The Extinct Immersive Las Vegas Star Trek Experience - Vegas Best Attraction Ever?

Join us on Expedition Extinct as we look at the closed Star Trek The Experience in the Hilton Las Vegas, this immersive attraction was ahead of it's time immersing you in the world of Star Trek way before Galaxy Edge and Rise of the Resistance ever did. Full of aliens, special effects and draw dropping moments before it was closed 10 years after it opened and destroyed.
There is some promo clips from Rise Of The Resistance towards the end if you are trying to avoid all spoilers this is the warning!
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Credits
Landmark Entertainment
Dannysonic Puppy - • Star Trek: The Experie...
Sebastian Sabel - • Star Trek Voyager Spec...
BayerDyeman - • ST Experience Borg Inv...
shinigami8 - • Star Trek The Experience
Cazzie & Paul - • Star Trek The Experien...
videoholicULTIMATE - • Video
TrevorWilkinson - • Drive up the Las Vegas...
SammyTerry1313 - • MGM Grand Las Vegas
GrowinupinSincity81 - • MGM Grand Adventures L...
Barry Pintar - • Las Vegas 1994
101not5 - • Fremont Street, Las Ve...
kamepo - • Las Vegas Strip 1993 (...
cutetourist - • 1992 Las Vegas Strip a...
Dave9733 - • Fremont Street Experie...
Mark Spohn - • Fremont Street Experie...
watsonandco - • 1998 visit to Star Tre...
vcflair - • LAS VEGAS STAR TREK EX...
ChuckinLV - • Star Trek: The Experie...
mpgfreak - • Batman Adventure Onrid...
imbarkus - • Star Trek Experience Q...
Bill Lyons - • Last Call at Quark's
Dannysonic Puppy - • Star Trek: The Experie...
SoCalCoaster521 - • Star Trek The Experien...
Media Graveyard - • Star Trek: The Experie...
Forest723 - • Star Trek The Experien...
Nikolas Zane - • Star Trek: The Experie...
TheBlueOracle - • Star Trek The Experien...
Special thank you to the original film owners. This video is intended for education purposes about the attraction and couldn't be done with out the amazing archival footage.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

If you would like to see a full backstage tour including the teleportation effect check out this awesome video showing the whole experience and explaining how it works in further detail - kzbin.info/www/bejne/iInGomh5lN50h8U

[@common_c3nts]

I went to vegas like 10 years ago and they closed it like 6 months before I got there. I will forever be pissed off.

[@qdllc]

Transport effect was easily visible if you had decent night vision. Noise and wind blast would cover the surrounding walls being pulled up into the ceiling.

[@RaikenXion]

Interesting and yet the Star Ship Enterprise and Star Trek itself really kind of represents everything that "Sin City" is not, no "currency" in the future of Star Trek, but i guess just the whole attraction part of it i can see they were going for. The Enterprise a full scale attraction is waay ambitious, but something completely scaled down and has some decks inside that people can actually enter, like a museum of sci fi, or even just Trek would have been cool, plus some psudo science things inside, as well as the main things seen from the ship itself in the series. Like 10-forward, Crusher's sick bay, the holo-deck and ofcourse the bridge and engineering area would have been cool.

[@Kachtice]

I worked for Scenic Technologies from late '96 into mid '98 as a designer for Star Trek the Experience (including other projects) and having designed the "flying room" on AutoCad 13 in 3D (I am JBK on the DD & CD drawings) the "whoosh" of air was anticipated as part of the effect and we did mitigate it as much as possible. The doors are held closed with electromagnets and the frame was tube aluminum with a tube steel carriage pulled thru the ceiling by an a-frame, on one unit the door is on the end and the second unit had door on side. I also worked on the hanging of the bridge (threaded rod) and corridor design.

[@alphazeroproductions4811]

ETP: what happened that Captain Kirk fall in love with Umi How to do that enthusiast gone crazy Captain Kirk And Umi Sonoda: What?? ETP: That though you waiting fall in love again with kirk and umi on Expedition Movie Park Germany Captain Kirk and Umi Sonoda: Okay

[@joleyeytel3699]

My father is a huge Star Trek fan. I told him to dress in his starfleet admiral costume. When we went through the experience all of the actors recognized his rank and got his permission before carrying out orders. He was like a kid in a candy store. I'm so sorry that it is gone.

[@ABQSentinel]

That is so awesome!

[@spongylevel]

What era costume? Tos or tng just curious plus must have been a top 10 moment for him then 🖖

[@MitchellRoboto]

My wife and I had the largest wedding party held at the Star Trek Experience with all 36 of us in costume. Grandparents to a 7-month-old baby. We had paid for the two-actor package but ended up with the entire cast joining and attending our wedding ceremony. We even had the Klingon wedding vows performed after the main ceremony and it was glorious.

[@joelashadali]

Thats amazing

[@johndavis3894]

That's how we know your marriage is still rocking

[@gatzad]

That’s super cool, definitely unique for anyone who came. Question for you, was there an overnight aspect to this experience? I swear I remember the marketing showing that it was meant to be a multi-day immersive experience. Though I’m starting to think that I misunderstood.

[@Man_of_Tomorrow]

I desperately wanted to go to the Star Trek Experience as a kid, and then it closed like a year before I was finally able to go (also to get married). We went with the Elvis wedding experience instead lol Though similarly we paid for the smallest package, but then in a weird twist Oprah Winfrey's producers showed up and asked if they could be guests at our wedding and they paid for the full package. Only in Vegas... They were really nice though.

[@CharlesP2009]

Qapla'! 'IwlIj jachjaj!

[@TheRyomanagare]

That lady playing the Vulcan tried SO hard to stay in character bless her heart and dedication to the experience

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

I knowww

[@Jamaicafunk]

That made ME start to tear up just watching it!

[@DaveBuildsIt]

That was a touching moment. I hate that I was never able to attend the experience.

[@mkaplan1383]

"Don't grieve Admiral....."

