Generally my trips to Las Vegas revolve around playing cards and doing other such guy things. But, regardless of the trip, I always like to take a moment to pass by the lion exhibit at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino. I love stopping to appreciate the lions, a bit of wildlife in the hustle and bustle of Sin City, and doing something other than play cards for a minute or two.

I've traveled to Las Vegas so many times that I actually have to use my toes to count it. I know my nice in the city inside and out; and because of it I know that I need at least a minute of Zen time with the lions, even if it's just in passing, to get back to a bit of a balance. Normally I just ask for the "Three B's" of beer, boobs and blackjack, but some sort of wildlife needs to factor in there somewhere, and I always appreciate the lions.

On my most recent trip to the city of sin I stopped for a longer period to see the lions, who are decended from the orignal MGM movie lion. They were resting comfortably, as usual, on top of the tunnel that leads through their lair. A couple of the trainers were sitting next to them, even giving them an occasional butt scratch, so the lions continue to accept them as a part of their pride.

Through the tunnel was a decent sized line for pictures with their cubs, who were also resting peacefully in a lion nursery. And just like a nursery for our babies, they too had little blankets and toys to keep them entertained. There were even a couple of rocking chairs as though the trainers would sit with them nursing the cubs like any good mother.

This line wasn't for that opportunity though, but instead for a chance at a $25 photo with the cubs. Had it not been so long I might've taken the time on this trip to get my picture taken, but it just didn't seem worth it at the time. I didn't have anywhere particular to be, but the thought of standing in a line was just not terribly appealing.

I did enjoy my brief stint with the lions though, loving that it's free for everyone to enjoy. So much of Las Vegas revolves around money, so opportunities like this make me quite appreciative. Other great, and similar, exhibits include the Flamingos and the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. Unfortunately though the Siegfried and Roy white tigers exhibit was replaced by a restaurant and the animals relocated.