The Stratosphere Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas lives up to its name in both its appearance and literally 'over-the-top' activities offered. Looming over the north end of the Vegas Strip at 1,149 feet, the Stratosphere Tower is the tallest structure in Las Vegas. Between the tower and the main buildings of the Stratosphere plenty of activities await to entertain visitors of all ages and interests.
Aside from its spectacular appearance, the Stratosphere is best known for its hair-raising thrill rides. The Big Shot at the very top of the tower propels riders 160 feet straight up into the air, only to drop and do it again. For those who prefer to head straight out, the X-Scream, basically a giant teeter-totter, shoots out 27 feet over the edge of the building to leave riders hanging face first before repeating. SkyJump offers jumpers 855 feet, the highest controlled free-fall in the world. The aptly named Insanity uses a giant arm to hang 64 feet out from the building at over 900 feet high. If that is not enough, the arm then spins fast enough to tilt riders to a 70 degree angle, face down over the Strip.
For some, an important aspect of the Vegas experience is the swimming pool. The Stratosphere has two pools that, while not located in the tower, provide views and entertainment all their own. The Level 8 pool offers skyline views while pool-goers play bikini blackjack or water volleyball. Beach Club 25 also has games, but with the added distinction of being 21 and over only and "topless optional". Both pools have food and drink services.
The Stratosphere casino hosts the requisite table games such as blackjack and craps, slot machines for varying budgets, a poker room that hosts daily tournaments, and a sports and racing betting room.
The Stratosphere is home to two shows that play regularly in the Theater of the Stars. "American Superstars" boasts the best celebrity impersonators, including Elvis and Michael Jackson. "Bite" is in its seventh year of involving audience members in an erotic tale of a vampire in search of his perfect female "specimen".
In addition, five cocktail bars reside at the Stratosphere, ranging from dueling pianos to DJs and dancing at the highest bar in town.
If dangling out over the edge of the Stratosphere is not how you want to view the city, the Top of The World restaurant may be a better bet. Revolving 360 degrees, the Top is an award-winning restaurant 800 feet above the ground. There are other eateries that provide options such as a 50s diner, Italian fare, or a Vegas classic, the buffet.