[@bellvnv2000]

As a Las Vega'n I feel like I can speak for my fellow city-dwellers when I say we all fondly remember and dearly missed them . 😥

[@kq2488]

My father was the VP of entertainment for the Hilton in the 90's, and he was part of the executive team responsible for finding the funding, space, and casting teams for Star Trek The Experience. He was proud to help bring this attraction to his casino. As a former musician himself, he knew how crucial the acting would be with regard to audience immersion, so he was always an advocate for that aspect from the very beginning.

[@claytonbouldin9381]

I remember having a conversation with the guy holding the phaser rifle at 21:06. I told him he had the coolest job ever. He gave me a smirk and agreed with me.

[@Dream0Asylum]

There's something appropriate about seeing Ferangi in Vegas.

[@Cyberwolfman]

Now THESE hu-mans I like!

[@blacrow7]

Yep, because they see a opportunity to make a profit.

[@paulzammataro7185]

😂

[@lucaherman6227]

Mark Lawrence much better then the Jem-hedar

[@Cybornut]

I caught it the last week, after the closing party, most of the merch were sold with empty shelves, but the cast were still as good as ever. Kudos to them. I will forever miss the amazing transporter room effect.

[@ducknorris233]

During the safety demo the employees there were wearing ill fitting bad copies of Star Trek uniforms and making puns like “ set phasers on fun” after the transport you would deal with actors wearing legit uniforms. Just being able to be “transported” was amazing and amazing realistic to the guest.

[@MariaThePotterNut]

That's such a cool extra detail that would make it even more immersive if it registered to you- going from a ride like you know you're signing up for to the *real* thing

[@KBTV47]

My girlfriend at the time was a big enough fan that she owned a Star Trek uniform and wore it to the ride. The cast members all took note and addressed her as "ensign."

[@bergiTown69]

OMG mine too, they said to her too , haha, thats so awesome!!

[@djbred18]

Should have put some Captain rank on there

[@jakebond2294]

😊

[@Meatball2022]

That’s awesome

[@danityvanityinsanity]

I would have worn the short red micro minidress with black gogo boots. You know, because that was the standard regulation uniform if you wanted to be taken seriously by the male crew members and not be objectified. Plus, I have the legs for it!😝lol

[@DeanGilberryCrunch]

It hurts my heart as a diehard Trekkie that I never got the chance to experience this. What’s worse is I feel that the best years of Star Trek are certainly behind us and no experience now would ever live up to everything this seemed to have. My step dad still tells me how the romulan ale gave him the worst hangover known to man 🤣

[@ocularpatdown]

The Warp Core Breach knocked me off my ass. Those drinks were potent. They did not skimp. And now you also know why Romulan Ale is illegal in the Federation. lol

[@Swordfish393]

My wife and I went to this on a lark one day, while on vacation in Vegas. We both liked Star Trek, but we weren't prepared for how epic and amazing it was- we had such an unexpected good time. Now that it's gone and so is she, this reminder hit me right in the feels... I don't like how painful nostalgia can be. About doing it again, I don't want to tear down things other people enjoy, but I agree with you, given the general direction of ST franchise writing in the last decade, (although ST:SNW s2 has been okay so far, and ST:P s3 was fun, but really that was a new season of ST:TNG so doesn't count as a last-decade thing). *edit: typo

[@nek0nata]

Strange New Worlds

[@jasonmoquin]

@@nek0nata, indeed. It is remarkably good.

[@zeroman614]

It was completely overrated and cheesy.

[@jhmcd2]

The most interesting thing is that, the new Star Wars parks have the advantage of being in Disney yet the Trek experience was a stand alone attraction that both was and did a lot better.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

And first

[@loriw2661]

Jame M Have you experienced the Star Wars attraction at Disney in order to make this comparison? Although expensive, I will admit, the experience as a whole, including the hotel stay and the park done all at once, is pretty amazing. I never saw the Star Trek one but I have a hard time imagining it being better than the immersive experience of Star Wars. Just curious.

[@jhmcd2]

@@loriw2661 I have not seen ether. The first time I went to Vegas that attraction had already been closed, and I have no plans on going to Disney for the foreseeable future (nothing against Disney, its just my vacation schedule is full for the next 2 years). So I am forced to go by reviews and how they are presented. So far the majority of the reviews seems to suggest that the Trek experience was something to behold while Star Wars, while nice is lacking. The difference appears to be the immersive experience which is brought on by the actors, along with the recognizable set pieces. And that is a big deal considering Disney is known for their characters in costume. That is how I came to that opinion.

[@invaderpez12]

I actually think it makes sense. While they might not have the money, as a standalone they can do pretty much what they want and all their effort is going into this one experience. Whereas Disney might be more reluctant to put all their efforts onto GE as opposed to everything else going on at the parks.

[@shainmein]

@@loriw2661 Have experienced both id say Startrek experience was ahead of its time. They had aliens walking around freely without attendants in Quarks bar which made it real but i'm guessing since it was built inside of a casino the kids wouldn't be pulling and messing with the cosplayers. However if Disney added more aliens and droids it could match.

[@orcrush]

I went in 2008, and learned of it's impending decommissioning...so I blew the bank and went for a full day, all access, behind the scenes pass...it was awesome. So sad to see it go.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Glad you got to experience it

[@ZachAttackIsBack]

What did they show you in the behind the scenes pass?

[@chrismccall9508]

@@ZachAttackIsBack They showed how the transporter and elevator worked, they let you watch the simulator from the outside, and they pointed out all the little easter eggs on the set. Plus you got photo ops in the Captain's Chair and the Borg Collective.

[@danityvanityinsanity]

You lucky son of a gun!😃👍✨

[@kyleanderson2949]

dang homie - solidly jealous

[@astrogirl927]

this is honestly better than most modern day disney/universal rides

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

true haha

[@RayTelles]

Yes, it was.

[@zoephoto42]

Until Rise of the Resistance lol, which totally copied this idea :)

[@Lukenukkem]

OMG!! I totally agree with you. The special effects were outer worldly. 10 times better than the best Disney or Universal.

