Is the Sphere Experience in Las Vegas Worth Your Wallet?

The Sphere is one of the most unique and talked-about attractions on the Las Vegas Strip. This modern engineering marvel blends centuries-old mathematics with cutting-edge technology to create a glowing dome that doubles as a music and entertainment venue. We visited in November 2024 to see if it truly lives up to the hype, and from the moment we spotted its animated exterior from blocks away, we knew we were in for something special. Inside, The Sphere currently offers two permanent recorded shows and hosts rotating live concerts from world-famous artists. But is it worth the ticket price? In this post, we’ll share exactly what we experienced, what we paid, and who will get the most value out of visiting.

Outside The Sphere Experience

What Is the Sphere in Las Vegas?

Opened in September 2023, The Sphere is a $2.3 billion entertainment venue located just off the main Las Vegas Strip near The Venetian. At 366 feet tall and 516 feet wide, it’s the largest spherical structure in the world. The exterior, known as the “Exosphere,” is covered in 1.2 million programmable LED pucks that can display anything from a giant blinking eye to fireworks, planets, or rolling ocean waves. Inside, the main auditorium seats over 17,000 people and features a 160,000-square-foot wraparound LED display, advanced beamforming audio, and haptic seating that can simulate motion, wind, and scent. Whether you’re attending a live concert or one of its in-house immersive shows, The Sphere is designed to make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.

How Much Are Tickets to The Sphere Las Vegas?

Ticket prices for The Sphere depend on the show, seating location, and date, with live concerts generally costing more than the permanent immersive experiences.

Quick Takeaway for Tickets at The Sphere:

• $75–$210 per person, depending on row and section.

• Premium seating and high-demand performances, especially live concerts, can easily exceed $300 per ticket.

We paid $197.50 for two adult tickets to the V-U2 show, which included $41.50 in online service fees when booking through The Sphere’s official website.

Tip: Prices can spike during special events and holiday weekends, so book early if you have a specific date in mind.

View From Our Seats During Intro

Group Tickets at The Sphere

If you’re attending with nine or more guests, you may qualify for special group rates. This applies to groups of friends, families, coworkers, alumni associations, military, first responders, scouts, or any other qualifying organization. Group rates can be booked directly with Sphere staff or through the official Group Tickets page.

Private Suites at The Sphere:

For a luxury experience, The Sphere also offers private suites. These include premium seating, exclusive service, and a more private atmosphere for your group. To book, contact: suites@sphere.vegas.

What Shows Are Playing at The Sphere Las Vegas?

The Sphere currently offers a mix of permanent immersive films, rotating headliner residencies, and special one-night concerts. While the lineup changes over time, here are some of the shows you might find when visiting:

Quick Takeaway for Shows at The Sphere:

The Sphere hosts permanent immersive films, big-name residencies like U2, and one-night concerts. Check the schedule in advance to match your visit with the best show for you.

• Darren Aronofsky’s Postcard from Earth at The Sphere

  • This 50-minute immersive film from acclaimed director Darren Aronofsky combines 18K resolution visuals with a wraparound sound system to create a jaw-dropping experience. The film blends nature cinematography, futuristic storytelling, and jaw-dropping perspectives that make you feel like you’re flying, diving, or standing in the middle of the world’s most remote landscapes.

• U2:UV Achtung Baby Live at The Sphere

  • One of the most talked-about concert residencies in Las Vegas history, U2’s show combines live performance with the Sphere’s massive 160,000-square-foot LED display. The visuals are as much a part of the show as the music, making it a bucket-list event for fans.

• Sphere Live Concerts and Special Events

  • In addition to its permanent shows, The Sphere hosts one-off concerts, sporting events, and special productions. The lineup has included everyone from Phish to Dead & Company, as well as tech demos and exclusive corporate events.

Showtimes & Scheduling

Showtimes vary slightly based on the day of the week and special event scheduling, but as of now, the permanent shows run at:

• Sunday: 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM, and 7:00 PM

• Monday: 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM, and 7:00 PM

• Tuesday & Wednesday: 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM

• Thursday: 4:30 PM, 7:00 PM, and 9:30 PM

• Friday & Saturday: 12:00 PM and 8:30 PM

Special events or concerts may alter these times, so always double-check the schedule when booking.

The Sphere Las Vegas Show Review: V-U2

During our visit, we attended “V-U2: An Immersive Concert Film”, a pre-recorded U2 concert experience. We paid $197.50 for two adult tickets, including $41.50 in online service fees through The Sphere’s official website. Neither of us is a big U2 fan, but the V-U2 show was the final time slot of the night, and it fit best with our packed itinerary.

