I just spent a couple of days in Vegas before and after an 8 day rafting trip down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. I hit most of the major thrill ride attractions in the city, but none of those compared to spending a day rafting through granite gourge section of the Grand Canyon. 5 full hours of non-stop rapids makes for a great thrill ride in itself.
But back to Vegas. Before I went rafting I hit Canyon Blaster in Circus Circus. I had heard that the coaster was not very good, so I didn't have any expectations, but I found it to be a lot of fun. If you like high g's than this is the ride for you. If the park is empty (as it appeared to be on many weekdays) I would advise bying the all day pass for $14 with a coupon. I did this and was able to ride the coaster 9 times plus riding/doing all the other attractions and getting killed by a bunch of kids in laser tag.
After 8 days on the river it was back to civilization and the first stop was the Stratosphere. Unless you are riding it only to put it on your track record, I'd advise skipping the High Roller. Big Shot, on the other hand, is on of the most exciting, scariest rides on the planet. It is worth the price of admission, especially with the $3 re-ride price.
Speed the Ride was next. This ride is great. If you have time, I'd advise getting the all day ride pass for $16. The launch was great and the ride was very smooth. I especially liked the tunnel. It wasn't the most exciting part, but a nice addition to a great ride.
Manahttan Express was the last ride I went on. No ride is worth $10 a pop, especially not this one. It is a good ride, but not for 10 dollars. Its better than High Roller and Canyon Blaster, but it is also a lot more expensive. There is a lot of head banging on this ride. Perhaps I am biased, but I could get into almost any amusement park for 3-4 times the price of 1 ride on this coaster. Its certainly not worth the $.
Vegas was great, but rafting the Grand Canyon was even better. Even though it was $2,000 for 1 week, it was a great experience that I would reccommend for everyone who likes the outdoors. It is the ultimate 8 day thrill ride complete with scenery even Disney couldn't make.
I've been to the speed ride at the Sahara and i agree it really is a great ride and well worth the money.
Manhatten Express $10 whoa I'm glad I only paid $5 when I rode it years ago and I thought that was way to much. It is decent, but i still say Deperado is the best coaster in Vegas.
