WOW vs Sphere: Which Las Vegas Show for Families
Sphere and WOW - The Vegas Spectacular are different nights out. Sphere is a large venue with a 75-minute film show and concert residencies. WOW is a 90-minute live show at Rio with acrobatics, water effects, comedy and 3D projections. WOW is open to all ages, recommended for guests 3 and up, and tickets start at $45. Sphere's film show is intended for guests 6 and up.
Side by side
- Format: WOW is a live stage show with performers. Sphere's The Wizard of Oz is a film experience, and the other Sphere dates are concerts.
- Ages: WOW is open to all ages, recommended 3 and up. The Wizard of Oz at Sphere is intended for guests 6 and up, and every guest needs a ticket.
- Length: WOW runs 90 minutes with no intermission. The Wizard of Oz at Sphere runs about 75 minutes.
- Price: WOW tickets start at $45. Sphere has no single price, and it changes by show, date, time and seat.
- Schedule: WOW performs Tuesday through Sunday at 7pm, dark Mondays. Sphere's calendar changes by event.
- Parking: WOW at Rio has free self-parking.
What is at Sphere right now
As listed on Sphere's show page on November 3, 2026: The Wizard of Oz at Sphere, Metallica (October 1, 2026 to March 13, 2027), Eagles (November 13, 2026 to January 23, 2027), Backstreet Boys (December 26, 2026 to January 2, 2027), and more dates into 2027. Check Sphere's own site for current dates, because the calendar changes.
When WOW is the better fit
- You have children under 6.
- You want a lower ticket price. WOW starts at $45.
- You want a show that runs every week from Tuesday to Sunday, not a limited residency.
- You want a live cast, with water, aerial acts and comedy in one show.
When Sphere is the better fit
- You want to see a specific artist, such as Metallica, Eagles or Backstreet Boys.
- You want the film experience of The Wizard of Oz at Sphere, and everyone in your group is 6 or older.
You can do both on one trip. WOW is at Rio, 3700 W Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89103, and starts at 7pm.
For other comparisons, see WOW vs Cirque du Soleil, best family shows in Las Vegas and the seating guide.
Tickets
Check current WOW tickets and showtimes on Ticketmaster.
FAQ
Is WOW or Sphere better for young children?
WOW is open to all ages and recommended for guests 3 and up. The Wizard of Oz at Sphere is intended for guests 6 and up.
How long is WOW compared with Sphere?
WOW runs 90 minutes with no intermission. The Wizard of Oz at Sphere runs about 75 minutes. Concert lengths vary by artist.
Is WOW cheaper than Sphere?
WOW tickets start at $45. Sphere prices change by show, date and seat, so compare the date you want on each site.
Where is WOW?
At Rio Hotel & Casino, 3700 W Flamingo Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89103. Self-parking is free.
