Las Vegas Sphere: Know Before You Go (insider tips & video)

The MSG Sphere in Las Vegas is a modern entertainment venue in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Its stunning architecture and cutting-edge technology make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience top-tier entertainment.

If you plan to attend a show at The Las Vegas Sphere, here is everything you need to know before you go.

#1 Parking Recommendations (where to park for free)

The Las Vegas Sphere is conveniently located on the Las Vegas Strip, making it easily accessible from most hotels and resorts in the area. Whether staying at a nearby property or coming farther away, consider using rideshare services, taxis, or public transportation to avoid parking hassles. Many hotels offer shuttle services to major venues, including The Sphere, so check with your accommodations to see if this is an option.

• If you plan to drive and park, The Las Vegas Sphere recommends event parking at the Venetian or Wynn.
• While parking rates are event-specific and vary by day of the week, self-parking as a non-registered hotel guest at the Venetian or Wynn will typically cost $15 – $40, with the first 3 hours being free.
• If you are not a hotel guest at the Venetian or Wynn, you can find free parking across Las Vegas Blvd. at the Treasure Island parking garage or on the surface of the Fashion Show Mall.
• For full details on where to Park, maps, and approximate walking times, visit Las Vegas Sphere Parking: Paid and Free Parking Options with Google Map Pins

Walking to the Las Vegas Sphere from Treasure Island or Fashion Show Mall takes a little more time (approximately 1/3 mile longer), but you can usually park at Treasure Island or the Fashion Show Mall for Free when no other major events are happening (e.g., F1 – Formula 1 Racing Event, Super Bowl, etc.). Just be sure to park in the Fashion Show’s surface parking because the mall shuts down after 11 p.m., and you don’t want your car to get locked in for the night in underground parking. A bonus tip is to eat dinner at the Fashion Show and walk over to the Sphere afterward.

 

#2 Tickets and Seating Selection

Before you attend a show at The Las Vegas Sphere, you must secure your tickets. You can purchase tickets online through the official website, authorized ticket sellers, or through the venue’s box office. You may have to buy your tickets from third parties.

Be sure to check the seating chart, as this spherical venue offers a range of seating options, and each section has advantages and disadvantages.

General Admission(Floor):

• Some limited views on the floor near the stage
• Closest to the stage/band
• Significant amounts of looking up (moderate neck soreness)
• Most expensive

General Admission gives you access to the floor right in front of the stage. The benefits of these seats are you can stand and dance freely, and you get to see the band up close and personal. The downside to these tickets is the stage will partially obstruct the screen, and you will want to put your neck back and look up a lot of the time. You will probably have a sore neck by the end of the night.

Section 100

• Some Partially Obstructed Views
• Closest seats to the stage/band
• Moderate amounts of looking up (moderate neck soreness)
• Most expensive

Be careful -this section has some obstructed views. The 100 section at the Sphere gets you close to the band, but you must ensure you are closer to the front of the section (in rows 1 through 22 or so). Rows 23 and up may have limited or partially obstructed views. Some woman stormed out of the concert early since she paid over $1000 for her seat in this section and didn’t realize it had an obstructed view.

Section 200

• Best of Both Worlds
• No obstructed views
• Still closer to the band
• Little amounts of looking up (mild neck soreness)
• Less expensive than most of Section 100 with clear views

Section 200 is a good in-between because most of these seats are unobstructed. Be careful when purchasing closer to the back of the section on the sides – not all ticket re-sale sites make limited or obstructed views clear at the time of purchase.

 

Section 300

• Best of Both Worlds
• No obstructed views
• A little further back from the band
• Little to no looking up (little to no neck soreness)
• More affordable than Section 200

Section 300 is also a good in-between because these seats are unobstructed and are a little more budget-friendly than the 200 section.

Section 400

• No obstructed view, but some views may be limited closer to the top.
• Furthest back from the stage/band
• Very little looking up (no neck soreness)
• Most affordable ticket prices

The first half of the 400 section is still great, and Section 400 usually has the most affordable ticket prices. I sat near the front of the 400 section and felt it was an excellent value.

