tourist bus in new york city

Protect Your Trip »

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.

Getty Images

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

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best florence tours.

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 17, 2024

The Best Hard-sided Luggage Picks

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

The Best Yellowstone National Park Tours

John Rodwan April 17, 2024

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of New York for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy New York without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

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 .

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

An email you’ll actually love

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).

Want to see New York by bike?

The best bike tours in NYC

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

From a breezy ride down the idyllic Brooklyn waterfront to a cruise through Central Park, choose the best NYC bike tour for you using our handy guide.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Local Marketing Solutions
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

• Transportation

New York Tourist Bus

If you're looking to maximise your time, and want to easily take in  New York's main monuments , the best idea is to take the New York Tourist Bus. Panoramic views, commentary, and much more!

The route takes in Downtown, Midtown and Uptown , as well as the mythical Times Square . You can get on and off the bus as many times as you like, exploring the different attractions over the course of more than 25 stops.

Most Important Stops

• Empire State Building
• Wall Street
• Times Square
• Brooklyn Bridge
• Madison Square Garden
• Little Italy
• Statue of Liberty
• Central Park

Timetable and Frequency

The timetable of the bus varies depending on the route and time of year:

• Red line  (Downtown Tour) : daily every 15-20 minutes from 8 am to 6 pm (April to October) and from 8 am to 5 pm (November to March). The complete route takes 1 hour and a half. 
• Blue line  (Uptown Tour) : daily every 15-20 minutes from 9 am to 6 pm (April to October) and from 9am to 5 pm (November to March).  The complete route takes 1 hour and a half. 
• Green line  (Harlem Tour) : daily departures every hour from 10 am to 3 pm. The complete route takes 70 minutes.
• Purple line  ( Brooklyn Tour) : daily departures every hour from 10 am to 3 pm. The complete route takes 1 hour and a half. 
• Yellow line  (Night Tour) : daily every 30 minutes from 7 pm to 9 pm (April to October) and from 6 pm to 8 pm (November to March). The complete route takes 1 hour and a half. 

The best option would be to book your ticket for the New York Tourist Bus ahead of time. You can buy your ticket on our website by clicking on the link below:

New York Hop On Hop Off Bus

You may also be interested in

The MetroCard is a thin plastic rechargeable card used to pay the different types of public transportation in New York City: buses and subway.

How to Save

As well as reserving your flight and hotel ahead of time, there are many ways to save money in New York. Figure out how, and make the most of your budget.

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. 

CitySights NY Hop-On, Hop-Off Tours

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

Double-Decker Bus Tours in NYC

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

A One-Day Itinerary for Visiting New York City

The Top 20 Things to Do in Chicago

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

18 Best Things to Do as a Solo Traveler in NYC

Your Trip to New York State: The Complete Guide

How to Get Around NYC Without Using the Subway

The Best Time to Visit New York City

5 Best NYC Film Tours

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].

• new york city

My ‘Tourist’s Guide’ to Riding the Bus in New York City!

• Posted by by Elle-Rose
• Updated: October 26, 2023
• 5 minute read

Most tourists in NYC either get around by taxi or the Subway – but I much prefer the bus!

Using the bus is my favorite way to get around NYC.

But I used to be a little intimidated by the bus network (even though I had been using the Subway for years!). There was just something about NYC buses that seemed a little confusing!

Well, if you’re also visiting NYC soon, you might be wondering if the bus system is any good, and (importantly) how it all works. Hopefully, in this blog post, I can tell you! And put your mind at ease soy ou can use the bus confidently!

Navigating a new city’s public transportation can be a little scary and intimidating, but I promise you, the bus system in NYC is super easy.

And there are some big advantages to taking the bus over the Subway or a taxi too! Some of the main advantages are:

• The bus is much much cheaper than a taxi.
• The bus involves a lot less steps than the subway (useful for people with accessibility issues).
• NYC buses have phone charging points! This is seriously underrated – and I always appreciate it if my phone is running low on battery.
• You don’t lose WiFi or signal on the bus, meaning you can still make calls or stream videos, etc.
• On the bus, you can still enjoy views of the city! You’ll have lovely bug windows to look out of (which the subway definitely lacks!).
• The bus can often drop you much closer to your destination than the Subway.

