High Roller

Description

The High Roller in Las Vegas stands tall at an impressive 550 feet, holding the title of one of the tallest observation wheels in the world when it opened. Sitting right in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, this incredible Ferris wheel offers passengers an extraordinary look at the city from a whole new perspective. A full rotation takes approximately 30 minutes, giving you time to soak in the 360-degree views of the glowing skyline, the desert mountains, and the playful chaos down below. Some say you haven’t really experienced Las Vegas until you’ve seen it from the top of the High Roller—and honestly, it’s hard to argue with that perspective.

Each of the 28 glass-enclosed cabins feels airy and futuristic, accommodating up to 40 people comfortably. They’re fully air-conditioned (thank goodness—because Vegas heat can be unrelenting) and equipped with smooth lighting to set the mood, especially at night when the Strip shines like a living neon painting. There’s even a Happy Half Hour cabin option for those who want to sip a cocktail from the open bar while they rise above the city’s glitter. I tried that once—a little gin and tonic, some light music, and suddenly the entire city felt like a dream seen from space.

While the crowds can be noticeable, the staff moves efficiently and keeps things organized. It’s a polished operation, typical of operators under Caesars Entertainment. Because the cabins are spacious, you can stretch out a bit and even walk around while taking photographs from different angles. For those who get nervous about heights (and you wouldn’t be the first), the motion is so smooth that many find themselves relaxing quickly. The ascent is almost hypnotic, progressing slowly so that by the time you’re at the top, you’re too busy admiring the view to remember you were anxious.

Over the years, the High Roller has become more than just a ride—it’s a symbol of modern Las Vegas. It’s located right above the LINQ Promenade, surrounded by shopping, dining, and light-hearted entertainment. Come sunset, you’ll see visitors spill out onto the outdoor plaza, looking up in awe as the wheel’s LED lights change colors in sync with music. It’s theatrical but not over-the-top, landing somewhere between futuristic elegance and pure Vegas fun.

Key Features

• Height: 550 feet tall, once the world’s tallest observation wheel
• Ride Duration: Approximately 30 minutes per full revolution
• Cabins: 28 glass-enclosed, air-conditioned cabins holding up to 40 passengers
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with accessible restrooms and parking
• Special Experiences: Happy Half Hour cabin with open bar service
• Entertainment: Animated night light shows and music displays
• Location: Situated along the LINQ Promenade near hotels, entertainment, and dining options
• Tickets: Can be purchased in advance to avoid long waits
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children and adults alike
• Panoramic Views: Offers 360-degree views of the city skyline, surrounding desert, and distant mountains

Best Time to Visit

If there’s ever a ride that changes personality throughout the day, it’s the High Roller. During the day, the landscape stretches out endlessly under the Nevada sun—great if you enjoy seeing distant ridgelines and understanding just how giant Las Vegas really is. But come nightfall? That’s when the magic happens. The Strip lights up like an electric river flowing through the desert. Each building glows in its own color scheme, and the reflections off the cabin glass make everything shimmer.

Personally, my favorite time to go is just before sunset. You get the best of both worlds: golden-hour light that flatters every photo and those first twinkles of neon fencing the horizon. The rotation tops out right around nightfall, and the city’s transformation happens right before your eyes. In summer months, you’ll appreciate that the cabins are cool, and in winter, you’ll find them cozy. The High Roller operates year-round, making it a reliable stop no matter what time of year you find yourself in Las Vegas.

How to Get There

The High Roller is located in the center of everything, easily reachable whether you’re staying on the Strip or venturing in from other parts of the city. Many visitors choose to stroll down the LINQ Promenade—a lively open-air walkway filled with shops, bars, and dessert spots—to reach the loading area. If you’re driving, there’s a paid parking garage connected to the LINQ Hotel and Casino, which provides direct access. Once you’re there, friendly attendants guide you through brief security and ticket scanning before you board.

From major hotels like Caesars Palace or The Flamingo, the observation wheel is a short walk away—look up, and you literally can’t miss it. Taxi or rideshare services from further afield drop you right by the boulevard entrances. If you’re using public transport, several Strip buses stop nearby. For those flying into town and heading straight here (and yep, people do that), it’s about a 15-minute drive from Harry Reid International Airport, depending on Vegas traffic—a small trade-off for that first breathtaking glimpse from 550 feet up.

Tips for Visiting

A few personal notes might make your visit to the High Roller smoother and more fun than most. First off, book your tickets in advance—especially during weekends or holidays. There’s usually a wait, and you’ll thank yourself for picking a time slot ahead. If you like minimal crowds, aim for early mornings or late nights. The mid-afternoon tends to get busiest because people use it to escape the sun—can’t blame them.

If you’re celebrating something (an anniversary, birthday, maybe you just hit it big at a blackjack table), consider reserving a private cabin. They’ve become quite popular for small groups—yes, even wedding parties. You can customize lighting, music, and sometimes even drink options. The Happy Half Hour cabin is another gem—open bar service for the entire 30-minute ride. The bartender inside keeps spirits high (literally and figuratively). I remember chatting with one guest who proposed mid-ride, timed perfectly to reach the top as lights from the Strip below flickered around them. That’s Vegas magic right there.

Photography tip: avoid flash, as it can reflect off the glass. A smartphone camera handles the lighting surprisingly well, especially at dusk. Bring a lightweight jacket, since temperature changes in Vegas evenings catch people off guard, even inside the air-conditioned cabins. For families, note that children love spotting familiar landmarks like the Eiffel Tower replica or the distant desert hills—it becomes a little game that keeps them entertained the entire ride.

Finally, give yourself time afterward to explore the LINQ Promenade. Grab a snack, catch live music, or people-watch under those bright Vegas lights. That post-ride glow stays with you a bit—it’s not just from altitude, but from that feeling of seeing a city from its grandest height. In all its scale and spectacle, the High Roller isn’t simply another tourist attraction. It’s one of those experiences that perfectly capture the essence of Las Vegas—energy, innovation, and a touch of whimsy that never takes itself too seriously.

Location

Places to Stay Near High Roller

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides