Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon™
Universal Studios Florida · New York
Overview
Race Through New York introduced timed-reservation virtual queuing to Universal Studios Florida in 2017, one of the earliest large-scale deployments of that system at any major US theme park — a bigger legacy, arguably, than the ride itself. It replaced Twister...Ride It Out, which had simulated tornado conditions in the same New York building since 1998, and now sends guests racing against Jimmy Fallon through Manhattan in a suspended flying-theater cabin, the same basic format Soarin' uses at Disney parks, just with different screens and execution.
ParksLog Verdict
Collect your virtual queue window early in the day before slots fill — this isn't a walk-on attraction. Tonight Show fans will get the most mileage from the IP; the flying theater format itself doesn't reach Soarin's heights at EPCOT. Express Pass bypasses the virtual queue entirely if you have it. A solid optional stop, not a must-do for guests without Fallon fandom.
About this experience
Face Jimmy Fallon and all your favorite characters from NBC's "The Tonight Show" in a fun-filled race through, below and above New York City. Board the unique "flying theater" and you'll speed through the busy streets of midtown Manhattan, soar over skyscrapers, even dive into the East River as you hurtle neck and neck towards the finish line.
Best For
- Jimmy Fallon and Tonight Show fans
- Guests seeking a medium-intensity simulator experience
- Families with children 40" and taller
- New York City setting enthusiasts
Tips
- The ride uses a timed reservation virtual queue — collect your return window in the Universal app or at the in-park kiosk early in the day before slots fill.
- The Tonight Show–themed pre-show waiting area has entertainment worth exploring before your window is called.
- Express Pass is accepted — use it if available to bypass the virtual queue system entirely.
Details
History
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon opened April 6, 2017, replacing Twister... Ride It Out, which had operated in the New York area since 1998. The attraction introduced a virtual queue (timed reservation) system to Universal Studios Florida — one of the earlier large-scale deployments of virtual queuing at a major US theme park.
Fun Facts
- Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon introduced a virtual queue (timed reservation) system to Universal Studios Florida in 2017 — one of the earliest large-scale deployments of virtual queuing at a major US theme park.
- The ride replaced Twister... Ride It Out, which had simulated the experience of being near a tornado and operated in the New York area from 1998 to 2015.
- The flying theater format — where guests sit in a suspended tilting cabin — is shared with Soarin' at Disney parks, though the two attractions use different execution and screen systems.