Las Vegas isn’t just for gambling—it’s a playground for adrenaline junkies. From the highest drop ride in North America to a triple-inversion indoor roller coaster, the city offers some of the world’s most unique and terrifying thrills. We’ve compiled the absolute best guide to every major roller coaster and extreme thrill ride in the city, complete with current 2025 prices, operating hours, and insider tips straight from Vegas locals.
Quick Las Vegas Thrill Rides Comparison
Use this guide to compare the best Las Vegas thrill rides by price, height, and our exclusive V4L Thrill Score.
Data Verified by Vegas4Locals: Last Updated November 2025
G-Force & Speed Ranking Rankings
An essential factor in determining the ultimate thrill is the intensity of the Gravitational Force. These rides push the limits to deliver the most extreme rush.
- STRAT Big Shot: The most intense, hitting 4 Gs during the rapid 45 mph vertical launch.
- Big Apple Coaster: Reaches a top speed of 67 mph and generates powerful Gs through its loops and twists.
- Canyon Blaster: Double-loop and double-corkscrew coaster, accelerates to 55 mph, hits 3.5 Gs, and includes an enclosed helix.
- El Loco: Features a tight layout and a 90-degree drop that pushes riders to 1.5 vertical Gs.
- Fly LINQ Zipline: Reaches a maximum speed of 35 mph as you fly down the LINQ Promenade.
Nevada Resident Discounts
There are perks to being local! Here are the best locals’ discounts for Las Vegas thrill rides. You must purchase tickets on-site and present a valid Nevada ID to claim these deals.
- The STRAT Thrill Rides & Tower: 50% OFF Big Shot & X-Scream Thrill Rides. Plus, FREE Tower Admission for up to two guests.
- High Roller Wheel: 20% OFF All Tickets.
- Fly LINQ Zipline: 20% OFF All Tickets.
- Big Apple Coaster: $7 OFF the standard ticket price.
*These local offers are typically redeemable only in person and may be subject to blackout dates.
SkyJump: The World’s Highest Controlled Freefall
The V4L Expert Review & Insider Tip
V4L Thrill Score: 10/10 (Pure Terror)
SkyJump isn’t a ride—it’s an experience. Maintaining the Guinness World Record for the highest commercial decelerator descent, you literally step off the 108th floor (829 feet up) and plummet toward the Strip in a controlled vertical zip line. The controlled braking system means no jerky bungee-style snap; it’s just a gut-wrenching, prolonged feeling of freefall. This is the ultimate bucket list challenge for true adrenaline fiends.
V4L Insider Tip: Book the earliest time slot available (10 am). SkyJump lines build up quickly, and the morning light offers incredible views before the desert haze sets in.
Vitals & Requirements
- V4L Discount Price: SkyJump is priced separately, typically $130.00 per jump.
- Hours: Daily, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm (Weather Permitting)
- Min. Height/Age: Minimum height 52 inches (4’4″). Minimum age 14.
- Location: 2000 Las Vegas Blvd S (The STRAT Hotel)
The STRAT: Big Shot & X-Scream
The V4L Expert Review & Insider Tip
V4L Thrill Score: 10/10 (Pure Height Adrenaline)
The Big Shot is the classic Vegas thrill—a catapult ride straight up the mast at 45 mph. The X-Scream is the mind-bending teeter-totter that propels you 27 feet over the tower edge. The true challenge of both is fighting your vertigo and keeping your eyes open for the spectacular view from 1,000 feet up.
V4L Insider Tip: The $44 Unlimited Ride Pass is the best value, allowing you to ride both Big Shot and X-Scream as many times as you want. Remember: you must pay for Tower Admission regardless of the ride package you choose.
Vitals & Requirements
- V4L Discount Price: 1 Ride + Tower Adm.: $29.00*OR Unlimited Rides + Tower Adm.: $43.95
- Hours: Daily Rides: 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm (Weather Permitting)
- Min. Height: 48 inches (4′ 0″) for all mechanical rides.
- Location: 2000 Las Vegas Blvd S (The STRAT Hotel)
Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York
The V4L Expert Review & Insider Tip
V4L Thrill Score: 8/10
The Big Apple Coaster is the only outdoor roller coaster on the Strip. It offers a great mix of speed (up to 67 mph), a 203-foot drop, and a unique 180-degree “heartline” twist maneuver. The new, smoother trains have significantly improved ride quality compared to the original rough track, but they still deliver the classic G-forces you expect from a great coaster.
V4L Insider Tip: The line moves fastest late at night. For the ultimate view, ride just after sunset when the Strip’s neon is fully lit. Be aware of the high 54-inch height requirement—many taller kids barely make the cut.
Vitals & Requirements
- V4L Discount Price: Single Ride: $25.00 – $25.65
- Hours: Mon – Thu: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm / Fri – Sun: 11:00 am – 12:00 am
- Min. Height: 54 inches (4′ 6″) or 137 cm.
- Location: 3790 Las Vegas Blvd S (New York-New York)
Fly LINQ Zipline
The V4L Expert Review & Insider Tip
V4L Thrill Score: 7/10
Fly LINQ is the only zipline experience that launches directly over the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, sending riders flying 1,121 feet from a 12-story tower. Whether you choose the seated position or the “superman” style, the Fly LINQ Zipline gives you an incredible view of the High Roller, the LINQ Promenade, and the surrounding resorts.
V4L Insider Tip: Book a night ride for the best experience. Flying directly over the Promenade when all the casino lights are ablaze is dramatically better than the daytime view. The later hours are also typically when the biggest crowds have thinned out.
Vitals & Requirements
- V4L Discount Price: Seated (Adult): $47.65 / Superman (Adult): $57.95 (Prices vary seasonally and by time of day)
- Hours: Mon – Thu: 12:00 pm – 9:30 pm / Fri – Sun: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Min. Weight/Height: Weight: 60 lbs – 300 lbs. / Height: 3′ 4″ – 6′ 8″.
- Location: 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd (The LINQ Promenade)
FlyOver Las Vegas: Immersive Flight Ride
The V4L Expert Review & Insider Tip
V4L Thrill Score: 6/10
FlyOver is a next-generation flight simulation that gives you the sensation of flying over locations like the American West, the Canadian Rockies, and, of course, the Las Vegas Strip. The ride uses a huge spherical screen, full-motion seats, and sensory effects (wind, mist, scents) to create a powerful, dizzying experience. It’s a “family-friendly thrill” that still generates stomach-dropping free-fall sensations, making it an excellent option for those who want a thrill without intense G-forces.
V4L Insider Tip: Always book the “Double Experience” option if available. The second flight is heavily discounted, and you get two completely different journeys (e.g., deserts vs. icy mountains) for a much better value.
Vitals & Requirements
- V4L Discount Price: Single Experience: $32.00 (Advance Online) / Double Experience: $57.40 (Advance Online)
- Hours: Daily, 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
- Min. Height: 40 inches (3′ 4″). Guests must fit a 19″ seat width.
- Location: 3771 S Las Vegas Blvd (Next to the MGM Grand)
High Roller Wheel at The LINQ
The V4L Expert Review & Insider Tip
V4L Thrill Score: 5/10 (Height Only)
At 550 feet tall, the High Roller is the world’s tallest observation wheel, completing a revolution in 30 minutes. While the motion is gentle, the height is certainly thrilling, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the entire valley and Strip. This is a “mellow thrill” best enjoyed as a scenic activity.
V4L Insider Tip: Skip the daytime ticket. For a truly unique “thrill,” book the 21+ Happy Half Hour cabin. For about twice the price of a standard ticket, you get an open bar for the entire 30-minute rotation, making it a unique, high-altitude party experience.
Vitals & Requirements
- V4L Discount Price: Adult Day: $23.50 / Adult Anytime: $34.75 / Happy Half Hour (21+): $60.00
- Hours: Mon – Thu: 12:30 pm – 11:30 pm / Fri – Sun: 12:30 pm – 1:30 am
- Min. Height/Age: All Ages Welcome. Happy Half Hour is 21+.
