How to Book a Family High Roller Ride in Las Vegas
How to Book a Family High Roller Ride in Las Vegas The High Roller observation wheel in Las Vegas stands as one of the most iconic attractions on the Strip, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline, the Mojave Desert, and the surrounding mountains. While many associate the High Roller with romantic date nights or solo sightseeing, it’s also an exceptional experience for families
How to Book a Family High Roller Ride in Las Vegas
The High Roller observation wheel in Las Vegas stands as one of the most iconic attractions on the Strip, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline, the Mojave Desert, and the surrounding mountains. While many associate the High Roller with romantic date nights or solo sightseeing, it’s also an exceptional experience for families seeking a memorable, elevated (literally) adventure. Booking a family High Roller ride requires thoughtful planning—especially when traveling with children, seniors, or multi-generational groups. Unlike standard tourist attractions, the High Roller combines luxury, comfort, and accessibility in a unique capsule environment that demands advance coordination to ensure a seamless, enjoyable outing for everyone.
This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you book a family High Roller ride in Las Vegas with confidence. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning with new members in your group, this tutorial covers everything from ticket selection and timing to accessibility considerations, insider tips, and real-world examples. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to secure the best possible experience for your family—without the stress, confusion, or last-minute surprises.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Understand What the High Roller Offers for Families
Before booking, it’s essential to understand the structure of the High Roller experience. The wheel is 550 feet tall—the world’s tallest observation wheel—and features 28 fully enclosed, climate-controlled capsules. Each capsule can accommodate up to 40 people, but for families, it’s recommended to book a private or semi-private ride to ensure comfort and space. Rides last approximately 30 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy panoramic views, take photos, and engage with your children or elderly relatives.
Unlike roller coasters or thrill rides, the High Roller is calm, smooth, and accessible to all ages. Children as young as two can ride safely, and wheelchairs or strollers are accommodated without issue. There are no height restrictions, no sudden drops, and no motion sickness triggers—making it ideal for families with young kids, seniors, or those with mobility concerns.
2. Determine Your Family’s Ideal Ride Time
The timing of your ride significantly impacts the experience. Las Vegas offers dramatically different views depending on the time of day:
- Daytime (11 AM – 4 PM): Bright, clear skies provide excellent visibility of landmarks like the Stratosphere, Bellagio fountains, and Red Rock Canyon. Ideal for photography and educational commentary for children.
- Sunset (5 PM – 7 PM): The golden hour transforms the city into a glowing mosaic of lights. This is the most popular time and often the most expensive. Perfect for creating lasting memories as the sky shifts from blue to orange to purple.
- Night (8 PM – Midnight): The city lights up in full brilliance. Neon signs, hotel facades, and the Strip’s energy come alive. Best for older children and teens who appreciate the spectacle.
For families with young children, daytime rides are often preferable due to earlier bedtimes and less sensory overload. For teens or multi-generational groups, sunset is ideal. Plan your schedule around your family’s natural rhythm—not just tourist trends.
3. Choose the Right Ticket Type
The High Roller offers several ticket options. For families, not all are created equal:
- Standard Admission: Shared capsule with other guests. Best for budget-conscious travelers or large groups willing to mingle.
- Private Capsule: Exclusive use of one capsule for up to 40 people. Highly recommended for families who want privacy, space, and the ability to control the environment (e.g., playing music, speaking freely).
- Combo Tickets: Bundled with nearby attractions like the LINQ Promenade or The STRAT. Only consider if you plan to visit those sites too.
Pro Tip: For families of 4–12 people, a private capsule is often more cost-effective than buying multiple standard tickets, especially when you factor in the added comfort and convenience. A private capsule typically costs $150–$300 depending on time of day, which breaks down to less than $25 per person for a 30-minute experience.
4. Visit the Official Website to Book
Always book directly through the official High Roller website: highroller.com. Third-party sites may offer lower prices, but they often lack real-time availability, flexible cancellation policies, or accurate capsule descriptions.
On the website:
- Click “Book Now” in the top navigation bar.
- Select your date and preferred ride time from the calendar.
- Choose “Private Capsule” under the “Experience” dropdown.
- Enter the number of guests in your party. The system will auto-calculate pricing.
- Fill in contact details and select a payment method.
- Review and confirm your booking.
You’ll receive an immediate confirmation email with a QR code and instructions. Save this to your phone or print a copy. No physical tickets are issued.
5. Reserve Accessible Entry and Special Accommodations
If your family includes members with mobility challenges, sensory sensitivities, or other needs, contact the High Roller team directly via the website’s “Accessibility Request” form. You can request:
- Priority boarding to avoid crowds
- Wheelchair-accessible capsule placement
- Quiet entry during off-peak hours
- Assistance with stroller or mobility device loading
These accommodations are not automatically granted—you must request them at least 48 hours in advance. The staff is highly responsive and experienced in accommodating families with diverse needs.
6. Prepare for Arrival and Entry
Arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled ride. The High Roller is located at the LINQ Promenade, adjacent to the Flamingo Hotel. Parking is available in the LINQ Garage ($15 flat rate after 2 hours), and public transit (RTC Bus 108) stops nearby.
At the entrance:
- Present your QR code at the kiosk or to the attendant.
- Wait in the designated family queue (marked clearly).
- Staff will guide you to your capsule. For private bookings, you’ll be escorted directly.
- Strollers and baby carriers are allowed inside. No bags larger than 12” x 12” are permitted—lockers are available free of charge.
There are no restrooms inside the capsules, so use the facilities before boarding. Family restrooms are located near the entrance.
7. Maximize the Experience During the Ride
Once aboard, you’ll have a few minutes to settle in. Here’s how to make the most of your 30 minutes:
- Use the interactive touchscreens inside the capsule to learn about landmarks visible from your vantage point.
- Encourage children to identify buildings, highways, or natural features.
- Take photos at the 12 o’clock position (highest point) for the clearest views.
- Bring a light jacket—temperatures can be 5–10 degrees cooler at the top.
- Keep devices charged; you’ll likely use them for photos and videos.
There’s no food or drink allowed inside the capsules, but complimentary bottled water is available upon request for families with young children or elderly members.
8. Plan Your Exit and Post-Ride Activities
After disembarking, you’ll exit into the LINQ Promenade—a vibrant open-air shopping and dining district. Consider these family-friendly options:
- The LINQ Hotel’s Arcade: Free to enter, packed with classic and modern games.
- The High Roller Sky Lounge: Offers non-alcoholic mocktails and snacks for kids.
- Caesars Palace Family Zone: A short walk away, with a free interactive fountain and kid-friendly shows.
Plan to spend at least 60–90 minutes post-ride to let everyone decompress and enjoy the surroundings. Avoid rushing to your next destination immediately.
Best Practices
Book Early—Especially for Private Capsules
Private capsules sell out weeks in advance during holidays, weekends, and major events like New Year’s Eve or the Electric Daisy Carnival. For peak seasons (summer, December), book at least 4–6 weeks ahead. Even standard tickets can be limited during sunset hours.
Use the “Family Bundle” Discount
From time to time, the High Roller offers seasonal discounts for groups of 4 or more. Sign up for their email newsletter on the website to receive exclusive offers. These bundles often include a complimentary drink voucher or a discount on nearby attractions.
Avoid Peak Hours for Smoother Experiences
While sunset is beautiful, it’s also the most crowded. If you want a more relaxed ride with fewer people around, consider booking at 4:30 PM or 8:30 PM. These “shoulder times” offer nearly as stunning views with shorter lines and less noise.
Prepare Children in Advance
For kids under 8, explain what to expect: “We’re going to ride in a giant glass bubble that goes up very high, but it won’t move fast or shake. You’ll see all the hotels and lights from way up high.” Show them videos on YouTube or the official website to reduce anxiety.
