Big Apple Coaster Las Vegas
Ride the iconic Big Apple Coaster through the New York-New York skyline for thrilling drops and stunning Las Vegas Strip views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views of the Strip
Big Apple Coaster Las Vegas
Best Time
Best views of the Strip
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride the iconic Big Apple Coaster through the New York-New York skyline for thrilling drops and stunning Las Vegas Strip views.
"It's a unique Vegas thrill with great views, especially at night, and the new trains make it much smoother!"
🎯 Front Row for Smoothest Ride
Riders rave that the front row offers a night-and-day difference in smoothness. Avoid the back!
💰 Pricey but Unique
Expect to pay around $25 for one ride. Many consider it a novelty worth trying once.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Skyline View
During the ride
Experience breathtaking night views of the Las Vegas Strip from this unique vantage point. A true Vegas spectacle!
The 'Heartline' Twist
Mid-ride
A thrilling 180-degree inversion that offers a unique sensation and a memorable part of the coaster's layout.
The Big Drop
Beginning of the ride
A significant 203-foot drop that kicks off the adrenaline rush, setting the tone for the rest of the ride.
Planning Your Visit
Ride Smart: Front Row is Key
Cost vs. Experience: Is it Worth It?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Front Row for Smoothest Ride
Riders rave that the front row offers a night-and-day difference in smoothness. Avoid the back! +1
💰 Pricey but Unique
Expect to pay around $25 for one ride. Many consider it a novelty worth trying once.
🚶 Walk-Up Tickets Available
Reservations aren't always required; you can often buy tickets at the counter.
📸 Great for Photos
The coaster offers fantastic views of the Las Vegas Strip, especially at night.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Front Row for Smoothest Ride
Riders rave that the front row offers a night-and-day difference in smoothness. Avoid the back! +1
💰 Pricey but Unique
Expect to pay around $25 for one ride. Many consider it a novelty worth trying once.
🚶 Walk-Up Tickets Available
Reservations aren't always required; you can often buy tickets at the counter.
📸 Great for Photos
The coaster offers fantastic views of the Las Vegas Strip, especially at night.
🔄 New Trains = Smoother Ride
Recent upgrades with new trains have significantly improved the ride experience. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York offers a unique Las Vegas Strip experience with impressive views, especially at night. While historically known for being rough, recent train upgrades have significantly improved the ride, particularly in the front row. It's often considered a pricey novelty, but many find it a worthwhile, albeit one-time, thrill.
"As a roller coaster enthusiast, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Big Apple Coaster at the New York-New York Hotel, but it absolutely delivered! For around $20 a ride, it was well worth the experience—especially since there was no wait time at all when I went. The day was beautiful, which made the outdoor track even more enjoyable.
The coaster itself is fast, intense, and full of surprises—definitely exceeded my expectations. Whether you’re into roller coasters or just looking for something exciting to do in Vegas, I highly recommend giving it a try.
Bonus: The arcade inside is a great addition, especially for families or if you’re looking to unwind after the adrenaline rush. I’ll definitely be back for another round!"
Izzy G
"We visited The Big Apple Coaster, and my daughter had a fantastic time—she rode it twice! She absolutely loved the speed and excitement. As for me, I was too scared to give it a try! 😄 It looked like so much fun, but also a bit intense. If you’re a thrill seeker, you’ll definitely enjoy it. If you’re more like me, you might prefer just taking some pictures instead!"
HANAA IBRAHIM
"I've done this coaster few times and its really fun.. It's not at the level of theme parks, but its very cool as it takes you around New York new York and its just cool! Definitely worth the $25. It used to be busier, but now, during the week its not busy at all. Its Great, but plan to have someone keep your personal items or you'll have to pay for a locker to keep them safe as you can't bring it on with you."
Topher Ellis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Big Apple Coaster is located at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip. You can easily walk to it from most central Strip hotels. If you're coming from further away, consider the Las Vegas Monorail or ride-sharing services, though traffic can be heavy.
Yes, New York-New York offers parking. However, parking fees can add up, and it might be more convenient to use public transport or ride-sharing if you're staying on the Strip.
The closest Monorail station to New York-New York is the MGM Grand station. From there, it's a short walk across the pedestrian bridge to the hotel.
