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Award-Winning NYC Tours

Discover NYC on our award-winning New York City tours and explore the iconic landmarks and unique energy of the city that never sleeps. Choose from bus tours, walking tours, or private tours, all led by certified local tour guides. Book now for an unforgettable NYC sightseeing experience!

Discover NY Bus Tour

Discover NYC’s Best: Award-Winning Bus Tour With Expert Guides! Luxury Transportation, Choose Closed-Top or Glass-Top Buses. Book Your City Adventure Now!

Big Apple in Lights Bus Tour

Experience NYC’s Nighttime Magic: Join Our Comfortable, Fully-Guided Bus Tour For an Unforgettable Evening Exploring New York City’s Amazing Sites After Dark!

NYC Private SUV Tour

Private NYC SUV Tour: Explore With Your Group, Led by Our Expert Guides and Designated Drivers. Dive into the Heart of the City in Style!

NYC Private Van or Bus Tour

Private NYC Van or Bus Tour: Your Group, Our Expert Guide & Driver. Discover the Best of the City in Comfort and Style!

Discover NYC With Our Award-Winning Guided NYC Bus Tours

Welcome to USA Guided Tours, your gateway to the electrifying pulse of New York City! Here, the thrill of adventure and the city that never sleeps intertwine in our award-winning NYC bus tours .

Immerse yourself in the city’s pulsating energy, awe-inspiring architecture, and legendary landmarks with our expertly-curated sightseeing tours. Our NYC tours don’t just show you the city – they let you experience the very soul of the Big Apple!

Join our expert tour guides on a captivating journey through the veins of New York City. Unveil the city’s iconic landmarks, historic districts, and hidden gems, all from the plush comfort of our climate-controlled luxury tour bus . Our NYC sightseeing tours are designed as public, private tours, or custom tour options to accommodate all your requirements and interests.

But we’re more than just NYC tours – we’re storytellers, history enthusiasts, and experience creators. Each stop on our guided NYC tours is meticulously chosen to give you a taste of the city’s diverse culture and rich tapestry of history. Whether you’re a first-time explorer or a seasoned traveler, prepare to discover a New York City you’ve never seen before.

Embarking on a USA Guided Tour isn’t just a ride around the city – it’s a vibrant journey through the beating heart of New York City. From mesmerizing skyline vistas to the invigorating city streets, get ready to see the city in a whole new light!

So, what are you waiting for? Book your unforgettable journey through the heart of New York City today!

Customer Testimonials

Rachel was absolutely incredible, she was extremely knowledgeable and a lot of fun. Highly recommend!

Tyler Marie was our wonderful guide on this small bus tour of NYC. She was upbeat and so knowledgeable and happily answered our questions. Would definitely recommend this 6 hour tour. Frequent stops at highlights broke up the time nicely. We had fewer than 30 people on our bus. Our tour never felt rushed! Great experience.

Gil was an amazing tour guide. We booked the 6 hour NYC tour and I can not imagine a better way to see all that we saw in half a day. We started in Times Square, we were educated on history and architecture throughout our day. We made stops in Central Park, Rockefeller Center, Madison Square, the 911 Memorial, Ferry to Staten Island w views of The Statue of Liberty, & so much more. Worth every penny!

I just had the time of my life…. OMG what a great choice I made…!!! My wife and my daughter look at me like a hero…. We had a great time, lots of fun and time enough to do everything…!!! Thank you so much “USA Guided Tours NY” for sure you guys will be my next choice again… I would give you 10 stars but google only lets me do 5 but you guys deserve more… Thanks a bunch…!!!

Recommended NYC Tours

From our blogs, things to do in nyc (2024).

New York City, the city that never sleeps, is a whirlwind of energy and excitement. Its iconic skyline, a tapestry of shimmering skyscrapers, beckons dreamers and adventurers. From the neon glow of Times Square to the serenity of Central Park, hole-in-the-wall eateries to Broadway’s bright lights, NYC offers an endless array of experiences. Whether you…

A Tour Guide’s New York City

In partnership with TripAdvisor, we’re highlighting top-rated tour guides from around the world who go above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences, as proven by traveler reviews. Read on for top tips, local expertise, and more. It can be hard to stand out in a city of more than 8 million people, but not for…

NYC Trip for Foodies: A Flavorful Tour of the City’s Best Eats

New York’s vibrant and diverse culture separates it from any city in the world. The food scene is an important part of New York that must be explored on a trip to the city. The variety, ranging from Italian cuisine to Korean street food, trumps ones in many other parts of the country. However, with…

Your Guide to Touring the City

Excellent tour! Elvis is a walking black history encyclopedia!

What an incredible tour! Just look at all the amazing sites that we got to visit! I loved doing the night tour because although it goes fast, you avoid the crowds and the heat.

As I sat in my nice air conditioned bus an and sipped my complimentary water I was glad I didn’t take the other tours in the middle of July during the muggiest part of summer. Worth the money!

Rachel is an amazing tour guide. Her knowledge about NYC is stunning. Very satisfying tour. It is a must for everyone who wants to know almost everything about NYC in one day!

Me and my friend did the day tour tour, omg what fun, so much info, seen places I didn't think about. So worth the money, I would so do again!

Our guide was outstanding. He was extremely knowledgeable and polite. And kudos to our bus driver for maneuvering effortlessly through NY traffic!

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Best Rated New York Bus Tours and Sightseeing Packages

Summer Deal

• 24 and 48 Hours Passes available, one free Start Date change
• Hop-On Hop-Off Downtown
• Hop-On Hop-Off Uptown | Select Passes
• Skyscraper Museum, Butterbeer at Harry Potter Store | Select Passes
• Central Park Bike Rental | Two Hour Extension
• 48 to 120 Hours Passes available, one free Start Date change
• Hop-On Hop-Off Uptown
• Statue of Liberty Cruise
• NYC Skyline Night Tour with Audio Narration
• Brooklyn Tour
• Museum of the City of New York
• Skyscraper Museum, Butterbeer at Harry Potter Store
• 1 to 7 Day Passes available, flexible Start Date
• Hop-On Hop-Off bus for entire pass duration
• Edge Observatory
• One World Observatory
• Top of the Rock Observatory
• Intrepid Museum
• Guggenheim Museum
• Sunset Cruise
• 9/11 Museum Workshop
• Walking tours
• And many more
• Elegant 90min experience on an air conditioned double-decker bus with glass ceiling
• Fine selection of tea with 3 tiers of scones, savory, and sweet treats
• Private table seating
• Live entertainment with narration
• 360 views of NYC landmarks, including NY Public Library, Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, Columbus Circle, and more
• See the lights of Times Square, Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, Grand Central Terminal, and more!
• Breathtaking open-top views of iconic NYC landmarks
• Options of live Entertaining Host and audio narration in 11 languages
• A free Start Date change
• Fastest way to see Statue of Liberty
• Panoramic views of NYC skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and more
• Live tour guide

Why Choose TopView ® ?

Experience a 360° view of nyc above the crowd.

Our tours are created by a team of local experts who know NYC inside out. We’ve got New York City covered: Downtown, Uptown, as well as The Night Tour–If it’s worth seeing–our hop-on hop-off NYC bus tours go there!

Start Your NYC Hop-On Hop-Off Adventure Here

New York Bus City Tours and Manhattan Sightseeing Guided by Local Experts

TopView ® offers the best New York sightseeing bus tours led by local experts so you won't miss the most important attractions. On our NYC bus tours, hop on, hop off, and take time to enjoy all of the different places to visit in New York City. We have dozens of hop-on hop-off bus tour stops near all major points of interest. Our New York sightseeing bus will take you by all of the biggest NYC attractions!

5 Best Routes for Open-Top Sightseeing Bus Tours in NYC

We have five New York tours that allow you to experience the best of New York City, including two hop-on hop-off NYC bus tours, Downtown and Uptown, along with Brooklyn, and an exciting Night Tour route! While enjoying our NYC bus tours, hop on or hop off to take part in the excitement, explore the sights, and make the most of your visit. We'll make sure you hit every stop on your list of NYC attractions to see and give you plenty of Instagram-worthy views from atop our NYC sightseeing bus!

What Is There to Do in New York? Top Manhattan Attractions

Our hop-on hop-off NYC tours can take you to the top of Manhattan and back again, stopping at some of the most famous sites in New York City, NY. Here are a few examples of city locations you can see on an NYC sightseeing bus around Manhattan:

• Rockefeller Center
• Times Square
• Empire State Building
• Flatiron Building
• Union Square
• Washington Square Park
• Battery Park
• Garment District

Our New York tours and sightseeing packages include multi-day passes and 24-hour passes as well as individual hop-on hop-off and nonstop double-decker tours. We offer plenty of choices so you can customize your New York City tours any way you want, and our flexible ticketing means that you can buy your tickets online now without having to plan a set schedule: Once you book your tour or package, you'll have twelve months to exchange your online booking confirmation for a boarding ticket. And our buses run seven days a week, 365 days a year, in any kind of weather, so no matter when you choose to visit New York City, we can help you make the most of your trip. Whether you want a day trip or simply to see the city sights at nighttime, you will find a TopView ® sightseeing pass that fits your needs.

Rain or Shine Manhattan Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tours

Learn more about the history, culture, and architecture of this one-of-a-kind city with our audio narration. Our big bus tour is available in 11 languages, with free earphones provided. And this isn't the only perk we offer! Our New York tours also provide free ponchos for rainy days.

Two Million and Counting Passengers on the Best Sightseeing Double-Decker Bus Tour in NYC

No matter your travel style, an adventure with TopView Sightseeing ® will add convenience and comfort to your trip. More than two million people have already discovered why TopView ® is the best choice for Big Apple sightseeing. For the best NYC bus tours at the best prices, book with us today!

