100 Dumb US Laws (With Proof They Exist)
Do you feel queasy just at the sight of the slowest roller coaster at Six Flags? Then you might want to stop reading right now. The attractions at the top of the tallest building in Las Vegas, 921.92 ft above the ground, are only for the brave. As is often the case with such rides, the worst part is the fear itself. The experience is pure adrenaline and fun. Everything is 100% safe, and I’ve personally seen young children enjoying these rides. They were absolutely thrilled!
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Table of Contents
Big Shot – Blast Off to the Sky
Big Shot launches riders straight up, allowing them to enjoy breathtaking views of the Strip and the entire Las Vegas Valley—if they can keep their eyes open.
The ride accommodates 16 people at once, seated in chairs and securely fastened with safety harnesses. These are crucial because, during the rapid ascent and subsequent drop, riders experience a force of up to 4 Gs. During the launch from 921.00 ft to 1,081.00 ft, the seats reach speeds of up to 45.00 mph. There are four seats on each side of the tower, so each person gets a view in a different direction.
Personally, I found Big Shot to be the most manageable of the thrill rides simply because the solid ground beneath your feet is always visible. I also had prior experience with a similar ride at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark. If you want to overcome your fear at The Strat but lack confidence, I recommend starting with Big Shot.
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X-Scream – Teeter-Totter Over the Edge
This attraction is somewhat like a traditional playground teeter-totter, but on steroids. Instead of pushing off the ground, a high-tech track tilts you over the edge of the tower. Eight people sit in a ride vehicle that rolls back and forth along a narrow track, pivoting up and down.
The movement feels unpredictable, and it all takes place at a height of 866.00 ft, dangling 27.00 ft over the edge of the skyscraper. If you want the full X-Scream experience, I recommend sitting in the front row, where you’ll have an unobstructed view of the city below.
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SkyJump – Jump from the Roof at 829.00 ft
The ultimate adrenaline rush at The Strat is SkyJump, which has been operating since March 2010. Brave participants are suited up in a special flight suit and securely harnessed to a guided cable system. Then, they simply step off the platform at 829.00 ft. The system provides a controlled descent, preventing a hard landing on the target mat below.
The adrenaline level in SkyJump is significantly higher than the other rides, with a maximum descent speed of up to 40.00 mph. SkyJump holds the Guinness World Record for the highest commercial decelerator descent.
SkyJump is the only attraction requiring a separate ticket. For an additional fee, you can purchase photos and wrist-cam footage of your jump.
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Insanity – Permanently Closed
A special mention goes to what was arguably the most terrifying ride of all. Insanity earned its name honestly. A massive mechanical arm extended 64 feet over the edge of the skyscraper, spinning passengers in the open air. There was no floor beneath the riders’ feet, and to make it even more intense, the seats angled downward, forcing riders to stare directly at the ground 885.83 ft below.
Of all the attractions at The Strat, I personally liked Insanity the most. However, please note that this attraction has been permanently closed since 2023 and is no longer available.
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How to Visit The Strat in Las Vegas
🗺️ Where Is The Strat Located?
The attractions are located at the top of The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower (formerly Stratosphere, map). You can’t miss it, as it remains the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States.
The nearest bus stop is “The Strat” (served by the DEUCE line). The stop is located directly in front of the hotel on Las Vegas Boulevard.
🕒 Opening Hours
The thrill rides at The Strat are typically open daily from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM. SkyJump usually operates from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Please note that rides may close unexpectedly due to high winds or inclement weather. The observation deck has extended hours, allowing you to enjoy the view daily from 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM (until 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays).
🎟️ Tickets for The Strat Las Vegas
The ticket price for the Observation Deck is approximately $20.00 during the week, but prices can vary by date and demand.
Rides are charged separately or as an add-on. An “Unlimited Ride Pass” (giving access to Big Shot and X-Scream) typically costs around $49.00 including tower admission. The price for a SkyJump starts at $140 for the jump alone. Packages with photos and video can cost upwards of $170.
I last updated all prices on January 5, 2026.
🎫 Entrance with Go City Pass Las Vegas
You can use the Go City Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass for entry to The Strat’s observation deck. Some pass options may also include a thrill ride, but check the current terms before visiting.
The Go City Pass serves as a digital ticket for attractions in Las Vegas and the surrounding area. It is sold in 2, 3, 4, or 5-day versions, during which you can visit dozens of places without paying extra at the gate. A 4-day pass can save you hundreds of dollars if you plan to see a lot.
The selection of included attractions is extensive. Along with The Strat, you can experience a helicopter ride over the Strip, ride the Big Apple Coaster at NY-NY, take a spin on the High Roller observation wheel, or visit the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck.
💡 Fun Facts About The Strat
The Strat has a total of 2,427 rooms. Construction of the tower began in February 1992 and continued until April 30, 1996, when the Stratosphere officially opened.
The construction was not without challenges. The most significant incident occurred around midnight on August 29, 1993, when a fire broke out in the tower. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but it significantly slowed the project’s completion.
⭐ My Review of The Strat Las Vegas
I enjoy adrenaline rushes, so I couldn’t miss The Strat. While I didn’t try the SkyJump, I experienced the mechanical rides. Big Shot offers an incredible view (if you can keep your eyes open), and X-Scream is genuinely terrifying because of the tilt.
The Strat is worth visiting for the unique view of the city alone, even if you’re not a fan of thrill rides.
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Photos of The Strat Attractions
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