Now that I’ve, hopefully, convinced you of the advantages to taking the bus – this blog post will tell you everything you need to know, including how it all works, how to pay, and other tips.

1. Planning Your Route

The first thing you’ll want to do when using the bus in NYC, is planning your route.

There are a few ways to do this (which I’ve listed below) but my fool-proof method is definitely Google Maps. And that’s the method I would recommend above all others . Google Maps just makes it super easy, and gives you all the info you need (along with live tracking along your journey).

Google Maps : This is my preferred way of route planning. You can easily use Google Maps to find directions and real-time bus arrivals. Just enter your destination, select the public transportation option, and it will provide you with bus routes and schedules. It can even direct you to the nearest bus stop too.

MTA Bus Time : Visit the MTA website or download the Bus Time app. It provides real-time bus tracking and schedules for every route, making it easy to plan your journey.

CityMapper: CityMapper is another app you can use (works in a similar way to Google Maps) to help you find out which bus routes are nearby, and when they’re scheduled. It’ll also give you total journey ETAs.

Official Maps : This is a little old-school, but you could always grab a paper map from a subway station or a visitor center to help you get oriented and see the bus routes.

Tip: I’ve found that once you figured out the best bus routes near to your hotel / accommodation – it only gets easier. Memorize the most helpful bus route for your hotel, and then you know which to look out for.

2. Bus Stops and Identification

NYC bus stops are typically marked with a green and white sign that includes the bus route numbers, a map of the route, and the direction of travel.

Sometimes there will be seating, and a little shelter area, sometimes it’ll just be a pole with a sign (like the example below).

Here’s what to look for:

• Bus Number : Check the route number to make sure it’s the one you need.
• Direction : Make sure you’re waiting on the correct side of the street for the direction you want to travel. Using one of the apps above should help with this!
• Schedules : While the official schedules are handy, remember that buses may arrive a little early or late, so use real-time tracking whenever possible.

3. Paying the Fare

One of the things I was most nervous about when I first started using NYC buses, was knowing how to pay.

Well hopefully, if you’re like me, this next section will help put your mind at ease.

The easiest way to pay on a New York City bus is by using your MetroCard (which can be purchased at subway stations, kiosks, and some convenience stores). You’ll likely buy one of these at the start of your vacation / trip to NYC because it is used on the Subway too.

You can also pay by exact cash (but this can be a little tricky), especially as coins and cash are becoming less frequently used.

Here’s how to pay your fare, depending on the method:

• MetroCard or Unlimited Ride MetroCard : If you have a MetroCard, simply dip it in the little Metrocard slot by the driver’s seat, when you board the bus. There is a little image by the Metrocard slot that instructs you which way to dip the card too, so that’s nice and easy.
• Exact Fare : If you don’t have a MetroCard, you can also pay in exact change when boarding the bus. Bus drivers do not provide change, so you’ll want to have as close to the exact amount as possible. You drop the coins into the change area, again by the driver’s seat.

4. Boarding the Bus

Boarding the bus is pretty easy, and not really any different from boarding the bus in any other location. But I’ll outline a few bits of advice below – just in case you need it!

• Queue Up : Form a line behind the designated bus stop sign. Wait patiently for passengers to exit before boarding, but most passengers with disembark from the back doors – so this isn’t always an issue.
• Show Your Card or Pay : If you have a MetroCard, dip it into the card reader by the bus’s entrance, where the driver sits. If you’re paying with cash, drop your exact fare into the farebox next to the driver.
• Take a Seat : Find an available seat or hold on to a handrail if the bus is crowded.

5. Requesting a Stop

Some NYC city buses show the live locations on a little screen in the center of the bus. So if you’re nervous about missing your stop, be sure to sit where can view this screen. I’ve included a photo of it below.