Bike Rentals and Other Popular New York City Attractions

When you book our New York City tours as part of a complete All City package, we also include a 2-hour extension to any bike rental purchase, so you can cruise Central Park the way it was meant to be enjoyed, as well as free admission to the Museum of the City of New York . You can also enjoy a Liberty Cruise of New York Harbor and get close-up views of the Statue of Liberty. You know you want a selfie with Lady Liberty!

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Book Tours & Attractions through New York Sightseeing

Book your nyc tours and attractions through new york's #1 tour company and let gray line new york sightseeing take care of all the details., gray line new york sightseeing serves millions of tourists every year, which is why we've earned the #1 spot for nyc hop on hop off bus tours, attractions, nyc boat tours, and more.

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We invite you to discover the city that never sleeps. From the towering Statue of Liberty to the awe-inspiring Empire State Building, from the bustling Times Square to the serene Central Park, our expertly guided tours will bring you up close and personal with the iconic landmarks that have made New York a global sensation. With our large selection of tours and attractions, you'll delve into the heart and soul of NYC, soaking up its rich history, culture, and breathtaking sights. Our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating stories and insider tips, unveiling the hidden gems and giving you a genuine taste of what makes New York City so special. With our seamless logistics and top-notch customer service, you can relax and enjoy every moment of your adventure.

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Explore NYC with our top-rated New York bus tours. Our hop on hop off bus tours are designed to take you on a journey through some of the most iconic spots in New York while allowing you to see the sights at your own pace. Each tour is designed to showcase the best of New York City, from its bustling streets to its towering skyscrapers. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our NYC tours provide a unique perspective of the Big Apple. Get ready to experience New York like never before! From Times Square and the Empire State Building to Central Park, our hop on hop off bus tours in New York offer an unforgettable sightseeing experience.

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The 5 Best NYC Bus Tours for 2024

Let a trained driver worry about the traffic while you enjoy the Big Apple's best sights.

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As one of the largest cities in the world, New York City has so much to see and do. That's why many visitors start their trip off with a bus tour to see iconic sights and neighborhoods and get the lay of the land. To help you find the tour that's best for you, U.S. News reviewed traveler sentiment and expert input to determine the top New York bus tours. Read our suggestions below for some of the best bus tours you can book for your next trip to the City That Never Sleeps.

Big Bus Tours

Price: Adults from $80; kids from $70 Duration: 75 to 90 minutes

Big Bus New York offers a hop-on, hop-off tour that features 18 stops at major attractions like Bryant Park, Broadway and St. Patrick's Cathedral, with prerecorded commentary provided along the way. Double-decker buses frequent stops every 20 minutes on the Red Line (which runs through downtown) and every 30 minutes on uptown's Blue Line. The Essential Ticket, which is valid for one day, grants you access to the 90-minute downtown and 75-minute uptown routes and lets you add on extras like tickets for Madame Tussauds, the Empire State Building or a harbor cruise. Big Bus New York is a hit with travelers who appreciate the ability to tailor tours to their interests. Others bemoaned the overcrowded buses and long wait times.

You can also book a Discover Ticket, which explores famous landmarks downtown, or an Explore Ticket, which is a two-day hop-on, hop-off bus tour experience. Big Bus Tours also operates a seasonal night tour.

Check prices & availability on:

A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours – The Original Brooklyn Pizza Tour

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $95 Duration: 4.5 hours

Brooklyn has so much to see and do – and eat! The Original Brooklyn Pizza Tour, which reviewers describe as a great experience with even better pizza, lasts 4.5 hours and takes travelers throughout the borough to sample delicious slices from places like Grimaldi's and L&B Spumoni Gardens. You'll also see filming locations for movies like "Saturday Night Fever" and "Goodfellas."

Ticket prices include lunch. Tours are available Friday through Monday and Wednesday at 11 a.m. A Slice of Brooklyn also leads a seasonal tour exploring Dyker Heights' Christmas lights , among other options.

On Location Tours – "Sex and the City" Hotspots Tour

Price: From $66 Duration: 3.5 hours

Fans of Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda can relive all their favorite "Sex and the City" moments during this New York bus tour, which features more than 40 popular locations from the show and movies. During the tour, you'll view iconic filming locations, walk past Carrie Bradshaw's brownstone apartment, sample cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery, drink a cosmopolitan (if you wish) and shop in Greenwich Village. Plus, you'll visit stops from the reboot "And Just Like That," including Bergdorf Goodman and Chelsea Market. Reviewers peg this tour as fun and fabulous.

Tourgoers can pay another $10 for priority seating. Participants must be 18 or older. Tours generally depart Thursday to Sunday at 2 p.m., though additional days may be available during the summer months. On Location Tours operates other filming locations tours for shows and movies, including "Gossip Girl," "The Sopranos" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," among others.

USA Guided Tours – Discover NY Tour

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $89 Duration: 6 hours

On this full-day tour, you'll drive through some of the city's most famous neighborhoods and most-visited areas. You'll have your choice of a traditional bus or a bus with either a glass top or a convertible top. Regardless of the vehicle, enjoy the expert commentary and a history lesson from your tour guide as you cruise past Times Square, Madison Square Park, Central Park, Rockefeller Center and more. A 15-minute stroll through each of the main stops is included, as is a boat cruise that takes you to see the famous NYC skyline. Many travelers call this tour fantastic and a must-do in New York.

Tours depart at 9 and 10 a.m. daily. USA Guided Tours also offers a night tour of the Big Apple.

Hush Hip Hop Tours – Birthplace of Hip Hop

Price: Adults from $79.99; kids from $58 Duration: 3 hours

Travelers routinely praise the Birthplace of Hip Hop tour not only for its cultural lessons about Harlem, but also for the informative guides who explain the history of hip-hop music. During this tour, you'll see famous clubs, murals dedicated to artists and the Apollo Theater. Plus, you'll get to observe a dance session and show off your moves.

Outings run Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. Hush Hip Hop Tours also operates walking tours of Harlem and Brooklyn, among others.

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Interested in more New York City tours? Check out the:

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Tours From New York

2-day new york/new jersey to thousand islands, cornell university and taughannock falls state park tour tour code : gol-nyc-170.

Departure City : Brooklyn NY, Flushing NY, Jersey city NJ, New York City NY, Parsippany NJ

Available Days : Wed, Fri & Sun

Highlights : Riding on luxury cruise to explore the beauty of Thousand Islands.

• Minimum 2 people required.

5-Day New York to Richmond, Virginia, Grandfather Mountain State Park, Mount Mitchell State Park, Angel Oak, Boone Hall Plantation & Garden and Charleston Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-609

Departure City : Brooklyn NY, Flushing NY, Manhattan NY

Available Days : Saturday

Highlights :

Hotel breakfast.

4-Day New York/New Jersey to Washington DC, Niagara Falls, 1000 Islands and Corning/Watkins Glen Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-222

Departure City : Brooklyn NY, Edison NJ, Flushing NY, Jersey city NJ, New York City NY

Available Days : Mon, Wed & Fri

Highlights : We prioritize your safety by traveling with thoroughly disinfected sightseeing coaches and our professional well-trained tour escort. Visit the nation’s capital at Washington, D.C., and check out its most iconic sites including the White House, Lincoln Memorial and so much more. Visit the Corning Glass Center and watch the exquisite glass craftsmanship. Explore the power of nature and take an in-depth tour to Niagara Falls!

1-Day New York to Wall Street, Museum of Modern Art, USS Intrepid and Madame Tussauds New York Museum Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-565

Departure City : New York City NY

Available Days : Daily

Highlights : Travel with a thoroughly disinfected sightseeing coach and our professional well-trained tour escort. Visit one of the world’s great financial centers at Wall Streets! Take a ride to the top of One World Trade Center while observing a stunning panoramic view of NYC! Walk around "The Crossroads of the World" at Times Square and take a Liberty Cruise to the icon of freedom. *Guests may only choose to participate in the New York Fortune Tour or at least two optional projects other than the New York Fortune Tour at their own expense.

• MoMA will be closed Thanksgiving and Christmas

6-Day New York to Philadelphia, Washington DC, New York City In-Depth and Niagara Falls Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-NYC-519A

Departure City : Newark NJ

Available Days : Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat & Sun

Highlights : 【Safety First】Travel with thoroughly disinfected sightseeing coach and our professional well-trained tour escort. 【The Best NYC】Visit the most instagrammable spots, taste the most authentic gourmet, and take an panoramic view of the Big Apple. 【Eastern US】Pack an array of top landmarks and attractions on the east coast, learning more about local culture and history. 【Wonder of Nature】Take an in-depth visit to Niagara Falls, getting astonished by the power of nature and spectacular view!

Buy 2 get 2 free Buy 2 get 1 free

3-Day New York to Niagara Falls, Maid of The Mist, Thousand Islands, Corning and Watkins Glen State Park Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-546

Available Days : Tue, Thu & Sat

Highlights : Enjoy visiting Corning Museum of Glass, Watkins Glen State Park, Niagara Falls Night Tour, Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours, Thousand Island Cruise, Maid of the Mist Boat Tour and many other places in a two-day guided tour starting from New York with hotel accommodation and bus transportation.

4-Day New York to Philadelphia, Washington DC, Niagara Falls and Amish Farm Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-331

Available Days : Sat (2024-01-01 To 2024-12-31)

Highlights : Join us and visit the Independence Park, the Amish Village, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the White House, State Capitol, the Senate, the Watkins Glen State Park, the Niagara Falls, Goat Island and the American Falls.

• 3 nights hotel including tax and Continental Breakfast  • Sightseeing in Niagara Falls, Philadelphia and Washington DC and Amish Country • Admission to the Maid of the Mist (Summer) or Power Vista (Winter) • Amish Buggy Ride • Entrance to Arlington National Cemetery (U.S. ID or Passport required) & National Museum of Natural History

1-Day From New York to Amish Country and Philadelphia Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-105

Available Days : Mon,Wed,Sat (2024-01-01 To 2024-12-31)

Highlights : Join us in this exciting one day journey from New York, Philadelphia and Amish Country. We will be travelling by an air conditioned bus/van along with a professional tour guide. You will have a chance of viewing famous landmarks and have the pleasure of an authentic Amish buggy ride in the Amish country. 

• Authentic Amish Buggy ride through the Amish farm country.
• Sightseeing in Philadelphia and Amish Country

2-Day From New York to Marthas Vineyards, Essex Steam Train and Riverboat Ride Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-147

Departure City : Brooklyn NY, East Brunswick NJ, Flushing NY, New York City NY

Highlights : Explore the popular summer tourist destinations where the US Presidents travel to! Take a look at the enchanting Martha Island! Ride on top of a vintage school bus to enjoy a wonderful two-hour island tour. Discover the most scenic spots on the islands and visit the Aquinnah Cliffs. Take a ride on the Essex Steam Train to see beautiful views of Essex town! Visit the 19th Century mansion in Rhode Island famously known as the Breakers Mansion.    

• Minimum of 2 people to be operated.
• During on 07/13/2024, 07/20/2024, 07/27/2024, and 08/31/2024, the hotel will charge an additional $50 per room.

5-Day New York to Montreal, Quebec City, Boston, Corning and Niagara Falls US Side Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-574

Departure City : Brooklyn NY, Flushing NY, Manhattan NY, New York City NY

Available Days : Tue

Highlights : 15 years of experience in guiding tours in the East coast *Tianma 45 Years Classic itinerary *Four-star hotel *In-depth experience of Canadian cultural & history *Niagara Falls Experience In-Depth Tour *Visit world famous universities - Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology *Taste the gourmet flavor on the tip of your tongue, Boston lobster.

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New York Bus Tour

Discover the city that doesn’t sleep. Hop on and off in New York Bus Tour as many times as you like with ticket options valid for 1, 2, or 3 days.

Hop on Hop off New York Tour

• Duration 1 day
• English-speaking guide

Manhattan Sightseeing Bus Tour

• Duration options: 6 hours
• Small group

Ferry or Night and New York Bus Tour

• Duration 2 hours - 3 days
• Optional audio guide

Midtown Manhattan Multimedia Bus Tour

• Duration 1.5 hours
• Theater seating

TOP SELLING

Nyc bus tours and attractions tickets.

• Duration 1 - 3 days
• 3 Attraction Entry

Downtown Virtual Reality Bus Tour NYC

• Virtual reality headsets

New York City: Superhero Bus Tour

• Duration 3 hours
• Private group

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Bus Tour

• Duration options: 4 hours
• Small group available

create your vacation destiny

New york bus tour options, hop on hop off new york tour.

How should one go about the desire of travelling through the city that never sleeps? A hop on hop off bus tour swoops in to save the day. One can explore the city and see its landmarks and monuments from Times Square, to the Empire state building. The New York bus tour consists of 40 key points of interest that take a tour through all the notes of culture, diversity, ethnicity, beautiful architecture, and picturesque views. There are three ticket options that one can available.

Them being:

• Classic ticket: unlimited boarding on the Uptown Loop and the Downtown loop for a whole day.
• Premium package: unlimited boarding for two days on the uptown, downtown, Brooklyn, Harlem and NYC by night, loops.
• 2-day deluxe package tour: unlimited boarding for two days on Uptown, Downtown, Brooklyn, Harlem, NYC by night loops, and 1-hour circle line Liberty cruise, and entry to The Empire state building. Every loop has an average duration of 1.5 hours, and the frequency and timing depend on the loops. 

This Hop on Hop off New York tour includes an English speaking guide, free Wi-Fi, recorded commentary in 10 languages, a one-hour circle line liberty cruise, entry to the Empire State building, and live bus tracking via free app. (A few depend on the kinds of options selected).

Big Bus New York, Ferry or Night Tour Options

Exploring New York could be a teeny bit more fun if availed the sightseeing bus. One could go to his or her favourite locations and explore at his own pace. There happen to be 1,2 and 3-day tickets. Uptown and downtown are two convenient options that can be boarded anytime, and also one can opt for the night tour or ferry tour to look at the city from a different perspective. 

New York’s best monuments and prestigious skyscrapers can be viewed. One board has access to quite a few amenities too. 

The downtown loop has 21 stops, the uptown loop has 23 stops, and the non-stop night NYC bus tours cover Times Square north and south and the Empire state building. One through this connects to the most iconic landmarks and attractions, while also getting the brief of how the city comes together. 

• The highlights of this big bus New York tour are tonnes. One discovers illuminated landmarks and basks under the brilliant lights of the city. 
• The culture through Chinatown to Harlem is one worthy of praise, so is the informative tour on Big Apple history that the tour guide introduces with a certain ease. 
• The major landmarks like the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, 9/11 memorial and many more are covered too. 
• The open-top deck of New York City and the panoramic views of it soothe the might, instilling also an enthralling charisma. 

3-Hour Superhero NYC Bus Tours

Do you want your superhero fantasies to come to life? Do you want to interact with the way the comics portray NYC? Well, look no further! All the famous locations of your favourite superhero comic movies are here and you get a tour of them! Delve into the most filmed city in the world with a tour guide.

The adventure starts in the heart of Times Square where movies like Spiderman, Captain America, The Amazing Spiderman 2, Incredible Hulk TV series, have been filmed. One will also get to see the Chrysler building, Flatiron building, Madison square park, Lower east side, Chinatown, and the historical buildings in the Financial District.

• The highlights of NYC bus tours are many. One can visit the heart of New York City that was featured in Captain America: The first avenger and The Amazing Spider-Man. 
• The Statue of Liberty, from X-Men and Superman, is also one of the most popular highlights.
• Adding to this list, are The Daily Planet (from Superman Franchise), Park Avenue from Avengers, City Hall, and tonnes others featured in DC and Marvel movies.

Manhattan Sightseeing Bus Tour NY

The city of New York presents the world with Manhattan. The city lets you enjoy vibrant sights, while your guide fills you in on the various stories that go with the sights. One gets to explore the various facets of the city and its various neighbourhoods. Through this, one also discovers the awe-inspiring landmarks of Rockefeller centre, Chrysler building, Empire state building, Lincoln centre, Central Park, and Fifth Avenue. 

One can also head to Greenwich Village, the artsy SoHo district, the hub-hub in the bustling streets of Chinatown, the always busy Wall street, Sidewalk cafes in little Italy, etc. In the end, one finally visits the charming Battery Park to soak in the beauty and enjoy stunning views of the Statue of Liberty- one of the icons of New York and the United States of America.

Highlights 

• This tour has one enjoy the views of the Empire state building and the statue of liberty. 
• This knicks in the opportunity to hear interesting stories of each neighbourhood from your expert guide. 
• Also, one can visit Greenwich Village, SoHo, and Central Park.

Open-Top Night NYC Bus Tours with Live Commentary

What does one do when he wants to visit and take in all of the city that never sleeps, at night time? How should one go about this desire and how is it possible? Well, this tour comes in handy when in doubt. Accompanied by an entertaining and live tour guide, one gets to enjoy the Big Bus Night tour of NYC. 

This is a 1.5-hour ride, and through this one enjoys the absolutely beautiful Manhattan skyline, that is lit up. Also enjoyed are the stunning glow of the various attractions in this city, like the Radio City Music hall, and the empire state building. The night NYC bus tours also make their way across the river, where one gets to have a look at the marvellous lit up Skyline of Manhattan from the Brooklyn waterfront. 

• The highlights of this New York bus tour include the magnificent skyline of Manhattan from Brooklyn.
• One gets to learn about the city’s major landmarks during the live commentary.  
• The city that never sleeps is all lit up, and one gets his way into soaking it all in and becoming a part of it. 
• One could also head up to the Avenue of the Americas for views of Macy’s department store and radio city music hall. 
• Most importantly something that one can never miss out on is the bright lights of Times Square at night. It is thoroughly beautiful.

Things to know before you go

Advantages of new york bus tour.

Why should one choose the top view?

This is because they have the most curated tours there could ever be, and their local experts know NYC inside out. Another list of reasons go as such:

• Presents unlimited hop on hop off services so that the tourists can enjoy their favourite locations with much ease.
• Their routes are the best to see NYC with over 40 stops near major attractions in the city.
• Their 2-3 day passes include free entry to the Statue of Liberty cruise and bike rental.
• It has a live map to track the bus. The only one with a live map. 
• With an app, one can board the busses without any toil. No printed documents are required as an app can do it all.
• One can stay connected with friends and family as there is WiFi available on the bus.

Hop on Hop off New York Routes and Timetable

• Explore Downtown – Red Route Timetable  

The tour duration of this is 90 minutes with the frequency of a bus every 60 minutes. There are 10+  main locations of this tour: Empire state building, SoHo, Chinatown/ Little Italy, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, Circle line sightseeing, M&M World, etc. every bus features audio commentary in 10 languages that are pre-recorded. 

• Explore Uptown – Blue Route Timetable

The Hop on Hop off New York tour duration is 90 minutes, while the frequency of the buses is every 2 hours.  Hop on from 7th Avenue and W 5oth St at 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm daily. This covers the uptown section of the city, with Times Square north being the most prominent of the stops.

