The STRAT Observation Deck
4.5(279)google
3.3(49)yelp
FamilyDate SpotSunsetNight ViewNight-FriendlyIndoorOutdoorPhoto SpotCity LandmarkMust-SeePerformance
Overview
The STRAT Observation Deck stands proudly at the absolute summit of the soaring STRAT Hotel tower, rising a spectacular 1,149 feet above the northern skyline of the city. Holding the monumental historic distinction of being the absolute tallest free-standing observation tower in the United States, the deck offers unmatched 360-degree panoramic vistas. Thrill-seekers flock worldwide to experience its historic, adrenaline-fueled extreme amusement rides suspended terrifyingly over the cliff edge, like Big Shot and Insanity.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration1-1.5 hours
Best TimeAscending 30 minutes before sunset is highly recommended. Towering 1,100 feet in the air, this expansive indoor and outdoor observation space offers sweeping, unobstructed views of both the desert horizon and the glowing Strip below.
Getting TherePerched at the peak of The STRAT Hotel complex. Take the Deuce bus directly to The STRAT stop, walk into the main casino floor, and follow the 'SkyPod' signage to board the high-speed vertical passenger elevators.
Travel Tips
- High-altitude thrill rides (Big Shot, X-Scream) operate under strict wind-speed limits. When wind gusts atop the tower exceed 35 mph, all outdoor rides suspend instantly. Combo tickets are non-refundable for partial closures; check wind statuses via phone before ascending.
- Avoid buying full-price walk-up tickets at the bottom box office. Instead, book electronic tickets online in advance, or secure a reservation at the 107 SkyLounge restaurant upstairs, which offers complimentary tower access with a minimum dining spend via a VIP elevator.
Photo Tips
Photo Rules
- An airport-style security screening checks all guests before elevator boarding. Banned items include outside food/liquids (even water bottles), long telephoto lenses, full-sized tripods, and bags over 18 inches. No luggage storage is provided onsite.
Reviews
Positive
- The core view and visual impact are unmatched; as the highest landmark observation deck in Las Vegas, it offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the Strip and desert skyline.
- The thrill and entertainment value are superb; the top of the tower features multiple adrenaline-pumping high-altitude rides that guarantee an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers.
- The infrastructure is well-designed, featuring powerful A/C inside the deck, multiple clean modern restrooms, and multi-language interactive touchscreens with clear directions.
- If you purchase a bundle package that includes the thrill rides, the overall cost-to-value ratio is excellent, making it well worth the money compared to other single Strip landmarks.
Heads up
- Located at the far northern end of the Strip, the surrounding neighborhood is older, making public transit accessibility just average, and walking nearby after dark can feel a bit sketchy.
- Crowd control during weekend sunset golden hours is chaotic; the queues for the express elevator are agonizingly long and slow-moving, which heavily drains tourist patience.
- The incidental costs and dining are notorious for price-gouging; a basic cocktail or snack at the tower bar is heavily marked up, and the photo packages pushed at exit are expensive.
- The outdoor observation deck and thrill rides will unconditionally close during high desert winds or summer storms, and unpredictable self-parking fee adjustments annoy driving guests.