Las Vegas Sphere Brings Innovation to the Strip
Get ready for the world’s most cutting-edge, technologically advanced entertainment venue when the Sphere at the Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, NV, opens this September. This next-generation venue is set to redefine live entertainment on the iconic Strip. From immersive, multi-sensory experiences created by Hollywood’s foremost innovators to blockbuster concerts by globally renowned acts, the Sphere promises a revolution in how audiences enjoy events. Read on for key details about Las Vegas’ hottest new vertical—and how to experience it with confidence using TicketSmarter.
What is the Las Vegas Sphere?
Formerly titled the MSG Sphere, the groundbreaking venue at the Venetian Resort is the world’s largest spherical building, surpassing even Stockholm’s Avicii Arena. The Sphere measures an astounding 516 feet wide and 366 feet tall, boasting a 580,000-square-foot LED exterior made up of around 1.2 million puck lights capable of displaying over 256 million colors, according to NPR. Launched as a visionary collaboration between the Madison Square Garden Company and Las Vegas Sands Corporation in 2018, the project aimed to create a one-of-a-kind event space designed to captivate from every angle—a feat delivered after nearly five years of innovation.
Construction of the Sphere
Construction broke ground in February 2019. While its original budget was $1.2 billion, the Sphere’s final cost is estimated around $2.3 billion due to complex supply chain dynamics and inflation. Over 100 contracting firms and thousands of workers contributed to the project, with labor and consulting fees alone topping $300 million as highlighted by The Pricer. Towering 366 feet tall and stretching 516 feet wide, the Sphere’s structure required more than 3,000 tons of steel for its roof, finalized in June 2021.
The exosphere—the outer shell—is covered in a remarkable 580,000 sq. ft. of fully programmable LED screens. These LED panels, forming the largest 16K x 16K display in existence, paint vivid panoramas visible from miles away, allowing the venue to morph into striking imagery.
The Immersive Experience
One of the Sphere’s signature attractions is its advanced technology. The exosphere’s LED displays have transformed the venue into everything from planet Earth to a cosmic basketball for the NBA Summer League, captivating Las Vegas with each dazzling sequence. Notably, its first July 4th celebration substituted fireworks with brilliant digital visuals, drawing crowds across the city.
Inside, the Sphere boasts the highest-resolution LED screen in the world, spreading vivid visuals across 160,000 square feet and supporting true 16K video, as described by Forbes, opening a new frontier in immersive entertainment. Another centerpiece is the advanced audio system, equipped with 167,000 speaker drivers, amplifiers, and processing channels, which surround audiences with crystal-clear spatial sound (see CashorTrade).
Beyond the technical, the Sphere features 10,000 haptic seats that synchronize vibrations with show action—simulating everything from roaring motorcycles to rolling thunder. Complementing these sensations, the Sphere precisely controls scent and temperature to heighten immersion, enveloping audiences in the sights, sounds, and even “feel” of each event.
Where Is the Sphere in Las Vegas?
Nestled at 255 Sands Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89169, the Sphere sits just off the Strip at the Venetian Resort. Although the area was initially under construction, this striking landmark is now an integral part of the Vegas skyline, putting you within arm’s reach of other top-tier Strip entertainment.
Seating at the Sphere
Audience comfort and options take center stage here. The Sphere boasts seating that arcs around two-thirds of the interior, maximizing every line of sight toward the performance space. With a seated capacity of 17,500 and total accommodation for 20,000, nine interior floors, a VIP club in the basement, and 23 luxury suites on upper levels, every guest enjoys elevated amenities.
Entertainment at the Sphere
Beyond concerts and showcases, Las Vegas still has a dynamic collection of local attractions to explore. Yet, catching a performance at the world’s largest spherical venue is the ultimate ticket. Here’s a preview of the Sphere’s spectacular entertainment calendar.
U2 Residency
U2’s return marks their first live run in almost four years, and you can secure U2 tickets through TicketSmarter now. The U2: UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere residency launched Sept. 29, with high demand prompting an extension through February 2024—now featuring 36 dates in total. Expect a set focused on their 1991 landmark album, Achtung Baby, bringing you anthems like “Mysterious Ways,” “One,” and “The Fly.” The show leverages the Sphere’s peerless visuals and spatial audio—immersing all senses.
Only their 1987 classic The Joshua Tree outpaces Achtung Baby in sales, with the latter moving over 18 million records, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and earning a Grammy for Best Rock Performance. U2’s Sphere experience draws inspiration from the technological bravado of their 1992 Zoo TV tour, setting new standards for concert production. The venue’s interior technology powered U2’s concerts with best-in-class LED and audio infrastructure (see this overview from Forbes).