Top New York's Landmarks by NYC Sightseeing Bus

There are quite a few places in New York that deserve to be awed at. A few of such places are:

• The Statue of Liberty: This was France’s gift to America on the centennial of the American Declaration of Independence. One could get here early for a ticket and then climb to the top to see how the city looks from up there.
• American Museum of Natural history: The dinosaur collection in this library is the best and it is the largest museum of natural history in the world.
• Brooklyn Bridge: The Brooklyn Bridge is extremely safe, and once a parade of 21 elephants crossed over to prove the point!
• Central Park: This is a huge lush oasis in the city, and the best place to pass some time!
• Chrysler Building: This is one of the most breathtaking buildings in the world. While up close, it is even more beautiful.
• Empire state building: on a clear day, one can see five states from the observation deck!
• Fifth Avenue: This is the most iconic store line up there ever will be!
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art : This is the largest museum in the US. 
• Rockefeller centre: This is where the New Yorkers come to chill and hang out. 
• Wall Street: $54 billion worth of shares are exchanged here every day. One can even not be a millionaire and enjoy the sight here.
• Times Square: it is definitely a sight to behold. This has the world’s largest LED sign!

What's Include in Bus Tours NYC

• It comes with a live guide, with audio guides that are available in ten different languages. that, and also free WiFi.
• The New York bus tour includes headphones and commentary within the bus, Ferry or night tour (if option selected), Hop on hop off bus ticket (route and duration depend on option booked). The package does not include Attraction tickets.
• The main icons (Brooklyn bridge, Empire state building, Times Square), Midtown, Uptown(Central park, museum mile), or a very personal customized journey.
• One through this tour, can loop around New York and take a moment to awe at the beauty that it has to offer.

Smile and enjoy New York. take a Bus Ride of The NY City.

Discover the best of New York City by taking the Hop on Hop off tour which brings you to the most iconic attractions in NY.

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The 10 best bus tours in NYC

From superhero movie sets to a Sex and the City excursion, these are the best NYC bus tours for sightseeing

Want to take in all the best bits of NYC without tiring yourself out? That's what these New York bus tours are all about. There'll be plenty of time to explore the restaurant and bar scene come the evening, but make sure you spend your days right by riding around all the landmark-laden hotspots and lesser-known neighborhoods that house some iconic filming locations from the silver screen. 

Whether you’re looking for the classic hop-on hop-off experience that stops at all the major attractions, a themed TV and movie route spotlighting popular filming locations or a spirited excursion to the outer boroughs, we’ve got you covered with our guide to the best bus tours in NYC. Read on, then hop on!

RECOMMENDED: 🚶 Find more New York City tours 🏨 The best hotels in New York City 🗝️ Michelin Key hotels in New York City

This article was written by Dan Q Dao , a commercial editor for Time Out New York. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best NYC bus tours

1.  big bus new york hop-on hop-off tour.

First time exploring the wonderful city that is New York? This comprehensive, fully narrated tour allows you to customize your itinerary to just how you want it, boarding and leaving whenever it’s convenient for you. Vouchers can be redeemed in Times Square, where the tour begins. Choose from two circuits: the 90-minute Downtown Loop, which visits neighborhoods such as Little Italy and Chinatown and attractions like the Stock Exchange and the World Trade Center; and the 75-minute Uptown Loop, which includes classic New York spots like Lincoln Center, Rockefeller Center and the Apollo Theatre. 

Don't miss: Pay tribute at the 9/11 Memorial and explore the original Twin Towers site. 

2.  THE RIDE New York City

Double-decker bus tour not your thing? Amp up your usual sightseeing excursion with this dynamic part-show, part-city tour. Yes, it’s as wild and wonderful as it sounds. The multi-million-dollar bus (yep, you heard that right) offers outward-facing stadium seating with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Billed as a “traveling theater,” the uniquely designed bus allows riders to take photos of top attractions like  the Chrysler Building and Grand Central Terminal.

Don't miss:  I nteract with street performers during the 75-minute ride. 

3.  New York Bus Night Tour

If New York is the city that never sleeps (which it totally is, btw), it makes sense to experience it in all its nighttime glory. This after-hours tour starts in midtown Manhattan, then drives past iconic and illuminated landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square and Chinatown, with expert commentary on the city’s history and celebrity residents along the way.

Don't miss: There will also be time to stretch your legs during the four-hour excursion, with guided walks in High Line Park and Grand Central Station. 

4.  Sex and the City Hotspots Tour

Has there been a better unofficial NYC spokesperson than Carrie Bradshaw herself? This bus tour pays homage to the New York-loving sex columnist by spotlighting all of the hotspots from the original stint of the hit HBO show. (Alas, locations from the  And Just Like That  reboot aren’t featured, so no Che Diaz sightings here!) B oard the bus and get reacquainted with some of your favorite Sex and the City settings, like the location of Carrie and Big's wedding rehearsal dinner;   the Pleasure Chest, where Charlotte bought her 'Rabbit' vibrator; and Carrie’s iconic stoop. Jimmy Choos optional!

Don't miss:  Grabbing a Cosmo at Steve and Aidan's bar, Scout. 

5.  Brooklyn, Bronx and Queens Coach Tour

Manhattan may get a lot of the glory, but this comprehensive tour (it lasts for four-and-a-half hours) takes you through three equally deserving boroughs that made New York, well, New York. (Sorry, Staten Island!) Board in midtown and drive north through the Upper East Side to Spanish Harlem and the Bronx. Check out Yankee Stadium and the Italian enclave on Arthur Avenue before crossing into Queens. You’ll drive through Astoria and Long Island City before entering Brooklyn, where you’ll explore trendy ‘hoods including Greenpoint and Williamsburg. 

Don't miss:  Taking one last look at the New York City skyline as the tour ends with a drive over the Brooklyn Bridge. 

6.  Birthplace of Hip Hop Tour - Harlem & The Bronx

Like R euben sandwiches, eggs Benedict and Martin Scorsese, hip-hop was born right here in New York City. Discover the origins of the groundbreaking musical genre on this bus tour of Manhattan, Harlem and the Boogie Down Bronx . Led by a grandmaster —no, not Flash, but similarly legendary emcees like Kurtis Blow, Johnny Famous, Roxanne Shante and Reggie Reg — the excursion starts at the location of the first hip-hop party in Manhattan before heading uptown to iconic spots like the Apollo Theater, the Graffiti Hall of Fame and Yankee Stadium.

Don't miss: You’ll get to watch a real b-boy and b-girl dance session, snap photos in front of famous murals dedicated to Big L and Kool Herc, and even learn how to freestyle!

7.  Superhero Film Tour of New York

From Spider-Man to Batman to Jessica Jones , New York City has played home to many a superhero. On this sightseeing tour, you’ll see around 40 locations featured in your favorite super-powered TV shows and movies, from The Daily Planet building from the Superman franchise to the exact spot where Danny Rand flips over a cab in Iron Fist . This is one fascinating exploration that will make superhero fans and comic-book buffs very happy indeed.

Don't miss:  Relive the Battle of New York along Park Avenue from The Avengers.

8.  Sunday Harlem Gospel Guided Tour

Explore the culture of Harlem, one of the meccas of Black-American identity, on this guided tour. The tour visits both iconic and lesser-known attractions, such as  Columbia University, the Cotton Club and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. You'll also visit  the Apollo Theater, where Michael Jackson once performed, and the famous stretch of 125th Street, where Duke Ellington lived.

Don't miss: Guests will be welcomed by a local congregation to participate in a Gospel mass as the end of the tour. 

9.  Gossip Girl Bus Sites Tour

“Spotted at Grand Central, bags in hand” is the opening line of the New York-centric hit show Gossip Girl . And this is a big “XOXO” to the city and its super-elite, showcasing a number of memorable locations from the hit teen drama. Follow in the footsteps of Blair Waldorf , Serena van der Woodsen and the rest of the Constance Billard crew and explore many of the show’s glamorous locations on this three-hour bus tour.

Don't miss: Top stops include the Empire Hotel (where Chuck Bass lived and worked), the Vera Wang boutique where Blair tried on her wedding gown and, of course, those iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where you can take a photo op.

10.  The Sopranos Filming Locations Bus Tour

First thing’s first: yes, we know that The Sopranos largely takes place in New Jersey. But just like Jersey residents proudly tout “NJ/NYC” in their Instagram bios, we’re going to lovingly co-opt the crime drama as our own. Starting in midtown Manhattan and crossing over into the Garden State, this Jersey-set tour will feature key locations from the Mafia-inspired HBO series, including the diner where Chris was shot, the spot where Big Pussy spoke with the FBI and the booth in Tony’s restaurant where the final episode was filmed.

Don't miss: You’ll also catch a glimpse of Satin Dolls (the Bada Bing bar).

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Which New York Bus Tours Are Best?

This post reviews and compares the various bus tour options available to you in NYC, including hop-on-hop-off, fully guided, themed, and night tours. 

This content written by local tour guides who don't just review but actually lead these bus tours, so we know a thing or two about them.

If you are looking for content written by enormous media companies using AI and favored by Google, then you've come to the wrong place.

If you are like many visitors, you are struggling to decide which of the many bus tour companies to choose, or if to choose one at all.

There are hop-on-hop-off buses, fully-guided bus tours, themed tours, night tours, and the list goes on.

Well, we are here to help make sense of it all.

In this post, we explain the pros and cons of each option and compare the different options.

These are two questions that we locals get asked all of the time, and the following tips come from our own experiences.

And we also got inspiration from the contributions of the roughly 200k members of our popular NYC Travel Tips Facebook group. At the bottom of this you can see what group members thought about bus tours.

Our group consists of locals, like our guides, veteran visitors to NYC and newbies.

There's no need to become a member to read the posts, comments, and recommendations, so check us out once you finish reading this post.

So, without further ado, let's get moving.

