A yellow cab launched across Manhattan, deep in the Nevada desert
You climb into a train styled like a New York City cab, heading toward a miniature skyline rising above the Las Vegas Strip. The ride lasts under three minutes, but the route cuts through replicas of iconic New York buildings, including a reproduction of the Statue of Liberty, before plunging into a series of drops and twists.
Why ride this coaster
The The Big Apple Coaster, formerly known as Manhattan Express, opened on January 3, 1997. Today, it remains the only roller coaster built by Japanese manufacturer TOGO still operating in North America, a technical rarity that draws thrill-seekers and historic ride enthusiasts alike.
The structure is not a standalone park, but rather an attraction built right into the architecture of the New York-New York hotel and casino, with a track that weaves through the exterior facade.
What awaits riders
The track stretches for nearly 1.5 kilometers and starts with a launch hill of about 55 metres, followed by an initial 23-metre drop and a second 44-metre drop. The train exceeds 107 km/h, blasting through a classic vertical loop and a 180-degree corkscrew dive known as the heartline maneuver, which was billed as a world first during its design.
A final 62-metre drop completes the circuit. Before that descent, the route offers aerial views of the southern end of the Strip, a sharp contrast to the speed that follows. At the exit, you step straight into the Big Apple Arcade, an adjoining game room.
Best for
- Thrill-seekers and speed enthusiasts
- Travelers curious about a coaster model that has become rare in North America
- A short, intense break during a walk along the Strip
Less ideal for
- Children under 1.37m, the minimum height requirement
- Anyone sensitive to loops and inverted twists
Friendly tip: on-site wait times can easily stretch your visit to an hour for a ride lasting less than three minutes. Buying a ticket online ahead of time lets you bypass the line at the arcade.
The ride may close temporarily during high winds or unfavorable weather conditions, something to keep in mind if you visit Las Vegas on a very windy day.
How long for this activity
Plan on about 45 minutes to an hour on-site, which covers waiting in line and the actual ride itself, lasting under three minutes.
*Information subject to change
If you like roller coasters, you are definitely going to have your eye on this one! The price is not cheap ($25 per ride + $10 to go again), but it is really cool to do, a great shot of adrenaline! Especially at nightfall, with a breathtaking view of the Strip. The harness is not very reassuring at first because it is flexible, but actually you are pinned to the seat the whole way, and the staff checks everything: nothing can happen to you! Don't miss the visit to the New York New York hotel of course, which is well worth the trip!