[@zoephoto42]

@@Lukenukkem Disney's Star Wars Rise of the Resistance ride is like this but on an even grander scale. The first time I've been on a ride that exceeded the Star Trek experience!

[@Boom12]

The actors really made the experience. The dedication they displayed is truly inspirational to anyone working in the tourism industry.

[@mikekhim5491]

It was great interacting with them at Quarks Bar. I had conversations with Klingons and they stayed in character.

[@codyt821]

I so wish they would bring this back in some capacity. With all the technology advancements we have today it could be even more epic of an experience

[@kyleanderson2949]

Josh D’Amaro, Disney Parks Prez needs to hire these staff members as consultants to train the current CMs. Especially those in Galaxy’s Edge and the Tomorrowland zones. Could change the whole game

[@kisstune]

The backstage tour was great. Even off duty while waiting between shows they would still interact with you and talk to you.

[@JuriAmari]

@@codyt821 right? I think this is a good time for them to try doing that if anything. The tech’s way better and there’s enough current properties now that they can justify restarting it.

[@gregg5958]

This attraction was the BEST. The transporter effect was amazing and quite surprising to a first time guest. The rush of wind gave away the trick to me, but I am still amazed that they engineered something which moved so fast. It really was remarkable. I often wonder if this attraction would have been more successful at a theme park as a permanent attraction. Maybe it would still be around.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Could be! Would be nice to see a updated version

[@cloudwatcher608]

I was only 15 or 16 when I was lucky enough to go and I was completely mystified by the transporter. The whole thing was a blast and I wish I could go back and bring my kids

[@ivoryandcat]

We called the effect, flying the room. I worked there at the end in the wardrobe department.

[@Flickawho]

The guy not going with his pregnant wife to go ahead and ride during the safety video made me laugh very hard. “It’s cool babe, I just gotta ride this Star Trek thing... not even sure why we’d assume you could possibly ride this. Here’s a hug, go wait somewhere.”

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Hahah me too

[@LaurenceQuint]

That always got a huge laugh on the ride itself.

[@LaurenceQuint]

@Pop Films They did a perfect job! It is cheesy, but plausible and lulls you into a state of "okay, I get it. Here we go with your standard ride...whatever." Before blowing your friggin' mind!

[@thomasbrown3793]

Shit I would too "Can't ride if you're pregnant? Sucks to suck, Babe. Ill see ya in 20,"

[@e.c.winner7252]

Well the pregnant lady didn’t get kidnapped by Klingons, so there’s that.

[@PDohm123]

I am so glad I got to enjoy this before it closed. My parents were so annoyed with me, I was rushing through everything, because I was soooooo floored by it. I loved getting to check out the original costumes and props and ship models. And then doing the Klingon Encounter & Borg Invasion 4-D...I was in tears from joy and excitement. AND I GOT TO EAT AT QUARK'S BAR! I cry now, about it being closed. Hard to believe it's been 12 years since it closed. I keep hoping they'll bring it back in some form. The world today is so dark and hopeless. We need things like Star Trek: The Experience, and Star Trek series to remind us of the good things about humanity, and to give us hope that some day, we'll overcome our flaws and work together to truly go where no one has gone before.

[@jacobcoburn3269]

Dude... This is Defunctland quality material. I nearly cried toward the end. This experience looked absolutely incredible and was taken away much too soon. Keep up the amazing work!

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Thank you so much!

[@kristinak6092]

As a teenager, I didn't know what quality entertainment was and only liked star trek for Ricardo Montalban and that super sexy mullets KHANNNN!!! But went on the experience and thought the whole thing was totally neat until you get to the simulator as...it's just trying to be like star wars and that part was lame. The change of rooms was unexpected and was super memorable.

[@codyt821]

@@kristinak6092 I thought the simulator was much better than Star Tours.....the screen being on the outside and wrapping around you made such a difference. Definitely wouldn't call it lame at all. Having some imagination goes a long way too. Sounds like the experience wasn't for someone like you anyway. Smh.

[@jimbullard441]

Sadly, Disney's dumpster fire (Galactic Starcruiser) will pretty much make it a lock this type of thing won't happen again. Which is horrible, because it was soooo good.

[@Nflguy4949]

My first ever trip to Vegas was with my wife in 2005. We went to the Star Trek convention that at that time was held at the Hilton. We also got tickets to meet and take photos with William Shatner, Patrick Stewart and Brent Spiner. Meeting our favorite Star Trek actors then immediately experiencing Star Trek the experience blew out minds!

[@coasterfreakawesome]

As someone who was born and raised in Vegas, losing this hurt the most, followed by Speed: The Ride. By far some of the best experiences in Vegas and now both are gone.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Yeah the best by far!

[@nickdoesnotlikepie]

Speed is coming back when they rebrand the hotel back tot he Sahara. The rides been moved to a lot next to it.

[@cassidystarchild7907]

Quarks was so good!

[@haiderodes]

nickdoesnotlikepie the hotel rebranding has been completed. The ride is not coming back.

[@NYRavage]

Watching this almost made me cry. I grew up racing at the Sahara Speedworld, and visiting Star Trek: The Experience. Such fun.

[@cheshirekat3050]

I remember. I was lucky enough to be around for the brief time when Las Vegas experimented with transforming itself into a family-friendly destination. Our family went to the Star Trek Experience, Siegfried and Roy's white tiger show, the Paris hotel..the works. Our whole family were Trekkies (and loved to travel) so it was heaven.

[@BernicePanders]

23:30 - OMG my heart!! 💔💔💔 It's funny how the actress at the end tries so hard to not smile (as a Vulcan) but ends up crying anyway... 🖖😢

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

I knowww!

[@DasNordlicht91]

I hope she still has that commemorative banner they gave her. It’s a keeper.

[@Dargonhuman]

We'll just say she was starting Pon Farr and give her a pass on that one.

