best sightseeing bus tour in new york

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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.

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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:

• 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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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 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 .

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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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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. 

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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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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!

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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.

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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!

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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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The 5 Best NYC Bus Tours – [2024 Reviews]

A great way to experience the big apple - take a bus tour in new york city.

The city of New York, also known as the Big Apple, has everything an average traveler looks for on a trip: countless historical and cultural attractions, vivid night life, bustling parks, magnificent skyscrapers, a variety of designer stores and boutiques, cafes and restaurants for every taste, and, of course, a highly developed tourist industry.

The range of NYC bus tours is unbelievable. From budget to luxury, bus tours in NYC can take place during day or at nighttime, last a couple of hours or all day long. You can take a mini bus or a double decker bus tour.  Also see: Your Guide To Visiting New York City.

Best New York City Bus Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best bus tours of new york city.

• New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
• New York City Guided Sightseeing Tour by Double Decker Bus
• Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
• New York City Sightseeing Tour by Coach
• New York Double-Decker Bus Night Tour

Best NYC Bus Tour Reviews

#1   new york in one day guided sightseeing tour.

• Departure Point: 7th Avenue, between 50th & 51st Streets
• Departure Time: 10 a.m.
• Duration: 5 hours (approx)
• Includes: Professional tour guide, guided coach tour, tickets for boat cruise (not included during the off season Jan 1 – April 1; guests will visit Grand Central Terminal instead)

During the whole trip, a professional friendly guide, who will share the knowledge of the city and its sights, will accompany you. This NYC tour will take place on a bus, as well as on a boat, which will take you around the harbor.

You will enjoy the magnificent skylines of Brooklyn and Manhattan, take pictures of Governor’s Island and Ellis Island, take a look at the city’s numerous bridges, such as Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and Williamsburg Bridge. And of course, you’ll have a great 360 o -degree view of the Statue of Liberty, for the most magnificent photos.

Keep in mind, though, that between January 1 and April 1, the boat cruise is changed for a visit to Grand Central Terminal of New York City.

During this bus tour, there will be a short lunch stop at the Fulton 55 Market, where you can find all kinds of New York street food or a café to your liking.

On this NYC bus tour, you will visit the sights, filmed in numerous world-known movies. These are the Flatiron Building, the Empire State Building, the Rockefeller Center, Plaza Hotel, and, of course, Central Park. You will drive through some iconic neighborhoods of New York City, such as Chinatown, Soho, and Greenwich Village.

This NYC bus tour ends at the original departure point.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, #2   new york city guided sightseeing tour by double decker bus.

• Departure Point: Gray Line Visitors Center
• Departure Time: 9 a.m.
• Duration: 6 or 8 hours
• Includes: Professional guide, transport by double decker bus, 1-hour New York Harbor cruise, admission to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck (8-hour tour only)

Irrelevant of which itinerary you choose, you will get a double decker bus tour around NYC with informative friendly guide all along the way, much of attention to every person on a small tour group, and plenty of impressions from this NYC bus tour.

Relax on a bus tour around Manhattan, including its Lower, Upper, and Midtown parts, Times Square, the Fifth Avenue, Central Park, the Greenwich Village, Madison Square Garden, One World Trade Center, Battery Park, Wall Street, South Street Seaport, Little Italy, and, of course, the Rockefeller Center.

Sometimes, you will hop off the bus, to go on walking guided tours around the best-known attractions of the Big Apple. And, of course, a 1-hour boat cruise will offer fascinating views of the Statue of Liberty and the city’s world famous skyline.

This NYC bus tour ends at the Rockefeller Center.

If you choose an 8-hour-long bus tour, you will then take an elevator, and in less than a minute, find yourself 70 stories above the ground, at the top of the Rock Observation Deck, with an unbelievable view of vibrant New York City life underneath and a magnificent panorama of the city’s skyline.

#3  Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

• Departure Point: Board the bus at any stop along your route
• Duration: Varies
• Includes: Hop-on hop-off bus tour, live guide

See the complete Tour Stops Schedule .

Explore New York City with your own itinerary by an open-top Big Bus tour, which makes over 30 stops around the city, for you to hop on and hop off whenever you like.

This double decker bus tour around NYC offers a trip by Rockefeller Center, Times Square, Central Park, Empire State Building, through the famous Manhattan district, not less famous Brooklyn district, Harlem, and many, many other significant spots of the Big Apple.

On the way, you have a chance to learn about the city’s history from the engaging guide.

This hop on hop off bus tour makes navigating around New York City landmarks easy and pleasurable. Just show your voucher (printed or mobile) to the Big Bus staff on any stop and hop on.

Ride through Upper, Lower or Midtown Manhattan, visit the Greenwich Village, take a look at Little Italy and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and hop off wherever you see an interesting spot or a place for magnificent photos. Or stay for a whole route, which takes approximately 2 hours.

