Celebrating iconic aspects of NYC

RiseNY, a first-of-its-kind new attraction combining museum exhibit galleries with a majestic theme park-style soaring ride where visitors experience the ultimate feeling of flight as they soar high above New York City, formally opened in the heart of the city (160 West 45th Street) on 2 March.

The centrepiece of RiseNY is a spectacular 46-seat soaring ride – a world-class, state-of-the-art flying theatre by Brogent Technologies that gives visitors of all ages a unique bird’s-eye view tour of the Big Apple. Once on board and lifted 30 feet into the air, guests hang suspended, their feet dangling as they glide over NYC’s iconic skyline and landmarks while inside a 180-degree, 40-foot projection dome featuring 8K aerial footage that creates the sensation of flight.

The city’s first-ever flight simulation ride, full motion seats dip, turn and soar, while wind, mist and scents enhance the experience. A soundtrack headlined by Taylor Swift’s “Welcome to New York” and Frank Sinatra’s “Theme From New York” will further evoke the quintessential spirit of NYC.

RiseNY is created and produced by Running Subway – a New York-based entertainment production company – in partnership with several prestigious cultural institutions, Broadway shows and individuals that serve as co-curators of their respective exhibit galleries. They include the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Museum of American Finance, Museum of Broadcast Communications & Radio Hall of Fame, Museum at FIT, Skyscraper Museum, Tribeca Festival, and David Bushman, former head curator at The Paley Center. RiseNY will donate a portion of proceeds from ticket sales to each of the partner institutions.

Photos by Jeremy Daniel

“I was inspired after riding ‘Soarin’ Over California’ in Disneyland with my son, and always thought, wouldn’t it be amazing to fly over and around NYC?” said James Sanna, president and CEO of Running Subway. “And, now, over a decade later, we’ve been able to tap into the latest technology and advancements to create an experience unique to the city I love.”

The experience begins with a captivating film by award-winning documentarians Ric Burns and James Sanders, narrated by beloved actor Jeff Goldblum. The film showcases NYC’s history, specifically Times Square and its global impact. Visitors start their journey in a re-creation of the city’s first subway station at City Hall circa 1904, which springs to life and transforms into a fully immersive theatre with visual and special effects. As the film concludes, a present-day subway car virtually transports guests to the galleries.

Visitors then journey through NYC’s vibrant pop-cultural evolution to see its indelible impact not only on the city itself, but the world. Each of the seven distinctly themed galleries – Finance, Skyline, TV/Radio, Fashion, Music, Broadway and Film – feature historic artifacts, star-studded memorabilia and engaging, fun and educational displays.

Photo by Jeremy Daniel

“RiseNY is a unique and exhilarating attraction at the heart of New York City,” said Ric Burns. “It’s an incredible love letter to the world’s greatest city and encapsulates the beating heart, and hub, and dazzling point of convergence that is New York. We’ve been thrilled to have a small part in this adventure, which promises to put a smile on the face of everyone who sails through.”

At the torch lighting ceremony with Jeff Goldblum on 15 December 2021, Fred Dixon, president and CEO, NYC & Company said: “New York City’s newest attraction is opening as the city is rebounding from the pandemic in an extraordinary way. RiseNY will help the city soar to new heights, and we encourage New Yorkers and tourists alike to visit this groundbreaking and exciting new experience celebrating NYC.”

Photo by Bryan Bedder/ Getty