Las Vegas, the city of dazzling lights and endless possibilities, has recently unveiled a revolutionary addition to its entertainment landscape: the Sphere. This architectural marvel, boasting the world’s largest spherical building title, is more than just a venue; it’s an immersive experience that promises to transport audiences beyond the ordinary.
What is the sphere in Las Vegas?
The Sphere is a marvel of modern engineering. Its 580,000-square-foot curved LED screen, composed of 1.2 million individual clusters, creates a breathtaking 360-degree canvas for visual storytelling. This, coupled with cutting-edge sound systems, haptic technology in select seats, and advanced environmental controls, blurs the lines between reality and imagination, making you feel truly part of the action.
How much did the Sphere in Las Vegas Cost?
The Las Vegas Sphere, formally known as MSG Sphere at The Venetian, had a staggering $2.3 billion construction cost. This makes it the most expensive entertainment venue ever built in Las Vegas, surpassing even the Allegiant Stadium where the Super Bowl 2024 is being held, which cost $1.9 billion.
Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
- Initial estimate: $1.2 billion
- Increased cost due to design changes: $1.66 billion
- Final cost due to supply chain issues and inflation: $2.3 billion
What does the Las Vegas Sphere inside look like?
The interior of the Sphere Las Vegas is as impressive, if not more so, than its gleaming exterior. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
The Main Event:
- World’s Largest LED Screen: The centerpiece of the Sphere is undeniably its massive 16,000-square-foot, 16K resolution LED screen that wraps around the interior. This immersive display acts as the canvas for concerts, shows, and other events, completely surrounding the audience with sights and sounds.
- Haptic Seating: For an even more immersive experience, 10,000 of the Sphere’s seats are equipped with haptic technology. This means you can feel the vibrations, movements, and other sensory effects happening on screen, adding a whole new dimension to the experience.
- State-of-the-Art Sound System: The Sphere boasts a custom-designed sound system with over 167,000 speakers, ensuring crystal-clear audio no matter where you’re seated.
Beyond the Show:
- The Atrium: As you enter the Sphere, you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring Atrium, a multi-story space with soaring ceilings and dynamic LED displays. This area features interactive exhibits, shops, and restaurants, making it a destination in itself.
- Dining and Drinks: With a variety of restaurants and bars spread throughout the venue, you can find everything from casual bites to upscale dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for a pre-show cocktail or a post-show celebration, the Sphere has you covered.
- Observation Deck (Sky Deck Lounge): While not accessible to the public yet, the Sphere’s top floor houses the Sky Deck Lounge, an exclusive space with panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip.
Where is the Sphere in Las Vegas and how to reach there?
Located just east of the Las Vegas Strip at 255 Sands Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89169, the Sphere is easily accessible via car, taxi, or rideshare. It’s conveniently situated near several major hotels and resorts like the Venetian, making it a perfect addition to any Las Vegas adventure. Complimentary shuttle service is available from several major hotels on the Strip.
Private Transportation:
- Driving: You can drive to the Sphere and park at one of the nearby parking options. Parking is available both onsite and in nearby lots.
- Rideshare: Rideshare drop-off and pick-up is located at the corner of Sands Ave and Koval Lane. On event days, Sphere staff will be onsite to direct you to the venue.
Public Transportation:
- Monorail: The closest monorail station is at Harrah’s Las Vegas. From there, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the Sphere.
- Bus: Several RTC buses stop near the Sphere, including the Deuce and SDX. You can use the RTC website or app to plan your trip.
Walking:
The Sphere is also accessible by foot from various locations on the Las Vegas Strip. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the Venetian Resort and a 20-minute walk from the Palazzo Resort.
When does the sphere open in Las Vegas?
The Sphere in Las Vegas opened on September 29, 2023, and has been operational since then. The timings are between 9 am to 10 pm local time.
What to do at the Sphere?
There are a variety of things you can do at the Las Vegas Sphere, depending on your interests and preferred experience. Here are some of the main options:
Immerse yourself in a multi-sensory show:
- The Sphere Experience™ featuring Darren Aronofsky’s Postcard from Earth: This ongoing experience takes you on a breathtaking journey through space and time, narrated by acclaimed director Darren Aronofsky. It utilizes the Sphere’s cutting-edge technology to create a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
- Live concerts and events: The Sphere regularly hosts major concerts and events, featuring top artists and performers from around the world. These events utilize the Sphere’s unique technology to create a truly immersive and interactive experience for the audience.
Explore the interactive exhibits:
- The Atrium: This multi-story space features interactive exhibits, showcasing the latest in technology and entertainment. You can experience virtual reality, holograms, and other cutting-edge technologies.
- Discovery Plaza: This outdoor plaza features interactive installations and art experiences. It’s a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the Sphere.
Enjoy a delicious meal or drink:
- The Sphere offers a variety of restaurants and bars, serving up everything from casual bites to upscale dining. You can enjoy a pre-show cocktail or a post-show celebration in a stylish setting.
Take in the views:
- The Sky Deck Lounge: While not yet accessible to the public, the Sphere’s top floor houses the Sky Deck Lounge, an exclusive space with panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip.
Additionally, you can:
- Attend a private event: The Sphere can be rented out for private events, such as corporate meetings, weddings, and product launches.
- Learn about the technology: The Sphere offers behind-the-scenes tours that give you a glimpse into the cutting-edge technology that powers the venue.
Who owns the sphere in Las Vegas?
The Sphere is owned by Sphere Entertainment Company. This company was formed in April 2023 when Madison Square Garden Entertainment (MSGE) split into two entities.
Previously, the project was initially a partnership between MSGE and Las Vegas Sands Corporation. Later, Apollo Global Management purchased the Venetian Resort (where the Sphere is located) in 2022 and became the new partner, replacing Las Vegas Sands. Ultimately, the land beneath the Venetian and Sphere was purchased by Vici Properties.
However, in April 2023, MSGE underwent a restructuring, creating Sphere Entertainment Company to solely own and operate the Las Vegas Sphere venue. They subsequently renamed it simply “Sphere.”
