If you like roller coasters, this one hits hard. The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York is a fast, high-energy ride with great Strip views and the signature 180-degree heartline twist. It’s the kind of Las Vegas activity where the main event is the ride, but the hotel around it keeps you entertained before and after.

Two things I really like: the chance to look down at the Las Vegas Strip from up high, and how this coaster mixes speed with dramatic changes in direction. One consideration: the car can feel a bit rough and jostly, and a few riders report head or neck discomfort, so it’s not the smooth, floaty type of coaster.

Key Things to Know Before You Go

• Skip-the-line timing helps: booking ahead is the easiest way to reduce waiting
• It’s a real thrill ride: 67 mph speed and a big drop you’ll feel in your stomach
• Quick ride time: expect about 3 minutes of actual coaster time, plus whatever line you’re dealing with
• Lockers and photos matter: plan to use lockers and you’ll likely pass photo moments
• There’s more to do after: The Big Apple Arcade and the simulated Greenwich Village area are a nice add-on

Finding the Big Apple Coaster Inside New York-New York

New York-New York is big, and the coaster entrance isn’t the kind of landmark you’ll trip over by accident. From the front desk area, go right toward the Century Elevators, then take the escalators up toward Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs. Once you’re off the escalator, look left of Nathan’s, and that’s where you’ll find the Big Apple Coaster area.

I like doing this part early in my trip because it turns a stressful scavenger hunt into a quick warm-up. Also, being near Nathan’s makes it easy to orient yourself if you need to regroup with your group.

Tickets, Phone, and Lockers: Your 15-Minute Setup

This attraction uses a mobile ticket, so you’ll want your phone ready for entry. One practical tip from rider experience: keep the booking code handy at the gate, but don’t plan to carry your phone on the ride. The safest move is to use a locker.

Lockers are available for a small fee, and people have reported something like $1 for a locker. The big point is simple: stash your things so you’re not trying to hold them while you queue, while you wait to board, and while the ride is doing its thing.

Also, there are photo moments. Riders have noted photos taken before/during, plus a group shot, so if you’re the type who likes a souvenir, it’s worth knowing that’s part of the flow. If you’re not into buying photos, just be ready to see photographers with cameras and know you can skip purchases.

The Big Apple Coaster Moment: 67 mph, a Massive Drop, and the Twist

The coaster’s top speed is listed at 67 mph (108 km/h), and the thrills are built around that speed plus a large drop and a heartline twist. The twist is the headline feature: an 180-degree heartline twist that changes your sense of direction fast.

About the drop, there’s a small number mismatch you might notice when you read different materials. The biggest drop is listed at 144 feet, while other descriptions mention a 203-foot drop. Either way, you’re signing up for a drop that feels serious once you’re strapped in.

One more timing detail that matters for your day: the actual ride experience is short—people have described it as around 3 minutes. That doesn’t mean it’s minor; it means you should plan your schedule like a quick adrenaline hit, not a long attraction.

What It Feels Like in Your Body (Smooth or Jarring?)

This coaster is thrilling, but it’s not guaranteed to feel gentle. Some riders describe it as exciting and well worth the cost, while others say it can feel jerky and may cause discomfort for people sensitive to head/neck/back jostling.

Here’s how I’d think about it before you commit:

• If you love intense coasters, you’ll probably view the rougher sensations as part of the fun.
• If your body is sensitive to sudden lateral motion, be ready for the possibility that this could feel like too much.

I also suggest you pay attention during seat assignment. If you can choose your spot, pick what feels most comfortable to you. It may not change the physics, but the difference between “tight and fine” and “tight and annoying” can be huge for some people.

Harnesses, Height Rules, and Ride Capacity

The minimum height to ride is 54 inches (137 cm). That’s a real limiter for younger kids, so check before you make the trip.

Each train can hold up to 18 riders, which helps prevent overcrowding from turning into an endless wait. The trade-off is that you’ll still spend time in line at a busy hour, so your best friend here is planning your arrival with your slot in mind.

Riders have also pointed out that you’re strapped in with a harness, and for many people that makes the ride feel secure even if it feels intense. If you’re comfortable with harness-style coasters, you’ll likely feel confident once you’re seated.

Views That Make the Ticket Feel Worth It

Even if you’re focused on the thrill, the payoff includes scenery. People have specifically mentioned enjoying the view from the top, including a look back across the Las Vegas Strip. On a clear day, you can also catch sight toward the desert from above.