Bear in mind, NYC buses will not always stop at every bus stop along the route. To request a stop, and ensure it stops, follow these steps:

• Pull the Cord or Press the Strip : When your stop is approaching, pull the cord or press the stop request strip located near the windows. This will signal the driver to stop at the next designated bus stop.

6. Exiting the Bus

When the bus arrives at your desired stop, here’s what you should do:

• Exit through the Rear Door : In many NYC buses, passengers exit through the rear door to speed up boarding. This bit did confuse me a little at first, but you have to press the rear door with the palm of your hand to open it.
• If the driver doesn’t open the rear door, politely shout “Rear door please” to remind them. This has happened to me once or twice, and you just have to shout and ask, otherwise they’ll drive off and you’ll miss the stop!
• Check for Personal Belongings : Obviously, ensure you have all your personal belongings with you before leaving the bus – especially if you’ve been taking advantage of their USB phone charging ports!

7. Additional Tips for taking the bus in NYC

There are just a few other things it’s worth knowing before you board a bus in NYC. Juse etiquette-type stuff that’s it’s worth remembering.

• Peak Hours : Buses can get crowded during rush hours (approximately 7 AM to 9 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM), so plan accordingly. If you’re not OK with crowds and busy buses – then it might be worth avoiding them during these times.
• Express Buses : NYC has something called ‘express bus routes’ – these are quicker than other buses, but they also require an additional fare. Be sure to check before boarding an express bus.
• Bus Etiquette : Remember to offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers and keep your conversations at a reasonable volume. Don’t play music via your speakers either – always have headphone with you.

Let me know if you’ve got any questions or if I can help!

Elle-Rose is the owner and editor of The World and Then Some! She has been a professional travel writer for over 12 years, writing for many different publications, including this one. Elle-Rose is a city break expert, and she specializes in popular locations such as NYC, London, Las Vegas and Dubai, regularly visiting to stay on top of new attractions, restaurants and hotels. Elle-Rose is super active on TikTok (@theworldandthensome), and loves filming video content in the cities she visits - so go and say hello!

Post navigation

How to Ride the Staten Island Ferry in NYC: My Step-By-Step Guide (With Photos!)

NYC's SeaGlass Carousel Might be the Cutest Hidden Gem in the City!

You might also like.

• Christmas travel

17 Restaurants for the Perfect Christmas Eve Dinner in NYC…

• November 15, 2023
• 9 minute read

Wondering What to Wear to a Broadway Show? Here Are Our Top Tips (With Photos!)

• September 22, 2022

How Big is Central Park? Here’s Everything You Need to Know!

• November 28, 2022
• 3 minute read

• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Sample Sales
• Things to Do
• Trip Reports
• Print NYC Guide
• NYC Coupons
• NYC on a Budget
• Free in NYC

New York City Events April

Nyc concerts shows april.

• Things To Do in New York in April
• Events & Holidays
• + Add Event
• +Get Listed

New York City Bus Tours

Uptown, downtown, night lights, brooklyn, big bus tours, nyc bus night tour.

• NYC Night Bus Tour - From Times Square to the Brooklyn Bridge, see our city wink and twinkle right at you.
• NY Night Bus Tour - 4 hrs, Tues/Thurs/Sat eves. Includes a short nighttime stroll on the High Line, then hop on a bus for a ride through Times Square, Rockefeller Center, SoHo, Chinatown and short walk through Grand Central.

Hop On Hop Off Buses

Stress free safe nyc group transportation, group transportation in nyc with national charter bus, discount new york city bus tours.

• NYC Sightseeing Pass – Unlimited Hop on Hop off Buses – valid for the whole duration of day passes or 72hours in Flex Products. Brooklyn Hop on Hop off Tour and Night Tour are also available
• New York Pass – includes a Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tours 2 Day Pass
• New York Build Your Own and Explorer Pass – offers bus tours as an attraction choice

New York City Bus Tour Overview

Bus tour advantages.

