What is Area15, and what is there to do there? It’s a common question posed by Las Vegas visitors, and frankly, one that I shared until my recent visit.
Area15 is housed in a massive warehouse-like building just off I-15, and the structure doesn’t give too many hints as to what goes on within its walls.
Below, I’ll share my experience at Area15 in Las Vegas to give you an idea of what to expect when you stop by.
So, What is Area15?
Even after stopping by, summing up Area15 is somewhat difficult. Think of Area15 as a feast for your senses. While not really an “art person” per se, I found Area15 to be captivating.
The show starts outdoors, where there are a number of artistic creations and sculptures on display.
Among the items on display are a giant owl in flight, a glass prism sculpture, a different take on the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, and my favorite, the “Infinity Ship” perception tunnel.
Infinity ship was a simple glass tunnel but gave the perception of having much more depth.
Once I scoped out the outdoor area, I was let into Area15, where things turned a bit more “Ravey”.
While dabbling in psychedelic drugs has never been a hobby of mine, I can imagine Area15 as being something those that do would enjoy. Guests are immediately welcomed by a giant 3D skull that is brought to life via projector technology.
Sharing the “wow factor” of the illuminated skull was Area15’s Oddwood bar, which boasts an illuminated tree as its centerpiece that’s synchronized to Area15’s music (pictured below). In every direction you look, there’s a new, visually stimulating, piece of art on display.
How Much Does Area15 Cost?
Admission to Area 15 is free, and tickets to get in can be reserved here. Free admission allows you to walk around the complex and enjoy the art on display, play yard games on the back patio, and gain access to dining options on-site.
Additional activities and experiences at Area15, which I’ll dive into next, can be added to your itinerary for an additional fee.
Most add-on experiences at Area15 cost between $8.50 – $25 for adults, depending on the activity.
Things To Do at Area15 in Las Vegas
There’s certainly a lot to see at Area15, and while the “seeing” part is free the complex also offers additional add-on activities that guests can reserve a ticket for in advance on their website.
Here’s a rundown of things to do at Area15:
Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart: The newest attraction at Area15 is Omega Mart, a 52,000 square foot “supermarket store experience”. Sounds weird right? It is.
Found inside Omega Mart is an abundance of odd, out-of-this-world, and even humorous product offerings. The trippy part, however, are the portals that you’ll find that lead to “other dimensions”.
This isn’t the type of attraction I’m typically attracted to, but I had a blast exploring. See my full review of Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart.
Reserve tickets in advance, because this one is in demand.
Omega Mart Ticket Deal: Save up to $10 per ticket by buying through Vegas.com, here.
Birdly: A virtual reality experience, riders on birdly are strapped to what can only be described as a mechanical skeleton that moves like, and positions the rider like a bird.
VR glasses are strapped on, and a fan in front of the rider simulates the wind generated by their simulated flight. Riders choose where they want to fly and options include New York City, or prehistoric worlds. Birdly costs $13.50 for adults.
Haley’s Comet: Riders take a spin on a “roller glider” which is essentially like a zipline/rollercoaster hybrid that is suspended from the roof and takes the rider on an aerial tour of the property. Haley’s Comet costs $18 for adults.
Museum Fiasco “Cluster”: Cluster is an immersive experience that will stimulate your senses.
Think of it as an expertly synchronized sound and light show in a cavernous warehouse in which the artist has used the columns and depth of the space spectacularly. Tickets are $18 for adults and are worth every penny.
Emporium: Think cosmic bowling, but instead, Emporium at Area15 is an arcade with similar decor and theming. Complete with a bar, pool tables, and arcade favorites, Emporium is a great spot to let your inner kid out to play. Note that Emporium is 21+ though, so leave your actual kids behind.
Illuminarium: Leveraging 360-degree video screens, scents, and in-floor vibrations, Illuminarium transports guests to deep space, a Tokyo night market, and an African safari. At night, the venue transforms into one of the more unique cocktail lounges in Las Vegas.
O’Keefe: One Hundred Flowers: Calling the same venue as Illuminarium home, this attraction is a tribute to Georgia O’Keefe, who is known for her artistic depiction of flowers. Guests have the opportunity to watch her paintings come to life around them in a 360-degree projection room.
Particle Quest: Another VR experience, Particle Quest exposes participants to stunning visuals while seeking out the true origins of Area15.
Wink World: Ever wonder what infinity looks like? Look into portals that are intended to give you just that – A visual representation of infinity.
Dueling Axes: Few places allow you to combine the consumption of intoxicating substances with throwing axes at a target. I invite you to meet Dueling Axes at Area15. With 18 throwing lanes that each accommodate up to 6 guests, you’re sure to have a unique experience.
Oz Experience: OZ is an immersive virtual reality experience that transports riders to either deep space or the fictional Birdly King Land. The ride lasts about 3 minutes and costs $13.50 for adults.
Five Iron Golf: Play a found of golf with your friends on a simulated screen with a fresh cocktail never far away. Especially if you prefer to avoid golfing in the summer heat, this could be a great option.
LIFTOFF: An “aerial experience”, LIFTOFF elevates riders to a height of 130-feet, providing a great panoramic view of Las Vegas. Before boarding, guests have the opportunity to purchase a cocktail at the LIFTOFF Lounge, which can also be brought onto the ride.
Live Music: Area15 also frequently hosts live music and events. You can check the calendar for upcoming shows here.
In addition to the Experiences at Area15, there is also an outdoor patio with yard games like cornhole, oversized cornhole, giant Jenga, giant Connect 4, and some wild “Mad Max” looking vehicles on display. Access to the patio and yard games are free.
What’s the Best Way to Get to Area15?
Area15 is a short drive from the Las Vegas Strip, and free parking is provided. There is also a dedicated rideshare dropoff and pickup location, and an Uber from the Strip only cost me $12 plus tip.
Visiting Area15 could be a great option for Vegas visitors that are sick of gambling, have blown their bankroll, or are traveling with kids. It can be done as inexpensively, or grandiose as your budget will allow and is honestly pretty cool, even if artistic displays aren’t typically your thing.
Below are some additional photos that I snapped of the complex!
Related: Things to do in Las Vegas with kids.
See Also: New Things To Do in Las Vegas – New attractions, shows, and sights.
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.