A Trip Through Time at RiseNY
RiseNY is a Times Square attraction that seems like typical tourist bait, but once you’re in, you see it offers something clever. It packages New York’s storytelling into a smooth experience that feels more curated than chaotic. If you’re visiting with first-timers, easily overwhelmed friends, or anyone who wants the “I did New York” feeling without rushing through ten neighborhoods, RiseNY is a smart choice.
[Warning: spoilers from RiseNY are below!]
RiseNY is so much more than just a ride
The layout is important. This isn’t just a “walk in and ride,” which seems to be a common sentiment among those walking the streets of New York City. Many people we spoke with thought it was similar to the ride Soarin’ at Disney’s Epcot theme park. RiseNY is so much more than just an attraction you hop on and soar through the sky; it begins with a journey through time to learn about early New York City. As you enter RiseNY, patrons step into museum-style galleries that serve as a love letter to the city’s main industries and cultural offerings. You walk through exhibits filled with artifacts, visuals, and interactive moments that explore a big question: how did New York become New York? It’s not a deep academic museum, nor should it be. It covers a broad range of topics in a glossy and accessible way. The advantage is that you don’t need a lot of background knowledge. The downside is that if you love history, you might wish they had chosen fewer topics and explored them in depth. Still, it works as an introduction and effectively sets the mood for the ride by presenting the city as a vibrant hub of ambition, media, style, and reinvention.
What RiseNY does well is keep a good pace. The galleries encourage you to roam rather than rush. You can linger, skim, or follow whatever catches your eye. It’s one of those rare attractions where the pre-show content genuinely adds to the experience rather than just filling time. By the time you’re in line for the main event, you’re already in a “New York montage” frame of mind, which is exactly what they aim for.
Then comes the highlight: the thrilling ride. This is the main draw of RiseNY, and it truly delivers. If you’ve experienced other “flying theater” attractions, you’ll recognize the format: you’re lifted and angled while the screen and motion choreography create the illusion of flight. New York works particularly well for this. The city’s height, density, bridges, and waterfronts translate beautifully to that cinematic experience. It evokes a unique emotion, like the awe inspired by helicopter shots in movies, but now you’re “in it.”
Here’s my straightforward opinion: the ride isn’t long enough to be the sole reason for your visit. If you’re expecting a lengthy theme park experience, you might feel it wraps up just as you’re getting comfortable. But when paired with the galleries, it makes for a complete outing, which is the point. RiseNY is not aiming to compete with Coney Island. Instead, it’s looking at what you can do in Midtown that feels special, indoors, and doesn’t take all day. The attraction appeals to a wide audience. Families enjoy it because the exhibits engage kids with tangible and visual materials, while the ride is exciting without being too intense. Couples appreciate it for the shared wonder, and it makes for a nice pre-theater activity if you’re staying nearby. Solo travelers find it easy to navigate due to clear storytelling and a smooth flow.
Know before you go
There are a few practical tips I’d share before you go. First, book in advance through the official ticketing page, especially if you’re visiting on weekends or during busy holidays. The visit page directs you to the ticketing calendar and notes that holiday hours may vary. Second, consider an earlier time slot if you prefer fewer crowds; Times Square can be loud. RiseNY can feel like a peaceful escape in comparison, but it still gets busy. Third, if you’re sensitive to motion, treat the ride like any other simulator: you’ll likely be fine, but avoid going in dehydrated, over-caffeinated, or right after having greasy food.
From a value perspective, RiseNY is best seen as a condensed highlight reel of New York. It doesn’t replace museums, neighborhoods, or traditional exploring. It’s an appetizer, a way to set the mood, and a morale booster when you want reliable fun that isn’t weather-dependent. In a city where bad plans can be costly, “reliable fun” holds real value.
If you’re unsure whether it’s worth your time, ask yourself this: Do you want a New York experience you can physically feel, not just see from the sidewalk? If so, RiseNY offers a polished way to achieve that without requiring a full-day commitment. It may not be the most profound cultural experience in Manhattan, but it ranks among the more satisfying attractions, and that’s exactly what it aims to be.
Hours of operation: Mon-Thu 10 AM-6 PM. Fri-Sat 10 AM-8 PM. Sun 10 AM-6 PM.
Tickets: Purchase through RiseNY’s official website!
Have you visited RiseNY before? What was your favorite part of this New York City experience? Share your thoughts on social media and tag @bsb.insider to continue the conversation!
Top 10 Travel Essentials of 2026
