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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.

Check prices & availability on:  

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

• Best New York City Tours
• Best New York City Food Tours
• Best Statue of Liberty Tours
• Best New York City Boat Tours
• Best New York City Walking Tours

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , New York City , New York Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations , US Vacations

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Immerse yourself in the architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture of New York City with our NYC bus tours! Experience the ultimate convenience as we offer multiple pick-up locations and affordable prices, ensuring an unforgettable sightseeing adventure. Take your pick from our guided double-decker bus tours that provide a breathtaking 360° view of the city, or explore at your own pace with our self-guided option. Our hop-on hop-off bus tours are designed to take you on a remarkable journey at your own pace. From Times Square and the iconic Empire State Building to Central Park, our NYC bus tours are a great way to discover the city that never sleeps.

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Trip to NYC

Top 5 things to do on a nyc trip.

• Visit the Empire State Building or One World Trade
• Take a walk through Central Park
• Pay the Statue of Liberty a visit
• Explore the exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History, the Met, or MoMA
• Go see a Broadway show

If you’ve never taken a trip to New York City, you’re in for a treat. The city is the embodiment of excitement, and you’ll never run out of things to do, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Your NYC trip will be full of historically and culturally rich attractions, but be sure to keep up with the locals and look where you’re walking. You don’t want to cause a traffic jam!

The Big Apple lives up to its reputation with all the stunning skyscrapers, exquisite food, and other fun activities. When you take a trip to NYC, you will not be disappointed.

Whether you plan on traversing the city on foot or via tour bus, there’s no wrong way to do it. You can plan your trip to NYC however you wish!

Want some more tips to plan your New York City trip? Keep reading!

Transportation options in New York City

Our bus to New York City drops you off at 34th Street between 11th and 12th Avenue, across from the Javits Convention Center. From there, you have numerous options to get around.

When you travel to New York City, you have one of the most accessible metros at your disposal. The city’s extensive subway and bus network can get you wherever you need to be.

Alternatively, taxis are easy to hail, and you’ll never have trouble booking rideshare.

If all else fails, the city boasts wide sidewalks and rentable bikes that you can use in dedicated bike lanes. The transportation options truly are plentiful!

Some of Megabus’ most popular routes to The Big Apple include:

• Washington to New York Bus
• Philadelphia to New York Bus
• Baltimore to New York Bus
• Toronto to New York Bus

Learn more about Megabus' top bus routes .

Best places to stay in New York City

After your long, exhaustive day of sightseeing, you’re going to need a place to crash. New York City is widely known for its amenities and extensive hotel accommodations.

There are hundreds of luxury hotels to choose from, making a trip to New York City accessible for any traveler.

The largest hotels would be in Midtown Manhattan such as the New York Hilton and the New York Marriot Marquis, which boast over 1900 rooms and are quite lavish.

Alternatively, many hotels such as the Pod 39, BKLYN House Hotel, or other rentals are available at a lower cost and offer plenty of travel options for your trip to New York City.

Nightlife in New York City

New York City isn’t called the city that never sleeps for nothing. There are nightlife activities all around you!

If you’re looking for cocktails while on your trip to New York City, locals and tourists alike consider Employees Only one of the best bars in the whole city. This 1920s throwback bar on Hudson St. is known for its inventive drinks and its Prohibition-style interior.

Another great spot for drinks on your trip to New York City is The Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog. Voted one of the best bars in the world, this 3-floor bar provides plenty of small plate options, vintage cocktails, wines, and more.

The Rockwood Music Hall is an outstanding venue if you’re interested in live music.

Where to shop on your New York City trip

What’s beautiful about going on a trip to New York City is you can find somewhere to shop on just about any street.

Whether you prefer thrifted items or name brands, there will be no shortage of shopping options when you take a trip to NYC.

Scoring a deal in Chinatown, window shopping on Fifth Avenue, and finding that perfect King Kong Empire State Building souvenir are all possible in The Big Apple.

Make sure to hit up many of the numerous large department stores downtown on your next trip to New York City, such as Bloomingdales, Tiffany, or Bergdorf Goodman.