#4   New York City Sightseeing Tour by Coach

• Departure Point: Sheraton New York
• Departure Time: 8:30 a.m.
• Duration: 5 hours (approx.)
• Includes: Live commentary on-board, 9 stops during the tour

This NYC bus tour will take you to Central Park, Dakota Building, Lincoln Center, the Upper West Side, the Flatiron Building, the Greenwich Village, the district of Soho, Harlem, Little Italy, and many, many other attractions of New York City.

You have a chance to enjoy a guided walking tour around the famous district of Chinatown and get off the bus near the Brooklyn Bridge, for a magnificent view of Brooklyn district and Manhattan Bridge.

On the way, you will drive past the Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Natural History, Museo del Barrio, the Fifth Avenue, the Radio City Music Hall, and, of course, the Rockefeller Center.

Get a chance to visit the Financial District, Wall Street, and the Battery Park, for a great view of the Statue of Liberty.

There will be a stop for a short lunch at Chelsea Market, where you can find numerous budget cafes and street food vendors.

Enjoy the personal service and attention of the guide, due to a small number of tourists on the group. You will see that a mini bus tour in NYC is not worse than a tour on a big double decker bus.

This NYC bus tour ends at Herald Square, by the Empire State Building.

#5   New York Double-Decker Bus Night Tour

• Departure Point: Gray Line Visitor Center
• Departure Time: Daily at 6:30 p.m.
• Duration: 90 minutes (approx.)
• Includes: Double Decker Bus Tour

Rest after a long day of sightseeing, while enjoying the views of Times Square, Rockefeller Center, Empire State Building, the Manhattan Bridge, Greenwich Village, Little Italy, the Lower East Side, Soho, and Chinatown.

Get to know the history of New York City from an on-board guide, while seating comfortably on the double decker tour bus. You will cross the Brooklyn Bridge for a sparkling view of the evening Manhattan skyline.

And if you are lucky to come to New York City during Christmas time, enjoy the Holiday Lights Tour, instead of the Night Tour, which will take you to Midtown, covered in Christmas lights and decorations.

The guide will show famous New York City department stores, brightly decorated for the holidays, filled with people buying presents for their significant ones.

This NYC double decker bus tour returns to original departure point.

Your Guide to Visiting New York City

Airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodations.

There are three airports in New York City: John F Kennedy International Airport, La Guardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport.

To get from the JFK Airport to the city, take the AirTrain, which links to the subway, and will take you to Manhattan in one hour by the cost of $2,75. Or use the service of an express bus to Grand Central Terminal or Port Authority, which takes 1,5 hours and costs $18.

You can also take a taxi from the taxi dispatch booths or use services, such as Uber. The flat taxi fare is $52, excluding tolls, tips, and rush hour surcharge.

La Guardia is the closest airport to Manhattan, and still, least accessible by public transport. You can take an express bus #Q70, which will bring you to the 74 th St – Broadway metro station, and will cost you $15. Or take a cab, which will cost approximately $34 – $53, excluding tolls and tips.

From Newark Liberty Airport, take the AirTrain to Newark Airport train station, and then, take any train to New York Penn Station for $13. Taxi fares range from $60 to $80, excluding tolls and tips.

You should promptly consider your plans for the Big Apple, before you pack your luggage. Are you going for a picnic in the Central Park? Are you planning to visit a musical, an opera, or a theatre performance? Are you going to dine in a luxury top-end restaurant on the Fifth?

Consider all your wants and needs for your trip to New York, not only to pack everything you might need, but also to get tickets in advance. Keep in mind, the most popular places and events can be highly overbooked during the high season (summer, vacation time, and during the holiday season).

New York City might have its disadvantages, but you’ll never get hungry in the Big Apple, that’s for sure. Countless cafes, bars, bistros, and restaurants cater for every taste and budget. Italian, Asian, Middle Eastern, Greek, French, Mexican – the variety of cuisines available is outstanding.

From small family cafes to large international restaurant chains, from fast food to luxury “haute couture” cuisine, from street food of all kinds to extravagant restaurants with huge booking lists. To get the best taste of NYC, we would recommend taking a guided NYC food tour .

Whatever plans you have for the Big Apple, you definitely can’t leave without trying these typical New York foods and drinks:

• Cheesecake New York
• Long Island Ice Tea

If you are on a budget, don’t miss the markets: Chelsea and Fulton 55, where you can find all kinds of New York street food, as well as numerous budget cafes. To get the best taste of NYC, we would recommend taking a guided NYC food tour .