Bring a Small Kit for Comfort
Prepare a small backpack with:
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Snacks (eaten before boarding)
- Charging cable
- Light blanket or jacket
- Small toy or book for younger children
These items help manage unexpected delays or meltdowns, especially with toddlers or children with sensory sensitivities.
Respect the Capsule Environment
While private capsules offer flexibility, remember you’re sharing space with others in a public attraction. Keep noise levels moderate, avoid running or jumping, and supervise children near the glass walls. The staff appreciates families who respect the space and other guests.
Check Weather Conditions
Las Vegas weather is typically clear, but summer thunderstorms or winter fog can reduce visibility. Check the forecast the day before. If conditions are poor, you may be offered a complimentary reschedule—no penalty.
Consider a Multi-Day Visit
If your family is staying multiple nights, consider booking the ride on a mid-week day (Tuesday–Thursday) when crowds are lighter and pricing is often lower. Use the weekend for other attractions like the Shark Reef Aquarium or the Adventuredome.
Tools and Resources
Official High Roller Website
highroller.com is your primary tool. It offers real-time availability, interactive 3D capsule views, and downloadable maps of the LINQ Promenade. The site is mobile-optimized and supports multiple languages.
Google Maps Integration
Search “High Roller Las Vegas” on Google Maps. It provides:
- Live traffic estimates to the location
- Real-time parking availability in the LINQ Garage
- Photos and reviews from recent visitors
- Walking directions from nearby hotels
YouTube Tour Videos
Search “High Roller family ride 2024” on YouTube. Look for videos uploaded by reputable travel channels like “The Traveling Family” or “Las Vegas Insider.” These offer authentic, unedited footage of rides with children, helping you visualize the experience.
Mobile Apps
- Las Vegas Strip App: Free app by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. Includes attraction hours, wait times, and family-friendly filters.
- Google Assistant / Siri: Ask, “When is the next family-friendly High Roller ride?” for voice-activated booking suggestions.
Travel Blogs and Forums
Reputable family travel blogs like:
- Family Travel Forum (familytravelforum.com) – Real parent reviews and tips
- Wandering Wheatleys (wanderingwheatleys.com) – Detailed guides on Vegas with kids
- Traveling with Kids (travelingwithkids.com) – Age-specific advice for rides
These sites often post updated tips on crowd levels, stroller-friendly paths, and hidden perks.
Weather and Visibility Tools
Use Windy.com or AccuWeather to check cloud cover and visibility forecasts for the Las Vegas Strip. Clear skies are essential for the best views.
Discount Aggregators
While direct booking is best, check:
- Travelzoo – Occasionally lists exclusive High Roller deals
- Goldstar – Offers discounted tickets for locals and tourists
- AAA Members: May receive 10–15% off with valid ID
Always compare prices on the official site before purchasing elsewhere.
Real Examples
Example 1: The Martinez Family (4 Members)
The Martinez family—parents and two children, ages 6 and 9—visited Las Vegas in late April. They booked a private capsule for a 5:15 PM sunset ride. They reserved three weeks in advance and received a complimentary bottle of sparkling water and a small souvenir pin for each child.
They arrived early, used the free lockers for their backpacks, and boarded without waiting. The children were fascinated by the touchscreens, identifying the Las Vegas Strip, the Hoover Dam, and Mount Charleston. The parents captured photos of the entire family at the top, with the city glowing below.
After the ride, they walked to the LINQ Promenade, enjoyed ice cream at Salt & Straw, and watched a free street performance. Total cost: $220 for the private capsule. They rated it “the highlight of our trip.”
Example 2: The Chen Family (6 Members, Multi-Generational)
The Chens included grandparents (ages 72 and 75), two parents, and two teenagers. They booked a standard capsule for a 10:30 AM weekday ride to avoid crowds and heat. They requested priority boarding due to mobility aids and received a staff member to assist with loading.