• Double Decker Bus Hop-on-Hop-Off
• Hop-on Hop-off Tours Compared
• Fully Guided Bus Tours
• Movie + Themed Bus Tours
• Night Bus Tours
• Combo Deals
• Brooklyn Bus Tours

NEW YORK HOP ON HOP OFF SIGHTSEEING BUS TOURS

Traditional hop-on-hop-off bus companies provide transport to major sites all over the city, which can be appealing if the New York subway system seems daunting.  

Typically guests purchase 1, 2, or 3-day access passes and can then get on/off the bus at any of the company's designated stops at any time, or they get tickets through a tourist pass .

Most multiple-day tickets include more than one route to explore, a free bike rental, and sometimes even a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty!

Depending on the service you use, tickets might also include admission to more than one museum, popular attractions like the Empire State Building, and freebies at nearby businesses.

Prices for these combination tickets are sometimes too good to pass up.

All offer audio headsets with commentary in multiple languages.

Unfortunately, no hop-on-hop-off company offers live tour guides at this time. For live guides, check out the next section .

The market is very competitive with companies outdoing each other's prices regularly.

Be sure to check for any deals by clicking the links.

However, no information is provided when you are off the bus, and commentary on board occasionally consists of a recording.

For that reason, these tours are best for those looking for an informational shuttle service between attractions rather than detailed information about the city.  

Leave the detailed touring to our pay-what-you-wish walking tours  or our audio tours , many of which start and end near popular bus stops.

Likewise, during the busy season, guests may have to wait for multiple buses to pass through a stop as seat availability is not guaranteed.

Also, keep in mind that though bus tours guarantee easy transportation around the city, they are not always the quickest as all bus tours are subject to NYC traffic!

BIG BUS TOURS

If we were ranking these buses, Big Bus would be at the top of the list.

Big Bus Tours consist of 35+ stops around New York City on 5 routes, including Downtown, Uptown, and Midtown Manhattan routes, Harlem Routes, and one route in Brooklyn ( see map detail ).  

You can also download their app, which has maps to help you plan your route.

Guests listen to an audio recording in one of 10 languages while on the bus and they are free to wander around on their own at each stop.  

They also offer a  night tour , which is not a hop-on-hop-off tour as well as  combo packages .  

All of the Big Bus routes are included for free with the Sightseeing Pass , GoCity Explorer Pass , and the New York Pass .

UPDATE: Big Bus has actually added a new feature for kids: Peppa Pig ears!

All children who climb onboard will receive a pair of Peppa Pig ears to wear and an activity sheet.

There is also an audio commentary channel just for kids which focuses on the history of this character and includes music from the latest album.

Big Bus Tickets

Here are just a few of their most popular tickets. Prices are for tickets purchased online. It's slightly more expensive on-site.

All prices below reflect an additional 10% off pricing that you can only get when purchasing tickets directly from the official Big Bus website.

Essential Ticket 1 Day

• 1 Day Hop-on, Hop-off w/ 2 extensive routes
• The ticket includes 50% on a 2-hour bike rental.
• Price: $72/Adults | $63/Children

Premium Ticket 2 Day

• 2-Day Hop-on, Hop-off Tour w/ 2 extensive routes
• Price: $90/Adults | $81/Children

Deluxe Ticket 3 Day

• 3-Day Hop-on, Hop-off Tour w/ 2 extensive routes
• The ticket includes a 2-hour bike rental
• Price: $100/Adults | $90/Children

Discover Ticket 1 Day

• 1-Day Hop-on, Hop-off Tour covering Downtown route
• Price: $54/Adults | $45/Children

Learn more and/or purchase tickets here .

TIP: Save an additional 5% off tickets by using Tiqets !

Big Bus also offers even more combinations where you can add on attractions (see below ), which could include access to the Empire State Building,  Madame Tussauds, and much more.

Be sure to read our post comparing all the different tourist pass options in NYC .

Review of Big Bus New York

Big Bus is the best-reviewed hop-on-hop-off bus tour in NYC and the company regards itself as the premium hop-on-hop-off bus service in New York City.

This company sports an overall 4 out of 5-star  rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide. Reading their reviews will help set proper expectations.

Most negative comments focus on the amount of time that it can take to get onto a bus and the audio systems not working properly. Negative reviews are more likely in high seasons.

Even those who didn’t enjoy their experience typically reported that this bus service was worth considering. 

TopView NYC

This is a relatively new company offering hop-on-hop-off bus tours, but they’re giving the competition a run for their money.

Not only are their prices much cheaper, but they also offer a lot of additional activities and attractions for free with each ticket.

In addition to their main Downtown tour, they also provide hop-on-hop-off routes of Uptown & Harlem, Brooklyn, and even a Night tour.

Depending on which ticket option you choose, you can also get access to a Statue of Liberty Cruise, a Central Park Bike Rental, and the Museum of the City of New York.

This hop-on-hop-off bus tour ticket can be used at any time within 6 months of the original purchase date.

That means you are free to buy tickets when they are on sale and wait until you plan to visit NYC to use them. 

Reviews of TopView NYC

Ratings for this company have suffered in recent years.

While some of this might be due to issues that all companies had during the pandemic, there is no mistaking the fact that their reviews are not very good anymore.

TopView has an overall rating of 3 out of 5 stars , and most guests feel that they don't provide accurate instructions on how to use their service.

Whatever is going on behind the scenes, one thing is for sure: many reviewers are displeased with this company.

Their prices might be some of the lowest in NYC, but sometimes when it seems too good to be true, it actually is.

Same Day Downtown Pass

• 24-hour Hop-on-Hop-off Downtown Bus Tour
• $45/Adults | $35/Children

Same Day Downtown & Uptown Pass

• 24-hour Hop-on-Hop-off Downtown & Uptown Bus Tour
• $61/Adults | $51/Children

All City Pass (2-Day)

• 48-Hour Hop-on-Hop-off Downtown Bus Tour
• Uptown Tour
• 2-Hour Central Park Bike Rental
• $81/Adults | $71/Kids

All City Pass (3-Day)

• 72-Hour Hop-on-Hop-off Downtown Bus Tour
• Brooklyn Tour
• Statue of Liberty Cruise
• Museum of the City of New York
• Free Butterbeer at the Harry Potter Store
• Skyscraper Museum
• $115/Adults | $101/Kids

All City Pass (5-Day)

• 120-Hour Hop-on-Hop-off Downtown Bus Tour
• $131/Adults | $115/Kids
• Purchase tickets or learn more .

TIP: We highly recommend choosing a more reliable and better-rated service, but if you're really looking to save some money, this is the most affordable hop-on hop-off bus tour currently available in NYC.

CITYSIGHTSEEING NYC BUS TOURS

NOTE: Big Bus has officially taken over every aspect of operation for City Sightseeing in New York City, so this service is no longer available.

The following information is kept here only for those who have not yet been informed of this change.

CitySightseeing NYC offers a similar open-top, double-decker hop-on-hop-off service as Big Bus.

Like Big Bus, CitySightseeing is a global company and you most likely have seen their red double-decker buses in other cities.  

Reviews of CitySightseeing NYC

When it comes to their hop-on-hop-off service, the reviews are mixed.

CitySightseeing has earned an overall rating of 3 ½ out of 5 stars.

As with most bus services in New York, the negative comments focused mostly on long wait times and audio systems not working properly.

Those who were pleased with their experience reported that the bus drivers/guides were both helpful and knowledgeable.

( NOTE - there are no longer live tour guides).  

Previous guests have complained about experiencing a lot of pressure to tip the guide/driver at each stop.

So, either be prepared to ignore these pleas or carry $1 bills to distribute at each stop.

• Downtown Tour (Midtown south to the Financial District)
• Uptown Tour (Midtown north to Harlem)
• Brooklyn Tour (Currently unavailable)
• Bronx Tour (Currently unavailable)
• Night Tour/Holiday Lights (Currently unavailable)
• Downtown: $59/Adults | $49/Children

NEW YORK CITY HOP ON HOP OFF TOURS COMPARED

If you're having trouble deciding which hop on hop off company to work with and figuring out how much tickets cost, this section will directly compare all the most pertinent details about each service.

As you can see, there are a few main differences you'll want to keep in mind when deciding which service to choose:

• No matter how you do the math, Big Bus is the bigger name in hop-on hop-off tours, and they do charge a bit more.
• Although they aren't as popular as Big Bus, they do have 3 day and 5 day tickets, and they also include additional activities that aren't offered by their competitors.
• If you read the reviews for each service, you'll find a lot more negative experiences being reported about TopView NYC than Big Bus.

HOP ON HOP OFF WITH A TOUR GUIDE 

As a company that primarily offers walking tours, we prefer these types of bus tours as they include all the benefits of a bus tour without most of the cons!

The guide accompanies you on and off of the bus at each stop so you get detailed information about all the major sites, rather than just wandering around on your own.

You are also with the same bus, driver, and guide for the entire duration of the tour, so you never have to worry about getting a seat and can enjoy the tour in a more intimate setting.  

These are premium tours run in climate-controlled buses, therefore they are more expensive than the traditional hop-on-hop-off variety.

However, you will see a lot more, more in-depth, in a much shorter amount of time. 

USA GUIDED TOURS

Visiting New York can be an exciting and bewildering experience.

If you’re looking for a nice overview of the entire city, you might want to consider the NYC Day Bus Tour .

In addition to a fully guided trip throughout the Big Apple, you’ll also enjoy a walking tour and usually a boat cruise (Apr 1 till Dec 31)  around Manhattan.

The full trip will take roughly 5 hours to complete and you will see a lot of significant landmarks along the way.

Your tour guides hop off at each stop to help show you around!  

Available daily from 10 AM – 3 PM.

TIP: If you are planning on visiting Washington, DC, you will get 30% off the Discover DC Tour  (normally $69) if you purchase it at the same time as your Discover DC Tour.  