New bars and clubs open and close in New York City all the time. Every district is filled with night entertainment facilities. If you are in Manhattan, head to Greenwich Village. There are plenty of places, popular with locals, mostly NYU students. Chelsea and Lower East Side are other popular nightlife spots in the heart of the Big Apple. However, if you are staying in Brooklyn, Queens, or Staten Island, don’t worry, you won’t feel the lack of sparkling New York nightlife.

New York City has the name of the world capital of jazz, and it is probably true. The city has expired many world famous jazz musicians in the past, and nowadays, it has countless settings, where you can listen to good jazz music, while enjoying a drink with your friends or a date.

Probably, the most famous jazz club in the world is the Blue Note in Greenwich Village. And the Village Vanguard, which dates back to 1935, is another popular spot in the district for jazz admirers. However, if you can’t afford such top-end places, take a look at Smalls or Fat Cat, situated also in Greenwich Village, just a block from each other, which keep their charges quite reasonable.

Salsa, although originates from Cuba, also draws numerous dance lovers to New York City clubs. If you find yourself into passionate Afro-Caribbean rhythms, head to Copacabana, the best-known Latin dance club dating back to 1940’s, situated right next to Times Square, El Morocco in Spanish Harlem, or Iguana in West Midtown.

As for classical entertainment, Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall, along with Broadway theaters are the main venues you should head towards. Opera, ballet, music shows, and concerts of all kinds will suit any cultural taste and budget.

And, of course, most New Yorkers tend to be passionate sports fans. Baseball, basketball, hockey teams – you have a wide list to choose from. Join the locals in one of the games, pick your favorite, and don’t forget to buy souvenirs during a break.

New York City has an extended system of public transportation, which includes subway, buses, commuter rail, and ferries. The terrible stories about New York City subway crimes are mostly in the past. However, you should still be careful, when traveling alone at night: don’t flash your valuables in public, use crowded stations, and try to be around people all the time.

Yellow cabs are as much the symbol of New York City, as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. They are numerous, reasonably priced, and comfortable. To get a cab, all you need to do is stand close to the road and raise your arm. However, if you are in a hurry, it may be wiser to go underground, due to heavy traffic, especially during rush hours.

New York City has some of the most expensive accommodations in the world. Be prepared to pay a minimum of $100 – $200 for a hotel room and, at least, $50 for a bed in a hostel in Manhattan. However, Manhattan is not the only district in New York. You can find much cheaper accommodation in Long Island City, Queens, Brooklyn, or New Jersey. Cheaper fares are also available during January and February, in the end of August, and on Sundays.

Typically, the room fare is claimed without taxes. All New York State and New York City taxes add up to approximately 15%. So, be prepared to pay more on arrival, than the amount on the booking.

New York City generally experiences cold winters, wet springs, hot humid summers, and cool dry autumns. In winter, the temperature can decrease to -18 o C and during the summer, be prepared for the temperature to go up to 38 o C sometimes. Snowstorms are regular during the winter months, but the snow rarely lies longer, than for a couple of days. Also, tropical storms can hit the city during summer time and in September. So, keep that in mind.

Attractions

The Big Apple is never short on attractions to keep tourists busy from sun up to sun down. The Empire State Building is one of the most popular attractions as you are able to see the New York skyline from the observation deck. The Statue of Liberty is not to be missed. If you find yourself in Central Park, there are plenty of food vendors and even free activities to enjoy. If you want to take in a show, be sure to hit Broadway, and if music is your thing, there’s always the Radio City Music Hall.

Tour Guides

The New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour is our top pick for the best NYC bus tour

Richard Moore

Related articles, ▷ the 7 best new york city dinner cruises [2024 reviews], 🚁 the 5 best nyc helicopter tours [2024 reviews], top 5 best broadway shows in nyc [2024 reviews], the 5 best niagara falls tours from new york city [2024 reviews].

10 Best New York Bus Tours (NYC Hop On Hop Off, Sightseeing, Night, & More)

By: Author Charles

Posted on August 25, 2023

This overview will focus on the best NYC bus tours to take part of during your time in the city.

Whether you are interested in Hop On Hop Off busses, guided bus tours, night tours, or more specific options, there will be something out there for you.

Riding around the city with a bus tour will be a great way to learn about NYC and better understand what it is all about.

Hope you enjoy this list of the best bus tours in New York!

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

Best Overall NYC Bus Tours

Do you need to make a quick decision and are just wondering what are the best overall NYC bus tours out there?

This curated list picks out 3 of the highest rated bus tours in New York to get you going in the right direction.

Best Overall: NYC Day Bus Tour

This full day NYC sightseeing bus tour combines the bus, walking, & even a ferry to see the most of the city.

Best Food: Best of Brooklyn

If you are looking for the best food tour, check out the Best of Brooklyn bus tour that visits several neighborhoods.

Best Night: NYC at Night Tour

For a different New York experience, this NYC night bus tour is one of the best choices out there.

