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The Strat Observation Deck is one of the most iconic vantage points in Las Vegas, offering sweeping views of the city skyline from a height of 1,149 feet. As the tallest observation tower in the United States, it provides an unparalleled perspective of the famous Strip, the Fremont East Entertainment District, the surrounding desert, and the mountains beyond.
Once you’re at the top, you’ll be able to capture some of the most recognizable landmarks in Las Vegas. The most striking view is the Strip itself, stretching into the distance. Seeing it from above gives a whole new appreciation for how vibrant and compact it really is.
Looking toward the west, you’ll see the sun setting behind the Red Rock Canyon area, casting a beautiful golden light over the desert landscape. Unfortunately, sunrise shots aren’t an option since the observation tower doesn’t open until later in the morning. To the north, you’ll get a clear view of Downtown Las Vegas and the Fremont East Entertainment District.
The outdoor deck allows visitors to take in nearly 360-degree views, while the indoor observation area offers a climate-controlled experience and unobstructed views.
The Strat’s outdoor deck gives photographers a clear opportunity to capture the city’s stunning lights and architecture. However, some areas of the deck have obstructed views, which can be disappointing if you’re hoping for a specific shot. It’s protected by metal railings, but they’re designed with gaps that allow you to shoot directly through them. That said, if you’re on the shorter side, it can be difficult to see over the barriers, which makes it challenging to get the angles you want. I found the best way to photograph is by standing on the pedestals of the fixed-mount binocular viewers to put my camera lens a little above the railing.
The indoor deck has a 360-degree view through the windows and there are less obstructions, but the slanted glass causes a lot of reflections, which can also make it frustrating to capture clear images. Get your lens as close to the glass as you can and use a lens hood against the glass if you have one. A lens hood can help reduce glare if you’re shooting through glass, but even then, the reflections on the indoor deck’s slanted windows can be a challenge.
Photographers should bring a zoom lens, such as a 70-200mm, to capture distant details, as well as a wide-angle lens to take in the full scope of the city. If you’re visiting at night, a tripod would be ideal, but keep in mind that tripods may not be allowed during peak hours—check with The Strat’s visitor policies ahead of time.
For the best light, you should plan to visit just before sunset. You’ll be able to photograph the city as the natural light fades and the artificial lights come to life, creating a stunning contrast. If you prefer a less crowded experience, weekday mornings (when I went!) tend to be quieter, allowing for a more relaxed shooting environment. The great news is, one ticket gets you admission for the entire day, so you can visit in the morning and make a return visit later that day.
Despite some challenges with reflections, obstructed views, and the lack of sunrise opportunities, the view from The Strat is still a must-see for photographers looking to capture the essence of Las Vegas from above.