Greenwich Village has countless specialty stores for books, records, antiques, and much more.

Perhaps the best part about all these shopping options is that all sorts of dining options are just blocks away – ranging from pizzerias to fine dining!

Best free things to do in New York City

Even the most frugal travels can make the most of their trip to New York City.

Whether you want to stroll through the gorgeous public parks, ogle at the bright lights of Times Square, or take in the breathtaking view atop the High Line, there are countless ways to travel to NYC on a budget.

If you plan on dining out, be sure to do some research on your restaurants. Many eateries host live music, trivia, karaoke, and other activities at no additional cost!

Benefits of buying bus tickets to NYC

When you book a trip to New York City, you’re probably looking to cut costs, be flexible, and have a safe trip there and back. If so, look no further than Megabus!

Megabus offers the easiest, safest, and most affordable options for traveling to New York City with fares as low as $1*. That way you can spend more money enjoying your trip to NYC!

Megabus provides service to hundreds of North American cities, so there’s bound to be the perfect travel option waiting for you.

On your trip to New York City, you’ll get to experience the highest level of comfort with amenities like reserved seating, individual power outlets, three-point seatbelts, reclining seats, and more.

If you’re interested in booking a trip to New York City via bus, be sure to choose Megabus to get you there reliably!

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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

Photograph: Courtesy Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Want to take in all that NYC has to offer but with maximum comfort and convenience? Book yourself an NYC bus tour — these stellar sightseeing options are a visitor's best friend. While you could get your steps in on a walking tour or eat your way through NYC on a foodie jaunt, you’ll see more sights in a smaller amount of time on one of the city’s top bus tours. 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 .

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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. Think of it as a handy little passport to discovering all the best of this fascinating city. 

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 ( the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Terminal) and interact with street performers during the 75-minute ride. It's a blast.

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. 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. And trust us, all those glittering, gleaming views of Manhattan at night are just as glorious as billed. 

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 Steve and Aidan's bar Scout — where you can stop to sip a Cosmo, of course — the Pleasure Chest, where Charlotte bought her 'Rabbit' vibrator, and Carrie’s iconic stoop. Jimmy Choos optional!

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. There’s just enough time left to drive over the iconic Brooklyn Bridge for one last look at the New York City skyline. Lush .

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. 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 setting of the Battle of New York in The Avengers to 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.

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. After visiting the Apollo Theater, where Michael Jackson once performed, and the famous stretch of 125th Street, where Duke Ellington lived, guests will be welcomed by a local congregation to participate in a Gospel mass. 

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, including 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. You’ll also catch a glimpse of Satin Dolls (the Bada Bing bar).

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Discover NY Bus Tour

Experience the enchanting allure of New York City with Discover NY, your expert guide to the city’s top sights. Revel in the thrill of one of the USA’s top three sightseeing experiences, as celebrated by TripAdvisor. But the accolades don’t stop there – Viator recognizes our Discover NY among the top 20 American experiences! Join us and savor the quintessential NYC delights. Choose between our enclosed or glass-top buses for an unforgettable journey through the city that never sleeps!

Highlights:

+ Fully guided walks with live narration from friendly and knowledgeable local guides + Spectacular views of iconic NYC landmarks + Luxury climate-controlled buses for an enjoyable all-weather experience + Staten Island ferry ride for sweeping views over the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline + Award-winning New York City sightseeing bus tours! 📸 Video Highlights

Meet your Guide and Begin your New York City Bus Tour

Our half-day New York City bus tour departs daily at 9 AM and 10 AM on 7th Ave between 50th & 51st Streets (in the middle of the block) and ends at 3 PM and 4 PM at the same location. Meet your driver and guide, and take a seat aboard your comfortable bus to begin.

After a drive through the Times Square area, our first stop is at Central Park West and 72nd Street, at the Dakota Building (former home of John Lennon). The stop includes a short, guided walk into Central Park to visit the Strawberry Fields. Here, discover the Imagine mosaic dedicated to John Lennon and admire fine views over the celebrity-owned condominiums. We’ll also drive by Central Park Zoo, the famous Plaza Hotel, and Carnegie Hall.