List of New York Bus Tours

Now, if you want to learn more about all 10 bus tours, check out the list below. Each one of these will focus on a different aspect of NYC so there is no overlap between tours.

Continue to read the remainder of this overview that deep dives into each one of them.

• NYC in a Day Bus Tour
• Best of Brooklyn Bus Tour
• NYC Night Bus Tour
• Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
• NYC Boroughs Bus Tour
• NYC Hip Hop Bus Tour
• Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Bus Tour
• NYC Movie & TV Bus Tour
• Superheroes of NYC Bus Tour

1) NYC in a Day Bus Tour

• Rating : 5 / 5 Stars
• Tour Length : 6 Hours
• Booking : Check Rates & Availability

For those that are short on time and want to fully take advantage of what NYC has to offer, then this one-day guided NYC sightseeing bus tour is the option to choose.

As one of the highest rated overall tours in NYC, this bus tour is going to give you a little bit of everything – not just the bus!

The tour is a mixture of bus, ferry, and walking as you get to explore many of the top highlights of New York City in a day.

Starting in midtown, you will visit Times Square before heading up to Central Park for a short walking tour. It is then back on the bus heading southbound as you drive by the numerous neighborhoods and attractions of the city.

You will then have time for lunch and a visit to the 9/11 Memorial area in downtown Manhattan. From there it is back on the bus for some more sightseeing before hopping on the Staten Island Ferry.

Views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge , and more will be found throughout the journey.

Book NYC Sightseeing Bus Tour Today

2) Best of Brooklyn Food Bus Tour

• Tour Length : 4.5 Hours

For those that want to experience a little more that Brooklyn has to offer, this Best of Brooklyn Food & Culture Bus Tour is for you.

The tour is a mix of bus and walking as you get to visit Brooklyn neighborhoods such as Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Carroll Gardens, Dumbo and others.

Along the way you will get to learn more about these spots and be fed quite well. Expect a whole array of cuisines including Middle Eastern, Polish, French, Italian, and more.

The tour lasts around 4 hours as you eat your way through Brooklyn and also have the time to explore places like Brooklyn Bridge Park .

Book Best of Brooklyn Bus Tour Today

3) NYC Night Bus Tour

• Rating : 4.5 / 5 Stars
• Tour Length : 4 Hours

While exploring the city during the day is one way to see its highlights, seeing NYC at night can feel like a whole other experience.

During this guided 4-hour night bus tour you will be taken by small luxury coach to some of the best highlights in Manhattan.

Just some of these include Times Square, Rockefeller Center, the Empire State Building , more!

Not only will you get to enjoy many highlights from the bus, but there are also short guided walking tours along the High Line Park and Grand Central Terminal.

You can also opt to add on a ticket to the Top of the Rock after the bus tour to see the city from above.

Book NYC Night Bus Tour Today

4) NYC Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

• Rating : 3.5 / 5 Stars
• Tour Length : 90 minutes +

The most famous of bus tours in NYC is the Hop On Hop Off tour. While there are a few different companies to choose from, the one I am recommending here is run by Big Bus .

These Hop On Hop Off tours offer riders the opportunity to simply hop on and hop off the double decker busses throughout the day. This gives you the chance to see the city at your own pace as you pick & choose when and where you get off the bus (and then back on).

You will have the option to get off at many different stops, while also seeing points of interest from the bus itself. Note that while there is an audio guide explaining these highlights, it is usually prerecorded audio.

Big Bus runs two different route options – a Downtown loop that starts in Times Square and loops all the way down to the Financial District, and an Uptown loop that starts in Times Square and loops up to the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When going about choosing tickets, there are three main options:

• 1 Day Ticket (Downtown & Uptown)
• 1 Day Ticket (Downtown Only)
• 2 Day Ticket (Downtown & Uptown)

Book NYC Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour Today

New York Sightseeing Pass

There are several companies in NYC that offer different types of sightseeing passes. For a set price you can either pick a certain number of days or number of attractions to visit.

The New York Pass and the Go City NYC Explorer Pass include the Big Bus Hop On Hop Off tour as one of the options.

If you are thinking about visiting several of the included attractions during an NYC Itinerary , I would recommend checking out each one of these:

• New York Pass: check rates
• Go City NYC Explorer Pass: check rates

5) NYC Boroughs Bus Tour

While many bus tours focus mainly on just Manhattan, there are also bus tours that head to the other boroughs of NYC.

This NYC Boroughs bus tour takes visitors to Manhattan, The Bronx, Queens, and Brooklyn as you get to experience a little bit of everything throughout.

During this full day bus tour there will be the opportunity to see places like the Apollo Theater in Harlem, Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens, and the Dumbo neighborhood in Brooklyn.

So, if you want to get a little more off the beaten path & learn all about the NYC boroughs and their history, this tour is for you.

