Key Points:
- STRAT’s Observation Deck is a modern marvel, offering a stunning view of the surrounding Valley.
- Tickets start at $26.95, making this an affordable diversion.
- The 2 remaining rides atop the tower are thrilling and relatively inexpensive (just $7).
STRAT’s SkyPod observation deck and rides easily qualify as one of the most popular non-gambling attractions in Vegas, offering stunning views of both the Strip and Fremont Street from 1,149 feet in the air.
In addition to views, there are 2 rides that can be added to your experience for next to nothing. There’s even an option to jump from the tower in a controlled free fall.
Although STRAT’s location on the north end of the Strip isn’t comfortably walkable from most resorts, the property can be reached via a cheap ($10-15) Uber/Lyft, or even via The Deuce bus route.
STRAT SkyPod Costs
Admission packages are offered in a few different flavors, depending on whether or not you want to partake in the rides atop the tower.
Buying tickets online with STRAT will save you money vs. buying at the box office the day of – I learned this the hard way.
Observation deck-only packages start at $26.95 for observation deck access on STRAT’s website.
A single ride can be added for just $7 – An insane deal.
STRAT Observation Deck
STRAT’s observation deck on its own is spectacular, boasting views from 1,149 feet up. Aside from a helicopter tour, there’s nothing that compares.
The observation deck comprises both an indoor and an outdoor portion.
The indoor portion offers views in all directions and interactive touchscreen map displays that help you understand which landmarks are visible and where.
Calling the indoor portion of STRAT’s observation deck home is 108 Drinks, a bar that serves frozen drinks, cocktails, beer, and wine with a view.
Typical drinks and wine by the glass cost just shy of $20, and draft beer hovers in the $10-$11 range.
Notably, happy hour runs from 3-7pm Monday-Thursday and entitles guests to 2-for-1 tower admission, beer, cocktails, and wine.
In addition to 108 Drinks is a small restaurant, 108 Eats, that serves an assortment of treats and sandwiches.
The outdoor observation deck offers views of the Strip to the south. While the areas east and west of the Strip are also visible, the side of the outdoor observation deck that would give you a view to the north (toward downtown) is obstructed by rides.
Morbidly, the observation deck is lined with blue rollers that aim to prevent folks from jumping off the tower.
During my visit, it was pretty windy up there, but certainly scenic. Like my recent trip to the Eiffel Tower Experience at Paris, it’s surreal to me how quiet it is at elevation compared to being at street level, or in the casino.
Also amazing to me is the engineering that goes into creating a tower-like STRAT’s SkyPod – How do they do it?! How doesn’t it tip over? Humanity is amazing.
Surprisingly, there’s even a designated smoking area cordoned off in the outdoor observation deck.
Here are a few more pictures I captured from the observation deck.
Rides Atop STRAT’s SkyPod
Big Shot and X-Scream
One of my favorite aspects of STRAT are the thrill rides atop the tower that are both adrenaline-inducing and relatively cheap. You’re able to add all 2 rides to an observation deck ticket for just $19 more! An all-you-can-ride pass is only an additional $29. That’s value.
Here are your options:
Big Shot fires riders 160 feet straight up in the air at speeds of 45 mph. Not only will you feel your stomach drop, but you’ll achieve an even more impressive view of Las Vegas at the ride’s apex.
X-Scream is like a teeter-totter with a little roller coaster car gliding back and forth as it tips one way or the other. Of course, X-Scream tips you off of the side of STRAT’s tower, dangling riders precariously off of the edge before pulling them back over the tower and repeating the process.
Unfortunately, Insanity, a favorite of mine, has closed for good.
SkyJump at STRAT
SkyJump, which is far too intense for me, is a popular option and commonly sells out days in advance – Book early.
Not included in the traditional ride packages, SkyJump pricing starts at $129.99, but jumps to $169.99 on weekends.
Participants “have the opportunity” to leap off the tower, 829 feet from the ground, in a controlled free fall that reaches speeds up to 40mph.
Here’s the plank you jump off of:
Is STRAT’s SkyPod Worth a Visit?
I’m a fan.
At this point, I’ve traversed to the top of STRAT’s SkyPod 4 times, and it always leaves me in awe. Whether or not you partake in the rides, $20 for this view is an unbelievable deal.
As for the rides, they’re amazing for the price. Even if you just do one, I can assure you that you’ll get your money’s worth for the $7 more it costs. While my personal favorite is Insanity, all 3 are worthwhile.
Bottom line: STRAT’s SkyPod observation deck and rides are an unheard-of value in a city where bang for your buck is getting harder to find.
Especially if this is you’re constructing an itinerary for your first Vegas trip, or are looking for Kid-Friendly Activities in Las Vegas, add STRAT. It’s worthy.
More Vegas Thrill Rides on YouTube:
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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.