Rockefeller Center

The second stop on our tour is Rockefeller Center, where beautiful views over St. Patrick’s Cathedral await. We’ll also see the location of the winter ice-skating rink and Christmas Tree, and NBC’s Today Show set.

5th Avenue and Empire State Building Views

Our third stop is on Fifth Avenue, where we pause to admire the iconic Empire State Building. This area also provides spectacular views of dramatic architecture featured in numerous books and films, including the Flatiron Building (Godzilla, Spider-Man), the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company Tower (The Runaway Skyscraper, Futurama), and of course the Empire State Building (King Kong, Independence Day).

We drive by Madison Square Park – the original location of Madison Square Garden Arena, and our tour continues with a drive through iconic NYC neighborhoods such as Greenwich Village, Soho, Chinatown, and the Financial District. En route to the fourth stop, we drive by Wall Street for views of the New York Stock Exchange, Federal Hall (the location of the first Capitol Building of the United States), Trinity Church, and the famous Charging Bull sculpture on Broadway.

World Trade Center and 9/11 Memorial

Our fourth stop is the World Trade Center, where we visit the 9/11 Memorial. The tour does not include entry into the 9/11 Museum, but visitors can walk the grounds of the Memorial, visit the waterfalls of “Reflecting Absence,” (the footprints of where the original twin towers stood), and see the Survivor Tree that withstood the destruction of 9/11.

Gansevoort Liberty Market Lunch Stop

Around 1 pm, we’ll stop for a quick lunch break at Gansevoort Liberty Market. Lunch is not included on your tour, but this is a great place to stop and pick up something tasty.

The Staten Island Ferry Ride

Our fifth stop is the Whitehall Terminal in downtown Manhattan, for a boat ride on the Staten Island ferry. During your relaxing cruise, soak up magnificent views over the Statue of Liberty to the Manhattan and Brooklyn skyline beyond. The boat docks back at the Whitehall Terminal, where we board our bus to head back to our original departure point on 7th Avenue in the Times Square area. Our tour concludes at 3 PM and 4 PM, back where it began.

Inclusions:

+ New York City sightseeing bus tour, by luxury tour bus + Expert tour guides and live narration + Bottled water on buses + Guided walks + Staten Island ferry ride

Exclusions:

• – Lunch (available, and payable separately) – Gratuities – Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Dakota Building
• Strawberry Fields
• St. Patrick's Cathedral (outside only)
• Atlas Statue
• NBC’s Today Show Set
• Christmas Tree (seasonal)
• Empire State Building (outside only)
• Flatiron Building
• Madison Square Park
• does not include Museum entry
• lunch stop (lunch not included in the tour price)
• Statue of Liberty
• Manhattan and Brooklyn Skyline
• Staten Island

This tour was a fantastic way to see many sights at one time! Of course the sights were great to see but what was even better was the history, stories and information that Rachel provided throughout the tour. I’m so glad that Rachel was our guide. Not only did we see a lot, we learned a lot! - Melita D.

This is the second time we’ve taken this tour of New York City. We loved it the first time and were fortunate enough to have Rachel as our guide for the second time. The sights are fantastic, but Rachel MAKES the tour with her personal anecdotes. She kept everyone comfortable while keeping things moving so we could fit it all in. Thanks Rachel and USA Guided Tours!! - Kim R.

We have been to NY many times and decided to take a guided bus tour this time. It was a very informative and enjoyable experience. Our tour guide, Tyler, was exceptional. She had an outstanding personality, very knowledgeable about NY, kept everybody engaged and her delivery was top notch. We had several stops and she got off the bus and guided us on each one, answering all questions. There was just enough time to take in the site, but didn’t feel rushed. It was one of the best tours we have ever taken. - Jay E.

