The Stratosphere Tower wanted a ride that would scare you but still be fun ride. Well, they definitely got that in 1996 with the Big Shot. The Big Shot was built by S&S Power and stands 160ft tall from the top of the tower and an amazing 920ft from the ground. The Big Shot was one of two rides that opened in 1996 on the Stratosphere Tower. The other ride was the High Roller coaster that runs around the top of the tower. A ride on the Big Shot costs you about $6. You start walking down the street towards the Stratosphere Tower trying not to look up and see what is coming. You walk up the steps into the hotel/casino and head to the spot where you pay the $12 to go up the tower. You enter the elevator and reach the top in a short 30 seconds.You pay the money to get your tickets for the rides and head out on the ledge of the tower and take in the great view you get of the city. As you are waling towards the entrance you hear people screaming as they are launched even higher in the sky. You look off the tower once again and start to wonder if you really should be doing this.

Now it's your turn to take a trip on the Big Shot. You pull the harness down as tight as you can get it and strap in the seat belt. While you are waiting to get shot you look around and see the mountains in the distance. Your slowly lifted upwards a little bit, and then it happens, you are shot upwards to a heights over 1000ft. You get a fantastic view while you're up there of the strip. The ride ends and your feet are firmly on the tower again, and all you want to do is ride it again.

The Big Shot is a one of a kind ride, not because of the ride, but the location. Placing the Big Shot where it is now was a brilliant idea and it gives you a thrill unlike any other. The best time to ride it is at night because you can see the Strip at its best, but riding during the day also gives a great view. If you are ever in the Las Vegas area definitely take a ride on the Big Shot, you won't be disappointed.