Phish Residency
Following U2, iconic jam band Phish brings their legendary improvisation to the Sphere. Their four-night engagement starts April 18, 2024—each show with a unique setlist and customized Sphere visuals. Phish tickets unlock the full spectrum of the band’s signature sound and spectacle, making it a can’t-miss for fans.
Eagles Residency
The Eagles soar into residency September 20, delivering eight shows across four weekends, spotlighting timeless hits including “New Kid in Town” and “Hotel California.” Secure your spot with Eagles tickets from TicketSmarter, and encounter classic rock in an environment designed for clarity, comfort, and community.
Postcard From Earth
When U2 departs, cutting-edge visual storytelling continues with Postcard From Earth, crafted by Oscar-winning director Darren Aronofsky (The Whale). Launching in October, this 60-minute spectacle is a 4D, multi-sensory journey around the planet. The Sphere’s 16K screens, haptic seating, and atmospheric controls combine to blur lines between reality and imagination—a truly cosmic, family-friendly experience (note: intense noise and visuals may affect sensory-sensitive guests).
Accessibility Accommodations
The Sphere is designed for access at every level. ADA seating options, wheelchair escorts, and suites that accommodate mobility devices are available throughout the venue. For added comfort, larger chairs and moveable armrests can be requested. Guests requiring hearing assistance may utilize ALDs and can request sign language interpreters or closed captioning (with at least two weeks’ notice). Certified service animals are welcome—coordinate with the Accessibility Services Department at least 48 hours before your visit for personalized assistance.
Rules at the Sphere
- Respect fellow guests
- Do not block others’ view
- Never disrupt events, athletes, or performers
- No item throwing
- Refrain from objectionable language or gestures
- Remain off seats/structures
- Keep aisles clear
- Occupy only your assigned ticketed space
- Smoking, including e-cigs, is prohibited
- Consume alcohol responsibly
- Report inappropriate behavior to staff
- Follow all staff instructions and venue emergency procedures
Prohibited Items
- Air horns/noisemakers
- Outside food or drink, including alcoholic beverages
- Aluminum bottles, cans
- Banners, signs, flags
- Hoverboards, skateboards
- Laser pointers
- Pepper spray
- Selfie sticks
- Weapons
- Cameras and video recording devices
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Las Vegas Sphere open?
September 29, 2023.
What is the seating capacity of the Sphere?
- Seated: 17,500
- With standing room: 20,000
What’s the re-entry policy?
Re-entry is not permitted once you exit the venue.
Do kids need a ticket?
Yes, every guest must have a ticket. Be sure to check event-specific age restrictions.
What items are prohibited in the Sphere?
See the Prohibited Items list above—some events may have additional requirements, so review the event page prior to attending.
Can I bring a camera?
No, cameras and recording devices are not allowed inside the Sphere.
Does the Sphere at the Venetian Resort have ADA accommodations?
Yes, the Sphere is fully ADA compliant, with detailed info in the Accessibility Accommodations section above.
Where can I buy tickets for Sphere events and other iconic venues?
Purchase official and verified tickets for Sphere events and other legendary venues at TicketSmarter. Interactive seating charts, accessible ticketing, and confidence-backed guarantees are standard with every order.
How does mobile ticketing work for Sphere events?
The Sphere embraces mobile-only ticketing. Download your tickets through the TicketSmarter app or website, save them to your device in advance, and show your mobile ticket for entry. This ensures fast and secure access—simply charge your phone before the show!
Can I buy accessible or ADA seats for Sphere performances?
Absolutely. When you use TicketSmarter’s interactive seating charts, ADA and special needs seating appears clearly marked. Book early to select the best options for your needs, and contact TicketSmarter or the venue’s Accessibility Services with any questions.
Get Tickets to the Las Vegas Sphere
With Vegas Sphere tickets, you’ll catch U2, Phish, Eagles, or a boundary-pushing event in an environment built for maximum engagement and comfort. No matter which show you choose, TicketSmarter delivers access to over 125,000 events—musicals, concerts, Vegas headliners, and more—with safety and convenience at the core of your experience.
It’s worth noting that the Sphere generated $420.5 million from 1.3 million tickets sold in 2024, making it the highest-grossing concert venue in history as reported by Casino.org. Despite these record sales, the financial realities of such an ambitious project created fiscal challenges, with the venue posting a $104.5 million operating loss in the second quarter of 2024 (Casino.org). In the months after its debut, Sphere Entertainment’s shares saw a jump of over 11%, marking its major influence on the live event landscape (Forbes). Traveling to Sin City? Discover exclusive Las Vegas travel deals with HotelPlanner and make the most of your Sphere adventure.
Written by: TicketSmarter Editorial Team
Description: TicketSmarter is a leading, trusted source for Las Vegas show tickets and iconic venue events, committed to customer security and up-to-date event info.
Updated date: October 24, 2025
