If you’re looking for an exciting introduction to New York City – or are simply pressed for time and want to experience as many city thrills as you can – the New York Skyride at the Empire State Building is a perfect way to “see” the city without having to travel farther than the second floor of the Empire State Building.

Using virtual-reality technology, the 30-minute simulator experience allows visitors to “fly over” 30 New York City sights while sitting on a specially designed platform that moves in sync to an 18-foot high-definition screen.

The program begins with two pre-shows: I am New York is a perspective on the history of the Empire State Building, and Top 10 Things to Do in New York presents the most popular attractions in the city.

Then comes the real fun. The Skyride’s flight simulation, narrated by actor Kevin Bacon, takes you across the skyline to more than 30 New York City landmarks, including Yankee Stadium, Roosevelt Island, retrospective footage of the World Trade Center, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. At one point the flight takes a “haywire” detour through the subway and Coney Island, making the tour not suitable for pregnant women or those with other health issues.