This roller coaster grabs you before you sit. The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York pairs real speed, a steep drop, and big Las Vegas Strip views—right inside a full-size hotel world. You’ll also save time if you arrive with a prebooked mobile ticket and go straight to the action.

What I like most is the payoff for the effort: one ride can be just long enough to feel like a real thrill, and the view from up high makes it more than a quick scream. Second, I really enjoy the combo with the rest of the hotel—right after you ride, you can keep the energy going at The Big Apple Arcade and walk the simulated streets around Greenwich Village.

One thing to consider: this coaster can feel rough and forceful. If you’re sensitive to neck/head discomfort, or you don’t like “jerky” rides, be prepared for some people to find it painful, not just thrilling.

Key takeaways before you go

• Prebooking helps you beat the worst of the line so you spend more time on the coaster and less time waiting.
• A 67 mph max speed and a heartline twist create strong, in-your-face sensations.
• Strip views from the train are a legit bonus, not just a marketing line.
• Lockers and phone rules matter—plan to stash your stuff before you board.
• After the ride, the arcade keeps the fun going if you want something lower-pressure right away.

Big Apple Coaster essentials: what you’re paying for at New York-New York

The Big Apple Coaster is built for thrill lovers who want a hit of speed plus skyline-style views. The coaster’s published stats focus on the big moments: it reaches a maximum speed of 67 mph (108 kmph), it includes a 180-degree heartline twist, and it features a major drop (the materials you’ll see list 144 feet as the largest drop, while other info puts it as 203 feet). Either way, it’s the kind of ride where you feel like you’re going higher than you expected, and the pacing makes those transitions stand out.

You’re also paying for convenience. A prebooked ticket means you’re not stuck playing the casino waiting game. With a mobile ticket, you can move through the process faster and stay focused on the ride instead of hunting around for the right line.

Then there’s the hotel factor. New York-New York doesn’t stop at the coaster. After your ride, you can hang out at The Big Apple Arcade and wander the hotel’s Greenwich Village streets with brownstone-style buildings and sidewalk dining along Village Street. For many people, that turns a single-ticket thrill into an hour or more of “Vegas energy,” which is where the value starts to make sense.

Finding the coaster fast: directions inside the hotel (no wandering required)

This coaster is inside New York-New York, so the main challenge is not the ride—it’s getting there while you’re excited and slightly lost like everyone else.

Start at the front desk area. Go right toward the Century Elevators, then take the escalators up toward Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs. Once you come off the escalator, the Big Apple Coaster is to the left of Nathan’s. It’s that simple, but arriving with that mental map saves real time.

Also, don’t underestimate how much easier it is to do this if you’re dressed for motion. You’ll be inside the hotel, walking hallways and crossing casino floors. Wear shoes you can move in, and keep your most important item—your ticket/booking code—where you can find it quickly.

One small practical note from the ride experience: the process before boarding can feel strict about what you carry. A lot of the hassle people complain about is avoidable if you treat this like a “locker-first” attraction.

The ride profile: speed, twist, and why some seats feel tougher

Let’s talk about what makes this coaster distinctive. The Big Apple Coaster is about force and change of direction. You get speed up to 67 mph, then the ride leans into the big signature moves: a heartline twist that flips your orientation in a way that feels more intense than a standard turn, plus a plunge-style maneuver that gives you a strong sense of going down and forward.

Then you add the height. People consistently mention how great the views are from the top—especially over the Las Vegas Strip. Even if you’re not a “views” person, the fact that it’s visible from up there helps justify doing it at least once.

Now the balance. Some riders love that it’s thrilling and not too short. Others say it’s not smooth, and a few mention discomfort like head or neck impacts, or feeling sore afterward. That doesn’t mean the coaster is broken; it means the experience is physical. If you’re prone to headaches, migraines, back problems, or you hate rough rides, you should think carefully before you buy.

Seat fit also matters. One review mentioned it can feel tight to get into seats if you’re on the larger side. So if you’re between sizes or you’ve struggled with tight restraints on other coasters, consider going in with that awareness. The harness is part of the safety system, but your comfort is still personal.

Bottom line: this is for thrill seekers who can handle a firmer ride. If you want a silky, park-style rollercoaster glide, this may not match your preference.

Ticket visit flow: lines, lockers, photos, and phone management

Your ticket gets you one ride ticket, and all fees and taxes are included in the price you paid. What’s not included is parking and hotel pickup/drop-off, and the arcade games are extra. So plan on the coaster as the core experience.

The biggest operational detail is timing. The coaster requires you to be in line 30 minutes prior to closing. That matters because closing times shift by day and can depend on conditions. It’s also why prebooking is smart: it reduces the stress of arriving late and trying to catch a window.

Riders report mixed line experiences—sometimes the line is long, but it moves. The best tactic is straightforward: arrive with time buffer so you’re not rushing through lockers and boarding.

Lockers are your friend. There are lockers available for a small fee (one rider specifically mentioned $1). If you plan to use your phone for ticket scanning, do it before the boarding zone and stash it when required. One very common lesson from the experience: don’t assume you’ll be able to keep your phone out during the ride. If you bring a purse or loose items, you’ll likely need to store everything so it doesn’t become a distraction—or a disaster.

Photos are also part of the setup. One rider mentioned there are pictures taken before/during, plus a group shot, and that you can purchase them. If you’re not into buying photos, that’s fine—you can still enjoy the ride without them. If you are into souvenirs, plan to check the photo options right after so you don’t forget while you’re still buzzing.