You will need to call USA Guided Tours to confirm your NYC tour date.

• $99 for Adults
• $89 for Children
• $10 off for members of the Military
• Duration: 5 hours
• More info or to book online .

Reviews for USA Guided Tours NYC

All of the reviews for USA Guided Tours are positive.

With a full 5-star rating on TripAdvisor and Viator, it’s safe to say that this is one of the highest-rated tour companies in NYC.

One happy customer went so far as to exclaim that this is a must for any first-timers in New York. This seems to be a common sentiment, as several visitors left similarly positive comments. 

ONBOARD NYC

OnBoard offers day and nighttime tours, including an 8-hour Premium See-It-All Tour, which covers the length of Manhattan and comprises a visit past or to the Statue of Liberty. 

• Cost : $69.99 and up depending on type/length of tour and which day of the week
• Duration : Tours vary from 3.5-8 hours
• Tour with Staten Island Ferry Ride
• Tour with a ticket to the Statue of Liberty
• Not currently available

Reviews of OnBoard NYC Tours

Reviews for this company are very good, resulting in an overall 4 ½ star rating on TripAdvisor and Viator. 

Some went so far as to indicate that they visited locations you wouldn’t typically see on a tour of New York City. 

SPECIALTY AND THEMED BUS TOURS

• NYC Street Theater
• Movie and TV Tours
• Scott's Pizza Tour
• Hip Hop Tours
• Kenny Kramer's Seinfeld Tour

The Ride is Broadway on a bus!

A unique experience that, according to their website is "equal parts theatrical show and immersive tour."

It's designed to be fun and entertaining, with street performers scattered throughout the tour route.  

The information about the city is rather limited and the route is confined to the area around Times Square, so guests looking for a comprehensive city tour should look at "The Tour" or elsewhere.

Tickets and Reviews of The Ride

This service has received an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read the reviews ). 

Most guests enjoyed their experience on The Ride, but some have said that the quality of this tour has decreased over time.

It would appear that this trip does not appeal to all audiences, but it’s worth noting that hundreds of customers have left positive feedback about their adventures.

If you’re looking for something a bit different, many passengers have suggested that this is one of the most original and unique bus tours in New York!

• Price: $79 per person
• Duration : 75 minutes
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before tour time.
• Purchase tickets here .

TIP: The Ride is free for those who purchase the New York Pass  or  the Explorer Pass .

Read our post comparing NYC tourist passes . 

This fun and educational trip is from the same company that brought you The Ride.

The Tour is less about the performance (there are no singers or dancers along the route) than it is about the city itself. 

Clocking in at 15 minutes longer than The Ride, this service is more affordable and it covers a slightly larger area.

TIP: Both the RIDE and the TOUR are free for those who purchase the New York Pass  or  the Explorer Pass .

Reviews of The Tour

Much like the other services from this company, The Tour has an overall 4 out of 5-stars rating on TripAdvisor.

There are a few negative comments, but the overwhelming majority of their ratings are positive.

Some passengers suggest that this is a great option for anyone who might be short on time, while others say it’s the best tour they’ve ever taken.

Several of the negative reviews indicate that they were expecting the same experience that is offered on The Ride, but that simply isn’t the case.

Please make sure to select the right bus tour from this company to avoid any confusion.

• Cost: $39 per person
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Not currently available.

TIP: Both the RIDE and the TOUR are usually free for those who purchase the New York Pass  or  the Explorer Pass .

ON LOCATION TOURS

If you’re a major movie buff, then this is the tour for you!

On Location Tours specializes in showing guests where all their favorite movies and TV shows were filmed.

Some of their most popular tours include:

• NYC TV & Movie Tour
• Sex and the City Hotspots Tour
• Gossip Girl Sites Tour
• Sopranos Sites Tour
• TCM Classic Film Tour
• When Harry Met Seinfeld Tour
• Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Sites Tour
• Superhero Film Locations Tour
• Manhattan TV & Movie Sites Tour
• East Village TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour
• and the Central Park TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour .

Guides also pepper the tours with history about the neighborhoods you drive through.

Reviews of On Location NYC Tours

With a 4 ½ out of 5-star  rating and over 1,500 positive reviews on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide, it’s safe to say that On Location Tours has impressed a lot of customers.

That being said, about 10% of their reviews are from unhappy passengers, who complain that the tour wasn’t as long as they were promised, while others simply found it uninteresting.

Although these comments may be troubling, it’s worth remembering that there are ten times as many people who absolutely loved their experience with this company.

Several guests recommend this tour for film buffs of all ages, stating that it is both informative and fun for movie lovers.

• Cost: Varies with tours, but most are between $30-$70.
• Duration:  Tour times vary, but most run between 2-4 hours

HUSH HIP-HOP TOURS

Whether you are looking to bust a move or bust a rhyme, Hush Hip Hop Tours has the perfect tour for fans of the genre.

It claims to be the only hip-hop tour company in the world with pioneers of hip-hop, DJs, and professional break-dancers leading its tours.

As you travel from one location to the next, some of the people who helped make the movement possible will explain how this art form was born in the streets of NYC.

Their tours will take you to Harlem, the Bronx, and Brooklyn.

Reviews of Hush Hip Hop Tours

This may be one of the highest-rated experiences on the list, as Hush Hip Hop Tours have earned an overall 5 out of 5-stars rating from most 

An overwhelming majority of customers have reported that their trip around New York was not only memorable but historically accurate as well.

Some have even said that this tour is great for all audiences, suggesting that you need not be a fan of hip-hop to learn a lot about the city while on your trip.

There are only a handful of negative comments, and few of them seem to have anything in common that would suggest any major issues with their service.

• Bus Tours: from $75
• Free cancellation with 24 hours notice.

TIP: Hush tours are also available for free with The Sightseeing Pass .

SCOTT'S PIZZA TOUR

Scott's Pizza Tours are the premier pizza tours of New York City.  

Scott's offerings are primarily walking tours. However, on Sundays, Scott offers a pizza bus tour that reaches the outer boroughs of NYC.  

• $85 per person
• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Includes stops at 4 pizzerias
• Proof of vaccination is required
• Stops change weekly

Reviews of Scott's Pizza Tours

Everyone loves pizza, and according to reviewers on TripAdvisor, learning about the dish can be pretty fun.

An overwhelming majority of the reviews for their bus tour are positive.

This tour takes place on a yellow school bus, so it might not be the most comfortable seating you’ll ever experience.

That said, almost everyone who has experienced the trip has had an absolute blast.

Positive reviews suggest that the entire journey is entertaining, and you’ll even have the opportunity to eat a few slices!

Scott also offers pizza walking tours, including:

• Greenwich Village Pizza Walk
• Crosstown Pizza Walk
• Lower East Side Pizza Walk
• Brooklyn Pizza Walk

KENNY KRAMER'S SEINFELD TOUR

Fans of Seinfeld will definitely want to consider taking this tour.

According to Larry David, Kenny Kramer was the actual person who inspired the hilarious character of Cosmo Kramer.

Believe it or not, Kenny still lives in New York and he provides a fabulous tour of the city to give fans a better idea of what life was like for the people that inspired the characters in everyone’s favorite show about nothing.

Visit a lot of the locations you’ve seen in the series and hear about the creation of this concept from Kramer himself!

With the exception of just one negative review, every rating on TripAdvisor is positive. 

Some fans report waiting years to take a tour with Kenny only to have their expectations exceeded in the end.

According to many reviewers, this might be one of the more entertaining bus tours in the city, and it’s perfect for any fan of Seinfeld.

• Cost: $47.50 (plus $2 service charge)
• Available Saturdays at 12 PM
• Duration: 2-3 hours

DO-IT-YOURSELF NYC BUS TOUR

If all of the above sounds out of your price range, then you could always take advantage of the public bus system and tour around the city on your own!

The New York Times published a great article a few years back about the best bus lines and routes to see all the major sites in the city.  

For under $10, the public bus system offers visitors a great way to explore the city on their own for a minimal cost.  

Don't forget that you can also take our free walking tours in combination with this option.

Another option is to download our audio tour app and use it for the neighborhoods that take the bus or subway to get to.

COMBINE BUS, BOAT, HELICOPTER TOURS AND MORE

If you are interested in taking both a boat and bus tour while visiting New York, it's often cheapest to purchase those two tickets as part of a combo deal.

Many companies offer a variety of combinations, including helicopter tours and museum tickets as well.  

Child prices are even less, but they vary. Click the company links for more details.  

Be sure to also read our post comparing the various tourist passes , such as the New York Pass, CityPass and the Explorer Pass, which may be an even better fit for you. 

All passes include some form of bus tour.

In addition to their hop-on hop-off bus tours, this company also offers a variety of additional activities you can combine with their tours to save money.

These combo packages include tickets to some of the most popular attractions in New York City, so there's a pretty good chance you're already planning to see them anyway.

• $100/Adults | $90/Children
• $80/Adults | $70/Children
• $130/Adults | $120/Children

Purchase combo tickets here .

Some of these deals are better than others, and in the case of packages that include the Statue of Liberty or the 9/11 Memorial Museum , we recommend reading more about these to find out if you can get tickets for even cheaper another way.

It's also worth noting that most of these attractions are also included alongside the Big Bus tours with the New York Pass , the  New York Sightseeing Pass  or  the Explorer Pass .

CITY SIGHTS

City Sights also offers several different combo packages at a low rate. Use the promo phrase SAVE10 to get an extra 10% off each package.

Big Bus Classic Tour + 1 Attraction

• 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
• Both Downtown and Uptown Loops
• Empire State Building
• Top of the Rock
• Intrepid, Sea, Air, and Space Museum
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Madame Tussauds
• 9/11 Tribute Museum
• New York Historical Society
• The Cloisters Museum
• Central Park Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour
• Central Park Sightseeing Walking Tour
• $79/Adults | $69/Children
• Purchase this combo deal .