The grandparents appreciated the quiet, smooth ride and the ability to sit and rest. The teens took selfies and used the capsule’s Wi-Fi to livestream the experience to friends. The family shared snacks and stories during the ride, making it a meaningful bonding moment.
They later visited the nearby Museum of Dream Space, which was less crowded in the morning. Total cost: $140 for six standard tickets. They noted the staff’s attentiveness as a key factor in their positive experience.
Example 3: The Johnson Family (8 Members, Holiday Visit)
During Christmas week, the Johnsons—a group of eight including three children under 5—booked a private capsule for 7:00 PM. They were initially worried about noise and space but were pleasantly surprised.
The capsule was decorated with holiday lights, and staff offered hot cocoa for the kids and warm blankets for everyone. The children were mesmerized by the lights below and asked to ride again the next night. The family used the complimentary photo service to get a professional group shot.
They stayed at the LINQ Hotel and walked to the ride, saving on parking. Total cost: $280. They said, “It felt like our own private show.”
Example 4: The Thompson Family (Sensory-Sensitive Child)
The Thompsons have a 7-year-old with autism. They contacted the High Roller team two weeks in advance to request a quiet, low-stimulation ride. They were offered a 10:00 AM Tuesday slot with no other guests in the capsule.
They brought noise-canceling headphones, a favorite stuffed animal, and a visual schedule to explain the ride. Staff greeted them personally, showed them the capsule in advance, and allowed them to board early.
The child remained calm throughout and later drew a picture of the wheel. The parents said, “We’ve tried dozens of attractions. This was the first one where he didn’t feel overwhelmed.”
FAQs
Can children ride the High Roller alone?
No. All guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. There are no unaccompanied minor policies for this attraction.
Is the High Roller wheelchair accessible?
Yes. All capsules are wheelchair-accessible, and ramps are available at the boarding platform. Staff assist with loading and securing mobility devices. Service animals are permitted.
Can I bring food or drinks inside the capsule?
No outside food or beverages are allowed inside the capsules for safety and cleanliness. However, bottled water is available upon request for families with special needs.
How long does the ride last?
Each full rotation takes 30 minutes. You can board and disembark at any point in the cycle, but the ride time remains fixed.
Are there restrooms on the High Roller?
No. Restrooms are available in the LINQ Promenade near the entrance. Plan to use them before boarding.
What happens if it rains or is foggy during my ride?
Light rain or fog does not cancel rides. However, if visibility is severely reduced, you may be offered a complimentary reschedule or a partial refund. The decision is made by on-site management.
Can I upgrade my ticket on the day of the ride?
Yes, if private capsules are available. Visit the ticket kiosk at the entrance and ask for an upgrade. Payment can be made via credit card or mobile wallet.
Is the High Roller open every day?
Yes. The High Roller operates daily from 11 AM to midnight, with extended hours during holidays and peak season.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No. A digital QR code on your smartphone is sufficient. Make sure your device is charged and the screen is bright enough to scan.
Are there discounts for military families?
Yes. Active and veteran military members receive a 20% discount with valid ID. Family members traveling with them also qualify. Present ID at the ticket kiosk.
Conclusion
Booking a family High Roller ride in Las Vegas is more than just purchasing a ticket—it’s about crafting a shared, unforgettable experience that bridges generations, celebrates curiosity, and offers a unique perspective on one of the world’s most dazzling cities. With careful planning, the right timing, and a focus on comfort and accessibility, your family can turn a 30-minute ride into a cherished memory that lasts a lifetime.
By following this guide—from selecting the perfect time slot to preparing your children and leveraging official tools—you eliminate guesswork and maximize enjoyment. Whether you’re watching the sunset with your grandchildren, sharing quiet awe with your teens, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment above the Strip, the High Roller offers something truly special for every family.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Book early, plan ahead, and let the sky be your canvas. Las Vegas isn’t just about casinos and nightlife—it’s about moments. And with the High Roller, your family’s moment is waiting, high above the lights.