Book NYC Boroughs Bus Tour Today

6) New York Hip Hop Bus Tour

• Tour Length : 3 Hours

If you are a music lover, then this NYC hip hop bus tour could be a good option to choose. The focus of this 3 hour tour will focus on the hip hop origins in New York City.

Throughout the tour, you will be guided by “one of rap’s Grandmasters”, as you head through various neighborhoods in Manhattan and The Bronx.

You will get to visit the sites of music video locations and where some of the most famous rap battles took place. In addition, a visit to the Graffiti Wall of Fame and Apollo Theater will be on the itinerary.

The tour will be full of informative hip hop history as you get to learn more about its origins and ask questions to your Grandmaster guide.

This may be the best energy bus tour that NYC has to offer!

Book NYC Hip Hop Bus Tour Today

7) The RIDE

• Rating : 4 / 5 Stars
• Tour Length : 75 Minutes

Now while all busses and coaches have a normal seating arrangement, the RIDE is a completely different type of experience.

With the RIDE , the actual bus seats are facing outwards towards the windows. This gives everyone on the bus a whole new perspective while driving through the streets of New York.

The full-size windows give riders the opportunity to fully embrace New York’s surroundings, with skyscrapers up above and the city streets down below.

But it is not just about seeing the city with the RIDE. In addition, the RIDE offers its unique show with performers onboard and throughout the streets of NYC.

Expect the whole bus ride show to last around an hour as it makes a 4.5-mile loop throughout midtown Manhattan.

Book The RIDE Bus Tour Today

8) Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Bus Tour

• Tour Length : 3.5 Hours

Starting in December through the very beginning of January, the Dyker Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn is lit up with over the top Christmas decorations and lights.

The tradition began back in the 1980’s as the local houses began heavily decorating their houses during the holidays. It still goes on to this day, and now locals & tourists flock to see the lights.

This is one of the most popular tours to take in NYC during the holiday season and is bound to sell out during the peak weeks.

You will be driven to the neighborhood by bus, and have a local guide by your side giving you insight into what the neighborhood is all about.

Once in Dyker Heights, there will also be the opportunity to walk around and explore by foot.

After enjoying some time around Dyker Heights, it is off to Dumbo, where the tour stops for a short period of time to enjoy some views of the Manhattan skyline .

Book Dyker Heights Bus Tour Today

9) NYC Movie & TV Bus Tour

Another NYC bus tour that I will mention here is the movie & TV bus tour that takes visitors to some of the most iconic filming locations in the city.

The tours are run by local actors and experts, who can speak knowledgeably about the movie & TV history in NYC.

You will find yourself taking in locations from Central Park and Fifth Avenue to Herald Square and Greenwich Village .

The three-hour tour will give you the chance to hop off the bus and enjoy these filming locations before continuing on to the next destination. For any movie or TV buff out there, this bus tour is for you!

Book NYC Movie & TV Bus Tour Today

Specific NYC Movie & TV Tours

While the tour above is an all-encompassing film tour, there are also more specific tours offered. Some of these include:

• Sopranos Sites Bus Tour
• Gossip Girl Sites Bus Tour
• Sex and the City Sites Bus Tour

10) Superheroes of NYC Bus Tour

• Tour Length : 2.5 Hours

Last but not least is the Superheroes of NYC bus tour . Over the course of 2.5 hours, you will get to explore the iconic sites of where superhero movies were shot.

Just some of these will include Spiderman, The Avengers, Batman, and Superman. In all you will get to check out over 40 different superhero filming locations during the tour.

From Times Square to the Staten Island Ferry, and plenty in between, the bus tour will have you learning some movie history while taking in the sites along the way.

Book NYC Superheroes Bus Tour Today

NYC Bus Tours to Other Cities

I also want to point out that there are also New York bus tours that can take you outside of the city for a day (or even more).

Below are some of the more popular day trip options that visit cities outside of NYC. If you are short on time but really want to visit these places, you can consider adding these bus tours onto your itinerary.

• Washington DC Day Trip
• Washington DC + Philadelphia
• Philadelphia + Amish Country
• Niagara Falls Day Trip
• Woodbury Commons Day Trip
• Long Island Wine Tour
• Hamptons Private Day Trip

NYC Bus Tours FAQs

To wrap up this overview about the best bus tours in New York, here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions.

How Long Does the NYC Bus Tour Last?

While all not all bus tours are the same, you should expect the tours to last 2-3 hours on the shorter end and 6 hours on the longer full day options.

Depending on how much time you want to dedicate to these tours will dictate what type of tour you end up going on.

There really is something for everyone here so you should be able to pick something that works for you.

How Much Does a Bus Tour Cost in NYC?

This is also going to dependent on what type of bus tour you end up taking.