Google Reviews

The tour was on a small open-air bus and it was a small group of 13 people. The tour included a combination of walking (very short distances) and sightseeing on the bus for 6 hours. Our tour guide Steve was outstanding!! He was full of information and anecdotal stories that really brought the history and culture of New York alive. the tour also included a trip on the Staten Island Ferry which provided great views of the Statue of Liberty and lower Manhattan. Although this tour is a bit expensive, it's worth it for a more personal tour with a native New Yorker like Steve. - Chip

My mom and I took this tour and I recommend that if you are looking to see the sights in NYC, you do the same!! We were guided by Tyler who was incredibly sweet and knew EVERYTHING about EVERYTHING and driven by Jose who somehow navigated the city without aggressively using the breaks or honking. The harbor tour at the end took us for about an hour and we go really close to the Statue of Liberty! This was the best and so happy I did it. - Kelly McCarthy

All I can say is Kudos to Betty for being an amazing driver through the city! She kept everyone safe through the smallest areas of the roads, Excellent driver! Jim was spectacular hosting us through the city.. from joking to detailed info of the city he kept everyone entertained. This was my first time doing a tour in a city before as well as a first time visit to NYC and I couldn't of had a better time anywhere else. It was a fantastic experience. Thank you guys for showing my wife and I such a pleasant experience. - Brandt Page

Why type of buses does USA Guided Tours use?

Our luxury tour buses provide a comfortable and climate-controlled environment for an enjoyable touring experience, while also offering protection from the elements. We cater to various group sizes with a diverse fleet of vehicles, from SUVs to premium motor-coaches, ensuring that our private tours can be customized for couples or large groups alike. To maintain a more intimate atmosphere on our public tours, we intentionally limit the capacity of our tour buses to keep the average group size small. We do our best to keep large, same-party groups together on the same bus, but please remember that the seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Once you claim your seats – they’re reserved only for you for the duration of the tour.

Are we allowed to bring luggage on the tour?

Unfortunately, our shuttles are not wheelchair accessible, nor is there storage for baby strollers. If you have a wheelchair, please call us to make special vehicle arrangements for your tour. Some of our tours involve longer walks so if you like, you may stay on board the shuttle, near the landmark, without exiting the shuttle bus every time.

What is USA Guided Tours cancelation policy?

Free Cancellation up to 24 Hours in Advance > if you cancel your booking 24 hours in advance of your tour departure time – a full refund will be issued

Free Cancellation up to 1 Hour in Advance With Tour Booking Insurance > if you purchase Tour Booking Insurance at $5.99 per person, booking cancellations may be made up to 1 hour in advance of your tour departure time for a full refund

What are the blackout dates for tours?

Mar 17 NYC Half Day Marathon – All Tours Closed July 4 Independence Day – Night Tours Closed Nov 28 Thanksgiving Day – All Tours Closed Dec 24 Christmas Eve – Night Tours Closed Dec 25 Christmas Day – All Tours Closed Dec 31 New Year’s Eve – All Tours Closed

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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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Tours From New York

8-day new york to philadelphia, baltimore, princeton, cambridge, boston,new haven, west point, pennsylvania and yale university tour (free airport pickup) tour code : gol-nyc-557.

Departure City : Flushing NY, New York City NY, Newark NJ

Available Days : Tuesday & Special Dates

Highlights : Let’s have an in-depth tour in nine top schools: Columbia University, New York University, University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins University, Princeton University, Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Yale University and West Point! Follow us and take a visit to two biggest libraries in the East Coast: the largest municipal public library in the US - New York Public Library and the largest urban public library - Boston Public Library. Explore two famous museums: Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the four major museums in the world and the Penn Museum. Enjoy the beautiful view of New York during the special morning tour and night tour! Enjoy delicious food in Hudson Yards, feast in New York's Chinatown and Flushing. You can even dine atthe Penn cafeteria and taste Boston lobster in Quincy Market! Comfortable suite hotels are carefully arranged during the tour, and hotel breakfasts are also provided!