Big Bus Classic Tour + 3 Attractions

• $139/Adults | $129/Children

The Sightseeing Pass

• NYC Bus Tour for 1-10 days
• One World Observatory
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• Night Bus Tour
• American Museum of Natural History
• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Guggenheim Museum
• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
• On Location Tours - When Harry Met Seinfeld
• Prices from $149/Adults | $139/Children

New York Tour Shuttle

This bus tour is perfect for those who only have limited time in New York.

Over 9 hours, you'll see several different landmarks and enjoy access to sites such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.

Additionally, you'll also make a special stop in Little Italy for lunch.

This is a fairly comprehensive day trip that covers most of the bases in NYC.

Tickets are a bit expensive, but ratings indicate that the service may be worth its higher price tag.

• Ticket Prices: $99 per person
• Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
• Availability: Thursday – Monday at 9:00 AM
• Statue of Liberty (w/ access to the Pedestal)
• Wall Street Walking Tour
• St. Patrick's Cathedral
• Little Italy

Reviews for this service are quite good, as a majority of customers have given the trip a 5-star rating.

Several visitors mentioned their tour guides by name, indicating that they were very friendly and provided a lot of useful information about the city.

Although they enjoyed the experience, some reviewers felt it important to note that you will need a lot of stamina for this all-day outing.

If you are interested in day trips such as this, consider checking out our comparison of NYC in a day tours .

This company is currently offering their night bus tour in a combo package which includes tickets to the Edge Observatory.

If you're planning to visit this attraction and you're interested in taking a bus tour at night, this is an excellent opportunity to save some money.

The bus tour itself begins at 5:30 pm and lasts for 4 hours, so you'll want to visit the Edge Observatory before taking the tour.

This combo tour is available 3 days a week on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

• $94/Adults | $84/Children

NIGHT BUS TOURS OF NYC

Many of the companies listed above also offer evening bus tours.

The New York skyline is breathtaking when illuminated after dark, and a bus tour is a great way to see many different areas of the city in a short amount of time.

Night tours do not typically operate as hop-on-hop-off tours, even though many are operated by hop-on-hop-off companies in double-decker buses.

There are also small group shuttle bus night tours.  

NOTE: Some of these night tours are included in the multiple-day tickets offered by each company.

In addition to its highly-rated daily tour, this company also provides one of the longest and most detailed night tours in New York.

Clocking in at 4 ½ hours in length, the NYC Night Bus Tour will take you past some of the most popular destinations in the entire city, including locations such as Times Square, Chelsea Market, Chinatown, and Greenwich Village.

This excursion also includes at least one short walking tour. Discover how New York City changes when the sun goes down! Available Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 5:30 PM to 10 PM.

• $59 for Adults
• $49 for Children
• $6 off w/ Military ID
• Duration: 4 hours
• Availability: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
• More information and to book .

Every single review for this particular night tour is 5 stars . Most guests report that this company is very professional and reliable, describing their tour guides as entertaining and knowledgeable. 

TOP VIEW NYC

In addition to their hop-on hop-off bus tours, this company also offers a night tour which allows you to see what the city looks like after dark.

This outing doesn't include any of their other bus tours, nor does it provide access to the Museum of the City of New York or a free Central Park bike rental.

Even so, it is one of the few options for a night bus tour as of March 2024.

If you're interested in seeing the city lights after the sun sets, this is an excellent option you might want to consider.

• Not Hop-on Hop-off
• No additional activities or routes
• $51 per person

NOTE: Don't forget that this night tour is included with their 2, 3, and 5-day hop-on hop-off bus tour ticket.

TIP: We recommend considering another service, as this company routinely receives negative reviews indicating they aren't the best option on our list.

BIG BUS NIGHT TOUR

Big Bus offers nightly bus tours that depart between 6-7 pm every 15-20 minutes from Times Square (6 pm - 8 pm in winter months).

Sites include Radio City Music Hall, 5th Avenue, the Empire State Building, the Manhattan Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline from the Brooklyn waterfront.

You can view their night tour route map (yellow).  

• Price: $62.10 per person
• Duration : 2 hours.
• Included in the price of all multi-day Big Bus tickets.
• It is not included in the New York Pass.

TIPS FROM LOCALS AND TRAVELERS

We hope that this post provides you with enough information to decide which, if any, NYC bus tour is right for you.

To help you get a sense from others about the various tours, we've included these opinions and suggestions from members of our popular New York Travel Tips Facebook group.

Here, Lindsey asks the question that anyone considering these tours wants to know.

Among those who have taken and enjoyed a bus tour, one of the most common reasons they gave is to become oriented to the city.

Rather than hop on and hop off, many people found it helpful to do a full loop first and note what sites you’d like to go back to.

This can be a great way to narrow down your itinerary to only places you know you will like.

These tours are more than just a way to orient yourself, you’ll learn things about NYC as well and see a lot!

Plus, on a hop-on hop-off bus tour, you may be pleasantly surprised to discover new places that intrigue you enough to go back and visit them.

This group member liked learning about the city’s neighborhoods and then deciding where to go back to.

She also loved the fact that the bus gives her feet a rest while she still discovers more of the city.

Like the others, this group member recommends them but feels that the tours are best used as sightseeing tours, rather than a means of getting from attraction to attraction as that can eat into one’s time.

For those who have never done a bus tour, don’t worry as they are pretty easy to use.

For example, Big Bus has an app that shows you in real time where buses are so you know when to be at the stop.

You may have noticed that two members above were able to take the Big Bus tour for free by purchasing a New York Pass. You can read more about this pass here .

Need help planning your bus tour itinerary? This member has organized one for you!

As for taking the unusual tour, The Ride, it really depends on what you are looking for. 

If you are looking for an informative tour that takes you around the city, The Ride isn't the best choice. That isn't to say you won't enjoy it.

If you want to be entertained in a one-of-a-kind manner, then it could be just what you are looking for, especially after a long day and you want to sit back and relax.

If you have any more questions about NYC bus tours (or anything else about NYC) that we haven't covered here, check out our New York Travel Tips Facebook group !

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"They call New York the 'City of Dreams' and I love watching our guest's travel dreams come true as they set eyes on the Statue of Liberty, wander through Greenwich Village, catch a real Broadway show, or finally get a taste of a real New York bagel!"

Travel Director

Embark on an orientation tour of the City that Never Sleeps

There’s no better way to dive into the energy of the Big Apple than with your Travel Director leading the way to all the best places in New York. From the glittering uptown penthouses to the charming downtown streets, and from the neon-lit skyscrapers to the lush oasis of Central Park, it’s all about the iconic and the unexpected on our New York tours.

View the towering Art Deco façades of the Empire State Building

You can’t go to New York without setting eyes on the Empire State Building, an icon of the city skyline and a symbol of innovation and triumph - everything that makes New York so unique. A masterpiece of modern engineering, this Art Deco skyscraper is a staggering 102 storeys high, and you can head to the observation decks for panoramic views over the city. 

See the pulsating Times Square

You’ve seen it in countless shows and movies, and now you’ll walk in the footsteps of some of the world’s most famous stars when we take you to Times Square. It’s a hub of adventure, and you can gaze up at the flashing billboards, marvel at the street entertainers, or simply watch the world rush past in the “Crossroads of the World”. 

Go behind the scenes on Broadway

Our New York trips take you to the bright lights of Broadway and beyond, with a very special behind-the-scenes tour of this legendary theater district. You’ll meet a Broadway show performer and find out how the famous shows are created, from the first auditions to the live performance, and all the costumes, choreography and chaos in between.

Ascend to the Top of The Rock for dramatic views of the Manhattan

If you’re looking for stunning views over Manhattan, we’ll take you to the Top of the Rock at the famous Rockefeller Center. First, you’ll feel the thrill of gliding 70 floors into the sky as you ride the elevator to the open-air observation deck. Then, you’ll step out into 360-degree views of the world’s most iconic skyline. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Our top 5 things to do in New York

The Big Apple is an adventurer’s playground, and we’ll show you all the very best things to do in New York, from the Empire State Building to the beautiful Strawberry Fields.

American Museum of Natural History

As one of the largest natural history museums in the world, you’ll be amazed by this institution, complete with a planetarium, library and over 34 million specimens from fossils and meteorites to cultural artifacts. Learn about volcanoes in 3D film, marvel at a T-Rex skeleton, discover Native American culture, or even travel to the universe beyond Earth.

Guggenheim Museum

Housed in a UNESCO-listed modernist masterpiece by revered architect Frank Lloyd Wright, you’ll be impressed before you even enter the museum. The spiral ramp and domed skylight make the perfect introduction to the superb collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Vasily Kandinsky and Jeff Koons.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

You’ll have the chance to learn about the tragic history of the 9/11 attacks and World Trade Center bombing at the site where the Twin Towers once stood. We’ll take you around this moving memorial to learn the story of the attacks and the aftermath, and pay tribute to the resilience and strength of the people of New York City.

Best museums in New York

The city’s museums are some of the most incredible places to visit in New York, and we’ll go from iconic art collections and ancient artifacts to moving memorials.

Manhattan clam chowder

Love seafood and soup? You’ll adore this unique clam chowder. It’s famously made with tomatoes and no cream, along with clams, bacon, broth, garlic, red pepper flakes and other vegetables. Created back in the late 19th century in Rhode Island by Portuguese immigrants, it’s still a beloved dish today and you’ve got to give it a try in New York.

