want to snag a good spot and enjoy some quieter time before it gets busy.
- Bring Snacks: While poolside dining is available, it’s a good idea to pack a few snacks for your kids, especially if they get hungry between meals.
- Sunscreen Reminder: The Las Vegas sun is strong, so be sure to reapply sunscreen on both yourself and your children throughout the day.
- Breaks Between Slides: Encourage your kids to take breaks between waterslide rides to avoid exhaustion, especially on hot days.
- Pool Rules: Take a moment to go over pool rules with your kids to ensure everyone stays safe, especially when it comes to running or roughhousing near the water.
Dining and Attractions Nearby
While The Tank at the Golden Nugget provides an extraordinary pool experience, the surrounding area offers plenty of dining, entertainment, and shopping options to enhance your visit. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas, the Golden Nugget is part of the vibrant Fremont Street Experience, a pedestrian mall packed with restaurants, shops, and attractions. Here’s a guide to some of the top spots nearby, whether you’re craving a great meal, looking for a fun activity, or interested in a little retail therapy.
Dining Options Near The Tank
Whether you’re stepping away from the pool for a bite or looking for a spot to enjoy dinner after a day in the sun, you’ll find a variety of dining experiences within walking distance of The Tank.
Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse
- Prime Cuts: Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse, located within the Golden Nugget, is renowned for its mouth-watering steaks, seafood, and elegant ambiance.
- Signature Dishes: Try the signature filet mignon or the Maine lobster for a classic steakhouse experience.
- Wine Selection: The restaurant boasts an extensive wine list with global selections that perfectly complement the menu.
- Reservations: This upscale restaurant fills up fast, so it’s best to make a reservation in advance.
- Dress Code: While Las Vegas is casual, you may want to dress up a little for a more polished dining experience.
Chart House
- Unique Atmosphere: Chart House is a seafood restaurant located inside the Golden Nugget, featuring another large aquarium as its centerpiece. Enjoy your meal surrounded by tropical fish!
- Fresh Seafood: The menu features fresh seafood, including king crab, ahi tuna, and seared scallops.
- Aquarium Seating: Request a seat near the aquarium for a dining experience that’s visually stunning.
- Lighter Fare: This is also a great option for a lighter meal after a day at the pool, with plenty of refreshing seafood options.
- Happy Hour: Chart House offers a great happy hour for cocktails and appetizers, making it a perfect stop for pre-dinner drinks.
Fremont Street Dining
If you venture just outside the Golden Nugget into the Fremont Street Experience, you’ll find a diverse array of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
- Heart Attack Grill: For a quirky Las Vegas experience, the Heart Attack Grill is famous for its deliberately unhealthy menu, including the “Quadruple Bypass Burger.” It’s a must-visit for foodies who want a unique, cheeky experience.
- Pizza Rock: Located nearby, Pizza Rock serves up artisan pizza in a rock ‘n’ roll-themed atmosphere. Their Neapolitan-style pizzas are popular, and they also offer gluten-free and vegan options.
- Le Thai: For those craving some spice, Le Thai offers a cozy spot with authentic Thai dishes like spicy noodles, curries, and a flavorful beef waterfall salad. It’s great for a casual dinner after a day at the pool.
- Carson Kitchen: If you’re in the mood for something more upscale but still trendy, Carson Kitchen offers creative comfort food with a gourmet twist, such as bacon jam and crispy chicken skins. It’s just a short walk from the Golden Nugget.
Attractions and Entertainment
While the Golden Nugget’s pool is a major draw, there’s plenty to explore nearby if you’re looking to extend your fun after a swim. The Fremont Street Experience and other downtown attractions are perfect for filling your day or evening with entertainment and excitement.
Fremont Street Experience
- Viva Vision Light Show: Every night, the canopy of Fremont Street lights up with the Viva Vision light show, a dazzling LED display set to music. Shows run every hour from dusk until midnight.
- SlotZilla Zip Line: For thrill-seekers, SlotZilla offers two zip line experiences that launch from a towering slot machine structure. You can zip over the entire length of Fremont Street either seated or in a superhero-style harness.
- Street Performers: The Fremont Street Experience is also home to an array of street performers, including musicians, magicians, and quirky Las Vegas characters that bring the area to life.
- Live Music: Throughout the week, free live music performances are held on various stages along Fremont Street. It’s a great way to end your day with some entertainment after lounging by the pool.
- Las Vegas History: Just a short drive or a long walk away, the Neon Museum is dedicated to preserving iconic Las Vegas signs from hotels and casinos of the past. It’s an outdoor exhibition space known as the “Neon Boneyard,” where you can explore the rich visual history of the city.
- Guided Tours: Opt for a guided tour to learn more about the stories behind the signs and the significance of each one in Vegas history.
- Night Tours: The signs are lit up at night, offering a magical experience that contrasts with the bright lights of the Strip and Fremont Street.
- Interactive Exhibits: Just a few blocks from the Golden Nugget, the Mob Museum offers an immersive look at the history of organized crime in America and law enforcement’s battle against it.
- Prohibition Bar: After exploring the exhibits, head to the museum’s speakeasy-style bar for Prohibition-era cocktails in an authentic 1920s atmosphere.
- Hands-On Experiences: Try your hand at forensic science with the museum’s Crime Lab experience, or participate in a simulated police shootout in the museum’s interactive exhibits.
Shopping Options Nearby
Downtown Las Vegas may be known for its entertainment, but it also offers some fantastic shopping opportunities. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, high-end fashion, or something quirky and unique, there’s plenty to explore.
Fremont Street Shops
- Las Vegas Gifts: Fremont Street is home to a variety of gift shops offering classic Las Vegas souvenirs, including t-shirts, mugs, and novelty items. Look for shops like Fremont Street Gifts for traditional mementos.
- Kappa Toys: For something a bit more offbeat, check out Kappa Toys located nearby in the Container Park. It’s an eclectic store offering vintage-inspired toys, games, and quirky gifts.
- Fashion by Fremont: Some shops on Fremont Street feature vintage and rock-inspired clothing, perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of flair to their wardrobe.
- Unique Shops: Located just a short walk from the Golden Nugget, the Downtown Container Park is a collection of boutique shops housed in repurposed shipping containers. Here you’ll find artisan jewelry, unique home decor, and independent fashion brands.
- Art and Crafts: Shops like Art Box feature handmade, locally-produced goods, including one-of-a-kind art pieces, jewelry, and home accessories.
- Outdoor Play: The Container Park is a great stop if you’re traveling with kids – there’s an outdoor play area with a treehouse and slide where they can burn off some energy while you shop.
Las Vegas North Premium Outlets
- Discounted Designer Goods: If you’re in the mood for a serious shopping spree, head to the Las Vegas North Premium Outlets, which is just a short drive from downtown. It’s an outdoor mall offering discounts on high-end designer brands like Coach, Michael Kors, and Calvin Klein.
- Luxury for Less: You’ll find everything from luxury handbags to designer shoes and accessories, all at outlet prices.
- Shuttle Service: If you’re staying at the Golden Nugget, ask about shuttle services or rideshare options to the outlets to make your trip convenient and hassle-free.
Wrapping Up Your Golden Nugget Poolside Adventure
The Tank at the Golden Nugget is more than just a pool – it’s a full-on adventure that combines the luxury of a Las Vegas pool experience with the thrill of marine life up close. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, The Tank offers something for everyone. Follow these tips, and you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable day soaking up the sun and swimming with sharks!