7-Day New York to Philadelphia, Baltimore, New Haven, Princeton, West Point, Cambridge, Boston and New England Aquarium Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-572

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

Available Days : Wed & Special Dates

Highlights : Let’s have an in-depth tour in nine top schools: Columbia University, New York University, University of Pennsylvania, Johns Hopkins University, Princeton University, Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Yale University and West Point! Each guest will receive a Penn University certificate with your name printed on it! Follow us and take a visit to two biggest libraries in the East Coast: the largest municipal public library in the US - New York Public Library and the largest urban public library - Boston Public Library. Explore two famous museums: Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the four major museums in the world and the Penn Museum. Enjoy the beautiful view of New York during the special morning tour and night tour! Enjoy delicious food in Hudson Yards, feast in New York's Chinatown and Flushing. You can even dine atthe Penn cafeteria and taste Boston lobster in Quincy Market! Comfortable suite hotels are carefully arranged during the tour, and hotel breakfasts are also provided!

• An admission ticket to Penn Museum.
• Breakfasts.
• Two special meals: a lunch in Penn dining hall + a Boston local lobster dinner.

3-Day New York to Niagara Falls, IMAX Movie, Cave of the Winds, Goat Island and Maid of the Mist Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-571

Available Days : Monday

Highlights : Explore the power of nature and take an in-depth tour to Niagara Falls! Upgrade the cross-border itinerary at your own expense and enjoy the majesty and magnificence of the waterfall from Canada side.

• Train ticket of Coach Seat from New York to Niagara Falls (if the one-way ticket price exceeds $100, the guest needs to make up the difference or upgrade to another class at his own expense).
• Attraction admission fee: Niagara Scenic Trolley Tour.

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.

1-Day New York to Cambridge, Harvard, MIT and Boston Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-126

Departure City : New York City NY

Available Days : Tue,Fri,Sun (2024-01-01 To 2024-12-31)

Highlights : Be a part of this 1 day extravaganza to Boston. You will have a chance to explore the beautiful city with a professional tour guide. Air conditioned transport and sightseeing of Boston is included in the package. 

• Sightseeing of Boston

6-Day New York to Philadelphia, Washington DC, Boston, Corning, NYC and Niagara Falls Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-NYC-211A

Departure City : Newark NJ

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

Highlights : 【Safety First】Travel with thoroughly disinfected sightseeing coach and our professional well-trained tour escort. 【The Big Apple】Visit iconic sites, buildings, and parks in New York, one of the most prestigious cities. 【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! 【World Top University】Walk into two of the world top ranked universities -- Havard University and MIT. 【Foodie’s Choice】Grab a bite of authentic local taste, check out the fresh products at Quincy Market and enjoy a real Boston lobster meal.

Buy 2 get 2 free Buy 2 get 1 free

• The Maid of the Mist Niagara Falls Boat is usually closed in winter season. It will not be visited based on attraction closure.

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!

2-Day New York to Niagara Falls, Finger Lakes and The Crossing Outlet Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-175

Available Days : Mon, Thu & Sat

Highlights : Join us in this 2 days exciting journey. We will be visiting the Finger Lakes and the Niagara Falls. 1 night Hotel stay, Air conditioned transport, Professional Tour Guide, Sightseeing at Niagara and Admission at the Maid of the Mist (summer) or Scenic Tunnels (winter) is included in this package.

• 1 night hotel including tax and Continental Breakfast
• Air conditioned Bus or Van & Professional Tour Guide
• Sightseeing in Niagara Falls
• Admission to the Maid of the Mist (Summer) or Power Vista and Cave of the Winds (Winter)

7-Day New York to Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Niagara Falls, Boston, Corning, Watkin Glen and Niagara Falls Night Tour (Free Airport Pickup) Tour code : GOL-NYC-629A

Available Days : Fri

Highlights : Two-day tour of New York to explore city landmarks from a panoramic perspective! Explore the historic cities in the East Coast and feel the charm of the new capital and the old. Participate in in-depth activities and feel the majestic momentum of the great falls! Take a visit the world-top school—Harvard University! Enjoy the authentic Boston lobster in the famous Quincy Market! This small-group guided tour of New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C.,  Niagara Falls and Boston, up to 13 customers per group.

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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 !

And much, much more

About the author.

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

5 Best Bus Tours in New York City

The energy of New York City is found in its streets. One of the best ways to experience this vitality, and cover serious ground at the same time, is with a bus tour, rolling between Manhattan neighborhoods, one beautiful block at a time.

