When you think of Las Vegas, roller coasters might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But high above the Strip, looping through replicas of New York skyscrapers, the Big Apple Coaster delivers an adrenaline-pumping experience in the heart of Sin City. Located at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino, this ride has earned a reputation for its intense drops, unique theming, and sky-high views of Las Vegas Boulevard.
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Train & Ride Experience
The Big Apple Coaster originally opened in 1997 with TOGO-designed trains, but after years of wear and tear (and some rider complaints), major updates were made. The current trains, manufactured by Premier Rides, offer a smoother and more comfortable experience. Each train has three cars, and each car accommodates three rows of two riders, totaling 18 passengers per train.
Gone are the old over-the-shoulder restraints — now replaced with modern lap-bar restraints that feel snug yet less restrictive, allowing thrill-seekers to enjoy the ride without neck strain. The improved ride vehicles also feature magnetic braking systems, which result in smoother stops and better safety.
Thrill Features
The Big Apple Coaster starts with a slow chain-lift climb up to a towering 203 feet, offering a panoramic view of the Strip. As riders take a deep breath at the peak, the coaster dives into a series of high-speed thrills:
- A 144-foot drop plunges you into a wild sequence of elements.
- Two inversions — a vertical loop and a heartline roll/dive — provide dizzying excitement.
- Sharp turns, airtime hills, and a final corkscrew deliver nonstop adrenaline.
The layout weaves through the New York-New York Hotel’s façades, simulating a wild taxi ride through Manhattan. You’ll zip past miniature replicas of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Empire State Building, all while screaming at 67 mph.
How to Reach from Major U.S. Cities
Las Vegas is one of the most accessible tourist destinations in the U.S. Here’s how you can get to the Big Apple Coaster from five major U.S. cities:
1. New York City, NY
- Distance: Approximately 2,525 miles
- By Flight: ~5.5 hours nonstop
- By Train: 60–70 hours via Amtrak
- By Bus: 60–65 hours
- By Car: ~40 hours via I-70 W and I-15 S
2. Los Angeles, CA
- Distance: Approximately 270 miles
- By Flight: ~1 hour
- By Train: 6–8 hours via Amtrak
- By Bus: ~5–6 hours
- By Car: ~4.5 hours via I-15 N
3. Chicago, IL
- Distance: Approximately 1,750 miles
- By Flight: ~4 hours
- By Train: 45–50 hours via Amtrak
- By Bus: 40–45 hours
- By Car: ~25 hours via I-80 W and I-15 S
4. Miami, FL
- Distance: Approximately 2,200 miles
- By Flight: ~5 hours
- By Train: 70+ hours
- By Bus: ~60 hours
- By Car: ~36 hours via I-10 W and US-93 N
5. Dallas, TX
- Distance: Approximately 1,225 miles
- By Flight: ~3 hours
- By Train: 40–45 hours
- By Bus: 22–26 hours
- By Car: ~18–19 hours via US-287 N and I-40 W
From the airport (Harry Reid International), it’s a 10–15 minute ride to the New York-New York Hotel by taxi, rideshare, or shuttle.
Tickets & Hours
- General Admission: \$25 per ride
- Re-ride Tickets: \$10
- Locals/Military Discount: Approximately \$18 with valid ID
- Operating Hours:
- Sunday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Tickets are available at the ride entrance or online.
You can easily book tickets for The Big Apple Coaster online through the official MGM Resorts website. Visit newyorknewyork.mgmresorts.com to choose your preferred ride time, view ticket options, and make secure payments. Pricing typically starts at $25 for a single ride, with options for re-ride passes, locals/military discounts, and Scream Pass packages that include unlimited rides and priority access. Booking online is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays, to avoid long wait times at the venue.
Best Time to Visit
- Best Season: Fall (September–November) and Spring (March–May)
- Best Time of Day: Evening (especially at sunset or after dark)
- Avoid Crowds: Weekday afternoons are ideal; weekends are busy
Upgrades & History
- 1997: Opened as “Manhattan Express,” built by Japanese firm TOGO
- 2004–2006: Premier Rides trains introduced with magnetic brakes
- 2013: Officially renamed “The Big Apple Coaster”
- 2018: Introduced a temporary VR experience
- 2021: Premier Rides launched redesigned trains with lap-bar restraints
Adventure & Things to Do Around The Big Apple Coaster Campus
The Big Apple Coaster isn’t just a standalone thrill — it’s part of a much larger entertainment zone inside the New York-New York Hotel & Casino. Here’s what you can explore before or after your ride:
The Big Apple Arcade
Loaded with classic and modern games, this arcade is a fun way to compete or pass time with friends and family.
Hershey’s Chocolate World
A 13,000-square-foot candy haven featuring chocolate sculptures, interactive displays, and custom Hershey treats.
Coaster Photo Booth
Get your on-ride photo moments after the thrill — printed or digital, perfect for social media.
Dining Options
From Shake Shack’s burgers to Il Fornaio’s Italian cuisine, the dining choices are diverse and delicious. You can also enjoy an Irish vibe at Nine Fine Irishmen or Asian flavors at Chin Chin Café.
Live Entertainment
Enjoy dueling pianos at the Bar at Times Square or check the venue for seasonal performances and events.
Pool & Hotel Access
Guests at New York-New York can relax at the rooftop pool with a view of the Strip and coaster tracks.
Shopping
Pick up souvenirs, fashion items, or quirky gifts from shops like I Love NY-NY, Swatch, and Stupidiotic.
Nearby Attractions
Easily walk to MGM Grand, Excalibur, Luxor, or catch a game at T-Mobile Arena — all within minutes.
Is It Worth It?
For roller coaster enthusiasts and casual thrill-seekers alike, The Big Apple Coaster offers a high-flying, Vegas-style experience with unique visuals and intense elements. While older riders may find it a little rough compared to modern steel coasters, its upgraded trains, views of the Strip, and classic layout make it a must-ride attraction in Las Vegas.
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