STRAT SkyPod
4.5(1.1K)google
3.3(47)yelp
Youth-FriendlyNight ViewNight-FriendlyOutdoorPhoto SpotCity LandmarkThrillingAdventurousPerformance
Overview
The Strat (formerly the Stratosphere) is a hotel and casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States. It includes a 1,149-foot-tall (350 m) observation tower, the tallest in the United States. It is also the second-tallest observation tower in the Western Hemisphere, surpassed only by the CN Tower in Toronto, Ontario.
Practical Info
Every day10:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Suggested Duration1-1.5 hours
Best TimeAscending 30 minutes before sunset is highly recommended. Located at the top of the tower, the SkyPod observation deck provides panoramic views to capture both the dramatic desert sunset and the sprawling sea of neon lights below.
Getting TherePerched at the top of The STRAT Hotel. Take the Deuce bus directly to The STRAT stop, enter the property, and follow the prominent 'SkyPod / Observation Deck' signage to board the high-speed direct elevators.
Travel Tips
- SkyPod defines the upper climate-controlled and open-air decks starting at Level 108; access requires passing high-throughput security filters where tactical knifes and glass containers are confiscated.
- High Wind Advisories trigger immediate locked closures of the exterior Level 109 sky-decks with zero ticket refunds provided; general admissions are restricted exclusively behind Level 108 panoramic glass panes.
Photo Tips
Best LightThe sunset and twilight neon transition spans a tight window; elevator queues routinely peak at 60 minutes during this interval, necessitating a pre-sunset arrival to avoid missing the horizon frame.
Reviews
Positive
- Standing at the 1000+ foot panoramic glass deck offers a breathtaking, 360-degree skyline of the Strip and open desert, with sunset visuals that are world-class and true to fame.
- A paradise for adrenaline junkies! You can conquer the SkyJump bungee jump or ride thrill rides dangling straight out over the edge, making the experience wildly exciting.
- The Top of the World rotating restaurant up top features five-star service and dining. Enjoying premium fine dining while watching the city lights yields a highly luxurious vibe.
- Access is easy with a massive dedicated parking garage underneath and clear signs. The observation deck features strong AC, spotless restrooms, and warm, energetic staff.
Heads up
- The over-commercialized cash traps are deep. SkyPod entry is pricey, and thrill rides cost extra. Trying everything causes your wallet to shrink fast, hurting basic value.
- Located on the gritty northern edge of the Strip near a rougher district, street walking after dark features heavy vagrants and a messy environment, hurting the safety vibe.
- Sunset and weekend nights bring agonizingly long, chaotic queues for security and elevators. Lacking efficient crowd control, waiting in cramped indoor hallways feels oppressive.
- Because the structure is older, some lower-tier elevators and accessible paths leading to the pod look dated, causing long waits for families with strollers or wheelchairs.