As The Mirage is all set to undergo a grand renovation and emerge in three years as the Hard Rock Casino's iconic guitar, many are left wondering what will happen to the world-famous Mirage relics: namely the Siegfried & Roy statue, the dolphins, the white tiger, the aquariums, and more. But Mirage aficionados need not worry, as the stage is set for a grand rehoming of its world-famous relics as well.

As everyone is aware, The Mirage, a beloved landmark on the Las Vegas Strip, is undergoing a monumental transformation. In three years, it will re-emerge as a Hard Rock casino, leaving behind almost no trace of its past glory. As the property undergoes this metamorphosis, it's fortunate that some of its one-of-a-kind relics have already been able to find new dwelling places. Here's a look at where some of The Mirage's most cherished pieces have gone.

Siegfried & Roy figure

One of the most iconic features of The Mirage was the golden statue of Siegfried & Roy with one of their very own white tigers. This statue served as a memorial for fans to remember the lives of Siegfried and Roy. The pair died one year apart, Roy Horn from COVID-19 in 2020 and Siegfried Fischbacher from pancreatic cancer in 2021. As stated by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the beloved statue will be given as a donation to the Neon Museum, though the museum hasn't confirmed these plans yet. The sculpture was revealed on October 27, 1993 with both Siegfried and Roy, as well as Steve Wynn, attending the unveiling.

The white lions and tigers

Siegfried & Roy&'s Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat was once home to numerous white tigers and lions. With the transformation of The Mirage, these majestic animals have found new sanctuaries. The last surviving big cats were transferred to two animal sanctuaries: In-Sync Exotics in Wylie, Texas and the WildCat Ridge Sanctuary in Scotts Mills, Oregon. Although the exact number and types of cats relocated have not been specified, this marks a significant shift in public attitudes toward the exploitation of captive animals. The career-ending attack on Roy Horn by his white tiger, Mantacore, during a show on the 3rd of October, 2003, was a pivotal moment that led to a re-evaluation of such practices.

The dolphins

Of course, the gorgeous dolphins of The Mirage have also found new homes. In February of 2023, three dolphins named Sofi, Karli, and Osborne were relocated to the famous SeaWorld in San Diego. Later, in May 2023, the remaining three dolphins, Huf-N-Puf, Lady Ace, and Coco, were moved to the sea sanctuary of Coral World Ocean Park at Water Bay in St. Thomas, the US Virgin Islands. These relocations also reflect changing public sentiments about the ethical implications of keeping dolphins in captivity.

The tropical fish

The Mirage's 20,000-gallon tank, which was located behind the front desk, was home to 450 kinds of tropical fish representing 85 species, including puffer fish, angelfish, tangs, and other creatures from the sea. These saltwater fish have since been relocated to Mandalay Bay's Shark Reef, where they presumably (and hopefully) swim in a separate tank. Needless to say, the aquarium at The Mirage was meticulously maintained, with staff suiting up and diving in two to three times a week just to clean the tank.

The mermaids

For 35 years, two brass mermaid statues greeted guests at the Mirage's entrance. These statues, which became popular photo ops and, unfortunately, targets of groping (as evidenced by the paint rubbing off certain areas of the mermaids' anatomy), are slated to be auctioned off. The auction, which will include other Mirage items which are yet to be named, is expected in September.

As The Mirage transitions into a Hard Rock casino resort, these relocations mark the end of an era. The Mirage's unique attractions, from the Siegfried & Roy statue to the vibrant aquarium, have left an indelible mark on visitors. Their new homes ensure that these beloved relics will continue to be cherished and remembered, even as The Mirage itself takes on a new identity.