Some Portions of the LCD screen will end within your field of view if you are seated closer to the back of the 400 section.

#3 Arrival Time & Venue Entrances

Arriving early is good practice when attending events at The Las Vegas Sphere. Doors generally open an hour or so before the scheduled start time, giving you ample time to find your seats, explore the venue, and take in the atmosphere. Additionally, arriving early can help you avoid long lines for security checks, merch lines, and concessions.

If you plan to purchase merch, do it before the concert. Most of the merch lines close afterward, and it takes so long to get out of the sphere that adding a stop to buy some merch can make it an extra long night.

Upon arrival, most people approach The Las Vegas Sphere from the west side. Avoid wasting your time waiting in West Entrance lines unless you have preferred seating or a VIP package. Most ticket holders must walk around the sphere to the Northeast entrance where it says “Plaza” entry.

The Las Vegas Sphere Venue Map

#4 Security, Bag, and Camera Policies

Like any major entertainment venue, The Las Vegas Sphere has a security protocol in place. Be prepared to go through metal detectors, have your bags checked, and possibly undergo a thorough security screening.

Bags cannot be any larger than 6x6x2 inches. Leave any prohibited items in your hotel room or vehicle.

The Las Vegas Sphere allows cellphones and small personal cameras. Any cameras with detachable lenses or video recording equipment are strictly prohibited.

#5 Food and Beverages

The Las Vegas Sphere offers a wide range of food and beverage options to keep you refreshed during the show. With traditional stadium snacks, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.

Keep in mind that, like most event venues, prices can be on the higher side. Consider dining before the show or exploring nearby dining options on the Las Vegas Strip if you’re looking for more budget-friendly choices.

# 6 Dress Comfortably & Bring Ear Protection

With its immersive experiences and state-of-the-art technology, you’ll want to be comfortable while visiting The Las Vegas Sphere. Opt for comfortable clothing and shoes, as you may be on your feet and walking to and from the venue.

While the venue is climate-controlled, the desert climate can be quite warm, so dress accordingly and consider bringing a light jacket for cooler evenings or when the AC is kicked on. Check out What to Wear to The Sphere Las Vegas for more details.

The sound inside The Las Vegas Sphere is one of the best in the world. Do yourself a favor and bring some ear protection if you are sensitive. The pro move is to head to medical next to guest services and ask for ear protection since they usually have complimentary ear softies available upon request.

# 7 Technology & Immersive Experiences

One of the highlights of attending a show at The Las Vegas Sphere is the immersive technology. The interior LED screen and haptic flooring system create a unique sensory experience.

The virtual reality and augmented reality features are not up and operating for concerts but will be available for regular shows. If you are sensitive to lighting effects, you may need to avoid this venue.

Some showgoers have reported vertigo when walking into the venue and locating their seats. To mitigate this response, be sure to look towards the ground and fight the urge to look up at the grandeur of the marvelous space until you have found your way to your seat.

#8 Plan for Transportation After the Show

After the show ends, having your transportation plans in place is a good idea. Depending on the event and your proximity to your accommodation, you may want to call a rideshare service, have a designated driver, or use the shuttle service provided by your hotel.

Be aware that the Las Vegas Strip can become quite congested after major events, so having your transportation plan ready can save you time and frustration. Foot traffic back to the Venetian is extremely crowded, and often blocks the parking garage exit. Another reason I don’t recommend parking at the Venetian or Palazzo. I would avoid going this way unless you are staying or have parked there.

#9 Double Check the Las Vegas Sphere Event Schedule

Before you attend a show at The Las Vegas Sphere, double-check the event schedule. Showtimes and dates can vary, and ensuring you have the correct information for your visit is important. You don’t want to miss out on the show of a lifetime because of a simple scheduling error.

In conclusion, attending a show at The Las Vegas Sphere is a thrilling experience that combines top-tier entertainment with cutting-edge technology. Knowing these insider tips lets you make the most of your visit and create lasting memories in the Entertainment Capital of the World.

Know before you go to be prepared to embrace the immersive atmosphere for an unforgettable time at The Sphere Las Vegas.

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