During peak hours, traffic on the Strip can be intense. Using the Monorail or walking if you're nearby can help you bypass road congestion.
While there aren't direct free shuttles to the coaster, free trams operate between some Strip resorts, which can help reduce walking distances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A single ride on the Big Apple Coaster typically costs around $25. Rerides are usually available for an additional fee, often around $10. Prices can vary.
While reservations might be suggested, walk-up tickets are generally available, especially during off-peak times. The coaster is often not full, so you can usually purchase tickets at the counter.
Operating hours can vary depending on the season and day of the week. It's best to check the official New York-New York Hotel & Casino website or inquire at the attraction for the most up-to-date hours.
Staying at the NYNY hotel might offer BOGO (buy one, get one free) deals on ride admission. Keep an eye out for any promotions or package deals.
Yes, rerides are typically available for an additional fee, allowing you to experience the coaster again if you wish.
🎫 🎢 Onsite Experience
The ride's roughness has been a common complaint, but recent upgrades with new trains have significantly improved the experience. Many now find it much smoother, especially in the front row. +1
Multiple sources strongly recommend the front row for the smoothest and most enjoyable ride. The back rows are often described as jarring. +1
It features a 180-degree 'heartline' twist, a 203-foot drop, and offers great views of the Las Vegas Strip. It's known for its unique layout and location.
The ride itself is relatively short, but the experience includes the queue, boarding, and the ride duration. Expect the entire process to take around 10-20 minutes depending on wait times.
While it's a unique experience, some find it intense and hard to anticipate. First-time riders might prefer the front row for a less jarring introduction.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The coaster itself offers incredible views of the Las Vegas Strip, especially at night. You can also get great shots of the coaster's unique structure from various points around the New York-New York hotel.
Generally, loose articles, including cameras and phones, are not permitted on the ride for safety reasons. Check with the attraction staff for their specific policy on secure phone mounts if you wish to record.
You'll get panoramic views of the New York-New York hotel's skyline, the Las Vegas Strip, and surrounding landmarks. The night views are particularly spectacular.
Yes, you can get excellent ground-level photos of the coaster's track weaving through the New York-New York hotel's architecture. The area around the entrance also provides good vantage points.
The New York-New York hotel and the coaster structure are illuminated at night, making it a visually striking subject for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the cost, as tickets can add up for a family. Consider it a special treat rather than a budget-friendly activity. The views of the Strip at night can also be a highlight for children, so an evening ride might be more memorable.
🎢 Thrill Seekers & Coaster Enthusiasts
The recent upgrades with new trains have made it more palatable, with many noting improved airtime and positive G-forces, especially in the front. Don't miss the chance to ride in the front row for the best possible experience. While some may still find certain transitions jarring, viewing it as a novelty with a great location and a unique layout is key. It's a ride worth experiencing once to form your own informed opinion.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're looking for value, consider if the unique experience and the views justify the cost for your trip. Some travelers suggest that staying at the NYNY hotel might offer BOGO deals, which could help reduce the per-person cost if you're traveling with a companion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of the Big Apple Coaster
In an effort to improve the rider experience, the coaster has undergone significant upgrades. Most notably, it received new trains in 2006 by Premier Rides, and more recently, new 'Sky Rocket 2' trains in 2021. These modern trains have been credited with smoothing out the ride considerably, reducing the harshness that plagued earlier versions. While it may not be a world-class thrill machine for seasoned coaster enthusiasts, these updates have made it a more accessible and enjoyable attraction for a wider audience.
Despite its past reputation, the Big Apple Coaster remains a distinctive attraction in Las Vegas. Its prime location on the Strip, offering unparalleled views, and its unique architectural integration make it a novelty that many visitors want to experience at least once. The combination of its history, recent improvements, and iconic setting contributes to its enduring appeal.
Maximizing Your Big Apple Coaster Experience
Consider the timing of your visit. While the coaster is operational during the day, riding in the evening provides a spectacular view of the illuminated Las Vegas Strip, adding a significant visual element to the thrill.
Finally, manage your expectations regarding the cost. At around $25 for a single ride, it's a significant investment for a relatively short experience. Many visitors view it as a unique Vegas novelty rather than a top-tier roller coaster. If the price is a concern, consider if the iconic location and the improved ride experience are worth the splurge for you.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit