Las Vegas has always been a city that celebrates larger-than-life experiences. The neon lights, extravagant casinos, and 24/7 entertainment options draw millions each year. But for us locals, some attractions offer more than the typical tourist flair—they provide a unique and ever-evolving view of the city we call home. The High Roller Observation Wheel, located at The LINQ Promenade, is one such landmark that has become an iconic part of our skyline. Spanning an impressive 550 feet, this is the world’s second-tallest observation wheel and a can’t-miss attraction for anyone visiting or living in Vegas.
In this article, I’ll take you through everything there is to know about the High Roller, from its construction and design to the unique experiences it offers.
What is the High Roller?
The High Roller is no ordinary Ferris wheel. Unlike traditional amusement park wheels, the High Roller was built to be a centerpiece of entertainment in Las Vegas, rivaling the likes of the Eiffel Tower and London Eye in its grandeur and uniqueness. Opened in 2014, this towering structure has become a symbol of modern Las Vegas, symbolizing the city’s growth and innovation. Standing tall at 550 feet with 28 spacious pods, each designed for a comfortable and scenic ride, the High Roller offers a way to see Vegas like never before.
Key Facts about the High Roller Observation Wheel
- Opened in March 2014, making it one of the newer attractions in Vegas.
- Located at The LINQ Promenade, in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip.
- 550 feet tall, making it the second-tallest observation wheel in the world.
- Each ride takes approximately 30 minutes, offering a full rotation.
- Each pod can hold up to 40 people, meaning the wheel can accommodate 1,120 guests per rotation.
Design and Engineering Marvel
One of the most impressive aspects of the High Roller is the engineering feat behind its construction. The wheel isn’t just visually striking; it’s an architectural marvel designed to withstand the desert winds and provide a smooth, quiet ride for all its passengers.
Design Highlights of the High Roller
- State-of-the-Art Pods: Each of the 28 pods is air-conditioned, making it comfortable year-round. The pods are spacious and allow passengers to move around and enjoy the view from every angle.
- Dynamic Lighting System: The High Roller is illuminated with an array of LED lights that change colors and patterns throughout the night, creating a mesmerizing light show visible from across the city.
- Precision Engineering: The High Roller is built to withstand high winds and other environmental factors, ensuring a safe and smooth ride for all passengers.
- Eco-Friendly Design: The wheel uses energy-efficient systems, including regenerative braking, which captures energy while slowing down the wheel.
- Advanced Technology: Each pod is equipped with screens that offer fun facts and trivia about Vegas, making it a mini educational experience as well.
The Experience of a High Roller Ride
For locals and tourists alike, the experience of riding the High Roller is one-of-a-kind. It’s a 30-minute rotation that offers stunning 360-degree views of Las Vegas, from the iconic Strip to the expansive desert mountains.
What You’ll See on Your High Roller Ride
- Panoramic Views of the Strip: As you ascend, the views of the Las Vegas Strip come alive, with casinos, fountains, and architecture stretching as far as the eye can see.
- The Desert and Mountains Beyond: Vegas isn’t just about the Strip. The High Roller offers an unobstructed view of the city’s natural beauty, including the Red Rock Canyon and Spring Mountains.
- The Best Sunset in Town: For those who time it right, the High Roller provides the best seat in town for a breathtaking desert sunset.
- Vegas by Night: A night ride offers a completely different experience, with the city lights glowing below, creating a magical view of Las Vegas after dark.
- Interactive Screens for Extra Info: Each pod has screens that offer interesting trivia and history about Las Vegas, making it educational as well as entertaining.
Special Packages and Experiences
The High Roller is designed for flexibility, offering a variety of experiences beyond the typical observation ride. From happy hours in the sky to private events, there’s an option for everyone looking to make the most of their time on the wheel.
Options for Enhancing Your High Roller Experience
- Happy Half-Hour: A unique offering where riders can enjoy an open bar inside their pod for 30 minutes. This is popular with groups looking for a fun and social experience.
- Family and Group Packages: For larger groups or families, there are special packages that provide discounts and additional amenities, making it a more economical choice.
- Private Pods for Events: For weddings, birthdays, or corporate events, you can book a private pod and turn the High Roller into your personal celebration space.