On the cheapest end, the Hop On Hop Off tours start off around $60. On the higher end, the longer full day guided tours can be $100+ per person (with tours getting closer to +$150).

If you are looking for the convenience, education, and opportunity to see a lot in a short amount of time, then a bus tour is certainly worth the cost.

Is It Worth Taking a Bus Tour in New York?

Bus tours in New York are best for those people that want to be able to see all that the city has to offer in a short amount of time.

While public transport can easily get you from place to place, there is still logistics and timing involved with it all. By joining a bus tour in New York, you will have all of that already taken care of for you.

It is not just the convenience factor for some but also the ability to learn from a local guide and ask questions along the way. If that is important to you, a bus tour can really offer a lot.

On the other hand, if you have several days in the city, it may not make as much sense. Given you will have time to explore by public transport and by foot, there may not be reason to need to see so much in a day.

The more specific tours (food, holiday, movie, etc.) are the exception here as it can be much more beneficial having a guide by your side.

That wraps up an overview to the best New York bus tours. If you have any questions or comments, add them in below.

Also, don’t forget to check out some of the other New York itineraries and guides up on the site (such as the best dinner cruises in NYC ).

Have fun out there and safe travels!

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Travels & Treasures

Review: I Took the Big Bus Tour in New York City and Found this Secret

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.

Table of Contents

The Big Bus Tour in New York

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

Taking the downtown loop of the New York tour bus is a convenient way to see many of New York’s top attractions on your sightseeing date.

The Big Bus Tour’s downtown loop service provides an efficient tour of lower Manhattan’s iconic sites without having to navigate the city’s hectic downtown on foot.

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 on the NY 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, I’ll answer commonly asked questions about the Hop-on Hop-off bus while visiting New York City.

Big Bus Tour NYC Reviews from Google

TL;DR – Get discounts for the best Hop On Hop Off Bus NYC here .

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.

Fortunately, an online account is not needed for the Big Bus Tour. Be sure to select the downtown loop option if you want to focus sightseeing on the downtown area.

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.

While in line, we struck up conversations and exchanged stories, insights, and recommendations for 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 Hop on Hop Off New York City tour here .

How Long is the Big Bus Tour in New York

The round-trip NYC bus tours take 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 NYC Tourist Bus

On the New York tourist bus, they only stop at designated places along the route.

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 Big Bus 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.

Riding the downtown loop is a great way to maximize your time in New York by touring key downtown attractions like the 9/11 Memorial, Wall Street, and the Brooklyn Bridge on the double-decker bus.

You can catch a tour at any one of the following Big Bus New York 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)

Get discounts for the Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour.

Tips and Things to Know Before You Go

The downtown loop of the sightseeing bus in NYC is a popular choice for first-time visitors to New York who want an introductory tour of the city’s most famous downtown sights and landmarks. There is also a bus night tour.

So, expect a line because this city is the most popular tourist destination in the United States .

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 when the tour starts.
• 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.

When we went, travelers were lined up at stop #1 at least an hour before the first departure time 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 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 Bus Tours in New York

Overall, the Manhattan bus tour was a pleasant way to see the 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 while on vacation?!
• 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!

Tanya, a travel writer and content creator who has lived in Chicago for over 30 years, is your go-to local expert for Chicago's hidden treasures. Tanya's deep knowledge of various cities and attractions is acquired through personal exploration, making her articles a treasure trove for travelers and families. She has visited 43 of the 50 United States, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and the UK.

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This is all great information, thank you for sharing! I hadn’t even heard of the Big Bus Tour before this but it seems like a stress free way to get yourself to most of NYC’s big stops. 🙂

It really made the tour of NY incredibly easy, and it is a nice and relaxing ride from lower Manhattan back to stop #1.

10 Five-Star-Rated Attractions For First-Timers Visiting New York City

F irst-time visitors planning a trip to New York City might easily feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of attractions, sights, and experiences NYC has to offer . From cultural landmarks to Broadway shows and immersive tours, New York City has something for everyone, but for tourists who want to make sure their budget and time are spent on top-rated experiences that never fail to leave visitors captivated, some attractions are better than others.

Surprisingly, even the most famous attractions in NYC don't always get five-star reviews. However, for first-timers in the Big Apple seeking only the best, these top-rated attractions in NYC are musts for first-timers in the city. Each of these genuinely has no less than five-star ratings on travel review sites, so tourists know they're going in for some of the best activities in New York City that other visitors have actually given top marks for.

Each of these five-star-rated attractions for first-timers visiting New York City truly has five stars on TripAdvisor . Only those rated five stars have been included in this list to ensure travelers are presented with the best experiences in NYC that other tourists have tried, tested, and loved (and thus given glowing reviews).

The Metropolitan Museum Of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as the Met, is a world unto itself and a highlight of many New York trips. As one of the world's largest and most renowned museums, this institution is filled with over 1.5 million works of art that span over 5,000 years of human history.