This is one reason I think the Big Apple Coaster can feel like more than just a ride ticket. You get a different perspective than you do from the sidewalk or from casino floors—so you’re not just paying for screams. You’re paying for altitude, speed, and a fast change in what you can see.

After the Ride: The Big Apple Arcade and Greenwich Village Inside the Hotel

Once you’re done, you can keep your momentum going. The Big Apple Arcade sits right in the fun zone and has a mix of classic-style arcade games and video games. It’s a smart “cool down” option after a coaster, especially if your group has mixed thrill tolerance.

There are also restrooms in the arcade area near the coaster entrance, which is handy if you’re trying to avoid wandering the casino while you’re still bouncing from the ride.

Then there’s the hotel’s simulated Greenwich Village area. Think brownstone-style buildings, tree-lined streets, and sidewalk dining along Village Street. It’s one of those details that makes the whole experience feel like more than a quick stop. You can grab a bite, take a slow walk, and reset before your next Las Vegas activity.

Price and Value: Is $25.65 a Good Deal?

The ticket price is $25.65 per person, and it’s for one ride with all fees and taxes included. That’s not cheap for a single coaster, so the value question comes down to your priorities.

I’d say it’s good value if:

• You want a marquee coaster on the Strip without turning your day into a half-day mission.
• You’ll enjoy the speed, twist, and big drop, plus the views from above.
• You’re okay with a ride that’s intense rather than smooth.

I’d hesitate if:

• You’re sensitive to rough motion and fear head/neck discomfort.
• You’re expecting a long, theme-park style ride experience. The coaster time is brief.
• You’re on a tight budget and hate paying for “one-and-done” attractions.

A small angle on reriding can change the math. Some riders have mentioned a re-ride option for a lower add-on fee (like $10). If you’re the kind of person who wants to go again right away, that can make the overall cost feel more reasonable.

Timing: Why Booking Ahead Helps

This is one of those attractions where waiting can eat your energy fast. The whole point of booking ahead is to reduce friction when you arrive and get you closer to the fun. People have also noted that the first slot time can be a bit confusing because it may relate to opening rather than an exact standby start for everyone—so show up ready, not relaxed.

There’s also a closing-time rule: you need to be in line about 30 minutes prior to closing. If you miss that window, you risk losing your shot for the day, which is the opposite of what you want for a paid ticket.

And because it’s outdoors (or at least weather-sensitive), the coaster requires good weather. If conditions are poor, you may be offered another date or a refund, depending on what the provider can do that day.

Who This Big Apple Coaster Ticket Suits Best

This is a strong match for:

• Thrillseekers who want a fast coaster with a big twist and a real drop
• Roller coaster fans who want to say they rode this signature Strip attraction
• Families traveling with kids who meet the 54-inch height rule

It may be a weaker match for:

• Anyone who hates rough sensations or has had issues with jarring motion in past rides
• People with neck/head/back sensitivity who think they can “tough it out” for one quick ride

If you’re unsure, it helps to be honest with yourself about what types of coaster motion bother you. This one isn’t described as gentle by everyone.

Should You Book the Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York?

Yes, you should book it if you want one high-impact, easy-to-find Strip thrill with a view payoff. The coaster’s 67 mph speed, the 180-degree heartline twist, and the chance to look down over the Strip make it feel like a signature Las Vegas experience.

Book with a smart plan: arrive with your phone/booking code ready, use the lockers so you don’t get stuck juggling belongings, and be mindful of the ride comfort factor if you’re sensitive to rough motion. If you’re okay with that, this is exactly the kind of attraction that can anchor a Las Vegas day.

If you want a low-stress, smooth ride only, or you’re worried about weather forcing changes, consider a backup plan in the hotel (the arcade and the Village-area stroll are solid alternatives).

FAQ

How fast does the Big Apple Coaster go?

The Big Apple Coaster has a maximum speed of 67 mph.

How big is the biggest drop?

The biggest drop is 144 feet.

What is the minimum height to ride?

You must be at least 54 inches (137 cm) tall.

What are the opening hours for the Big Apple Coaster?

It’s open 1 pm to 9 pm Monday through Thursday, and 11 am to midnight Friday through Sunday. Hours can change due to weather and other conditions.

What does my ticket include?

Your ticket includes one ride and all fees and taxes.

Can I cancel and get a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid isn’t refundable.