[@WarhavenSC]

@@Dargonhuman Was going to say the same. :D

[@alphazeroproductions4811]

@@ExpeditionThemePark Umi: *crying shedding tears* my heart is broken

[@noneed4me2n7]

I did this tour back in the day with the wife and family. I’ll never forget the transporter experience and how real it felt if just for a moment. Seeing the bridge of the Enterprise D was tops. Plus having a drink at Quarks was the icing on the cake.

[@AlejandroDiazadiaz201]

That transporter effect was genuinely amazing, way beyond anything at other theme parks at the time. I have my photo in the Captain's Chair...

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

It was so good. Way ahead of its time!

[@AlejandroDiazadiaz201]

@@ExpeditionThemePark The STE owed a lot to Star Tours, and not Galaxy's Edge owes a lot to the immersion concepts pioneered at STE

[@BrianFloresPDX]

Alejandro Diaz I took the pic too! It was an amazing experience that I think about all the time.

[@antdude]

Share it. ;)

[@DWitt]

This is 100% true. It’s what I remember most about the ride. Oh that, and coincidentally, Dick Van Dyke just happened to be part of the group I rode with.

[@SirSmoldham]

I remember being incredibly impressed by the transporter effect. And the Klingon attack ending up in Vegas blew my mind. It really influenced my regularity of trips to Vegas.

[@AbbieM82]

We did this in '98. I knew nothing about it except that it was Star Trek: TNG themed (my fave Star Trek!). We lined up for what we thought was a typical motion simulator ride and, when the lights went out and back up again, we were shocked. It...was...real. We had been transported aboard the Enterprise and asked to follow a crew member down the ship hall to... the bridge! We were actually on the bridge! "Star Trek: The Experience" was such a perfect name, for it was a true experience. Loved it soo much and regret not being able to visit it again. When I first read about the Disney Parks "Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance" attraction, I was immediately reminded of this.

[@Dargonhuman]

I got to go in 2001 and reading your description gave me all kinds of nostalgic tingles.

[@AC-gb7do]

CaptSpalding I always wanted to see the STE, so bummed I never could.

[@Mac10Daddy]

I got to go in June 2008, months before it closed. I was really sad to hear about that.

[@zoephoto42]

I also went in not knowing in 1998 and it blew my mind! So hard telling people they have to come and not telling them why lol

[@Hillers62]

When I lived in Vegas from 2000 to 2003, I went to the Star Trek Experience numerous times...and I Loved it!!!! There were characters like the Ferengi and the Klingons , and the "rides" were equally fantastic...how I miss this place...

[@WookieeMonster1]

In April of 2008, I took my girlfriend on the Backstage Tour. We went to Quark's to have some lunch, and it was then that I presented her with a ring and asked her to be my bride. She eagerly said yes. We had intended to return in 2009 to renew our vows on the bridge of the Enterprise, but it was not to be. Word came out that it was closing later in 2008, and it was such a damn shame in so many ways. And, if you are at all curious, we married in November of 2008 and are still together, 11 years later. Which means our union has lasted longer than Star Trek The Experience did.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

That is amazing! And congrats to you both

[@JuriAmari]

That’s amazing. I’m glad at least you go to propose there. Congrats on (now) 13 years of marriage! 💜

[@EugenioAngueira]

I had the opportunity to visit this attraction various times and it was a blast. It is so unfortunate that it was closed because it truly was a fantastic attraction. I did the "backlot" tour of it as well, which was cool as it explained the secrets of the show and gave one chance to explore the bridge and other areas. We need a new version of this attraction!

[@melskunk]

I sincerely miss when Star Trek was all over theme parks in the nineties:(

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Me too!

[@alandecker2886]

The TNG section of Paramount on Ice that ran at King's Dominion might make you reconsider that statement.

[@magicchainsmoker]

@@alandecker2886 set phasers to FUN!

[@Dargonhuman]

@@alandecker2886 ALAN!! Fancy meeting you here, though you may know me better as BorgCrazy.

[@DasNordlicht91]

I kinda miss Paramount Parks.

[@jimhackney4727]

I had the pleasure of going to Star Trek: The Experience back in 98. It was amazing. From the massive hanging model near the entrance of The Experience to Quark's bar after the ride, it was all very well done and a near perfect recreation of what you see on screen. The transporter effect was completely unexpected for me and the blast of air gave it a sense of "realism". I'll never forget the cast member saying, "I have them sir", referring to intercepting us before the Klingons could get us. The bridge was first class. The cast members were really into it too. It's a shame that it closed down.

[@so-calseany1176]

YOU’RE GOING TO MAKE ME CRY!!! This was not only my absolute favorite Vegas attraction, but what got me into Star Trek!!!!!!! I’m just happy I got to experience it with a full staff before the budget cuts 😢

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

I hope you enjoy it!

[@melskunk]

When April at the end started tearing up at the closing ceremony so did I

[@Pantheragem]

@@melskunk So did I, am I'm not even a Trek fan. It's amazing what these people pulled off.

[@so-calseany1176]

Expedition Theme Park I did!!! It was absolutely wonderful!!! Thank you for bringing back so many memories from when I was a teen! And I actually do remember reading about the rumors about the attraction going to Neonopolis and not holding my breath knowing how CBS was treating the Paramount parks!

[@jeffdur1330]

Lmao@youre going to make me cry. If that doesn't sum up this generation, idk what does.

[@videowilliams]

Wow. That'll teach me not to be a snob about Vegas because I was in the U.S. twice as a tourist during that period but only blew through Vegas once on the way to L.A, remaining completely unaware the attraction existed 🤷‍♂ Me as a lifelong Trekker and all 🤥 Thanks so much for putting together this account, though, as it still made me happy vicariously all these years later 💖

[@mrmgma]

The pregnant girl killed me. “Oh well, guess i cant Star Trek, bye honey! I’ll be in the casino inhaling 2nd hand smoke!”

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Hahah me too

[@QuincyDisneyVegan]

I also laughed my ass off when i saw that

[@nyc1164]

It's like she's saying to herself "Thank god I'm pregnant".