The Met is one of the best attractions in NYC; it showcases everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts and Renaissance classics to antique instruments and haute couture creations. Though there are some things everyone should know when visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art, some things are better learned up close and in person.

First-time visitors to New York are sure to enjoy a day of exploring the beauty and history held within the Met's walls.

• Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
• Price: General admission is $30 for adults; $22 for seniors; $17 for students; New York State residents and New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut students can choose their cost of admission
• Opening Hours: 10 AM; Closed on Wednesdays
• Tripadvisor Rating: 5 Stars

Related: 10 Top-Rated Museums In New York City That Should Be On Your List

The World Trade Center Memorial

The World Trade Center Memorial pays a solemn tribute to the events of September 11. The memorial's twin reflecting pools, engraved with the names of the victims, occupy the footprints of the former Twin Towers.

Visitors are often left feeling overwhelmed by their emotions as they take in the sheer size of the memorial and names of all the victims but report it's a rewarding experience that showcases the resilience of the people of New York, America, and the greater human spirit.

• Address/Location: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007
• Price: General Admission starts at $17; free admission on Mondays
• Hours: 8 AM to 8 PM

The Lion King On Broadway

The Lion King on Broadway is among the best experiences in New York City for first-timers. The spectacle is a Tony Awarding-winning musical that transports audiences into the magical world of the beloved Disney animated film with its vibrant costumes, stunning choreography, and unforgettable music.

While there might be some things first-time visitors to a Broadway show should know , guests can just enjoy Simba's epic tale unfold as they're left awestruck by the music and talent on the stage. Performed eight times a week at the Minskoff Theatre, this musical is one of the best shows on Broadway to see and leaves viewers of all ages enthralled.

• Address/Location: 200 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036, at the Minskoff Theatre
• Price: Tickets start at $149
• Run Time: About 2 hours 30 minutes

Related: 10 Theatrical Facts You Probably Didn't Know About New York City's Broadway

The Metropolitan Opera

The Metropolitan Opera is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. First-time visitors to New York City can experience the power and beauty of live performances that showcase renowned singers, breathtaking sets, and awe-inspiring orchestras.

This five-star attraction on Tripadvisor has left visitors from all over the world captivated by its performances. Everyone from opera aficionados to first-time attendees can enjoy an unforgettable evening at the Metropolitan Opera.

• Address/Location: 30 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
• Price: Tickets start at $25

Tour The Most Famous Landmarks In New York City With Experience First Tours

Experience First Tours allows first-time visitors to New York City to immerse themselves in this beautiful city without having to worry about the hassle of logistics, directions, and long lines. This is one of the best tour companies in NYC; the five-star rated tour operator offers various tour packages and itineraries through iconic destinations in the city, such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

From intimate walking tours to full-day bus tours, Experience First Tours has something for everyone. Experienced and knowledgeable guides accompany tourists throughout their tour and provide fascinating insights into the city's rich history and culture.

• Price: From $39 to $129, depending on the tour package
• Tour length: 2 hours to all day; varies by tour package
• Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9 AM to 5 PM

Savor The Best Food In New York With Foods Of New York Tours

Foods of New York is another five-star rated tour in New York City that is perfect for first-time visitors who are eager to taste the greatest dishes the city has to offer. Visitors can take a delicious culinary journey with Foods of New York Tours and discover the city's diverse food scene as they sample delectable treats in iconic neighborhoods, such as Greenwich Village or Chelsea Market.

From gourmet chocolates to mouthwatering pizza, Foods of New York runs some of the best food tours in NYC; it offers eight different food excursions, each of which is a grub lover's paradise and a unique way to explore the city's gastronomic delights.

• Address: 71 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
• Price: Starts at $79 and varies by tour package
• Tour length: About 3 hours

Related: Flavors Of New York State: Discovering 10 Must-Try Cuisines In New York City

Local-Led Guided New York City Tours With Free Tours By Foot

Perhaps one of the best things to do in New York City for first-timers is to let a local lead the way. Free Tours by Foot is a Tripadvisor five-star rated tour group that is perfect for first-time visitors to the Big Apple who are on a budget and eager to discover hidden gems.

Free Tours by Food uniquely allows its guests to choose their own prices as passionate local guides lead visitors through the city. These tours offer a unique and informative exploration of areas such as Grand Central Terminal, SoHo, Harlem, and Brooklyn and give guests a chance to learn about the city's history, architecture, and culture.

• Price: No upfront cost; visitors can choose what to pay at the end of the tour
• Tour length: About 2 hours

Horse Carriage Rides In New York City Through Central Park

NYC Horse Carriage Rides is a family-owned business that allows its guests the chance to experience the charm of New York City with a nostalgic horse carriage ride through Central Park. These iconic rides offer a romantic and leisurely way to explore the park's lush greenery, picturesque bridges, and famous landmarks.