• NYC bus tours give you a nice overview of NYC
• Include day and night outdoor NYC bus tours and cover parts of the City you may not see otherwise
• Great if with people who cannot walk for many hours
• Cost of many attractions are included with a NYC Bus Tour pass

Bus Tour Disadvantages

• Expensive way to get around the city, if not seeing a lot of attractions with admission prices
• Tour guide knowledge is not guaranteed
• Does not go through Central Park
• After tour, still have to take taxis or learn how to use the subway

Bus Tour Reviews

Great experience on the citysights bus tour, how are you going to tour new york city.

• All New York City Tours
• NYC Boat Tour Cruises
• Helicopter Tours
• Walking Tours
• NYC One Day Tours
• Shopping Tours
• Movie and Television Tours
• NYC Nightlife Tours
• 9-11 Memorial Museum Tours
• Statue of Liberty Tours
• NYC Lights Tours
• Holiday Lights Tours

Best NYC Attractions Pass for Tours

Full disclosure.

• New York City Bus Tour

RELATED ARTICLES

Nyc restaurant week * jan 16-feb 4, 2024, free things to do in new york city, broadway week * jan 16-feb 4, 2024, site sponsors, nyc group transportation – taking the stress out, site sponsorship, recent posts, top 50+ must-do new york city events may 2024 | tours..., nyc concerts shows may 2024 | music calendar live events, the wallace hotel hidden gem near new york marathon finish line, new york sightseeing pass | price increase soon buy now, parts of fashion-curating in focus, hotel deals, july 4th in new york city fireworks, best new york marathon hotels, best us tennis open hotels, romantic new york city hotels, boutique hotels in times square, new york mets schedule & tickets, new york yankees tickets, brooklyn nets tickets schedule, new york rangers tickets 2023-24, winter in nyc, radio city christmas spectacular with rockettes, rockefeller center christmas tree lighting 2023.

• Christmas in New York City

New York City Events December 2023

New york city events january 2024, popular nyc events, new york knicks tickets and schedule 2023-24, volleyball in new york city, latest news, top 50+ must-do new york city events may 2024 | tours & things to do, a taste of ireland – celebrating the spirit of the emerald isle off-broadway, nyc concerts shows february | music calendar live events, nyc off-broadway week winter | tickets on sale, nyc holidays.

• NYC Broadway Week
• NYC Restaurant Week
• Valentines Day in New York City
• Mother’s Day
• Memorial Day NYC
• July 4th NYC
• US Tennis Open
• Labor Day NYC
• Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
• Thanksgiving Day & Parade
• Thanksgiving Parade Hotel
• Thanksgiving Dinner
• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
• New Years Eve
• Ball Drop New Years Eve NYC Hotels

NYC Things to Do

• Things to Do in NYC
• Sample Vacations

Welcome to the NYC Insider Guide . Please enjoy our Insider tips, free maps, where to spend and save your money, secret ways of getting discounts and most importantly, what to book NOW so you don’t miss out! - All the Best, Melissa

© 2008-2024 NYC INSIDER GUIDE , LTD ™. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. CONTENT PROTECTED BY DMCA.

• NYC Travel Itineraries
• Advertising
• Site Policies

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

Subscribe to be the first to learn about our new adventures. Sign up today!

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.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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.

Advertisement

Zamboni bus: a nyc tour bus was turned into a zamboni for the nhl playoffs, share this article.

The New York Rangers have hockey fans in New York City buzzing, and as the Rangers take to the ice in Madison Square Garden for their first-round series against the Washington Capitals, fans in the city will be able to see the sights in a special Zamboni-themed tour bus.

The route will take riders from outside Madison Square Garden south on 8th Avenue, loop around New York University and head back north along 5th Avenue past the Flatiron Building and the Empire State Building. The hockey fan route will be available from 5 p.m. ET to 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, April 23rd.

The Zamboni bus will come to Boston later in the playoffs.

Courtesy of ESPN

You can see the full bus route here .

