The Big Apple Coaster at New York New York Hotel and Casino

The Big Apple Coaster is interesting because it throws you straight into big-speed Vegas thrills, with a 67 mph top speed, an over-water style heartline twist, and a scary-looking drop. I love that you get Las Vegas Strip views from the ride, not just screams, and that the whole thing is inside New York-New York so you can keep playing right after.

My main caution is comfort. This coaster can feel rough and jerky to some riders, and if you are sensitive to that kind of jolt, you might want to think twice or at least brace yourself going in.

Big Apple Coaster basics: speed, drop, and the heartline twist

The Big Apple Coaster is a proper thrill coaster, built around big numbers and quick, intense maneuvers. The maximum speed is listed at 67 mph, and the biggest drop is listed at 144 feet.

You may also see a taller-sounding drop figure in some marketing, but the official FAQ number to rely on is 144 feet. Either way, the drop is the moment most people remember, because it is fast and you feel the descent right away.

The signature move is the 180-degree heartline twist and dive-style maneuver. In plain terms, the coaster changes direction while keeping you oriented in a twisting motion that can feel more intense than a simple turn.

Price and value: is $25.65 worth it in Vegas?

At $25.65 per person for one ride, the Big Apple Coaster is not “cheap,” even by Vegas standards. But I think it can be good value if you time it well and treat it as a full experience, not just one quick lap.

You get one ride ticket with all fees and taxes included. No extra ticket add-ons are required for the ride itself, and when lines are long, prebooking can turn a stressful wait into a smooth arrival.

Rerides can also change the value. Some visitors note that you may be able to do another ride for about $10, which makes the cost feel lighter if you fall in love with the coaster.

That said, if you are the type who hates rough rides or you only want the calm Vegas “vibes,” then paying for thrills may feel like a waste. This is adrenaline, not background noise.

Where it starts inside New York-New York: fast navigation tips

The coaster sits right inside New York-New York, which is great because you are not hunting down some far-off attraction with a bus plan. You can walk in from the hotel area and follow the posted directions.

From the front desk area, go right toward the Century Elevators. Take the escalators up to the level near Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs, then head left of Nathan’s to find the Big Apple Coaster entrance.

Finding it can take a few minutes, especially if you get turned around inside the casino floors. The good news is that staff can point you the right way, so do not panic if it takes a moment.

The attraction area also connects into The Big Apple Arcade. That matters because it means you can shift your timing after your ride, depending on lines and how you feel.

Timing your ride: hours, last entry, and weather reality

The Big Apple Coaster runs on a schedule that changes by day. It is open 1 pm to 9 pm Monday through Thursday, and 11 am to midnight Friday through Sunday.

Hours can shift based on conditions, and the ride is weather dependent. If weather is bad, you may be offered another date or a full refund.

One important rule: you must be in line 30 minutes prior to closing. That is not just “nice to know.” If you show up late, you can lose your ride even if you have a ticket.

If you want the smoothest experience, aim for earlier windows when possible. Several riders also found that showing up close to the opening time helped keep the line manageable, though lines can still change day to day.

From ticket to seat: what happens on ride day

Your ticket is a mobile ticket, and you will want your booking info accessible. Some riders emphasize that you should have your phone with the booking code ready, while others recommend printing as a backup.

That conflict is easy to solve. I would have both: the phone code ready, and a screenshot or printed copy in case the system is picky.

Once you locate the entrance, plan for a line. A common theme is that the queue can get long, but it often moves fairly quickly once you are inside the process.

Before you ride, you will deal with the physical reality of the coaster rules. You should expect tight seating and harness placement, and you may need to store personal items.

Lockers are available for a fee. Many riders specifically mention lockers around $1 to stow items, and you generally want to store the kind of stuff you do not want flying around or getting in the way.

A few riders also flag that you should not try to bring a phone on the ride. If you do want photos, rely on the on-ride or pre-ride photo setup and the staff-guided picture moments, which you can purchase after.

Each coaster train can hold up to 18 riders at a time. That small train size is a big reason why prebooking matters, because you are trying to land in a good cycle.

The ride itself: drops, twists, and how it feels on your body

Let’s talk sensations, because this coaster is not a silky, glass-smooth coaster for everyone. Expect intense forces during the turn sequence and a noticeable jolt during transitions.

The major landmarks are the speed burst, the big drop, and that 180-degree heartline twist and dive maneuver. You will feel how the coaster changes direction quickly, and you will likely lose your sense of time for a moment.

