Dominating the city skyline, the 350-metre tower on top of the Stratosphere Casino and Hotel boasts two observation decks which provide unmatchable views of the Las Vegas Strip and the valley beyond.
The Stratosphere Casino and Hotel opened in 1996 on Las Vegas Boulevard, at the very north end of The Strip. Today, you can head to the top and jump on board one of the exhilarating rides on offer, or enjoy a meal at the revolving restaurant “Top of the World”, perched 250 metres above the ground.
If the views don’t provide enough of a thrill, you can find four serious opportunities to get your adrenaline pumping at the top of the tower. Big Shot, the highest thrill ride in the world, catapults riders 300 metres into the air at speeds of 70 kilometres per hour. Or get the added thrill from the height on the X-Scream roller coaster, a ride that shoots you 8 metres out over the edge of the casino.
If you’re feeling truly brave, try the signature ride, SkyJump Las Vegas, a 260-meter bungee-style leap from the tower’s peak—the tallest controlled free-fall in the world. You’ll need a strong stomach to take on the Insanity coaster, which has a mechanical arm that spins and dips you over the edge of the tower at angles reaching 70 degrees.
Once your feet are back on solid ground, take in the views from the indoor and outdoor observation decks, which offer stellar 360-degree views across the city and out to the Nevada desert. And if the vistas are making you feel all romantic, the famous Chapel in the Clouds on the 103rd floor is a popular spot for those tying the knot or renewing marriage vows. The Air Bar, on the 108th floor, is renowned for its signature cocktail, Jet Fuel, a dizzying blend of melon liqueur, rum, amaretto, peach schnapps and fresh orange juice, served in a souvenir cup.
If you’ve worked up an appetite, visit Level 107 Lounge for decadent desserts, the Sandwich Carvery 108 for enormous fresh meat sandwiches or the Tower Pizzeria if a slice is the order of the day.
Stratosphere is located at the northern tip of the Las Vegas Strip. The monorail, public bus and mini-bus shuttles all stop here. Ask at your hotel reception for day rates on bus and monorail passes. The tower and rides are open daily and into the late evening.