Visitors can soak in the beauty of their surroundings and create lasting memories of this quintessential New York experience.

• Address/Location: 7th Ave & Central Park S, New York, NY 10019
• Price: Starts at $119 per group
• Opening Hours: Monday through Friday: 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM; Sunday through Saturday: 8 AM to 11:30 PM

A Slice Of Brooklyn Bus Tours In New York City

For those looking to explore the borough of Brooklyn, A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours provides an immersive touring experience. A five-star rated attraction on Tripadvisor, this tour leads guests through Brooklyn's iconic landmarks and allows them to sample mouthwatering local delights.

Through this tour, visitors can get a taste of Brooklyn's unique activities, attractions, culture, and history and even see famous movie locations in NYC.

• Address: 2036 61st St, Brooklyn, NY 11204
• Price: Starts at $67 and varies by package
• Tour length: About 4 hours and 30 minutes

Classic Harbor Line Boat Tours In New York City

For first-time visitors who are eager to admire New York City's stunning skyline from a waterway tour , Classic Harbor Line offers unparalleled views of the city, including iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Visitors can step aboard Classic Harbor Line's elegant and classic yachts and take a cruise led by a knowledgeable crew that is excited to share fascinating stories about New York's rich history. Whether it's a sunset sail or a wine-tasting cruise, Classic Harbor Line provides five-star rated voyages through New York City's historic waterways.

• Address: Address: 62 Chelsea Piers Pier 62, New York, NY 10011
• Price: Starts at $48 and varies by package
• Tour length: 1 hour to 4 hours, depending on the package

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Daredevils now riding a new wave by standing on top of nyc buses in twist on deadly subway surfing trend .

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These daredevils are riding a new wave.  

Adrenaline junkies are now surfing atop Big Apple buses barreling down major thoroughfares — a new twist on the deadly transit trend of surfing subway cars.

One audacious roof rider captured their illegal trip on an M15 articulated bus, the streetscape blurring past as the steel behemoth hurtled down Second Avenue in Manhattan’s Murray Hill neighborhood, video footage shared on Instagram this week showed. 

Another vertigo-inducing clip posted on X in February showed a hoodie-clad youth crouching down on the roof of a different articulated bus — before hopping on to a different section of the vehicle and ducking beneath an electric cable line.  

“If there’s something ridiculous, foolhardy and dangerous, teens will figure out how to do it,” straphanger Pamelda Candusso Hirsch, 71, griped to The Post. 

“They could forever ruin so many lives.” 

Mustapha Sawaneh, who has driven MTA buses along crosstown routes for six years, warned the brazen surfers who are taking their stunts from the city’s underground to the streets face more “unpredictable” and dangerous terrain. 

“If a cab cuts in front of you, you have to slam on the breaks. If someone steps out on the street, you have to swerve the bus,” Sawaneh, 26, said.

What is the NYC MTA Bus President Frankie Annicaro doing about bus surfing?🤔⁦ @MTA ⁩ ⁦ @mtaoig ⁩ ⁦ @NYCTSubway ⁩ ⁦ @NYCTBus ⁩ ⁦ @nypost ⁩ ⁦ @NYDailyNews ⁩ ⁦ @fox5ny ⁩ ⁦ @ABC7NY ⁩ ⁦ @CBSNews ⁩ ⁦ @NBCNews ⁩ ⁦ @progressiveact ⁩ pic.twitter.com/KhRTDdf5po — Jonathan Eli (@EJonatha4766004) February 14, 2024

“If you’re [subway] surfing you can see a train curve ahead, what’s coming up [but] when you’re bus surfing you don’t know what’s going to happen.” 

Several bus drivers suspected the reckless riders were somehow scampering aboard their vehicles while they were parked during their 10-minute breaks, or even a 30-second stop at a red light. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by This Is NYC (@_thisisnyc_)

“Operators are going to need to check [the top of buses] before we head out,” said veteran operator Jason Williams, 40.

He warned it’s impossible to tell from the driver’s seat whether their bus has a roof-level stowaway “unless someone tells you, and then it might be too late.” 

New York City and state officials have attempted to crack down on the scourge of transit surfers, which they say has become more common among teens who are trying to copy what they see on TikTok and Instagram. 

In September, the Adams administration and the MTA deployed a public service campaign with ads and announcements warning about the dangers of subway surfing. 

At least two people have been killed riding outside of trains this year, including 14-year-old Alam Reyes , who was killed after he was thrown from the top of a southbound F train in Brooklyn. 

Last year, at least five teens were killed while subway surfing. 

Dave Steckel, an MTA spokesman, said the agency was investigating the incidents.

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