From a themed tour (like the Sex and the City Hotspots tour) to hop-on, hop-off options that offer direct transportation to the top landmarks in the city, here are the five best bus tours that NYC has to offer.

Big Bus New York

The Big Bus is easy to spot: bright red, open top, and double-decker. This classic bus tour provides a thorough introduction to Manhattan, with two routes, the downtown red loop, and the uptown blue route – and hop-on, hop-off service for stopping at top landmarks along the way. Take a seat in the open-air top deck and instead of traveling by subway (where you see nothing as you move between neighborhoods), you will see New York’s famous street life as the bus travels between the Financial District, Chinatown, Greenwich Village, and Chelsea . The most popular stops on the downtown route include the 9/11 Memorial and the High Line, while popular stops on the uptown loop include 5th Avenue shopping and Harlem ’s Apollo Theater. For some fresh air, stop in the 843-acre Central Park and go for a stroll.

Climb aboard The Ride – and the bus becomes the theater while the New York City streets are the stage. Instead of seats facing forward with the flow of traffic, seats aboard The Ride are turned toward the floor-to-ceiling windows, stadium-seating style. This 75-minute tour combines sightseeing (including landmarks like the Chrysler Building and Carnegie Hall) with live entertainment (both from onboard guides providing fun facts and screening movie clips, and on-the-street performers including break dancers and improv comedians). The busy Manhattan streets provide additional entertainment and the bus is equipped with 40 TV screens, tons of LED lights, and a club-quality sound system to keep the atmosphere festive. Kids age 6 and up are welcome to join.

Gray Line CitySightseeing Holiday Lights Tour

Witnessing New York City by night is an essential experience when visiting Manhattan. The streets always have certain electricity, but by night, the thoroughfares, landmarks, and bridges are lit up in spectacular fashion. There’s no better way to see it than from the open-air top deck of a double-decker bus. This after-dark excursion takes between two and three hours to complete and includes the chance to see famous attractions including Rockefeller Center (and its famous sparkling Christmas tree ), the bright lights of Radio City Music Hall , the department store holiday windows along 5th Avenue and Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. From Times Square to Central Park, this tour showcases the best of New York’s famous holiday lights .

Open Loop New York

Take advantage of technology to know exactly when your bus is coming, with the “Where’s My Bus?” web page from Open Loop . This bus tour, with an uptown route and a downtown route, offers a double-decker experience complete with an audio guide available in multiple languages (including English, Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, and more). Tickets are available for one, three, or five days of unlimited use, offering convenient transportation to attractions across Manhattan including the Empire State Building, the Metropolitan Museum of Art , Times Square, and the High Line. Hop-on, hop-off stops are also available in favorite downtown neighborhoods, including the West Village and the East Village. When you’re done with exploring, use your phone to confirm where and when to hop on the next bus.

Sex and the City Hotspots Tour

Strut the same streets as Carrie and shop in the same stores as Samantha during this 3.5-hour bus trip from On Location Tours complete with Sex and the City trivia, cocktails, and New York City sightseeing. The tour begins in front of the iconic Plaza hotel and continues throughout neighborhoods featured in the popular HBO series including the Meatpacking District , the West Village , and SoHo . The tour includes a glimpse of Carrie’s gorgeous brownstone (which is actually in the West Village and not the Upper West Side, where it is supposed to be located in the show) and stops include an adults-only sultry boutique and a cupcake bakery favored by Carrie. The tour wraps up with a drink at the bar that stood in for Steve and Aidan’s bar in the series. 

How to Travel from JFK Airport to Manhattan by Subway, Train, Taxi, and Shuttle

Double-Decker Bus Tours in NYC

CitySights NY Hop-On, Hop-Off Tours

A One-Day Itinerary for Visiting New York City

18 Best Things to Do as a Solo Traveler in NYC

12 Best Things to Do in Washington, DC, With Toddlers

Cruise With San Francisco's Best Bus Tours

New York City Guide: Planning Your Trip

Christmas in New York City: Best Events & Things to See

Your Trip to New York State: The Complete Guide

The Top 20 Things to Do in Chicago

The Best Time to Visit New York City

How to Get Around and Explore Hawaii

The 'Sex and the City' Hotspots Tour Is Back and the Locations Are Better Than Ever

How to Visit Los Angeles Without a Car

5 Best NYC Film Tours

City Tours in New York

Experience New York like never before with city tours and city tour packages. As you explore New York’s famous landmarks, hidden gems, and local hotspots, you’ll uncover the stories that bring the city to life.