Some riders say it is very thrilling and long enough for the money, while others point out that it can be rough. I would call it “fun rough,” but not “gentle.”

If you have a sensitive neck, head, or back, go in with your eyes open. Multiple people report that the coaster can feel jerky and may be uncomfortable to some bodies.

The upside is that if you like roller coasters, the intensity is part of the payoff. One of the best signs is that fans often say they would ride again, and even do it multiple times because the sensations feel unique.

As for seating fit, there is also a practical warning. If you are on the larger side, some riders mention it can feel a bit tight getting into the seat. That does not mean you cannot ride, but it is a good heads-up to plan your approach.

The view payoff: Strip angles and desert sightings from the top

This is one of those Vegas rides where you get more than adrenaline. When the coaster climbs, you get a new vantage point over the Las Vegas Strip and the surrounding area.

Riders mention the view being awesome from the top, and the fact that you can see beyond the immediate hotel block. Depending on where you sit, the sightlines can be different, but the general idea stays the same: you see the city from above in a way walking never gives you.

Some also note that on certain angles you can see desert scenery in the distance. That contrast, city lights next to open land, is part of why the ride feels like a Vegas postcard in motion.

If you are a “photo person,” this is where you should decide your strategy. If you cannot bring your phone on the ride, do not count on taking phone photos. The in-house photo system can be your alternative.

After the coaster: The Big Apple Arcade and Greenwich Village atmosphere

One of the smartest parts of this outing is that it does not end when the ride ends. After your one ride ticket, you can step into The Big Apple Arcade, which has classic video and arcade games.

That matters because it gives you something to do while your adrenaline cools down. You can also use it as a reset point if the line for the coaster is short later, and you want to spend more time in the same area.

Restrooms are located in the Arcade area near the entrance to the coaster. That is handy, especially if you want to avoid weaving through the casino floors.

Then there is the hotel’s theme setting. You can stroll through simulated streets inspired by Greenwich Village, with brownstone-style buildings and spots for sidewalk dining along Village Street.

This is not “real New York,” obviously. But it is an enjoyable way to keep your Vegas day from turning into a one-and-done checklist.

It also helps balance the experience if you are traveling with someone who is less thrilled about coaster physics. You can separate, ride, and then meet back up for the arcade and themed walk.

Who should book this and who should skip it?

If you love roller coasters, the Big Apple Coaster is an easy yes. You get big speed, a memorable drop, and a twist sequence that feels like a true thrill ride.

It also suits solo travelers because it is straightforward: one ride, quick check-in flow, and then you are free to wander. Couples also enjoy it as a shared “we did it” Vegas moment, especially if you both handle rougher rides.

Families can do it too, with the key requirement being height. The minimum height is 54 inches (137 cm), so younger riders will need to meet that.

But if you are highly sensitive to rough motion, I would think twice. The repeated theme in comfort comments is that the coaster can feel jerky, and some people describe head or body discomfort.

Also consider booking timing. If weather is questionable and the ride depends on conditions, you want a day with flexibility. If you are trying to squeeze it into a tight itinerary with no backup time, you might feel the stress if the ride pauses operations.

Should you book the Big Apple Coaster?

Book it if you want one of the easiest thrill stops on the Strip that also gives you a scenic view. Prebooking is a practical move, especially if you want to avoid losing time in long queues.

I would skip or reconsider if you know you get pain from rides that feel rough. In that case, you can spend the money on slower, calmer Vegas experiences and keep your day enjoyable.

If you are on the fence, here is the decision shortcut I use: if roller coasters are your thing, this is a solid buy. If they are not, it is an expensive way to cross off a checkmark.

FAQ

How fast does the Big Apple Coaster go?

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

What is the biggest drop on the coaster?

The largest drop is 144 feet.

What is the minimum height to ride?

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

What are the opening hours?

It is 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.

How long does the experience take?

It is listed as about 1 hour.

What does my ticket include?

Your ticket includes one ride ticket, with all fees and taxes included.

Is hotel pickup or parking included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off and parking are not included.

Are restrooms available near the ride?

Yes. Restrooms are located in the Arcade area at the entrance to the Big Apple Coaster.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start time for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, you will not receive a refund.

Where do I go inside New York-New York to find the coaster?

From the front desk area, go right toward the Century Elevators. Take the escalators up toward Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs, then go left of Nathan’s to reach the Big Apple Coaster.