Most Popular

Nfl draft tracker: grading every first-round pick in 2024, mookie betts had an extremely classy response after noticing that lane thomas got hurt on a stolen base, the 13 best songs on taylor swift's the tortured poets department, ranked, ranking the nfl's new uniforms for 2024, from the texans' wild swing to the broncos' pile of garbage, the 10 best available players in round 2 of the 2024 nfl draft, from cooper dejean to payton wilson, 2024 nba mock draft 6.0: projections for stephon castle, zach edey, reed sheppard and more, why do fans boo nfl commissioner roger goodell during the nfl draft.

Please enter an email address.

Thanks for signing up.

Please check your email for a confirmation.

Something went wrong.

NYC's free bus service in each borough to end in 2024

The pilot program will serve around 43,900 daily weekday riders for a period of six to 12 months., by nbc new york staff • published april 22, 2024 • updated on april 23, 2024 at 8:37 am, what to know.

The MTA's free bus service pilot program will come to an end by the end of 2024. The program provided no-fare bus service in one line in each borough of New York City.

• The pilot program was set to serve around 43,900 daily weekday riders for a period of six to 12 months, Gov. Kathy Hochul said previously. The MTA has yet to set a precise end date
• Routes were chosen based on ridership, fare evasion, service adequacy, equity for low-income and economically disadvantaged communities, and access to employment and commercial activity.

Say goodbye to free bus rides in the city.

Despite its popularity with riders, the program was left out of the new state budget.

Get Tri-state area news and weather forecasts to your inbox. Sign up for NBC New York newsletters.

Officials had previously said they were looking to expand the program to 15 more lines throughout the city. That planned expansion would cost about $45 million dollars, according to the MTA.

The pilot program, which started in July 2023, was set to last for a period of six to 12 months, Gov. Kathy Hochul said at the time it launched. It was set to serve around 43,900 daily weekday riders, according to officials, and NYC Public Advocate said the program would save a family of four about $6,000 a year.

The routes included in the program were the Bx18 A/B, B60, M116, Q4 LCL/LTD and the S46/96.

Trump's lawyers will grill ex-tabloid publisher as 1st week of hush money trial testimony wraps

Man mauled to death by dog inside Bronx home; police shoot and kill canine

Routes had been chosen based on ridership, fare evasion, service adequacy, equity for low-income and economically disadvantaged communities, and access to employment and commercial activity.

The MTA has not yet set an exact date when the free bus rides will conclude.

This article tagged under:

New York Scavenger Hunt - Mystery Walk with Pub & Cafe Stops

Getting there.

Duarte Square

Ave. Of Americas, Canal St. and, Grand Street, New York, 10013

Select date and session

No booking fees

Similar Experiences

New york immersive experience - mystery walk with pub & cafe stops, new york city: helicopter sightseeing flight, new york city bus and boat tour, new york exploration game - mystery walk with pub & cafe stops, statue of liberty sunset cruise and new york city sky line, new york city central park bicycle rental, death in new york walking tour, guided walking tour of greenwich village nightlife, electric bike tour of manhattan and the waterfront greenway, central park scooter tour.

Sorry, JavaScript must be enabled to use this web app

I compared a $180 luxury bus to a $46 coach bus, and the expensive option was almost better than flying first-class

• I rode on a $180 luxury bus and a $46 standard coach bus from New York City to Washington, DC.
• The regular bus got me from point A to point B, but there weren't many amenities.
• I was super impressed by the comfortable seats and the attendants on board The Jet.

As somebody who frequently travels between New York City and Washington, DC , I'm thankful for the many transportation options available. 

Traditionally, planes are time savers, trains are the most comfortable , and buses are the most cost-effective. But there's another luxury option: The Jet.

As a true travel nerd, I had to see just how different this $180 bus service was from a traditional $46 FlixBus coach offering. Eleven hours of travel later and a notebook full of pros and cons, here's how the buses stacked up.

The coach bus was almost exactly as I expected it to be.

On the FlixBus, there were two seats on either side of the aisle. But there were a lot more seats, leaving less room in between each row. 

There was really no comparison when it came to comfort and space.

The Jet had three seats in each row with an aisle in the middle, but overall, it had significantly fewer seats than the standard coach. 

Everything was spread out, giving every rider a lot more space.

I had just enough room for my things on the regular coach bus.