- Yoga in the Sky: Some mornings, the High Roller offers a yoga experience where you can participate in a guided yoga session while enjoying stunning views. It’s a unique way to relax and connect with the city.
- Virtual Reality Options: For those wanting a different take on the experience, some pods are equipped with VR headsets that simulate the feeling of flying over the city.
The LINQ Promenade and Nearby Attractions
The High Roller’s location at The LINQ Promenade makes it even more attractive, as visitors can enjoy a vibrant entertainment district before or after their ride.
Restaurants and Bars
The LINQ Promenade is packed with diverse dining and drinking options that make it a culinary hotspot on the Las Vegas Strip. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a sit-down meal, or a cocktail before your High Roller experience, there’s something for everyone.
- Flour & Barley: This pizza place serves up wood-fired pizzas and craft beers, with both classic and creative toppings. It’s an excellent spot for families and pizza lovers alike.
- Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen: For those craving bold flavors, Guy Fieri’s offers comfort food with a twist, featuring dishes like Trash Can Nachos and Bacon Mac N Cheese Burger.
- Yard House: Known for its extensive beer selection, Yard House is a great place to relax with a pint or two. The menu includes a variety of American classics, from burgers to seafood.
- Off The Strip: A local favorite, Off The Strip offers a mix of hearty American fare in a casual setting, perfect for both tourists and locals who want a laid-back meal.
- ICEBAR: A truly unique experience, this bar is made entirely of ice, offering a chilly atmosphere with drinks served in ice glasses. It’s an exciting stop for anyone looking for a memorable night out.
Shopping
The LINQ Promenade is more than just a dining and entertainment hub; it’s also a fantastic shopping destination with a range of unique stores. Visitors can find everything from gifts and souvenirs to one-of-a-kind fashion items and treats.
- Goorin Bros. Hat Shop: This stylish hat shop offers a range of high-quality hats, from fedoras to flat caps, perfect for those who want a classic Vegas look.
- Honolulu Cookie Company: Famous for their pineapple-shaped shortbread cookies, this store offers a delightful selection of Hawaiian treats that make perfect gifts or souvenirs.
- Kappa Toys: A toy store that feels like a walk down memory lane, Kappa Toys is full of nostalgic and quirky toys for all ages.
- Chilli Beans: Known for their trendy sunglasses, Chilli Beans offers unique eyewear for those looking to add some style to their Vegas wardrobe.
- Havaianas: Ideal for visitors planning poolside relaxation, this shop has a colorful variety of flip-flops and beachwear, bringing a bit of tropical flair to the Promenade.
Other Attractions
In addition to the High Roller, The LINQ Promenade has various other attractions that appeal to thrill-seekers, music lovers, and anyone looking to experience Vegas entertainment in new ways.
- Fly LINQ Zipline: For the adrenaline junkies, Fly LINQ Zipline offers a thrilling ride over the Promenade, giving riders a bird’s-eye view of the entire strip.
- Brooklyn Bowl: A unique blend of live music, bowling, and great food, Brooklyn Bowl is an exciting venue where you can catch concerts, bowl a few frames, or grab a bite to eat.
- VR Adventures: This immersive attraction offers virtual reality experiences that transport you into different worlds, from a futuristic cityscape to a thrilling rollercoaster ride.
- I Love Sugar: A dream for anyone with a sweet tooth, this two-story candy emporium has everything from classic candies to unique and novelty treats.
- Fountain Show: Although smaller than the iconic fountains at the Bellagio, The LINQ Promenade has its own charming water feature, providing a relaxing spot to sit and people-watch.
Street Performers and Events
One of the highlights of The LINQ Promenade is its lively atmosphere, featuring a variety of street performers, seasonal events, and festivals. These activities add an energetic vibe, making the Promenade feel like an open-air celebration.
- Street Performers: You’ll often find magicians, musicians, dancers, and more showcasing their talents along the Promenade, offering free entertainment for passersby.
- Seasonal Events: The LINQ frequently hosts seasonal festivities, such as holiday markets, Halloween celebrations, and New Year’s parties, which bring a festive flair to the area.
- Food Festivals: Occasionally, The LINQ hosts food and drink festivals, showcasing local culinary talent and giving visitors the chance to sample a wide variety of dishes.
