As befits a city that styles itself the Entertainment Capital of the World, whether you’re into gaming, eating, drinking, partying, watching shows or just about anything else, there’s always something to keep you busy in Vegas.
However, if you’re looking for something that will get your pulse racing and make you feel truly alive, The STRAT is one of the best places to go. Its SkyPod observation tower has sky-high views, thrill rides, bars, snacks, a revolving restaurant and the famous SkyJump.
The biggest update is that The STRAT no longer promotes three active thrill rides. Big Shot and X-Scream remain the key SkyPod thrill rides to know, while Insanity has been closed since 2023 and should not be treated as a current operating ride. SkyJump is still available as a separate extreme attraction.
Here’s the updated guide to The STRAT rides, SkyJump, SkyPod attractions, hours, restrictions and prices.
Introducing the STRAT SkyPod
The STRAT is a resort on the north end of Las Vegas Boulevard. Some visitors consider it part of the Strip, while others describe it as just north of the main Strip resort corridor. Either way, it is impossible to miss because of its 1,149-foot observation tower.
Many of the resort’s best-known attractions are inside or on top of the tower, especially the SkyPod. This area includes indoor and outdoor observation decks, 108 Drinks, 108 Eats, Top of the World restaurant, thrill rides and SkyJump.
You have to buy Tower admission to visit the observation decks. Once you have your ticket, the elevator takes you up to the SkyPod, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Las Vegas Valley.
If you only want scenery, the observation deck is enough. If you want a stronger adrenaline rush, add Big Shot, X-Scream or SkyJump to your visit.
The STRAT Thrill Rides
The STRAT’s active thrill-ride situation has changed since older versions of this article.
The STRAT’s current thrill-ride page lists Big Shot and X-Scream as the main rides, while Insanity is no longer part of the active ride lineup. The official page also notes that rides operate weather permitting, and individual rides may close temporarily for maintenance, wind, rain or other operational reasons.
Current general ride hours are listed as daily from 2pm to 10pm, weather permitting. Always check the official STRAT page before buying tickets because ride availability can change on the day of your visit.
1. Big Shot
Big Shot is the most straightforward of The STRAT’s thrill rides, but that does not mean it is easy on the nerves.
You board the ride from a platform 921 feet above the ground. Once it launches, Big Shot shoots riders 160 feet upward at 45 miles per hour, reaching a height of 1,081 feet above Las Vegas.
The ride gives you a quick burst of acceleration, a brief moment near the top of the tower, and then the drop back down. It is intense, but it is also short, which makes it a good first ride if you want to test your limits.
Big Shot is best for visitors who want a vertical launch ride with dramatic views and a strong but manageable adrenaline hit.
Limitations: Riders must be at least 48 inches tall. The ride is not recommended for guests with physical, mental or medical limitations. Anyone 15 or younger must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
2. X-Scream
X-Scream is a different kind of fear.
Instead of launching you straight up, the ride works like a giant teeter-totter that sends riders headfirst over the edge of the tower. The car moves 27 feet out beyond the edge while you are 866 feet above the ground.
For a moment, it feels as if you are rolling off the tower and toward the Strip below. Then the ride pulls you back and repeats the motion.
This is the scariest STRAT ride for many visitors because it creates the illusion of going over the edge. If heights bother you, X-Scream may feel more intense than Big Shot.
Limitations: Riders must be at least 52 inches tall. The ride is not recommended for guests with physical, mental or medical limitations. Anyone 15 or younger must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Important note: X-Scream can close temporarily for maintenance or weather. Check current ride status before planning your visit around it.
3. What Happened to Insanity?
Older versions of this article listed Insanity as the third SkyPod thrill ride.
Insanity opened in 2005 and was once one of The STRAT’s signature attractions. It extended riders 64 feet over the edge of the tower and spun them high above the city.
However, Insanity has been closed since 2023 and is no longer listed as an active thrill ride on The STRAT’s current ride lineup. Because of that, visitors should not plan a trip expecting to ride Insanity.
The safest current wording is that The STRAT now has two main SkyPod thrill rides to consider: Big Shot and X-Scream. SkyJump remains separate from those ride packages.
The SkyJump
SkyJump is different from the thrill rides because it is not a standard amusement-park ride.
Instead, it is a controlled open-air descent from the 108th floor of the SkyPod. Jumpers step off from 829 feet above the Strip and descend toward the landing pad below at speeds of more than 40 miles per hour.
The STRAT describes SkyJump as the highest commercial decelerator descent facility in the world. It is one of the most extreme experiences in Las Vegas and a much bigger commitment than Big Shot or X-Scream.
SkyJump is not included in standard SkyPod thrill-ride packages. It is priced separately and usually costs much more than the rides.
Limitations: Jumpers must be at least 14 years old, at least 52 inches tall and under the maximum weight limit, which The STRAT has historically listed around 265 pounds. Confirm current requirements before booking.
Other Attractions in the SkyPod
There is still plenty to do at the SkyPod even if you do not want to ride Big Shot, X-Scream or SkyJump.
1. Indoor and Outdoor Observation Decks
The observation decks are the easiest reason to visit the SkyPod.
The indoor and outdoor decks offer panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip, Downtown Las Vegas, the mountains and the surrounding desert. Daytime visits give you clearer views of the valley, while nighttime visits show off the city lights.