• This weekend

Midtown + Downtown Manhattan Vintage Car Tour

Catacombs by candlelight tour, tea around town: afternoon tea bus tour in nyc, little italy's original nypd guided gangster, crime and food walk, prohibition history and drinks tour nyc, secrets from below: an underground tour of nyc, chelsea market, meatpacking district & high line food tour, the secrets of nyc's iconic grand central terminal, statue of liberty & ellis island: entrance + tour of 9/11 memorial & wall street, flatiron food, history, & architecture tour, 2-hour metropolitan museum guided tour, all-access 9/11: ground zero tour, memorial and museum, one world observatory.

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HOLIDAY RIDE – now through Dec 30

minute experience (approx)

42 nd & 8 th

departure location

laughs with our hosts & performers

Experience the energy that powers New York City with the traveling theater that drives discovery.

Explore a whole new side of NYC with THE RIDE. Our custom-designed, multimillion-dollar bus is perfect for people-watching, but the entertainment doesn’t stop there.

The streets come alive during this uproarious one-of-a-kind theatrical adventure, and you have the best seat in the house. Take a bite out of The Big Apple with our two hilarious hosts and enjoy surprise performances during this unique 75-minute show.

When the streets are the stage, anything is possible. Sit back and enjoy THE RIDE as this entertainment spectacle unfolds right before your very eyes.

About Holiday Ride – Nov 14 through Dec 30

Embrace the holiday spirit in an unforgettable New York City experience with THE RIDE – where the wonder of the season meets theatrical delight.

Step aboard our custom-designed bus, a window to the city’s festive magic, and immerse yourself in the ultimate holiday spectacle. As you journey through the twinkling streets, the city becomes more than a backdrop; it’s a living, breathing stage of yuletide joy.

This special holiday RIDE edition, led by our charismatic hosts, is filled with merry surprises and performances that capture the essence of NYC’s holiday charm. From the shimmering lights of the city to heartwarming acts on every corner, the holiday spirit comes alive in a way only New York can deliver.

Experience the enchantment of the Big Apple during the most wonderful time of the year. With laughter, wonder, and festive cheer around every turn, THE RIDE is more than a tour; it’s a holiday celebration on wheels. Sit back, relax, and let the magic of the holidays unfold in an extraordinary journey through New York City.

The Ride Buzz

You’ve never experienced nyc like this..

See what past riders have to say about this one-of-a-kind theatrical experience.

Made me realize how much I’ve missed being in NYC .

Danielle S. (New Paltz, NY)

Technologically advanced party-bubble ! Perfect & wonderful.

From the moment we departed we didn’t stop laughing!

Vicky G. (Tonyrefail, UK)

Drama, comedy, documentary, and reality all rolled into one .

If I could give 10 stars I would! Definitely a must see and worth every penny.

Talizzaro (Rockland, MA)

A rock star sightseeing bus on steroids.

Love watching New York go by while they add their own sparkle with their own street performances.

Ruth (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)

It’s like looking at a giant movie screen of NYC!

An authentic, witty new york experience and you can trust me, i’m a new yorker..

Stay01283447057 (New York, NY)

Entertainment Experience | From $79 | 75 Min.

Corporate & Private Bookings

Customize your experience with a private tour.

Groups, Schools, & Travel Professionals

Book your group outing with THE RIDE.

To book with a pass, please email us at [email protected] with the following information:

• Email Address
• Phone Number
• Date & Time of THE RIDE you’d like to take (from our calendar, under TICKETS)
• Number of Tickets
• All Pass Numbers (can be found on the face of your pass, under the QR Code)

Group Sales

new york city tours

Visit the Big Apple on one of 4 or 5 day bus trips to New York City from Ottawa. From the shining lights of Times Square and Broadway and the fabulous shopping along Fifth Avenue to a stroll through Central Park and a guided bus tour past the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Ground Zero, you’ll have a chance to do it all!

