AREA15 Las Vegas Is A Must-Visit For The Imaginative and Adventurous

When you think of Las Vegas, your mind probably conjures up images of glitzy casinos, world-class shows, endless nightlife, and buffets galore. And while that’s all true, that’s not all that Vegas has to offer. In fact, just a few minutes away from the bright lights of The Strip lies an otherworldly destination that offers an entirely different kind of excitement.

I’m talking about AREA15, a sprawling, immersive entertainment complex where technology, art, and adventure collide to create a truly unforgettable experience that’s unlike anything you have ever seen before. On a recent trip to Las Vegas, I finally got the chance to check it out for myself, and it was honestly one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever done!

The best way to describe AREA15 is that it’s a wondrous mash-up of truly unique experiences and an immersive playground, all rolled up in one vibrant, futuristic-themed space. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or simply someone looking to experience something out of the ordinary, AREA15 has something for everyone.

Here’s why this unique destination deserves a spot on your Vegas itinerary.

A Portal To A Different Dimension

From the moment you arrive, it’s clear that AREA15 is not your typical attraction. The exterior is a massive, eye-catching structure, with sleek black walls adorned with neon accents that set the tone for what’s to come, complete with a crazy Moon-rover looking contraption parked out front. The entrance feels like stepping into a futuristic portal, preparing you for the sensory overload waiting inside.

The interior is even more captivating, with a dark, industrial aesthetic punctuated by vivid art installations, interactive displays, and pulsing LED lights. The air buzzes with energy as people rush around and explore the vibrant mix of attractions, pop-up experiences, and more. It feels like you’ve been transported to another planet, it’s really something else.

Immersive Experiences Galore

AREA15 is home to a variety of attractions and experiences, each one offering a unique way to engage your senses and spark your imagination. It can seem a bit overwhelming at first, but I simply pulled up the website to see which ones were included with my Experience Pass (Access Level 2), and then made my way to the ones that sounded interesting to me.

While you have the option of buying individual tickets or pre-bundled packages, the latter is definitely the way to go, giving you access to their most popular offerings for a flat rate, rather than having to choose which things you want to do based on price. Case in point, Wink World (a psychedelic art house) was one of the coolest things I saw, but I never would have paid for a ticket outright given the vague description.

Here are some of the must-see highlights at AREA15:

Grand Prix Racing Simulator

As someone who loves Motorsports, I was really excited to check out the Formula 1 racing sim, and it completely exceeded my expectations. The simulator has you racing through the actual Las Vegas circuit, navigating the twists and turns of The Strip and surrounding areas. Not only do you feel like you’re sitting in the cockpit of an actual F1 car, but it’s pretty wild driving past familiar landmarks that you’ve seen in real life. You get two laps, and it goes by way too fast.

AR/VR Adventures

It’s probably been 20 years since I tried out a Virtual Reality experience, and today’s VR stuff is on a whole other level. “The Lab” is AREA15’s gaming hub, and there you can play a variety of games, including AR Dodgeball, Bot Breach, Particle Quest, Vortex Rover, and my personal favorite Birdly, a high-flying bird flight simulator that mimics every aspect of that, from you flapping your wings to go higher, to the wind beneath your wings, to a bird’s-eye view of some of the most famous cities in the world. Simply amazing!

LIFTOFF

For those seeking a literal high point, LIFTOFF is a slow-moving, open-air observation tower type ride that lifts a group of seated riders 130 feet into the air. At its peak, you’ll get to behold an extraordinary, 360-degree view of the Las Vegas Strip and vistas far and wide. Pair it with a cocktail from the attached bar for a truly elevated experience. Which might not be a bad idea if you’re someone who’s afraid of heights. 🙂

Wink World

Wink World is a mesmerizing fusion of art, science, and light created by Chris Wink, one of the three co-founders of Blue Man Group. This immersive experience takes visitors through six infinity mirror rooms, each filled with vibrant colors, kinetic art, and psychedelic visual effects set to a captivating soundtrack. Wink World combines playful whimsy with mind-bending optical illusions, creating a journey that feels like stepping into a kaleidoscope of imagination. Perfect for all ages, it’s a visual and sensory feast that will leave you inspired and awestruck.

Asylum Bar + Arcade

Asylum Bar + Arcade is a retro-inspired haven where gaming nostalgia meets modern nightlife vibes. With a collection of classic arcade games, pinball machines, and contemporary favorites, it’s the perfect spot to challenge your friends or relive your childhood gaming glory. The bar features a curated menu of craft cocktails, local brews, and playful concoctions, all served in an immersive environment filled with neon lights and edgy, asylum-themed decor. I spent way too much time (and money) here, as it was just so much fun, a real blast from the past.

Illuminarium

Located in the next building over is the Illuminarium, an incredible experience that uses state-of-the-art technology, 360° audio, in-floor vibrations, and scent systems to deliver cinematic immersion like never before. I was there for their “Lite-Brite: Worlds of Wonder” show, and it totally blew me away, a dazzling homage to the beloved childhood toy, reimagined on a grand, immersive scale. Words really can’t do it justice, so check out this video to get an idea of what you’re in store for. So freaking cool!

Food, Drinks, and Nightlife

AREA15 isn’t just about visual and sensory stimulation; it’s also a great spot to indulge your taste buds. The complex features an array of food and beverage options, each offering a unique twist. Two standouts for me were:

• The Beast by Todd English serves up elevated comfort food in a vibrant, art-filled space. Think decadent mac and cheese, wood-fired pizzas, and inventive cocktails.
• The on-site bars, like Oddwood, are attractions in themselves, with creative drink menus and striking designs (Oddwood’s centerpiece is a glowing LED tree that must be seen to be believed).

At night, AREA15 transforms into a nightlife hotspot, with DJs, live performances, and even silent discos that keep the energy high well into the early hours.

Why AREA15 Is A Must-Visit Destination

AREA15 is more than just an attraction; it’s an experience that defies categorization. It’s a playground for adults, a wonderland for kids, and a creative haven for artists. What sets it apart is its ability to cater to so many interests simultaneously, making it the perfect destination for groups or families with diverse tastes.

Unlike the traditional Vegas experience, AREA15 offers a unique mix of adventure, discovery, and creativity. It’s a place where you can explore at your own pace, uncover hidden surprises, and create lasting memories.

Tips For Your Visit

1. Reserve in Advance: Some attractions, like Omega Mart, require timed tickets. Book early to secure your spot.
2. Arrive Early: There’s so much to see and do at AREA15 that you’ll want plenty of time to explore. (I spent nearly 5 hours here!)
3. Dress Comfortably: With so much walking and exploring, comfortable shoes are a must.
4. Stay After Dark: AREA15 truly comes alive at night, with its glowing art installations and buzzing nightlife.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a Las Vegas experience that goes beyond the usual glitz and glamour, you need to visit AREA15. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination, a celebration of creativity, innovation, and pure fun that will leave you inspired and exhilarated.

So the next time you’re in Vegas, be sure to set aside some time and check it out for yourself. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!