Things To Do at and Near STRAT Las Vegas
Fresh off a $100 million renovation that touched nearly every aspect of the resort, from guest rooms to the gaming floor, STRAT looks reinvigorated.
While the property sits in a somewhat isolated position without neighbors at the north end of the Las Vegas Strip, I always make an effort to stop in as there are plenty of unique things to do.
Check out my renovated Elevate Room (they're impressive).
Things To Do at STRAT
Observation Deck and Thrill Rides: Yes, the views from the observation deck on The STRAT's 1,149-foot-tall tower are stunning and can't be missed, but the real draw, in my opinion, is the thrill rides.
The rides, which either dangle you off the edge of the tower (X-Scream), or shoot you straight up in the air (Big Shot) are not only a lot of fun, but inexpensive.
Unfortunately, Insanity has permanently closed. X-Scream has been "temporarily closed" for months and months. I'm starting to fear the worst.
The SkyPod observation deck costs around $26.95 to access, and adding a ride is only $7 more when booking direct.
Book in advance, as admission is more expensive if you buy it in person at the box office. I learned this lesson the hard way.
Put Some Balls Down Range: Atomic Golf is a driving range on steroids, offering social golf games that are fun for novices and professionals alike.
While Atomic Golf has a "bland" look during the day, cosmic lighting brings the range to life after the sun goes down.
What really intrigues me are the "Unleash Unlimited" packages they now offer, which bundle golf, drinks, and food into one price.
Eat at Top of the World Steakhouse: A perfect date night; he or she will be in awe of the view from 800 feet above the Strip below. Adding to the allure is the rotating floor, which takes 80 minutes to complete a full rotation.
Top of the World's menu has been revamped following the property's recent renovation and rebranding project. A great meal with an unbelievable view.
Related: More Las Vegas date night ideas!
Take Advantage of Nearby Photo Ops: The city of Las Vegas has constructed a pair of arches that straddle the Las Vegas Strip, with a sign hanging from them that says "City of Las Vegas".
Located right outside the resort's front door, a quick photo with the new gateway should make for a fun thing to do near STRAT.
Just north of STRAT on Las Vegas Blvd. is another photo opportunity. This one features large dice, chip stacks, and 2 vintage Las Vegas showgirls which are a whopping 50 feet tall.
See a Comedy Show: L.A. Comedy Club features a rotating collection of comics in the intimate 160-seat Dragon Room.
Doubling as inexpensive, GA tickets start at $39.95 with the venue, but are often cheaper on Veags.com.
Definitely shop around.
Eat BIG at Breakfast: STRAT Cafe offers a $26.99 breakfast buffet (inclusive of tax & gratuity) with items like eggs, fruit, bacon, sausage, potatoes, and more.
See a Burlesque Show: If you're feeling more risque, give Rouge: The Sexiest Show in Vegas a second look.
Described as "A journey of seduction", Rouge incorporates both men and topless women into their cast of 18 performers.
Uniquely, the production also includes variety acts, including acrobats, dancers, comedians, contortionists, and more.
Tickets start at around $69.
Things To Do Near STRAT
Often overlooked by visitors, I recommend checking out the Las Vegas Arts District, located between STRAT and the Fremont Street Experience.
The Arts District has a completely different vibe than the rest of Vegas and spans 18 blocks of restaurants, bars, breweries, and unique shopping, including antiques and, of course, plenty of art.
My favorite reason to visit is to hop from brewery to brewery and unique bar to unique bar.
Great way to spend an afternoon.
I am not a "shopping guy" per se, but thought the selection of shops was enjoyable, specifically antique shops offering vintage Vegas casino memorabilia.
Making things easier, guests wanting to visit the Arts District from STRAT can hop on the free Downtown Loop Shuttle to get to both the Arts District and the Fremont Street Experience.
Sing Karaoke: Among the more popular karaoke bars in Las Vegas, Dino's Lounge is located a short walk from STRAT.
Karaoke is offered Thursday - Saturday from 10 pm until late.
Dino's is a "divy" that boasts that they've been "Getting Vegas drunk since 1962".
Check out Resorts World: A short ride to the south is Resorts World, the newest resort on the Strip. Inside, you'll find a sprawling casino, numerous opportunities to shop, and an abundance of dining options.
My favorite quirk of the property is the Here Kitty Kitty Vice Den Speakeasy, which is hidden behind the facade of one of the restaurants in the Famous Foods Street Eats food hall.
See a Male Revue: Sahara is home to Magic Mike Live, which borrows its name from the Channing Tatum movie franchise. Qualifying as one of the best male revue shows in Las Vegas, Magic Mike could be worthy of bachelorette party itineraries.
Catch a Game Poolside: Sahara's pool is open to the public, has massive screens, and could be a unique spot to sweat a bet.
Play Coin Slots: Fans of slots that take and dispense real tokens should catch a ride to Circus Circus to play their bank of $1 and $5 slots.
Currently, Circus Circus is the only resort on the Strip that offers vintage slot games with that familiar "ting, ting, ting."
Most of these games are currently located in Slots A Fun.
Slots A Fun also sells $2 hot dogs, draft beer, shrimp cocktails, and more.
Shop for Souvenirs: The "World's Largest" Bonanza Gift Shop is located on the Strip just south of STRAT and offers a variety of giftables not found anywhere else.
There, you'll find shot glasses, flasks, toys, candy, clothing, jewelry, and so much more. Check it out if you have people to shop for!
While STRAT is a worthy destination thanks to its unique attractions, the resort is a ways from other Strip and downtown properties.
I typically like to fit my stop at STRAT in on a night I plan on going downtown (if staying on the Strip) and stop in on the way to or from.
Feature Image Credit: ©jetcityimage/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.