[@Dream0Asylum]

The husband's the real hero of that segment; "Well gosh honey, I mean, you did decide to be pregnant. What do you want me to do, *not* board the shuttlecraft? I mean, com'on get serious for a minute." *hug*

[@x-wingflyboy8177]

Yeah that got me too. Oh blow the ticket price! Ims till happy

[@coolness06]

I did this with my family back in 2004 and as a 12 year old boy it was mind blowing. Thank you for bringing me back to this amazing experience.

[@deathbyteacup]

Man that closing ceremony hit me right in the feels

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Right

[@gurgy3]

You can tell they must have really loved working there.

[@Lukenukkem]

"In the feels," nicely said sir. Cut my feels as well.

[@susanleverette1123]

I loved this video. We took a family vacation with our three sons with Star Trek Experience being one of the main highlights.

[@johnb3772]

Hard to believe it's been closed for longer than it was open.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Yeah! 😔

[@robdcollector2808]

John B ...that place looked amazing. There should a permanent star trek theme park

[@brandibretten]

I happened to be in Vegas at a conference and found time to go to the Star Trek Experience for both the Klingon and Borg parts. Hands down the best theme park experience I have ever had. Sad it closed, the actors truly made it really work.

[@BrianFloresPDX]

Like others have said, the transporter effect was BAR NONE the most amazing thing I've ever experienced and cannot adaquetly describe to someone who hasn't gone. Thanks for the great video!

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

It's so good I wish there was clear footage of it

[@andysuch99]

Expedition Theme Park in the VIP backstage tour they ran the effect with the lights on with us standing both inside then outside, was still awesome

[@PixelatedH2O]

I visited the attraction with my family shortly after opening. Due to the ride itself not really being disabled accessible I never got a chance to experience it, but the rest was amazing.

[@LaurenceQuint]

It's the single coolest theme park effect I've ever experienced!

[@flamaest]

I could swear I was on the real Enterprise the first time I went on this ride. All the actors were very serious about their roles and would not break character. I loved it.

[@Mr.GameMaster]

I remember drinking a rather large "Warp Core Breach" at the bar... good times....

[@DavidWRyan]

I absolutely loved this attraction. I am a life long ST fan and it was like going to Mecca! I went to Vegas once for a bachelor party and insisted we go to it. My geeky friends and I had a great time. I was sad to hear it had closed before I could go back.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

It was a great experience

[@NoThanksnothanks]

I lived in Arizona and would travel to Vegas, this was such a neat experience. I moved to New York and would recommend this to anyone saying they were going to Vegas. I had no idea it closed in 2008 and recommended it for years after that, haha. But yeah it was really great, nothing like it.

[@japzone]

I'm still bummed I never got the chance to try this.

[@Revkor]

not alone at all in that feeling

[@Turd_Ferguson538]

Me too.

[@Lukenukkem]

I am here to say that a hole in your life will never be filled, forever- for missing this event. Just saying. FOREVER and Ever!

[@idunnobutyay2520]

Same here!

[@tulinfirenze1990]

It was truly incredible! I went in mid September, 2001, just after 9/11 and it was amazing to be "transported" away from the real world for an afternoon/evening!

[@HewleyxAngel]

I had such an amazing time when I got to go here. I had been kind of miserable on my visit to Vegas but this and Ka were amazing. I remember my parents went shopping and I was sitting on a bench reading my new Klingon dictionary, and one of the Klingons came over and sat with me and helped me with the basics. It just made my day this experience. Later we did the behind the scenes tour and we got to see the outside of the simulators and the cast rooms. I still have the picture of me at age 16 sitting on the bridge of the Enterprise like I owned the place. I will always miss this place. Thanks for the episode, Live Long and Prosper.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Thank you for watching

[@SmugglerSteel]

To this day I am bummed out I missed out on this, but I was just teen and couldn't convince my non-fan mother to go. I live in hope something like this will be built again for Star Trek. I will not miss it this time!

[@tiresias314]

I remember doing this experience. In the bar in the DS9 promenade, you forgot to mention the "Warp Core Breach", which was a literal goldfish bowl of liquor, ice, and a piece of dried ice to produce steam. It was amazing, and I watched many friends pass out after drinking one.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

I just choose the trek like names haha

[@ocularpatdown]

One year (I think it was 2003), my wife and I drove out from Los Angeles. We beat the rest of our friends there by about an hour or two. As soon as we dropped off our luggage in the room, the two of us headed down to Quark's for a mini WCB. By the time our friends arrived, we were already tipsy - on a *mini!* Those things packed a punch. Oh, BTW, one of my friends was instrumental in coming up with the names of the food and drinks for Quark's. He can take credit for the Holy Rings of Betazed.

[@guyjackson132]

Yep. I *had* to have the WCB!

[@michaeldamm3]

My wife and I went to Vegas in June 08 for our honeymoon and went to Quarks. I was hungry and wanted food, she just wanted a drink so she tried the Warp Core Breach. Pretty soon after that smoking fishbowl arrived she said she needed some food to counter the alcohol. She said she’d never had a drink affect her so quickly. Don’t know if it’s true or not, but the bartender told her it had 10 different rums in it. 15 years later and I think it’s still one of the best drinks she ever had.

[@stormbourbon8379]

The staff at Quark's also used to claim that because it was SO MUCH BOOZE in one vessel, it could legally only be sold to 2 or more patrons!

[@ratbones620]

The closing ceremony was so sweet. You can tell how much those people loved their job.

[@feaserfilm1]

I'm loving all the Vegas videos!!!!

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

You might say i planned it! :D

[@ryanmeyer6281]

Yeah, what Todd said.

[@t.s.9996]

I used to visit Vegas every year for a week, and Star Trek: The Experience was always my first stop in town. Sadly, I haven't enjoyed Vegas as much since The Experience left, and have only been back once since then. It is just not the same.

[@Pantheragem]

So basically all the stuff and more that we were promised with Galaxy's Edge. Yet Disney still can't seem to pull off.

[@zoephoto42]

Rise of the Resistance really does. And I loved the STE

[@cyberleaderandy1]

I've worked on experiences in the UK, both Who and Aliens and it's hard work and long hours, but also great fun.

[@kyleanderson2949]

They can pull it off, and the infrastructure is there to support it, Bob Cheap-@$$ Chapek just doesn’t want to pay for it.

[@Pantheragem]

@@kyleanderson2949 I used can't in place of "won't" apparently, as many do. There's a lot Disney could do, but just don't because they'd rather promise one thing, get people hyped, then deliver something else.

[@rebeccamangelsdorf3806]

When this Experienced still existed I had a backstage tour! I found out how they did all of the special effects. It is funny that I have seen some of same props used is actual Trek shows now!

[@Chubbbs117]

My favorite order at Quarks was the Warp Core Breach, with a side of holy rings of betazed.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Gotta love those drinks

[@buddydogproductions]

Loved the first time I ordered the WCB. Reminded me of cough syrup taste wise, but the presentation was out of the world!

[@mikearmstrong8483]

The Romulan ale. Pretty good.

[@kyleanderson2949]

Get em!!

[@bkinouye]

Thanks for making me cry! This needs to reopen SOMEWHERE!!!

[@DasNordlicht91]

Those pun names for the food are splendid, with “The Wrap of Khan”, “Cheese-Borg-er” and “Vulcan Nerve Punch” being my favorites.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

There are.many many more haha

[@Dargonhuman]

When I went with my parents, a group at the next table over ordered a Warp Core Breach to share. They didn't seem to get the reference, but I remembered that episode of DS9 ("Quark, I don't need to relax THAT much!") and nudged my parents to watch. The looks of shock and delight on the group's faces when the waiter brought out the fish bowl sized drink were priceless.

[@timbarry2743]

My favorite was the James Tea Kirk (Long Island Ice Tea).

[@LaurenceQuint]

@@Dargonhuman The Warp Core Breach was created for the attraction and then later put into the show as a reference!

[@Dargonhuman]

@@LaurenceQuint Oh wow, I didn't know that - I went in 2001 so by that point the episode had already aired.

[@RonPaulOrElse]

This was my favorite thing in Vegas. The food in Quarks was really good as were the Klingon interactions. The Fried Pipius Claw was just great. A close second was the Flaming Ribs Of Targ.

[@Colin_]

There was a tasty triangle burger they had as well as a Deanna Troi's triple chocolate sundae :). Always wished i could have gone back to that place again.

[@MELANIE1001]

I'm so glad I got to see the original experience. That 'transporter' gag was absolutely brilliant. As as a long time Star Trek fan, walking on to the bridge was almost a religious experience.

[@CurbSlayers]

Such a great experience. My wife and I miss it, especially the Warp Core Breach (two-person drink served in a fish bowl with dry ice) at Quark’s. Vegas has never been the same for us since it closed. 😢

[@JohnKelly2]

This was the absolute best thing. Every time we went to Vegas, we'd get an all day pass and run through multiple times. The beam up effect was incredible, the bridge set was just perfect. In the Borg Encounter, it was more like a a haunted house, especially when the Borg walked through. They were imposing, and the actors really sold it. The effects of the assimilation were realistic, especially when the implants started growing out of your back. They had mechanical fingers embedded in the back of the seats they would poke and crawl across your back, beginning at the neck. It was creepy as hell and always got screams. The actors were the absolute best part. They loved their roles. In fact, near the end of the video, you show a Klingon with long, straight hair. He and I had a long discussion in one of the shops about his childhood pet Targ. He had a 10 minute story about it. That dedication is what made it a success. Oh, the bathrooms in that part of the casino were themed, too. There was a panel above each toilet and urinal that would give an analysis of whatever you just deposited, with recommendations on what you should eat or drink. Hilton sold the hotel to Wingate, but there are still a few bit of the experience hiding there if you look. There is a Delta shield on the side of the building, visible only from the queue to the monorail station.

[@jackskellingtonsora]

I'm so sad I never got to go to this. I would have just been giddy with excitement if I had gone as a kid. Star Trek was and still is one of my favorite franchises.

[@lightningwu]

For me, this is one of the greatest losses in Vegas and also, one of the best videos this channel has made. Very detailed as always but as a Star Trek fan, just hearing the music in the background alone in this video (especially from Next Gen and Voyager) made me really emotional to remember a lot of fond memories of watching the shows of old and their many adventures and lessons. Keep up the great work!!

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Thank you so much

[@lightningwu]

@@ExpeditionThemePark Of course! Keep up the amazing work you are doing for this channel!

[@Meatball2022]

I used to love this ride. Went to the restaurant a few times also. Great experience

[@ColinG943]

I remember when I went to the Westgate for an autism gala and I found the remains of the Star Trek Experience, which is now a Preview Center and a gift shop.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Yeah!

[@typist5productions151]

To this day it honestly breaks my heart that I came of age to go places about the same time this closed down. I remember as I grew up, I was so absolutely excited to go here one day, and never got the chance.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Luckily at least we can see then online now!

[@wholian7013]

Star Trek: The Experience was more immersive than Rise. Still miss it.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

True

[@orlandotouristtraps7410]

You really cannot help but compare the Rise of the Resistance ride and the Star Trek experience. I have been on both and while the rise of the resistance is more ambitious I recall being much more satisfied with the Star Trek experience. I hope the negative reception Disney has gotten over its Galaxy's Edge and its rides doesn't stop them from future large scale experiences. They managed to hit a home run with Pandora and people seem to be coming around to Galaxy's edge.

[@bthompson661]

I hate that is no lo get there. I ne ver got to go. And I was in Vegas in 2007. One of my bbn biggest regrets not going. I had always planned to go back to check it out

[@TravelWithCesarin]

@@orlandotouristtraps7410 not to mention the future hotel themed to Star Wars.

[@davidthomas283]

mentioning universal recently, I participated as a Klingon.

[@dawnking5287]

Makes me sad I missed this in person. Makes me very happy you gave us all the experience. Thank you!

