Las Vegas: New York-New York Hotel Big Apple Coaster Ride

Imagine zooming through the bright lights and towering neon signs of the Las Vegas Strip at nearly 70 miles per hour, with the wind whipping past you and a 180-degree twist just ahead. That’s exactly what the Big Apple Coaster promises—and what many visitors rave about in their reviews. While we haven’t personally strapped in (yet), this roller coaster at the New York-New York Hotel is undeniably an experience that mixes thrill-seeking with sightseeing in one fun package.

What we love about this ride is its unique location, the heart-pumping speed, and the fact that it’s a quick adrenaline hit—perfect for fitting into a busy Vegas itinerary. That said, it’s not cheap, and some might find the ride over in what feels like just a few seconds. Still, if you’re an adrenaline junkie or want an iconic Vegas moment, this coaster could be well worth the price.

This experience appeals most to thrill-seekers, fans of roller coasters, and travelers who want a quick, memorable snapshot of Las Vegas from a totally different perspective. Just remember, if you’re under 4 ft 3 in (130 cm), you won’t be able to ride, so check height requirements before you plan your visit.

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Key Points

Fast-paced and exhilarating with speeds of nearly 70 mph.
Unique feature: First roller coaster to include a 180-degree twist.
Great views of the Las Vegas Strip from above the iconic cityscape.
Single-ride ticket provides a quick, adrenaline-pumping experience.
Timing varies depending on weather and operational hours.
Not suitable for guests under 4 ft 3 in (130 cm) or those with certain safety concerns.

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The Ride Experience in Detail

From the moment you step into the queue, anticipation builds. The red track snakes through a mock-up of Manhattan, giving you a taste of New York City amidst the Vegas chaos. The themed surroundings add a touch of whimsy, especially if you’re a fan of New York’s skyline and cityscape.

Once seated in the sleek coaster cars, you’ll start with a gentle climb, giving you a chance to take in the sights of the Strip below. But that calm is short-lived. As you ascend, the tension rises—knowing what’s coming next. The first drop is a classic thrill: a steep descent that launches you into high speeds, reaching almost 70 mph, making it one of the fastest roller coasters in the area.

What sets this coaster apart is its 180-degree twist, the first of its kind in the world. This twist adds a sense of disorientation and excitement, especially when combined with the loops and sharp turns that follow. Reviewers mention that the ride is “fantastic” and “exceeded expectations,” with many describing it as “super fun and thrilling.”

The entire ride lasts just a few minutes, but those minutes are packed with twists, turns, and moments of upside-down excitement. The spirals and loops keep your adrenaline elevated, and the views of Las Vegas from above are a bonus—especially if you time your ride at night when the Strip lights are dazzling.

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What You Can Expect on Your Ride

Climb and anticipation: The slow climb up the initial tower, giving you a panoramic view of Vegas.
The first drop: A steep descent that accelerates your heart rate.
Twists and loops: The 180-degree twist followed by spiraling inversions.
High speeds: Nearly 70 mph, making it one of the fastest in Vegas.
Brief but intense: Many reviewers note it’s over quickly—”over in a flash,” as one puts it—but that’s part of the thrill.
Views from above: You’ll see the cityscape from a vantage point that’s impossible from street level.

Practical Details and Tips

Ticketing and Pricing

The single-ride ticket costs $25 per person. While this might seem steep for just one quick ride, many reviewers felt it was good value for the experience. Some mention that purchasing in advance saved time and allowed for a smoother entry, as the line can get long during peak hours.

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Operating Hours

The coaster is open Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm and Friday to Sunday until midnight. Keep in mind that hours are weather-dependent, so if it’s very windy or rainy, the ride may close temporarily.

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Meeting Point and Duration

Start your ride at the designated entrance during operating hours. The entire experience, including waiting time and the ride itself, usually takes less than an hour—perfect if you’re fitting it into a busy day of sightseeing. Remember, you need to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing to ensure you get your turn.

Accessibility and Restrictions

If you’re under 4 ft 3 in (130 cm), this ride isn’t for you. Plus, the ride involves high speeds and inversions, so it’s not suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health conditions or who are faint of heart.

Additional Tips

Phone storage: Reviewers have pointed out that you’ll need your phone to show your ticket, but you’re not allowed to take it on the coaster, so plan to pay a small fee (~$1) for locker storage.
Weather considerations: Since hours are weather-dependent, check the forecast and plan accordingly.
Multiple rides: Some visitors bought all-day passes, allowing them to ride multiple times, particularly during nighttime when Vegas’s lights create a spectacular backdrop.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One visitor described the ride as “much better than I thought it would be,” emphasizing how much fun they had and noting that the ride exceeded their expectations. Others appreciated the good value for money, especially considering the thrill packed into just a few minutes.

A recurring theme in reviews is the rapid pace of the ride. Several mention that it’s over before you know it, but the adrenaline rush makes it worthwhile. Some guests found the cost a bit high for the duration, but most agree that the unique thrill of doing a roller coaster over Las Vegas justifies the price.

A few reviews also mention minor inconveniences, such as needing to pay for a locker because personal items aren’t allowed on the ride, and the fact that you can’t keep your phone with you during the coaster. However, these are small trade-offs for the adrenaline fix and the view.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York Hotel is a solid choice for adventure seekers and those wanting a quick taste of adrenaline in Las Vegas. It’s particularly appealing if you’re a roller coaster enthusiast or want a memorable snapshot of the Strip from above. The ride’s speed, twists, and the novelty of a 180-degree twist make it stand out among Vegas attractions.

While the ride is relatively short and the price might seem high for a single loop of fun, the reviews suggest that the experience is well worth the cost for most thrill lovers. It offers a mix of excitement and sightseeing that’s hard to match, especially if you’re looking to diversify your Vegas day with something truly exhilarating.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who love roller coasters, or if you want a story to tell about your Vegas trip, this ride won’t disappoint. Just be mindful of height restrictions and locker policies, and try to visit during a less crowded time if you want a quick, walk-on experience.

FAQs

Is the Big Apple Coaster suitable for children?
It’s suitable only for those over 4 ft 3 in (130 cm). Younger children or those who are shorter won’t be able to ride.

What’s included with the ticket?
You get a single-ride ticket that allows you to experience the coaster once. Buying in advance can help skip lines.

Can I ride multiple times?
The standard ticket is for one ride only. However, some visitors with all-day passes report riding multiple times, especially at night.

What are the opening hours?
The coaster operates from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm Monday-Thursday, and until midnight on Friday-Sunday, weather permitting.

Are there any safety concerns?
The ride involves high speeds and inversions, so it’s not suitable for everyone. Always follow safety instructions provided by staff.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a small fee (~$1) if you want to store your phone or other personal items, as you cannot bring them on the coaster.

Is the ride worth the price?
Most reviews say yes, citing the thrill factor and unique views of Vegas from above as good value, despite the relatively short duration.

The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York offers a quick, pulse-racing escape within Las Vegas. It’s perfect for those craving a burst of adrenaline and a chance to see the city from above. While it’s not the cheapest, the speed, twists, and the iconic Vegas backdrop make it an experience worth considering, especially if you’re a roller coaster fan or looking to add a memorable highlight to your trip.

For thrill-seekers eager to check a true Vegas icon off their list, this ride delivers in spades. Just be prepared for a brief but intense adventure that leaves you with unforgettable memories—and maybe a few screams!