One more practical tip: make sure your booking code is accessible. Some people used their phone for entry codes, and others advised having a printed backup. I’d do the simple version: keep your code handy on your phone and consider saving a screenshot or printout so you’re not scrambling.

Beyond the coaster: Big Apple Arcade and Greenwich Village stroll

A lot of the fun here is what happens after the ride—because you’re not stuck “waiting for the next thrill.” After you finish, you can head to The Big Apple Arcade, which is large and full of a mix of classic and newer games. Games cost extra, but the arcade area gives you a place to reset after the physical ride.

If you want a comfortable transition, arcade time works well. The coaster is intense, then the arcade is motion-light and keeps the energy going. You also don’t have to “commit” to anything—just walk in, see what you like, and stay as long as you want.

And then there’s the hotel storytelling. After your ride, take a stroll through the simulated Greenwich Village streets inside the property. You’ll see brownstone-style buildings, tree-lined street vibes, and outdoor dining spots along Village Street. It’s not New York City, but it scratches that same “block-walk” feeling, especially if you like wandering and snacking.

There are also restrooms located in the Arcade area near the entrance to the coaster, which is handy if you’re planning your timing around water, photos, or locker use.

This is where the experience can feel like better value: even though the coaster is only one ride, the time you spend in the surrounding areas turns it into a mini outing inside a major Vegas resort.

Price and value check: is $25.65 a fair deal?

At $25.65 per person, the Big Apple Coaster is definitely not a bargain. Rollercoasters often price like premium attractions in Las Vegas, and this one is no exception. So I judge value in two ways: (1) whether you get your money’s worth in ride impact, and (2) whether the surrounding experience makes the total time feel justified.

Here’s what makes it feel worth it for many people:

• You get a full thrill package: speed up to 67 mph, major drop stats, and a 180-degree heartline twist.
• You get Strip views from the top, which adds payoff even if you’re not a coaster fanatic.
• The ticket gets you one ride, and the arcade + Village-style walking can stretch the fun for cheap compared to paying for extra activities elsewhere.

Here’s what makes it feel expensive:

• Some riders say it’s rough. If you end up uncomfortable for the wrong reasons, the “value” drops fast.
• If you’re paying premium prices and you only want a quick thrill, you might feel like it’s too costly for how brief it can be.
• There are extra costs at the arcade and possible photo purchases.

One rider even mentioned that rerides may be available for $10, which could change the math if you love it and want a second run. I’d treat that as “ask on site” info rather than a guarantee, but it’s a useful angle: if you enjoy the first ride, you may be able to stretch your total spend.

If you’re on the fence, think like this: would you pay for a memorable Vegas thrill that also gives you a great view and doesn’t eat an entire day? If yes, the price starts to look reasonable.

If you’re the type who only likes smooth rides, or you hate physical impacts, you may prefer to spend that money on a calmer Vegas activity.

Who should book, and who should think twice

This is a coaster, and it’s built to be intense. The minimum height requirement is 54 inches (137 cm), and most people can participate if they meet it.

I’d steer thrill seekers toward it. If you love rollercoasters, want the “big Vegas view” moment, and don’t mind that it can be a bit rough, this can be a top-tier choice for a Vegas afternoon-evening plan.

I’d think twice if you:

• Have a history of neck/head sensitivity, migraines, or back pain with rides.
• Dislike coasters that feel less smooth and more forceful.
• Get uncomfortable with tight seating or strong restraints.
• Are going on a day when weather might be questionable—coaster service can depend on favorable conditions.

Also consider your priorities. If you’re in Vegas mainly for culture, shopping, or shows, this is short and punchy, not “a whole experience.” But if you want a “do it once” iconic thrill that’s efficient and fun, it fits.

Finally, fit it into your day around the hotel rhythm. This works best when you can spend a little time afterward at the arcade and on Village Street. The coaster alone is the headline, but the surroundings are the icing.

FAQ

How fast does the Big Apple Coaster go?

The Big Apple Coaster has a maximum speed of 67 mph (108 kmph).

What is the biggest drop height on the Big Apple Coaster?

The largest drop is listed as 144 feet.

What is the minimum height to ride?

All guests must be at least 54 in (137 cm) tall.

What are the opening hours?

It’s open 1 pm to 9 pm Monday through Thursday, and 11 am to midnight Friday through Sunday. Hours may change based on weather and other circumstances.

Is the ticket mobile?

Yes. The experience uses a mobile ticket.

What does my ticket include?

Your ticket includes one (1) ride ticket, with all fees and taxes included.

How early do I need to arrive?

You must be in line 30 minutes prior to closing.

Where is the Big Apple Coaster inside New York-New York?

From the front desk area, go right toward the Century Elevators, take the escalators up toward Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs, and once you’re off the escalator, it’s to the left of Nathan’s.

Should you book the Big Apple Coaster ticket?

If you want one high-energy Vegas thrill with a great view and easy added time at the Big Apple Arcade and Greenwich Village-style streets, I think it’s a solid book. Prebooking is especially helpful if you hate line stress.

Just be honest with yourself about comfort. If you’re worried about rough sensations or you’re prone to head/neck discomfort, do a quick self-check before you commit. For most thrill-loving travelers, it’s exactly the kind of memorable, efficient “Vegas yes” that makes the trip feel bigger than just walking the Strip.

You Might Also Enjoy

Road to Hana Adventure Maui Tour with LunchKey West Island Adventure Jet Ski Tour: Bring a Partner for FreeNYC: Statue of Liberty Express Skip-the-Box-Office CruisePearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, and Polynesian Center from Waikiki