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Thank you for watching!

[@BobSperber]

I was in Vegas for business and was so-so happy to take a night off to attend. This was before the Borg attraction, which I never got to see. The actors really made it special. Thank you for this video.

[@brycevo]

So, Tours helped the Trek. Fascinating

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Yep. Exactly!

[@Emplordxiii]

And the popularity of Star Wars back in 1977 helped make Trek popular in reruns and venture to movies.

[@Crystalpoodleblack]

Bryce McKenzie and now they have taken the Star Trek the experience idea and adapted it for the Star Wars franchise

[@Sleepdroidstudios]

Glad I got to visit it. Anywhere with a cheese-borger gets nothing but love from me. I really liked playing the slot machines out front under giant ship models hanging from the ceiling.

[@hannahrosereviews5073]

I really hope that the new Trek serieses can somehow revamp something like this. I would literally go anywhere and do anything in order to be a part of something like this. I'm literally crying because this is so awesome!!!

[@arthurleong]

Watching this video really brings back some fond memories of my first time in Las Vegas. I'm from Malaysia and I had the opportunity to visit the Star Trek Experience in November of 2004 after they launched the Borg Invasion 4D. Being a die-hard Star Trek fan, having watched every single episode of all the Star Trek TV series, including TOS and all the movies, it was practically heaven for me to spend an entire day there with my family. I'm not a gambler so the only attraction in Las Vegas that really excited me was this one. The only regret that I had visiting the place was that I did not bring my Starfleet uniform (yes, I bought two different sets when Paramount brought the Star Trek World Tour to Singapore in 1999) with me. Such a pity that it no longer exists. This was a truly immersive theme park experience that was way ahead of its time. Would have been fantastic if they had constructed the full sized Enterprise-D in Las Vegas but even then, this one at the Las Vegas Hilton was good enough.

[@RecklessFables]

Quarks was a perfect way to relax after experiencing the ride/museum.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Exactly! :D

[@alypialpha2712]

I got to visit the Experience as a young teen with my dad the last two years of its existence. I was blown away by how good it was! The first time we went, my dad and went on the rides several times and we ate at Quark’s bar and restaurant 3 times in one day just so we could be immersed in the atmosphere. I even remember seeing the Klingon with the white hair. Once we learned it was closing the following year, we decided to go back at the same time the Star Trek convention was taking place. I went in my captain’s uniform and the actors addressed me as “captain.” A ferengi even sat down at our table and told me he spoke with my ship and said it wouldn’t be covering my meal and I needed to pay in latinum! Everything about The Experience was amazing. No other “immersive experience” has come close to its level of detail. I really miss it.

[@thescoot106]

I went to this a couple times when I was a kid. I still have the Spock teddy bear I got there. Thanks for the trip down memory lane!

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Thanks for watching

[@SHiFTyTReATS]

This was such a glorious time. This was during peak Star Trek and peak Star Wars. During a time when the shows and movies were filled with hope and wonderment and camaraderie. People back then all got along no matter where you were from or who you voted for. I would give anything to go back. I wish we knew it at the time, just how good we had it! Live long my friends, and prosper!

[@fusetunes]

i'm so sad i never got to experience this in person! i only got into star trek recently and as a huge theme park fan, this is like the perfect combination of both. at least these videos exist- it's neat even seeing everything as it used to be.

[@mikecronis]

My first anniversary gift was paper, so I bought us tickets to the ST:Experience and it was.. stellar. Still with her today after 19 years.

[@michaelgreenslade7260]

I wanted to ride again and wear a tacky T-Shirt reading “Pickard Family Reunion Las Vegas”. Just to put a wrench into the actors routines.

[@Dargonhuman]

Oh I bet they would have loved that!

[@lanceturley7745]

@Lost Aquarian Maybe the spelling changes over the next few centuries.

[@smithsb]

I remember going back in 2005 with my uncld. Was such an amazing experience, he loves Star Trek had the biggest smile

[@LaurenceQuint]

The "one of you is Picard's ancestor" bit of storytelling is also echoed in the new Star Tours with the "one of you is the rebel spy" business. Once again, ST:TE gets there first!

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Yeah!

[@LaurenceQuint]

@Bing Bong Lucas came up with that idea anyway. Not that it matters. You're garbage.

[@saiconjr]

I remember Star Trek the Experience when I went as a teen! My dad and I were super sci-fi nerds and when he heard about it being there and having to go for some conference, he took me and my mom along. I think my mom probably didn't care as much, but it was one of the highlight memories of my young life. I still have fond memories of even getting a movie replica uniform from First Contact with the combadge.

[@XaviarJS]

I'm glad I had the opportunity to experience Star Trek Experience when it first opened, I'm also going to miss another ride, Race for atlantis at Caesars palace..

[@BretMix]

I remember that! There were two cars "competing" in some sort of race, and you had to wear 3d goggles. There was a part with jellyfish on the screen that looked like you could touch them. Good stuff, sad it's gone...

[@zoephoto42]

Yeah they really removed some of the best stuff in Vegas and replaced it with malls. :(

[@RobertBreckenridge13]

This was absolutely the best show in Vegas. The transporter effect was so realistic it took my breath away! The acting was spot on, and chilling at Quarks sucking down Warp Core Breaches with friends after will always be missed.

[@gamefreak3072]

So this is the second documentary for STtE which i'm in. I'm the small child at the dinner table. at 15:11. this was so long ago. I miss this place.

[@redmd9772]

That's class, was that your dad sat with you in the uniform?

[@gamefreak3072]

@@redmd9772 yes, and my mother sitting across. 😊

[@redmd9772]

@@gamefreak3072 That's awesome you must have some great memories

[@gamefreak3072]

@@redmd9772 they're some of my favorites tbh.

[@Lukenukkem]

Very good sir. Thanks for being a part of history. I miss it too.