New York-style bagel

Soft and chewy in the middle, yet glossy and crunchy at the crust, the New York bagel is one of the city’s greatest masterpieces. It originated from the Jewish community of New York City, and we’ll take you to a 100-year-old Jewish deli in the Upper West Side to taste some of the very best bagels in the city. Don’t forget the cream cheese!

Pastrami sandwich

Famed as New York’s signature sandwich, the classic combo of smoky pink sliced pastrami on rye bread with spicy brown mustard is an unmissable foodie experience in the Big Apple. This delicious invention originated from New York's first Jewish kosher delis in the early 20th century, and we’ll show you all the best places to try this iconic sandwich.

Best food in New York

When you travel New York with Trafalgar, we’ll show you all the best places to taste the city’s most famous eats, including those irresistible New York bagels.

What to pack for New York

Walking shoes

New York is a city that’s best explored on foot, and you’ll need a comfortable pair of shoes to get you around all the famous sights.

Glitzy outfit

With world-class bars, restaurants and theatres, you’ll want to hit the town at least once in the City that Never Sleeps. Bring a glam outfit and you’ll feel like a million bucks.

Portable charger

Your camera and phone are sure to get a workout on your New York tour, so bring a portable charger and save yourself the hassle of trekking back to your hotel to charge them up.

Bring a lightweight, waterproof day bag and use it to store your snacks, water bottle, souvenirs and anything else you pick up on your New York adventure.

Layered clothing

The weather can be unpredictable in this city and the best way to prepare for your New York trip is to bring cool and warm layers that will keep you comfortable in any weather.

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Discover the Best New York Tours

The most populated city in the United States has many nicknames including "The Big Apple," "The City that Never Sleeps," and "The City So Nice, They Named it Twice." The culturally diverse New York City, which was settled in 1624, is made up of the five boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Queens and Staten Island. Tourism is a major part of the city's economy and popular sites include The Statue of Liberty, Times Square, The Empire State Building, Central Park, Ellis Island, Chinatown, Rockefeller Center, The September 11 Memorial & Museum and The Broadway Theatre District.

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3 Days / 2 Nights

Departure from your location may require en route lodging. Call for details.

New York City

A group bus tour, this package includes:.

• 2 Nights Lodging
• 2 Breakfasts
• Guided Tour of Upper and Lower Manhattan
• 9/11 Memorial Museum
• Visit to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with Audio Tour
• Fifth Avenue/Rockefeller Center Shopping
• Gift for All
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• All Taxes and Meal Gratuities
• 2 Comps Per Bus of 40 or more
• Dinner Cruise
• Broadway Show
• United Nations Tour
• Lincoln Center Tour
• 3-Hour Cruise around Manhattan
• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Tour of Rockefeller Center and NBC Studios
• Radio City Backstage Tour
• Empire State Building
• Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum
• Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum
• One World Observatory

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Review: The Big Bus Tour in New York City

I absolutely loved the Big Bus Tour in New York City. It’s the best way to go sightseeing in an open-top, hop-on hop-off, top-rated tour and explore the best New York attractions !

If this is your first-time visiting New York and you want to see all the top landmarks, this double-decker tour bus will take you there.

The Big Bus Tour in New York

You may be wondering if a hop-on hop-off bus is worth it. Absolutely, yes!

If you consider the time and money spent on transportation costs, waiting for buses, navigating the subway (which can be confusing for visitors), and getting from one point of interest to another, it is worth every dollar!

I had a great visit to New York City on Big Bus Tour. My goal was to show the city to some friends from Italy who were visiting the US for the first time.

Since we only had about two days to spend together, the hop-on hop-off was undoubtedly the best decision.

From our experience, we’ll answer commonly asked questions about the Hop-on Hop-off bus while visiting New York City.

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Why take the big bus tour in new york.

While seeing New York from the open-top deck of the double-decker bus, the city unfolded block by block with panoramic views from every angle.

As we traveled through the streets, the sights were unobstructed and new visual backdrops were revealed.

The towering skyscrapers and colorful billboards filled the air with excitement and as the cityscape continued to change, it gave a grand feeling to the experience.

I especially enjoyed being able to relax from the upper deck of the bus while taking in the energy of city scenes.

Because I also live in a large city, the rhythm felt familiar from the elevated vantage point .

Car horns were honking, crowds traversed through the streets and there was an endless hum of activity.

Best of all, the tour gave me the chance to interact with other travelers who were seeing New York while waiting for the tour to began.

We struck up conversations and exchanged stories, insights, and recommendations during our stay in New York.

How Much is the Big Bus Tour in New York

The regular price of an adult and child ticket is $60.00 and $50.00, respectively. However, you can use the link below for discounted fares.

Get discounts for the Big Bus Tour NYC  here .

How Long is the Big Bus Tour in New York

The round-trip New York City Big Bus Tour takes about two hours from start to finish.

The bus is the perfect solution for visitors worldwide because they offer pre-recorded audio narratives and translations in five languages — French, German, Spanish, Italian, and English.

Are There Toilets on the Big Bus

No. Unlike charter buses, you won’t travel long between stops. So the best thing to do is exit at a stop, find a public restroom, see an attraction, if desired, and then catch the next bus.

If you are not sure where to find one, ask a Big Bus guide on the street. The driver may also have some suggestions.

Charter buses come equipped with a bathroom because travel is expected to be for a much longer period.

How Does the Big Bus Tour Work in New York City

The tour offers three options for purchase — 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day.

When you decide the number of days of your tour and purchase your ticket, the clock starts when your ticket is scanned while boarding the bus for the first time.

The ticket is good for 24, 48, or 72 hours. So, if you have a 1-day ticket and board the bus at 11:00 AM on Monday, it can still be used until 11:00 AM on Tuesday.

We found a ton of touring options for sightseeing in New York.

Aside from the extended period, the 2 and 3-day tickets also offer discounted bike rentals.

The buses run every 20 minutes on average. However, the first stop at the M&M store can be a long wait during peak season.

You can exit or board at any of the designated stops as much as you want.

The only exclusion is the one-loop tour Night Tour which is a panoramic non-stop tour.

Where to Catch the Big Bus Tour in New York City

During the tour, the buses only stop at designated stops.

Your ticket is good for as long as the buses operate during the day and it may be used on both the red and blue routes.

When you board, make sure you get a hop-on hop-off New York bus route map!

Big Bus NYC Red Route

The red route sightseeing tour covers lower Manhattan and you’ll see many landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Wall Street, the Chrysler Building, and General Grant’s Tomb.

You can catch a tour at any one of the following bus stops and you can get your tickets in advance of boarding.

1 – M&M’s World – 7th Ave & W 48th St (Outside M&M World & Majestic Deli)

2 – Times Square East – W 42nd St & Broadway (at Knickerbocker Hotel)

3 – Empire State Building / Korea Town – 5th Ave & W 32nd St (at CVS Pharmacy)

4 – Flatiron District – 5th Ave & W 23rd St (at Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop)

5 – SoHo – Broadway and Spring Street (at Nike Store)

6 – Chinatown / Little Italy – 100 Lafayette Street (near the corner at Walker St)

7 – Brooklyn Bridge – Park Row & Beekman St (across from 33 Park Row)

8 – Wall Street / Charging Bull – Broadway & Wall St (Southwest corner near Rector St)

9 – Statue of Liberty / Battery Park – State St and Bridge St (at Subway Entrance)

10 – Circle Line Sightseeing – 12th Ave & 40th St (opposite Pier 81)

11 – Times Square North – 7th Ave & W 50th St (at Majestic Deli)

Big Bus NYC Blue Route

The blue route covers upper Manhattan, and half of the ride is mostly views of Central Park. You can switch to the blue route at red stop #2.

We recommend changing routes at stop #11 (the Majestic Deli) where you can take a break and have a nice lunch.

12 – The Metropolitan Museum of Art – 5th Ave & E 83rd St (near 83rd St)

13 – Central Park Zoo – 5th Ave & E 66th St (opposite 845 5th Ave)

14 – Columbus Circle – Central Park & Columbus Circle (SW corner of Central Park)

Tips and Things to Know Before You Go

The bus has two levels, the upper level offers panoramic views of the city but be careful of overhanging traffic lights and trees. Don’t stand while the bus is in motion.

• After you find a seat, check the audio to confirm it is working.
• Snacks are allowed. Bring a frozen bottle of water and protein bites to keep you energized.
• When on the upper deck, cover up with sunscreen to protect your skin on hot sunny days.
• If you are a family of 3 or more, take seats across from one another so you’ll have views and photos from both sides of the bus.

Tourists were lined up at stop #1 at least an hour before departure and the line extended the entire block and rounded the corner.

We decided to see other points of interest and returned around 11:00 AM.

The wait to board the bus was about 20 minutes. It was a relaxing ride and there we saw so much!

By the time we reached stop #9, we were pumped and ready to exit the bus so that we could explore the city! And you probably will be too.

Here’s the secret sauce that really made the experience memorable. Exit at stop #9 and take a FREE ferry to Staten Island.

To see the Statue of Liberty, stand on the left side of the boat. When returning, stand on the right side.

Traveling on a budget? Read my review of the Westside YMCA Hotel !

Final Thoughts About the Big Bus Tour in New York City

Overall, the tour was a pleasant way to see New York city and when you are on the upper deck, you hardly notice the traffic.

Some other advantages of seeing the city by bus include:

• Avoiding parking hassles. I mean, who actually drives in New York?!
• Photo opportunities. With the open-top or large windows, you have excellent photo opportunities as you pass by iconic landmarks and cityscapes.
• Comprehensive sightseeing of major landmarks and attractions within two hours.
• You can get local recommendations from the guides who operate the bus.

I usually opt for a hop-on hop-off bus when I am short on time or to get my bearings in the city before deciding what to do.

Either way, when you take the tour bus, it doesn’t appear impossible to take a bite out of the Big Apple.

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