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LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- The Stratosphere Las Vegas Hotel & Casino today announced the addition of their next big thrill - SkyJump Las Vegas. What will undoubtedly become one of the top tourist attractions in North America, the skyjump is best described as a "controlled freefall." Lucky adrenaline junkies and average Joes alike, will have the opportunity to plummet 855 feet at a scream-inducing speed of up to 40 mph - all while enjoying breathtaking views of the world famous Las Vegas Strip ... if they can bear to keep their eyes open. SkyJump Las Vegas will offer a way to experience thrills similar to skydiving and base jumping - with the added benefit of doing it over the Las Vegas Strip - day or night. The attraction is expected to open April of 2010, and will join three thrill rides already atop the tower: Big Shot, X-Scream and Insanity.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100108/LA34552)

"We're incredibly excited to bring SkyJump Las Vegas to the Stratosphere," said Frank Riolo, CEO of American Casino & Entertainment Properties. "This will not only be North America's only skyjump, but also the highest skyjump in the world."

Riders of SkyJump Las Vegas will be given a short safety lesson and then they will be suited up in Stratosphere's custom "jump suits." The rider is then connected to a patented high-speed "descender" machine and led to the edge of a small platform where they will leap out and descend the 100+ story height of Stratosphere. Guide wires keep riders from straying off course in what is an incredibly safe, yet audacious adventure. Just prior to reaching the rapidly approaching ground, the machine slows the rider down, bringing them to a controlled and safe landing.

"While the entire experience - from preparation to landing - takes just 30 minutes, the thrill will last a lifetime," Riolo continued. "Stratosphere has made a commitment to reinvesting in our property at all levels and this will be an outstanding addition for everyone - whether you're making the leap yourself or watching those daring enough to do it."

The Stratosphere Hotel & Casino is located at 2000 Las Vegas Boulevard South. For more information, call 702-380-7777 or toll free at 1-800-99-TOWER (998-6937) or visit www.stratospherehotel.com.

SOURCE The Stratosphere Hotel & Casino