- Location: 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd (The LINQ Promenade)
Canyon Blaster & El Loco at The Adventuredome
The V4L Expert Review & Insider Tip
V4L Thrill Score: 7/10
The Adventuredome is home to two crucial Las Vegas coasters. The Canyon Blaster is the world’s only indoor double-loop, double-corkscrew roller coaster—a classic, fast ride at 55 mph. The El Loco features a fantastic 90-degree drop and unique inversions. The best part is that since both are inside the giant pink dome, they are open year-round, regardless of the desert heat or rain.
V4L Insider Tip: The All-Day Pass ($39.95) is required to ride the main coasters and is a far better deal than paying $6-$12 per ride if you plan to ride more than one coaster or premium rides like Sling Shot.
Vitals & Requirements
- Price: Unlimited Rides Pass: $39.95
- Hours: Daily (Varies by season; check official site.)
- Min. Height: 48 inches for both Canyon Blaster and El Loco.
- Location: 2880 S Las Vegas Blvd (Circus Circus)
SlotZilla Zipline (Downtown Las Vegas)
The V4L Expert Review & Insider Tip
V4L Thrill Score: 8/10
SlotZilla is the definitive downtown thrill ride, launching from a giant slot machine tower. The Super-Hero Zoom (upper line) sends riders flying horizontally, “Superman-style,” under the dazzling Fremont Street light canopy for a distance of 1,750 feet. It’s a loud, fast, and visually spectacular thrill that is unlike anything on the Strip.
V4L Insider Tip: Skip the lower, seated line. The $69 Superman style is the only way to go. It is significantly higher, longer, and faster, and justifies the price difference. Book tickets for a time slot during or just after one of the hourly Fremont Street light shows.
Vitals & Requirements
- Price: Super-Hero Zoom (Upper/Superman): $69.00 / Zip-Zilla (Lower/Seated): $49.00
- Hours: Typically Noon to 1:00 am (Later on weekends).
- Min. Height/Weight: Varies by line; check the official site for detailed requirements.
- Location: 425 Fremont Street (Downtown Las Vegas)
What Vegas Rides are Closed?
As a local guide, we know that attractions frequently change or close. Don’t waste your time or gas looking for these rides:
- Insanity (The STRAT): The Insanity ride at The STRAT is permanently closed. It was taken out of service due to safety and maintenance concerns (i.e., replacement parts are no longer available because the original manufacturer is out of business).
- Desperado Roller Coaster (Primm): The Desperado, a hypercoaster many people have heard of, is standing but not operating and therefore permanently closed. Do not plan a visit to Primm based on a day at Desperado!
- VooDoo Zipline (Rio): If you’re looking for a zipline experience that connects two Rio towers, please note that the VooDoo Zipline permanently closed as of 2022. If you are seeking this type of experience, it is recommended that you visit either the Fly LINQ Zipline or the mechanical rides at the STRAT.
Las Vegas Thrill Rides: FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Are there any major amusement parks in Las Vegas?
A: No, there are no traditional, full-scale amusement parks like Six Flags or Disneyland. The closest thing is the Adventuredome at Circus Circus, which is a large indoor theme park featuring two full-size roller coasters and multiple thrill rides.
Q: What is the absolute scariest ride in Las Vegas?
A: The scariest rides are at The STRAT. While Big Shot offers an incredible launch sensation, SkyJump is widely considered the most terrifying experience because you intentionally walk to the edge and step off the 108th floor in a controlled freefall.
Q: What is the best time of day to ride the roller coasters?
A: The best time for views is just after sunset, when the Strip lights are on. The best time to avoid lines is typically right after the ride opens (10 am – 12 pm for day rides, or 11 pm for night rides) on weekdays.
Q: Are the roller coasters suitable for young children?
A: Most major Las Vegas coasters have high height requirements. The Big Apple Coaster requires 54 inches (a very tall child), while the Adventuredome coasters require 48 inches. FlyOver and the High Roller have lower height requirements (40 inches for FlyOver) and are generally considered family-friendly.
Q: Which rides are often closed due to weather?
A: All outdoor, high-altitude rides are subject to wind closure. This includes the rides at The STRAT (Big Shot, X-Scream, and SkyJump), the Big Apple Coaster, and the Fly LINQ Zipline. Always call ahead on extremely windy days.
Links to other heart-pumping adventures in Las Vegas:
