What Was the Star Trek Experience in Las Vegas?
Star Trek is a phenomenon, and for a moment, it was also an experience in Las Vegas.Star Trek: The Experience
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Star trek entrance[/caption]
The "Star Trek Experience" was an immersive and interactive attraction at the Las Vegas Hilton, now Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. Star Trek fans could feel like they teleported to the 23rd century in the Star Trek universe.
"Star Trek: The Experience" was planned to take place on January 24, 1995, which coincided with the 30th anniversary of the series: however, it actually opened on January 4, 1998. The launch was a massive success—all the merchandise sold out on day one, including 15,000 T-shirts and 15,000 sweatshirts.
The $70 million "Experience" was large. It covered 65,000 square feet and had a capacity for 1,000 guests an hour. It was very popular, but a poor revenue model and a decline in attendance brought financial constraints. By 2008, the attraction had to close its doors.
The main attractions at the Star Trek Experience were:
The History of the Future Museum: This consisted of the most extensive collection of Star Trek artifacts. Quark's Bar and Restaurant: A replica of the Ferengi-owned establishment from Deep Space Nine. It offered a variety of themed food and drinks for an authentic Star Trek dining experience. [caption id="attachment_35527" align="aligncenter" width="565"]
Star Trek Dining Experience[/caption]
Klingon Encounter and Borg Invasion 4D: Took visitors on a simulated voyage aboard the USS Enterprise (NCC-1701-D) to rescue a stranded Starfleet ship from the clutches of Klingons. In comparison, the Borg invasion let participants join the crew of Voyager to battle the menacing Borg Collective.
Gift Shop: The Star Trek Experience could only be complete if you got some souvenirs to keep. The gift shop was home to exclusive merchandise, collectibles, and memorabilia.
While the last day of the Experience was 15 years ago, fans can still glimpse what it encompasses at the annual fan convention at the Rio Hotel.
