Gondola Ride at the Venetian (Better Inside or Outside?)

A gondola ride at The Venetian is one of the most romantic experiences you can enjoy in Las Vegas. Imagine a gondolier serenading you as you drift past luxury shops and restaurants — it’s a breathtaking adventure! But which one offers the better experience, an indoor gondola ride or an outdoor one?

If you want to enjoy the gorgeous lights of Vegas at dusk or evening, an outdoor gondola ride is for you. However, the indoor gondola ride provides a climate-controlled view of The Grand Canal Shoppes, which are designed to look like the streets of Venice, Italy.

This post will explore the differences between an indoor and outdoor gondola ride at The Venetian. Keep reading to decide which one is right for you. 

Book your combination gondola ride and Madame Tussauds at The Venetian today! (TripAdvisor)

Experiencing the Gondola Ride in Las Vegas

If you’re visiting Las Vegas, you can’t leave without experiencing a gondola ride (tickets from TripAdvisor) at The Venetian. It’s the perfect way to get a feel for the city, and it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. Each gondola seats four people, but you can book a private gondola for yourself and your partner if you want to increase the romance factor.

You have two options for gondola rides at The Venetian: indoor and outdoor. Both rides last for about 14 minutes. Here are some key differences between the two: 

ALSO SEE: Gondola Rides at The Venetian (Price, Hours, Worth It?)

Gondola Ride Inside the Venetian

Indoors, the canal runs down the center of the Grand Canal Shoppes. In other words, you’re in the middle of a shopping mall with stores on either side. The mall, however, is designed to look like it’s outside on the streets of Venice, Italy. The scene is completed by the beautiful puffy white clouds painted on the ceiling overhead.

The best part about an indoor gondola ride is that it feels more relaxed and slower. The ride is perfect for couples or groups of friends looking to add a bit of romance or fun to their day. The gondoliers will serenade you to make the experience even more special, and believe me, these guys and gals can really sing. Their voices resonate in the indoor environment and create a very charming atmosphere.

You’ll feel like you’re riding in a gondola in Venice, Italy!

Another reason you might prefer the indoor option is that it protects you from the Vegas heat. The indoor ride offers a huge relief for visitors from the sun and temperature during the day. An indoor gondola ride provides a more comfortable yet romantic way to see the inside of the hotel. 

Some people even get married on indoor gondola rides in Las Vegas. There’s a wedding gondola decorated with gold accents, and the bride and groom can say “I do” while cruising the indoor canal.

However, it’s important to note that when you’re on an indoor gondola ride at The Venetian, you may find tourists leaning over the nearby rail of the canal to get a good view and snap a picture. All the attention may make you feel a little uncomfortable. Believe it or not, the outdoor gondola ride provides more privacy, even though it’s right on the Las Vegas Strip.

The ride only lasts about 14 minutes, so you should make the most of it! By choosing an indoor ride, you can take some great photos and get a break from the heat of the day.

Gondola Ride Outside the Venetian

Your other option is to take a gondola ride on the separate canal located outside of The Venetian next to Las Vegas Blvd. This setup gives you an entirely different experience than the indoor canal, as you are right on the Strip and can see many of the nearby resorts and feel the Las Vegas vibe.

The best time to take an outdoor gondola ride is at night, anytime before 11 pm (Midnight on Fridays and Saturdays), when the casino lights shine bright. Plus, the weather is considerably cooler in the evening. If you choose to go for an outside ride during the middle of the day, the sun may be more intense than you are comfortable with, depending on the time of year.

However, if the weather is not too hot, you can enjoy the bright blue Vegas sky. You’ll also be able to take in the sights and sounds of the city while getting a little fresh air. You can also get a private gondola for two people, so it’s a great way to enjoy outdoor views with your significant other. 

Therefore, if you’re looking for a unique way to see the Las Vegas Strip, take a ride on the outdoor gondola.

Note: On the outdoor gondola ride, there will still be plenty of tourists around, but they will be further away from your gondola, giving you a bit more privacy.

Inside vs. Outside: Which Gondola Ride Is Better?

In my opinion, the indoor gondola ride is the best choice as it provides a more authentic Venice gondola experience. Besides, where else can you float down a river of water in the middle of one of the most stunning shopping centers in the world?

Indoor rides also provide a temperature-controlled environment which can be really important, especially during the summer months in Vegas.

On the other hand, outdoor gondola rides at The Venetian (particularly at night) offer a uniquely Vegas experience that blends a ride on an Italian gondola with the sights and sounds of Las Vegas.

How To Make the Most of Your Gondola Ride in Las Vegas

A gondola ride at The Venetian is a great way to experience Las Vegas from a different perspective.

Here are some tips for making the most of your indoor or outdoor gondola ride at The Venetian:

• Book a private gondola ride for a more intimate experience. Don’t hesitate to get a private gondola for an intimate experience that you and your partner will never forget. You’ll get to see all the iconic sights while enjoying each other’s company in the privacy of your gondola for two. It’s the perfect way to treat yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Las Vegas.
• Arrive for your ride early. Doing so will ensure you get a good spot in line and don’t have to wait too long for your turn. Ticket booths open at 9:30 am. I recommend that you plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the ride is set to open. Doing so will give you plenty of time to get in line and get settled.
• Take advantage of the photo opportunities. The gondolas are very picturesque and make for great photos. Be sure to snap a few while you’re on board. You’ll get great pictures on both the inside and outside gondola boat rides.
• Choose sunsets or dusk for an outdoor ride. The perfect timing for your outdoor gondola ride will give you the best experience. The colors in the sky during these times are simply beautiful as the lights on the Strip come up, and you’ll be glad you chose sunset or dusk to take in the sights.

If you’re going to stay at The Venetian, you might wonder which tower is the best and how to choose between them. Check out my comprehensive guide to discover the similarities and differences between the two towers in this resort.

Book your combination gondola ride and Madame Tussauds at The Venetian today! (TripAdvisor)

Conclusion

The Venetian Las Vegas gondola ride is one of the most popular attractions in Sin City. The ride takes you through the canals of the Venetian hotel, giving you a unique view of the Las Vegas Strip. Whether you choose the indoor or outdoor option, you’re in for a breathtaking and memorable experience.

Compare rates and save! Check current Venetian room rates right now at TripAdvisor.