Current STRAT hours list the Tower Observation Deck as open daily from 10am to 1am.
2. 108 Eats
108 Eats is the casual food option at the SkyPod. It is useful if you want a quick snack, sandwich, dessert or ice cream without booking a full restaurant meal.
Current STRAT hours list 108 Eats as open Monday-Friday from 11am to 11pm and Saturday-Sunday from 10am to 11pm.
3. 108 Drinks
108 Drinks is one of the most memorable bars in Las Vegas because it sits more than 800 feet above the city.
Purchase of Tower admission is required, but once you are up there, you can enjoy cocktails, beer, wine and Strip views from inside the SkyPod.
Current STRAT hours list 108 Drinks as open Monday-Thursday from 11am to midnight and Friday-Sunday from 11am to 1am. The bar also promotes Sky High Happy Hour Monday-Thursday from 3pm to 7pm, plus weekend bottomless mimosas with a view from 10am to 2pm on Saturday and Sunday.
4. Top of the World Restaurant
Top of the World is the SkyPod’s most famous dining experience.
The restaurant sits more than 800 feet above Las Vegas and revolves 360 degrees every 80 minutes. It is a strong choice for romantic dinners, proposals, milestone birthdays and visitors who want a view-focused fine-dining experience.
Current STRAT hours list Top of the World as open daily from 4:30pm to 11:30pm.
5. Wedding Chapels and Private Events
The STRAT also hosts weddings, proposals and private events in tower spaces.
If you want a ceremony with an extraordinary view, the SkyPod wedding spaces can make your Las Vegas wedding feel different from the usual downtown chapel or resort ballroom.
Opening Hours
Thrill Rides
Current STRAT hours list thrill rides as open daily from 2pm to 10pm, weather permitting.
Individual rides may close due to wind, rain, maintenance or operational issues. Check the official ride status before visiting, especially if you are going specifically for X-Scream or Big Shot.
SkyJump
Current STRAT hours list SkyJump as open daily from 2pm to 10pm. Some STRAT ride pages may also show seasonal or page-specific SkyJump hours, so confirm the current booking calendar before purchasing.
SkyJump can close due to bad weather.
Observation Decks
Current STRAT hours list the Tower Observation Deck as open daily from 10am to 1am.
108 Drinks
Current hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 11am-midnight
- Friday-Sunday: 11am-1am
- Sky High Happy Hour: Monday-Thursday 3pm-7pm
- Bottomless Mimosas with a View: Saturday-Sunday 10am-2pm
108 Eats
Current hours:
- Monday-Friday: 11am-11pm
- Saturday-Sunday: 10am-11pm
Top of the World Restaurant
Current hours:
- Daily: 4:30pm-11:30pm
Prices and Packages
To ride the STRAT thrill rides, you need Tower admission. Current STRAT pricing is simpler than the older weekday/weekend table.
Current official ride-page pricing starts at:
| Package | Current Starting Price |
| One Thrill Ride + Tower Admission | $29 |
| Unlimited Ride Pass + Tower Admission | $43.95 |
Prices can change without notice, and the available ride package may depend on which rides are operating that day. Military and Nevada locals discounts may be available at the box office.
SkyJump is priced separately. Current third-party ticket platforms commonly show SkyJump starting around the mid-$130 range, while direct pricing and packages may vary by date, photo/video add-ons and promotions. Check the official SkyJump booking page before purchasing.
FAQs
Do you have to pay to go to the top of The STRAT Tower?
Yes. The SkyPod observation decks require paid Tower admission unless you have a package, promotion or special access that includes it.
How many thrill rides are currently at The STRAT?
The STRAT currently promotes Big Shot and X-Scream as its main SkyPod thrill rides. Insanity is no longer promoted as an active operating ride.
Is Insanity open at The STRAT?
No. Insanity has been closed since 2023 and should not be treated as a current operating attraction.
Can you walk to the top of The STRAT?
No, not during normal visits. The tower has stairs, but they are not open to the general public for regular access. Guests use elevators to reach the SkyPod.
Is there still a roller coaster at the top of The STRAT?
No. The old Big Roller roller coaster closed permanently at the end of 2005. X-Scream may feel like a roller-coaster-style ride, but it is not the same as the former full track coaster.
Which STRAT ride is scariest?
That depends on the person. Big Shot is a vertical launch ride, while X-Scream creates the feeling of being sent over the edge of the tower. For many people with a fear of heights, X-Scream feels scarier.
Is SkyJump included with the thrill ride packages?
No. SkyJump is a separate attraction and is not included with standard thrill-ride passes.
Read More:
Sky-High Attractions That Still Deliver a Serious Adrenaline Rush
The STRAT remains one of the best places in Las Vegas for views and adrenaline.
The most important current update is that visitors should plan around Big Shot, X-Scream and SkyJump rather than assuming all three older thrill rides are operating. Insanity has been closed for years and should be removed from active ride-package language.
If you want the easiest adrenaline hit, ride Big Shot. If you want the strongest fear-of-heights moment, try X-Scream. If you want the full extreme experience, book SkyJump. And if you just want the view, the SkyPod observation decks, 108 Drinks and Top of the World are still worth the trip.