LIFTOFF - Encounters of the Elevated Kind
AREA 15's latest attraction takes you to the skies in a U.F.O.
Photo courtesy of Area 15
It seems like our love for high-altitude thrills continues to grow. You can watch Bellagio's fountains from the Eiffel Tower, jump off The STRAT or from an airplane, pilot your own aircraft, or shoot towards the stars on the Big Shot. There are zip lines, High Roller's observation wheel, and even a mile-high club service. Now add UFO rides to that list.
Liftoff is the latest attraction at AREA 15, the quirky entertainment hybrid loosely based on the infamous AREA 51 military base. Billed as a "panoramic skyline experience", Liftoff takes riders high into the air in a gondola nestled under a flying saucer. While not necessarily categorized as a thrill ride, there is a significant amount of adrenaline to be had during the experience.
Although this writer visited during the day, it's obvious that the music and lighting effects in place really make Liftoff come alive at night. There is a list of specialty cocktails tied into the theme, expertly poured by mixologists like Chelsea (not pictured but memorable nonetheless). Clever names like The Moon (Shot), Sky High Margarita, and The Liftoff (of course) can be brought on board for your flight, secured in strategically-placed holders.
The vibe for Liftoff is one of a party atmosphere. That's why there's an alien-themed outdoor lounge and bar surrounding the launch pad. You enter through from under a stunning "Gilly", a 21-foot by 16-foot stainless steel alien sculpture created by artist Orion Fredericks.
Photo courtesy of Area 15
Riders are seated for the duration of the flight. Length is at the pilot's discretion, depending on demand. A typical ride lasts eight to ten minutes. There's a smooth but rapid ascent that allows you to take in the mountains, Strip skyline, and all the little humans scurrying about on the ground. The pilot will gladly point out landmarks and answer questions regarding the structure, which was designed in France.
You may recall Cloud 9, the tethered ride that once took off from a pad next to Mandalay Bay. Once touted as the world's largest helium balloon, that ill-fated attraction was often disabled due to weather. High winds ultimately tore the actual balloon into pieces, and it closed permanently in 2009.
Liftoff is quite different from Cloud 9. A UFO-like orb doesn't actually create the lift...it's accomplished by whisper-quiet machinery tied into an extremely solid steel framework. Once you reach the maximum height (130 feet), the gondola slowly rotates, offering a lovely view of the entire valley.
LIFTOFF Area 15 Las Vegas Daytime Ascent
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/k4l4tz1hmMTu2fxD0G8
Vegas411 was unable to attend the grand premiere of Liftoff, but we got a private opportunity to soar, just for our readers. Senior Marketing Manager Ashley Trevizo dropped by to give us some personal attention and share a few details on upcoming Area 15 events. We'll cover more of that in the days and weeks ahead. In the meantime, be sure to check out Rated Red, the adult-revue dance party that's our choice for "Best New Show of 2021".
Ms. Trevino told me that Liftoff is available for all types of private events. Want to propose or get married in the sky? Her team can make that happen. The same is true for corporate events, modeling, and video shoots, birthday parties, and bachelor/bachelorette celebrations. Contact Ashley at 702.467.3863 or email her at atrevizo@area15.com and take your special moment to even greater heights.
LIFTOFF at AREA 15 operates daily, Hours vary by day. Check here for schedule, ride requirements, and safety regulations. AREA 15 is located at 3215 South Rancho Dr, near Palace Station Casino.
Photos by Sam Novak unless otherwise noted.
Photo by Area 15
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