New York City is one of those places that most people have on their bucket lists. From the quirkiness of Greenwich Village and the stages of Broadway to Central Park, the most filmed location in the world, it’s easy to be overwhelmed, especially if you don’t have a long time to spend there. However, if you’re visiting for the first time, you absolutely can’t miss the experience of Times Square. This instantly recognizable spot in midtown may have some tourist traps that you should skip, but there is one unique attraction that can help you get your bearings and give you a history of the city from a vantage point you can’t get anywhere else.
RiseNY is an interactive museum that not only has seven exhibits covering history, finance, and culture but also boasts a thrilling flight simulation ride over the city and an immersive movie narrated by Jeff Goldblum. Even better? It’s just a three-minute walk from Times Square, and you’re also close to the 50th Street subway station. One reviewer on Tripadvisor says of RiseNY, “Starting with a photographic and archival video history of NYC, you’re ready to immerse more … The finale is truly spectacular!! Tighten your seat belt, hold on to the railing, and experience all of New York.”
Soaring over Manhattan with RiseNY’s flight simulation ride
Timed entry tickets for RiseNY are $45 for adults (including a service fee) and $42 for kids at the time of this writing. You can also get VIP admission for $63 for adults and $60 for kids, which includes express entry, priority access for the ride, arrival at any time during the day of your ticket, and swag, including a souvenir bag, lanyard, and a themed poster. It’s open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
You may want to make a beeline for the “Ride,” which is a 4D experience, lifting you 30 feet in the air and flying you over and through a virtual version of New York City at different times in its history. The ride is inside a 40-foot projection dome, with 180-degree visuals. You get to see Manhattan in a way that most people never do: experiencing the 4th of July fireworks show, the New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square, the Grand Central Terminal, Yankee Stadium, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and more. The ride includes things like wind, mist, and scents to help you really feel like you’re flying.
This unique view of the Big Apple is fine for kids, though there is a 40-inch height requirement. It’s also wheelchair accessible, though you should check the FAQ on the website to get specific information. The only caveat is that the ride may upset you if you have a fear of heights, as it simulates being very high up.
RiseNY’s movie in a subway station replica and interactive exhibitions
