Big Apple Coaster facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Big Apple Coaster |
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| Previously known as Manhattan Express (1997–2006) The Roller Coaster (2007–2015) |
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The Big Apple Coaster and the New York-New York Hotel & Casino
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| New York-New York Hotel and Casino | |
| Location | New York-New York Hotel and Casino |
| Coordinates | 36°6′7″N 115°10′25″W / 36.10194°N 115.17361°W |
| Status | Operating |
| Opening date | January 3, 1997 |
| Cost | $25 million |
| General statistics | |
| Type | Steel – Virtual reality |
| Manufacturer | TOGO |
| Designer | TOGO |
| Model | Sitdown Looping |
| Track layout | Custom |
| Lift/launch system | Chain lift |
| Height | 203 ft (62 m) |
| Drop | 144 ft (44 m) |
| Length | 4,777 ft (1,456 m) |
| Speed | 67 mph (108 km/h) |
| Inversions | 2 |
| Duration | 2:40 |
| Max vertical angle | 55° |
| Height restriction | 54 in (137 cm) |
| Trains | 3 cars. Riders are arranged 2 across in 3 rows for a total of 18 riders per train. |
| Big Apple Coaster at RCDB | |
The Big Apple Coaster is an exciting roller coaster found at the New York-New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. It used to be called the Manhattan Express and later The Roller Coaster. This steel coaster is special because it's the only one of its kind built by a company called TOGO that's still running in North America. Its ride cars look just like the famous yellow New York City taxis! Sometimes, you can even choose to ride with a cool virtual reality experience.
Contents
The Coaster's Story
This roller coaster was built by a company named TOGO. When it first opened, some riders felt it was a bit rough or bumpy. This was because of the way the old trains were designed.
Making the Ride Smoother
In 2004, another company called Premier Rides added special magnetic brakes to the coaster. These brakes helped to make the ride feel smoother. Then, in August 2006, Premier Rides replaced the original TOGO trains with brand new ones. After these new trains were installed, the ride became much more comfortable for everyone.
Adding Virtual Reality Fun
In 2018, something new was added: a virtual reality option! This means you can wear a special headset during your ride to see a whole different world as you zoom along.
New Trains and a Quick Fix
For the 2021 season, the coaster got another set of new trains from Premier Rides. These trains are more open and can hold more riders, which means more people can enjoy the ride faster. Testing for these new trains began in December 2020. There was a small accident where part of a train came off the track during testing, which caused some damage. But don't worry, it was quickly fixed, and the ride reopened safely on January 30, 2021.
What the Ride is Like
The Big Apple Coaster starts with a big climb up a 180-foot (55 m) hill. Then, you'll experience a 76-foot (23 m) drop, followed by another hill and a thrilling 144-foot (44 m) drop!
Twists and Turns
After the big drops, the train goes through two exciting upside-down parts, called inversions.
- First, there's a standard vertical loop, which is a full circle that turns you upside down and then right side up again.
- Next, you'll go through a "dive loop." This is a cool move where the train spins halfway around and then goes through a half-loop. It's a unique element that you don't see on many roller coasters!
High Above Las Vegas
The rest of the ride takes place high up on the roof of the casino. You'll go over smaller hills and then through a helix, which is a big spiral turn, before reaching the brakes. The area where you get on and off the ride looks just like a New York City Subway station, adding to the city theme!
Ride Tickets and Options
If you want to ride, a single ticket costs $15. If you want to try the virtual reality experience, it's $20. You can also get a combination ticket for both for $28, or an all-day pass for $26 if you want to ride many times! People who live in Las Vegas and military members can sometimes get discounts.
Images for kids
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The original TOGO-built train in 2005. These trains have since been replaced with newer ones.