V-U2: An Immersive Concert Film

Our Verdict: Is V-U2 Worth Your Wallet?

If you’re a U2 fan, this is a no-brainer; the visuals, sound, and intimate concert feel are worth every penny. For casual fans or those mainly interested in the Sphere’s tech, the V-U2 show is still a fun way to see the venue in action, though Postcard from Earth may be a better fit if you want a broader range of visuals and storytelling. The film used the Sphere’s massive wraparound display to create a surreal concert atmosphere, blending close-up shots of the band with abstract visuals that pulsed with the music. The sound system was unlike anything we’d ever experienced, clear and balanced.

Getting to The Sphere in Las Vegas

Whether you’re staying on the Strip or visiting from elsewhere in the city, getting to The Sphere is fairly straightforward, but your transportation choice and timing can make or break your experience.

Quick Takeaway for Getting to The Sphere: 

Rideshare is the easiest option, while self-parking runs $13–$18 and valet is $40; arrive 45–60 minutes early to avoid stress and enjoy pre-show attractions.

Taking an Uber, Lyft, or Taxi to The Sphere

We were staying on the opposite end of the Las Vegas Strip and running late, so we opted for an Uber. Rideshare is the number one transportation recommendation from the venue and for good reason. The Sphere has a designated rideshare drop-off and pick-up zone at the corner of Manhattan Street and Westchester Drive. From there, the venue entrance is conveniently located just across the street. On event days, Sphere staff are stationed along the route to direct traffic and guide guests to the correct entry doors. Even with pre-show crowds, the process was smooth and organized.

Tip: After the show, expect surge pricing and longer wait times for rideshares. To avoid the rush, consider grabbing a drink or a late-night snack nearby before booking your ride.

Driving and Parking at The Sphere

If you’re driving yourself, you’ll have a few parking options:

• General parking: $13–$18, depending on proximity to the venue

• Standard valet parking: $40 per car

Parking Policies:

• Lots open 1 hour before your ticketed event time and close 2 hours after the event ends.

• No tailgating, overnight parking, or in-and-out privileges (one entry/exit per vehicle).

• Maximum vehicle length: 19 feet, no trailers or dual-axle vehicles allowed.

• Wheelchair-accessible parking is available.

Valet parking offers the fastest exit but comes at a premium price, while general parking is more budget-friendly if you don’t mind a short walk.

Best Time to Arrive at The Sphere

We recommend arriving 45 minutes to 1 hour before your showtime. This gives you time to park, clear security, and explore the lobby installations before the performance begins, without feeling rushed.

Exploring Inside The Sphere

The Sphere’s interior is just as futuristic as its glowing exterior. Before the show begins, guests can wander the lobby and upper levels to explore a variety of interactive elements, art installations, and photo-worthy spots. If you plan to explore, arrive 45–60 minutes early so you have time to see everything without feeling rushed.

Quick Takeaway for the Inside of The Sphere: 

Arriving early lets you enjoy the lobby’s futuristic AI robots and photo ops, worth a quick look before heading into your seats.

A.I. Robots Inside the Sphere

AI Robot Installations at The Sphere

One of the most talked-about features in the lobby is the set of AI-powered humanoid robots. These sleek, silver machines can hold basic conversations, respond to some guest questions, and even break into a short dance routine.

While the technology is visually impressive, the conversations are fairly limited; a few of our questions were met with the default reply, “I cannot answer that question.” Still, they make for a fun pre-show photo op and a glimpse into the type of innovation the Sphere is aiming for.

Merchandise & Souvenirs

If you’re looking for a keepsake, merchandise kiosks are scattered throughout the venue. Prices are in line with major concert merch; expect to pay around $35–$50 for T-shirts and $20–$30 for smaller items like mugs or hats. For Sphere-branded items, the souvenir drink cups ($14 for soda, $20+ for cocktails) double as a memento you can take home.

LED U2 Installation in the Lobby of The Sphere

Digital Art Displays & Light Installations

Beyond the robots, the Sphere’s interior features massive digital art panels and LED light installations that shift in color and design throughout the evening. These make for excellent backdrops for group photos and social media posts, especially if you catch them between animations.

Food and Drinks Inside The Sphere

While The Sphere’s visual experience is the main attraction, the venue also offers an impressive variety of food and beverage options, though prices are steep even by Las Vegas event standards.

Quick Takeaway for Concessions at The Sphere: 

Concessions are pricey even by Vegas standards, with beer at $19 and snacks starting around $6; eat beforehand if you’re on a budget.

Our Experience: Element Café (Level 6)

We grabbed a bite at Element Café, located near Section 304. The food was served quickly and came out hot, but expect to pay premium stadium-style pricing. Overall, the food was decent, but the high prices make it worth considering eating before your visit if you’re on a budget.

Food Prices at Element Café:

• Burger & Fries – $15

• Tacos – $15

• Chicken Tenders & Fries – $15

• Hotdog – $8

• Pretzel & Cheese – $12

• Fries – $7

• Popcorn – $8

• Candy – $6 a box

• Chips – $6 a bag

Drink prices at Element Café:

• Fountain soda – $7

• Sphere souvenir soda cup – $14

• Cocktails & wine – from $20

• Beer – $19

• Liquor – $15–$38 depending on type/mix

Element Cafe inside The Sphere

Other Dining & Drink Options at The Sphere

Even if you skip Element Café, there’s no shortage of places to grab a drink or snack. Here’s a breakdown by level and style:

Level 2

• Atrium Kitchen + Bar – Sphere Burger, local craft beer, vegan/vegetarian/gluten-friendly options.

• Taphouse – Pub fare, 24 beers on draught, vegan/vegetarian/gluten-friendly options.

• Cantina – Authentic street tacos and 13 types of tequila, vegan/vegetarian/gluten-friendly options.

Levels 4 & 6

• Pizza Pi – Sicilian pizza, meatballs, truffle sea salt fries, vegan/vegetarian/gluten-friendly options.

• Prime Burger (Level 4) – Angus burgers, vegan nachos, vegan/vegetarian/gluten-friendly options.

• Radius Bar (Level 4) – Full-service bar with specialty cocktails.

• Circle Bar (Level 6) – Premium spirits, 12 draught beers, signature cocktails.

• Curve Bar (Level 6) – Margaritas in souvenir shaker cups, 12 beers on draught.

Event-Level & Concert-Only Spaces

• Theory Lounge – VIP seating, signature cocktails, floor access, cocktail service (private events/concerts only).

• Arc Bar – Ready-to-drink cocktails, snacks, 120-foot full-service bar (private events/concerts only).

• Sphere Express – Quick-service kiosks with Pepsi products, cocktails, beer, and snacks (select levels open only for concerts).

Seating and Accessibility at The Sphere

Quick Takeaway for Seating at The Sphere

The Sphere’s accessibility is solid, but seating comfort is minimal, especially in the upper levels. If you can, splurge on lower-level or premium seats to avoid feeling cramped.

We had upper-level seats, which required taking multiple escalators and stairs to reach. If you have a fear of heights, prepare yourself; the escalators are steep, and the seating areas have a noticeable incline.

Accessibility Features

The Sphere is ADA-compliant and offers several accessibility accommodations:

• Elevator access to all seating levels

• Mobility seating with companion spaces

• Accessible parking is located near the entrance

• Wheelchair-accessible parking in paid lots and valet areas

• Booking Assistance: Accessible seating can be reserved through Ticketmaster or by contacting The Sphere Accessibility Services Department at guestrelations@thesphere.com or 725-258-6724.

  • Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM PT, Sat–Sun 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM PT

Comfort Considerations

While the venue’s technology and visuals are incredible, the physical seating experience left a lot to be desired:

• Hard plastic chairs

• Tight legroom (even for Alyssa, who is around 5'5")

• Steep incline with little space between rows

• Proximity, during our visit, the guests behind us had their knees in our backs

For a 90-minute show, this felt comparable to sitting through a long movie in cramped airline-style seating. If comfort is a priority, you may want to consider premium seating or lower-level options.

Final Verdict: Is The Sphere in Las Vegas Worth Your Wallet?

In short, yes, once. The Sphere is a one-of-a-kind venue that blends cutting-edge visual technology with jaw-dropping architecture. The massive 360-degree LED display and immersive sound system alone make it worth experiencing at least once, especially if you’re a fan of live entertainment or innovative design.

That said, our visit to the V-U2 immersive concert left us a bit underwhelmed. While the visuals were stunning at first, large portions of the dome were underutilized, the content became repetitive, and the pacing dragged toward the end. To be fair, we aren’t U2 fans; for those who are, this could be an unforgettable experience. For casual visitors, The Sphere

Experience (the venue’s other permanent show) may be a better choice.

If you go, we recommend choosing a show you’re genuinely excited about, booking seats in the lower levels for comfort, and budgeting extra for food and drinks.

Pros

• One-of-a-kind immersive venue

• Cutting-edge visual and sound technology

• A must for tech, art, or architecture enthusiasts

Cons

• Uncomfortable seating, especially in upper levels

• High ticket prices (~$100 per person)

• Show pacing and content can be hit or miss, depending on the production

Looking for other Las Vegas experiences? Check out our review of the Minus-5 Ice Bar