[@joebeastyg5686]

I visited Vegas as a senior in High School waaaaay back in '94. I was not nearly as big of a Trek fan as I am now back then. What I would give to experience this "Experience" now, though..... Thanks for another awesome video! So much content, so many memories you seem to spark :)

[@wholian7013]

The first thing I described Rise of the Resistance as when I got off was a lovechild between ST:TE and the Ratatouille ride.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

That is true !

[@NickCBax]

The one thing that made the beam up work is they had everyone staring at the screens, then there was a quick bright flash of light. This blinded people long enough for the room to reconfigure itself around you.

[@diggingattycho7908]

I remember hearing rumors of a full size Enterprise coming to Vegas in the early eighties. Which didn't make any sense at the time. Like many others I've been to the attraction, one funny thing. In the Voyager side of the attraction, when the Borg were chasing us. One was a bit larger, than the others. Not moving very quickly, all I was thinking was we have a little time. :)

[@LaurenceQuint]

Ha. I had the same reaction. "Look out! The Borg are....very slowly coming this way. Now, don't shove, calmly walk in an orderly line and everything will be fine."

[@Lukenukkem]

I basically just told my wife the same. The last Borg on our tour intimidated me. I thought to myself, this is an actor playing part. Nope - still intimidated.

[@ivoryandcat]

The Borg looked intimidating but they were all pretty much the same size. My best friend was the only one who was larger than the others. He was 6'4". They generally had to keep the actors the same size because the Borg suits had to fit them. So guys around 5'10" were the standard. When my friend started I had to create some new Borg pieces for him because the costume as it was didn't fit his height. I worked in the costuming department.

[@RobHoffman83]

I went to Vegas twice for this. It was a blast both times.

[@marsupius]

I got married there. It was my wife's idea. We got the two alien wedding package. It was wild.

[@Locutus]

Are you 2 still married?

[@marsupius]

@@Locutus still going strong 15;years later

[@lucaherman6227]

marsupius were all the actors there? Did the promenade feel real with just your guests there?

[@marsupius]

@@lucaherman6227 the reception was in a ballroom that looked somewhat like 10 forward. We encouraged the guests to wear costumes, so it felt a lot like a TNG episode.

[@mamba101]

Awesome! All I managed for my wedding was name the tables after ships and have the corresponding model on it 😂

[@Bumper1869]

I remember the star Trek Experience at the Hilton convention center. It was very cool to be able to stand on a full size mock up of the bridge and they made the corridors look spot on.

[@scottrousseau496]

I was lucky enough to see this attraction in early 2007. It was a memorable one and was sad to hear it had closed.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Glad you got to go

[@stepforwardentertainment715]

Last fall I went to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and rode Rise of the Resistance and as much fun as that was, I also found myself thinking that a Star Trek version existing would be as good, if not better than the Star Wars attraction. The Experience was something special, and like most special things, unfortunately not designed to last. Using the flute theme from “The Inner Light” to end the video gave it the exact emotional gravitas it deserved. The crew member who received the flag at the closing ceremony was amazing, for despite portraying a Vulcan, struggled to hold back her tears at the honor bestowed upon her. She still did her best and played her part perfectly. Sam, I love watching your videos and you provide a great insight into many attractions, past and present. I could see that putting this video together was a special passion project for you, and I can see that you are also a Trekkie like me and so many others who have watched this video. I was literally born into the fandom, watching episodes of Star Trek and the animated series, then it kicked into overdrive with Next Generation. The rest, as they say, is history. My son was even born on Star Trek day. A regret I have is that I was unable to make it out to Vegas to experience this great attraction, which led me to experience Rise of the Resistance when I had the chance. And while it was good, I agree with the assessment that while the world they have made is immersive, it is absolutely lacking when it comes to population with other alien actors to help make you truly feel like you are in the world of Star Wars, something that The Experience did very well. Thank you Sam. LLAP.

[@AverytheCubanAmerican]

Live long and prosper, ETP

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

You also!

[@jerryiverson1732]

I had a huge layover in the late 90's in Vegas. I got a cab and went down to check it out. I literally ran through the exhibits and shops to get into the ride itself. As I stood before the monitors, I kind of felt let down because it seemed cheesy. Suddenly the lights went out and I felt a rush of air and heard that all-familiar beaming sound. When the lights came on, the doors in front of me were gone and there was a crewman standing there. I looked down at the transporter pads that weren't there before and heard them say "Please stay calm. You been transported aboard the starship Enterprise. I threw my hands in the air and yelled at the top of my lungs "YES!". Thankfully they did not throw me out for the disruption. I would have to say as a fan this was my number one experience. Well done MGM.

[@otaking3582]

3:13 I never realized until now that the Statue of Liberty is that much shorter than the Eiffel Tower. Those French short-changed us! Or maybe it's due to the practicality of sculpting a humanoid figure out of copper and shipping it across the Atlantic, idk

[@Dargonhuman]

To be fair, their sister statue is even smaller than the one we got, and to be even more fair, most French people didn't even want the tower when it was being built, thinking such a large, steel structure was an eyesore and it ruined the Parisian skyline. I ... can't really say they're wrong about that.

[@DavidHHH99]

One of my favorite moments from the Experience was when we were having dinner, and a roaming Klingon came over to ask if I was enjoying my ribs (of Targ) dinner. When I told him I finished the whole thing, he exclaimed "No, you left the bones!"

[@Qazmon]

For years after going on this I always wanted to see how they did the transporter effect. It was so fast and amazing. I always had a problem with the free fall in the turbo lift. If you are in space and your elevator falls ... well it would just float... haha The rest of the ride was so much fun. We loved chatting it up with the Klingons and Ferengi walking around. Such a great presence they gave to the place.

[@OffendingTheOffendable]

The exit signs and doors add a real touch of realism😂

[@DanVillainFilms]

THANK YOU. I’ve been waiting for someone to make this video! I went to this attraction when they only had the first ride.

[@ExpeditionThemePark]

Hope your enjoy!

[@ttedford39]

Both shows were amazing. This was by far the best attraction on the strip in it's day. I am so happy to have had the opportunity to experience it.