Eiffel Tower Experience at Paris Las Vegas: a review

Part of this review was taken from my March 2010 trip report.

I have no idea of ever going to Paris, so I'll probably never see the original Eiffel Tower in person.

That being said, the one-third size version located alongside the Las Vegas Strip at Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino is a pretty good stand-in for what I'm missing, I think. Granted, I can't look out over the City of Lights in France, but I CAN look out out over the best "City of Lights" this side of the Atlantic Ocean.

This was my second trip to the top of the tower. I had previously ventured up to the top alone, and right before dusk, about four years ago. Consider that I am afraid of heights and made the trip twice, I think that's saying something for the view. The ride to the top can be a bit challenging for me, though; the elevator is glass-enclosed, and I have to turn myself at an angle where I can't see the outside while traveling up or down. Other than that little bit of discomfort, I don't mind it at all.

It is very nice at the top if there is no wind, and you can see to the surrounding mountains on all sides on your own or with the help of one of the lookouts located on the observation deck. You can take photos from any area on the deck and can stay there for as long - or as little - as you'd like. I personally enjoy watching the planes taking off and landing at McCarran International Airport nearby as much as I enjoy taking photos of the wonderful views. I also think CityCenter looks better from up there because it doesn't appear to be as overwhelming as it does from the ground. I don't know how comfortable the view would be in, say, July or August, when it's 110 degrees and you sweat when you blink, but for Spring it was perfect.

The current price for the Eiffel Tower Experience is $10 for adults during the daytime hours and $15 for adults during evenings and weekends. Children's price is $7 daytime, $9 evening for those under 12. Attached to each ticket is a 15% off coupon for the Eiffel Tower gift shop, and the coupons do not have an expiration date. Also, if you decide not to take the ride to the top of the tower immediately (or if something comes up and you have to postpone), the ticket is good for one year from the date of purchase. There are no age, height, or weight restrictions for this attraction. The tower is closed during inclement weather, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

Hours of operation: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 a.m. daily, weather permitting. Reservations for groups, private tours and birthday parties (although I can't imagine that) are available.