- Art Installations: The Promenade sometimes features art installations and sculptures, adding a touch of creativity and visual interest to the area.
- Special Performances and Flash Mobs: Keep an eye out for surprise performances and flash mobs, which add to the unexpected, spontaneous charm of The LINQ.
Vortex Light Show
The LINQ Promenade’s Vortex Light Show is a dazzling, immersive visual experience that illuminates the sky and provides an artistic backdrop to the area’s entertainment offerings. This vibrant light display is a must-see, especially after dark.
- Dynamic Color Patterns: The light show features a series of changing colors and designs, creating a mesmerizing, kaleidoscopic effect visible throughout the Promenade.
- Great Photo Op: The Vortex provides a unique and colorful backdrop that’s perfect for memorable photos, especially for groups or couples.
- Nightly Shows: The Vortex Light Show runs at regular intervals throughout the night, so visitors have multiple chances to catch it during their time at The LINQ.
- Visible from the High Roller: Those riding the High Roller at night can catch a glimpse of the Vortex Light Show from above, adding an extra layer to the experience.
- Eco-Friendly LED Lighting: The Vortex is designed with energy-efficient LED lights, which create an impressive show while being environmentally conscious.
Cost, Tickets, and Special Discounts
A ride on the High Roller is not only memorable but also customizable with various ticket options and discounts available for visitors.
Pricing and Ticket Information
- Standard Tickets: Typical prices range from around $23 for daytime tickets to $34 for nighttime tickets.
- Express Tickets: For those who want to skip the line, express tickets are available at an additional cost.
- Discounts for Locals: Las Vegas residents can often enjoy discounted rates, so it’s worth checking for local offers.
- Group Rates and Family Packages: Group rates make it more affordable for families or large groups, and private pods are available for special occasions.
- Seasonal Promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal deals, holiday specials, or combo tickets with nearby attractions for added value.
Best Times to Visit the High Roller
As someone who has lived in Vegas for many years, I’ve had the chance to experience the High Roller at all times of day and night. Each offers a different perspective and mood, but some times are better than others depending on what you’re hoping to see.
When to Catch the Best Views
- Early Morning for Clear Skies: The mornings offer clear, uninterrupted views with fewer crowds. It’s a peaceful way to start the day and appreciate the desert landscape.
- Afternoon for Family Rides: Midday tends to be less crowded, so it’s ideal for families and those wanting to avoid lines.
- Sunset for Romance and Beauty: Sunset is a magical time on the High Roller, with the sky painted in vivid colors and the lights of the Strip beginning to glow.
- Evening for the Best Lights: Vegas is famous for its nightlife, and the High Roller offers a perfect vantage point for seeing the Strip in all its illuminated glory.
- Late Night for a Quieter Experience: If you’re looking for a peaceful, less crowded experience, try visiting late at night. The Strip’s lights look particularly vibrant against the dark desert sky.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your High Roller Experience
After countless visits, I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks to help make the most of a High Roller visit. These suggestions can help anyone, especially first-time visitors, maximize their experience and create unforgettable memories.
Tips for an Unforgettable High Roller Experience
- Book in Advance for Sunset Rides: Sunset rides are the most popular, so be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
- Try the Happy Half-Hour if You’re of Age: The open bar is a fun, Vegas-style twist that many adults enjoy, especially during evening rides.
- Take Advantage of the Screens Inside the Pods: The trivia and fun facts displayed on the screens add an educational layer, making the ride more interesting.
- Look for Discounted Tickets for Locals: Vegas residents often get discounted admission, so keep an eye out for local deals.
- Bring a Camera or Use Your Phone for Night Shots: The views from the High Roller are fantastic, especially at night, so don’t forget to capture the moment.
The High Roller – A Must-See for Tourists and Locals Alike
The High Roller Observation Wheel is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a testament to the spirit of Las Vegas—grand, unique, and always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether you’re a visitor or a long-time resident, a ride on the High Roller is an unforgettable experience that showcases the city from a whole new perspective. From the high-tech design to the range of experiences available, there’s truly something for everyone on the High Roller.
For locals, it offers a chance to step back and see our city with fresh eyes, appreciating the dazzling Strip and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. And for visitors, it’s an essential part of any Vegas itinerary, offering a view of the city that’s as awe-inspiring as it is fun.
