Abstract: A virtual reality helmet including a rigid shell adapted to cover the head of a user. The shell has a front opening to accommodate the face of a user. A pair of straps is secured to the shell across the front opening. A video display unit is positioned between, and suspended from, the straps. A shield is secured to the shell so as to cover the front opening and the video display unit thereby preventing ambient light from entering into the shell through the front opening. A pair of speakers is secured within the shell on opposite sides of the front opening. A cable bundle extends from the helmet so as to connect the video display unit and speakers to a power source and an audio/visual source that may be readily transported by a user in a storage bag having a shoulder harness.