FlyOver: Mall of America and Las Vegas

There were two attractions that we visited in both the Mall of America and in Las Vegas, so each will be treated together.

The FlyOver rides were inspired by Disneyland's Soarin' Over California, with the first one opening in Vancouver, British Columbia in 2013. The Bloomington Mall of America location was their second opening, and they will be opening a new one on Chicago's Navy Pier on March 1st.

They are not the only company doing this. For example, there is a similar attraction in Seattle, Wings Over Washington, that does not appear to be affiliated.

That may may it harder to keep track, but I don't care because I love these rides.

At the Mall of America -- the first time we rode one not at Disneyland -- I remember thinking that it wasn't edited as well and the photography was not as crisp at Disney. It was still a thrill.

I think it is a well-known concept, but the conceit of the ride is that you are flying over the landscape. With Soarin' Over California, it was similar to a hang glider point of view, but you are sitting as if in a chair. However, that chair is lifted up, and positioned over an IMAX-like screen.

Occasionally mist is sprayed as you break through clouds or fly over water, and there may be smells. The sense of motion I believe mainly comes from the visual stimulation.

Most of these pictures come from the Las Vegas location.

I think that is because to have their storefront no the Las Vegas strip -- very valuable real estate -- but to have their theater be where it needs to be, there is an unusually long walkway. It becomes part of the attraction.

Of course, the Minnesota location is part of the Nickelodeon Universe, so the bathrooms are there, just outside, along with various places to buy food and beverages. The Las Vegas location has a bar (and lockers).

It also has an extensive gift shop.

You cannot take pictures while riding, but Las Vegas had an entry way where you watched an introduction themed to your ride, which was also pretty cool.

I have to say that regardless of what features the greater space allowed, staff at both locations were friendly and helpful, and we appreciated that.

Mall of America had two alternating films and Las Vegas had three. In both cases there was a discount on a second film.

COVID: The attractions are entirely indoors. Ventilation is not bad, but I recommend masking.

Accessibility: The Mall of America had ramps for everything, though assistance could be needed with transferring to the ride.

The Las Vegas location had stairs either exiting or entering (there were two theaters) but they could take you out the other way if there is not an elevator. Again, staff was great, so just ask in advance.

Also, obviously for people with vertigo or motion sickness -- possibly even for agoraphobia -- there could be issues.

One other thing worth noting. We booked Las Vegas in advance, and if you book online for two shows, it will put them farther apart than necessary. One of the staff there let us know and also how to change, which was appreciated, but be aware.

Also, I love these rides!

https://www.mallofamerica.com/directory/flyover-america

https://www.flyoverlasvegas.com/  

https://www.experienceflyover.com/