Skip to Content

Review of High Roller Happy Half Hour – Worth the Money?


Key Points:

  • The “Happy Half Hour” package gives riders access to an open bar during the ride.
  • I’ve done it 2x now and the bartenders are lightning fast – Aside from the initial rush, I never waited for a drink.
  • This is worth the upgrade for those wanting to quickly knock back drinks.

Anchoring the LINQ Promenade, the High Roller Observation wheel is an unmistakable part of the Las Vegas skyline.

The wheel is 550-feet tall and is supported by over 4.8 miles of cable.

Evenly spaced around the wheel are 28 spherical cabins, or “pods” that hold 40 people each. The pods sit on bearings that allow them to stay level throughout the entire 360-degree journey.

…and no, there’s no bathroom. But you’re a big kid. You can hold it for the 30-minute rotation.

While a standard ride on the High Roller is impressive, I’m frequently asked if its worth upgrading to the Happy Half Hour package, which includes unlimited drinks from an open bar.

High Roller Observation Wheel with Brooklyn Bowl sign in the foreground
Drinking up there is just better.

Happy Half Hour Cost

For reference, a standard (non-boozy) ride on High Roller will set you back around $35 per person.

Pricing for the “anytime” all-you-can-drink High Roller Happy Half Hour package starts at $78.35.

Will You Get Enough to Drink?  

Oh boy, in a word, yes.

At this point, I’ve taken 2 spins in the Happy Half Hour pod and on both occasions left completely hammered. Both times were pretty embarrassing, to be frank.

While up to 25 guests competing for a single bartender’s attention sounds daunting, these are the most efficient bartenders you’ll ever encounter.

Following the initial rush when everyone is clamoring for a cocktail simultaneously, drinks can be ordered almost instantly. You won’t be disappointed with the speed at which you are served, aside from the first 5 minutes.  

You should easily be able to cram down 7+ drinks. You’ll be full, but there is plenty of time and service capacity to churn cocktails out quickly. I’ve never left feeling short-changed or cheated.

As a bonus, you can grab a drink at the end of your ride to take with you as you exit your High Roller pod.

Group of people enjoying drinks on the High Roller
Courtesy of Caesars Entertainment

Drink Options Available On Board

Domestic canned beer (Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light) is available as are liquor brands that include Jim Beam, Jack Daniels, Absolute, Skyy, Bacardi, Malibu, Beefeater, Sauza Tequilla, and more.

Mixers are available and bartenders are happy to craft your favorite cocktail.  

A Few Other Tips & Tricks 

  • Tickets are often cheaper when purchased in advance, and prices can vary from vendor to vendor – I’ve now purchased from the attraction directly and through Vegas.com – Just go with whatever is cheaper.
  • Buying online in advance with the attraction will expedite your boarding process. There’s rarely a substantial line to board the High Roller, BUT there can be a line to buy tickets at the counter. If you buy online, you bypass that slow-moving line and simply show a QR code on your phone to board instead of wasting a portion of your vacation. Even if you are at the base of the attraction, buy on your cell phone to save yourself a half-hour+.  
  • Grab a drink for the road! Although your ride will be coming to an end, your bartender can give you a drink to carry off and enjoy as you move on to your next activity. 
  • Go when it won’t be busy. Riding earlier in the afternoon will give you a better shot at a less crowded pod equating to better drink service.  
  • It goes without saying, but if maximizing your consumption is your goal, stick to mixed drinks and shots. Seven 16-ounce Coors Light in your belly isn’t the most comfortable. Trust me.
  • If you are not feeling up to the “all you can drink” challenge, you can simply buy the cheaper non-happy hour ticket and a cocktail or two before you board at the wheelhouse bar. Note that the drinks are expensive, and it’s likely worthwhile to just book the Happy half hour if you want more than one drink.
  • Don’t be caught in an uncomfortable situation, bring plenty of singles for tipping.  

Hopefully, this was a helpful review of what to expect when you board your Happy Half Hour pod on the High Roller. Even if you plan to just casually drink, it’s a hell of a deal and worth the extra money. 

Feel like you’d rather save the money and skip the bottomless drinks? Check out my review of a standard (& cheaper) High Roller ride!

See Also: Here are some additional all you can drink deals in Las Vegas!

Share this Article!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

David

Tuesday 29th of November 2022

You mentioned "Outside food and drink are not permitted.", but below is on the website under FAQ.

"Are outside drinks permitted in the Cabin?" "Yes, individual outside beverages are allowed on the High Roller, however, glass, coolers and cases are not permitted."

Jake Hoffman

Friday 2nd of December 2022

Thanks for pointing that out, David!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.