Choose to stay right in the heart of Manhattan – be close to the action, no matter what you want to do or when you want to do it.

See all of the tours that Travac offers.

travel services

Travel resources.

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.

Google Reviews

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.

Happy Travels!

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New York Sightseeing

Join us on a comprehensive tour of New York City that offers incredible value. This best-selling getaway features five days of memorable sightseeing in The Big Apple, providing the most worry-free way to see the best of New York City.

• Detailed Overview
• Tour Itinerary
• Pick-up Points

Take a bite of the Big Apple, with tour highlights including a guided tour of New York City, a scenic dinner cruise, a visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, a behind the scenes tour of Radio City Music Hall, a bird's eye view of the city from Top of the Rock, and more. Make your reservation early on this popular getaway!

*If booking your own tickets for a Broadway show, you may visit  Broadway.com  or purchase last-minute discount tickets in New York at the  TKTS booth .  Please confirm with our reservations department that your departure date is guaranteed to run prior to purchasing tickets, or wait until within 30 days of departure. 

Book online or contact our reservations department at 1 800 461 8687 x 280

Meet your travelling companions and enjoy a scenic drive through the rolling hills of New York and Pennsylvania. Spend the next four nights just outside Manhattan in a quiet New Jersey neighbourhood.

This morning, a local guide joins us for a tour of New York's most famous sights, including Times Square, Central Park, Fifth Avenue, SoHo, the Financial District, and more. After free time for lunch, we'll take a trip back in time to the art deco era and take a tour of Radio City Music Hall. This magnificent facility, nicknamed the Showplace of the Nation, has been restored to its original opulence, and the stories and history are fascinating. On this guided tour, discover at deco masterpieces, learn the secrets of the great stage, and meet a Rockette.This evening, dinner is included at one of our favourite NYC restaurants.

Our favourite spot to see New York City from a bird's eye view is at the Top of the Rock, high atop the Rockefeller Center. A gift from John D. Rockefeller to Manhattan as a place for locals and visitors to marvel at the city he loved, it's the very best place to see the city from above. Then, take in the sights and sounds of iconic Times Square. The afternoon is free for you to explore of your own.

This morning, we visit the incredible 9/11 Memorial and Museum. The museum's 110,000 square feet of exhibition space is located within the archaeological heart of the World Trade Center site, telling the story of 9/11 through multimedia displays, archives, and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts. It provides a link to the events of 9/11, while preserving intimate stories of loss, compassion, reckoning, and recovery. This afternoon, the coach will make convenient drop-offs at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Museum of Natural History, and Central Park. Each has facilities for lunch on your own, or you can choose a restaurant in the surrounding area. This evening, board the cruise boat where you'll have the chance to dine, dance, and see Manhattan from the water. The three-hour cruise takes you by the Freedom Tower, the Statue of Liberty, and spectacular views as the sun sets and the city's lights come to life.

Enjoy a scenic drive today, travelling through New York and Pennsylvania, crossing the border back into Ontario by late afternoon.

Luxury motorcoach transportation

4 nights accommodation

4 continental breakfasts

Dinner cruise

Guided tour of New York City

Top of the Rock

9/11 Memorial Museum

Tour of Radio City Music Hall

*If booking your own tickets for a Broadway show, you may visit Broadway.com or purchase last-minute discount tickets in New York at the TKTS booth . Please confirm with our reservations department that your departure date is guaranteed to run prior to purchasing tickets, or wait until within 30 days of departure. 

Before booking, please read our terms & conditions .

We recommend the purchase of Allianz Travel Insurance. Get a quote or purchase online here .

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

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Pick-up Point Times

If you wish to make an online booking please follow these instructions: 1. Select the number of passengers required to check the availability 2. Click on the shopping cart icon in the Book Now column Note: If the trip is unavailable, please use the Call Back facility to enquire about being put on the waiting list for this tour or to explore other possibilities

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