Key Points:
- There 2 primary ziplines in Las Vegas – FlyLINQ (Strip) & Slotzilla (Downtown).
- I’ve ridden both and can easily crown SlotZilla’s upper zoomline as the best option.
- That said, FlyLINQ is a compelling value, as it’s about $30 cheaper than SlotZilla.
Ziplines make for a fun non-gambling activity in Vegas. Good clean fun for the whole family (if you’re crazy enough to bring kids :).
In an attempt to crown the king of the ziplines, I rode them all, despite my crippling fear of heights.
Before diving in, I should point out that these rides are relaxing and scenic. Neither FlyLINQ nor SlotZilla is physically demanding or a “wild ride”; they’re best described as a gentle glide.
Although I struggle with heights, the fear melted away the moment I started flying.
FlyLINQ Zipline (On The Strip)
FlyLinq sends riders soaring over the bars, restaurants, and shops that make up the Linq Promenade towards the High Roller observation wheel at speeds of up to 35 MPH.
The zipline is 1,121 feet long and 12 stories above the promenade below.
Riders again have the option to fly seated (for a slight discount) or superhero-style (at full fare).
FlyLINQ cost?
Anytime tickets purchased directly with FlyLinq online start at $39.95, but you should also check Vegas.com, as tickets can be a smidge cheaper there.
My Experience on the FlyLINQ Zipline
I paid full freight and, at $39.95, thought it was a solid value, albeit less scenic than SlotZilla on Fremont Street.
At 12 stories tall, FlyLINQ adequately challenged my fear of heights and got the adrenaline flowing before delivering a leisurely glide atop the promenade below.
The scenery is best described as “OK”. Peering down at the people milling about below is cool, but beyond that, you’re really looking at the rooftops and HVAC units of the businesses that line the promenade.
Views of the Strip to the north and south are obstructed by Flamingo to the right and LINQ to the left, however, it’s neat to be flying between the two resorts.
The ride itself was extremely quick at about 30-45 seconds, but if I’m being honest, I was happy to be back on solid ground ASAP.
The staff was awesome and had me strapped in and taking flight within 10 minutes of arriving at the attraction. There was virtually no wait.
As someone with a “heights thing”, I was comforted by the confidence and professionalism the staff demonstrated throughout the process of getting me ready for the ride.
Of course, I have no idea how proficient they are… but the way they carried themselves and did their job went a long way in putting my fears to rest.
While short, FlyLINQ is certainly worth your time and money. The value proposition is enhanced by the fact that this ride is cheaper than SlotZilla.
You can see my full FlyLINQ Zipline Review, here!
SlotZilla Zipline (On Fremont Street)
While FlyLINQ sends riders soaring over a newer incarnation of Las Vegas, the SlotZilla zipline downtown sends you flying over the vintage and iconic casino facades that make up the Fremont Street Experience.
The zipline attraction offers 2 distinct riding experiences:
- The first is a 5-story high, 2-block long rip in a sitting position which is referred to as the “Zip-Zilla” Zipline.
- The higher “Super-Hero Zoom” Zoomline sends you flying Superman-style on your stomach for 5 blocks at a height of 11 stories.
Slotzilla cost
Lower/Shorter Zipline: $49 for all dates and times plus a $3.95 processing fee.
Upper Zoomline: $69 for all dates and times plus a $3.95 processing fee.
They also now offer a weekday “All you can fly” deal for $69 from noon-6pm.
In addition to the cost of the ride, a digital photo package + a GoPro video of your ride can be purchased for $25. I did it, and cherish the video!
My Experience on SlotZilla
I finally overcame my fear of heights to ride SlotZilla’s Upper Zoomline and found the ride to be leisurely, scenic, and not the least bit scary although I had plenty of nerves coming into the experience.
The staff was quick to get me “geared up”, and within ten minutes of arriving, I was strapped onto the line ready to fly.
Tip: Book your ride in advance, as time slots fill up fast! Don’t just show up at the attraction and expect to get on.
Once outfitted in a body harness, my group took a crude construction site elevator to the top of the tower where we were instructed to lay flat on padded tables that popped out of the ground.
Once we were strapped to the zipline, the table lowered into the ground, leaving us hanging from the wire. Within a few seconds, the wall in front of us lowered and we were released to fly under the canopy toward Plaza.
As was the case with LINQ’s zipline, SlotZilla’s ride was quick (under a minute), but offered unmatched scenery.
Above and on either side of you is the Viva Vision canopy which is always playing video content. Below, are crowds of people and the neon-covered casino facades that make Fremont Street so iconic.
The combination of the pre-flight anticipation, the exhilaration of flying over Fremont Street below, and the post-ride glow made this experience well worth the cost of admission.
You can see my full SlotZilla Zipline Review (along with my ride video), but suffice it to say that it wails.
While I didn’t ride the lower & shorter seated zipline at SlotZilla, I can’t help but think it’s lame in comparison to the higher & longer zoomline. Spend the extra $20 and do it right.
SlotZilla vs. FlyLINQ Zipline – Which is Better?
I rode SlotZilla & FlyLINQ on back-to-back days, and if I was forced to choose between the two, SlotZilla wins due to the scenery. Historic neon casino facades are better than storefronts and shopping mall roofs.
That isn’t to discount FlyLINQ. The ride is still thrilling and slightly taller than SlotZilla’s upper Zoomline, at about half the cost. If you’re in the area and want a rush, then do it!
All I’m saying is, if I was forced to choose one or the other, there really isn’t a comparison.
Ultimately, each zipline has pros & cons, and I found both to be worthwhile. No matter which one you pick, I hope you have a great flight. It’s a memory that’ll stick with you!
Honorable Mention – Haley’s Comet at Area15
Easily the tamest zipline-like ride in Vegas, Haley’s Comet is found away from the Strip at the Area15 entertainment complex.
It’s a great option for kids.
Not a “true zipline”, it’s a “dual track roller glider” that you control the speed of with a handlebar throttle similar to a motorcycle’s. The ride takes you on a spin around the ceiling and lasts about 30 seconds.
Adult rides start at just $15 (kids $12), and you can add a camera to film the experience for $10. I did, and you can view my ride and read the full review here, but I don’t think it’s worth the extra cash.
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Feature Image Credit: ©neilld/123RF.COM
I’m a former software salesman turned Vegas aficionado. While the craps table is my preferred habitat, I pull myself away to explore new attractions, shows, restaurants, and outdoor activities around Las Vegas with the intent of sharing my experiences.
Ultimately, I just want to help folks plan a better trip and save a few bucks in the process.