The seats on the standard coach bus were moderately sized.

They provided footrests and enough room to fit a backpack under the seat in front of you . 

I couldn't believe how great the seats were on The Jet.

The Jet provided a 45-degree seat recliner and pop-up leg rest. I had enough room to extend my legs without even being close to the chair in front of me, putting some first-class airline seats to shame.

On top of the comfortable cushioning and lumbar support, the seat was designed with technology to help mask any uneasiness on the road. Subtle up-and-down motions gave the illusion of an incredibly smooth ride.

I wish airplane seats would adopt this feature to reduce the movement of unwanted turbulence.

The coach bus didn't have many amenities.

The coach bus provided straightforward service, getting you from point A to point B.

Although there weren't many amenities on board, there were at least convenient trash bags hanging on the aisle seats.

When paying more than $100 for a bus ticket, you hope for a few added perks, and The Jet delivered.

My favorite perk was probably the attendants on board.

They passed out hot towels at the beginning of the ride, served drinks, and cleaned up after us. One attendant even offered Jet blankets to make my journey more comfortable.

The bathroom on the regular bus wasn't fancy, but it was functional.

I appreciated the small restroom on the FlixBus.

The Jet's amenities were exceptional for a bus.

The restroom had a sink, counter space, backlit mirror lights, a full-length mirror, and enough space to change into something cozy for the ride.

We made a rest stop on the regular bus to stretch our legs and refuel.

Although there wasn't food on the FlixBus, we got a 15-minute rest-stop break, where I picked up a bottle of water and a Dunkin' iced coffee to fuel me for the last three hours on the road.

I was offered free drinks and cheap snacks on The Jet.

Each Jet ticket came with two complimentary alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, or seltzer, and a list of food items on sale for as little as $1.

Although both services promised WiFi, only one worked for me.

As a remote worker who enjoys traveling, it's essential that my mode of transportation has internet access.

The buses were supposed to provide WiFi, but FlixBus' service was down during my ride. Thankfully, the power plugs on board worked, and I used my phone's hot spot instead.

I was able to comfortably get some work done on The Jet.

The Jet's WiFi worked, and the service speed was fast enough for my fiancé to stream movies while I uploaded and downloaded significant file-size assets to my computer. 

Trains and planes are still probably the better option for most, but I'll splurge on The Jet if I'm riding the bus.

When comparing the bus services , traffic is the great equalizer. Even though the buses departed on time, the 4 ½-hour trip took more than 5 ½ hours in each direction.

If time is your biggest concern, I'd stick with a train or plane. But if you're a remote worker traveling during the day like me, The Jet may be the best option.

I think it was definitely worth the price tag . The fantastic service, luxurious seats, and strong internet connection made it the clear travel winner.

Correction: August 7, 2023 — An earlier version of this story misstated the number of seats in each row on the Jet bus. There are three, not four. 

This story was originally published in August 2023 and most recently updated on April 18, 2024.

• Main content

Officials: Bus driver, students hurt after charter buses crash on I-85 in Gaston County

The crash happened on i-85 north near the east ozark avenue exit..

GASTONIA, N.C. (WBTV) - Two charter buses carrying a total of about 85 children were involved in a crash on I-85 in Gaston County on Friday morning, the Gastonia Police Department said.

Officials said the crash was reported around 9:40 a.m. on the northbound side near the exit to East Ozark Avenue.

Police said that one of the buses left the roadway and ran into the woods during the crash. The driver of that bus was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Several students were also taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

The buses were carrying approximately 85 students from Gettys Middle School in Easley, S.C., to Carowinds for a field trip.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by WBTV News (@wbtv_news)

The NC Department of Transportation said one lane is closed in the area.

This remains a developing story.

Download the free WBTV News app for updates and breaking news.

Watch continuous news coverage here:

Copyright 2024 WBTV. All rights reserved.

Third bomb threat in two days reported at Carolina Forest High School, HCS says

Police chief among 10 arrested in Horry County prostitution sting

First round of players announced for Myrtle Beach Classic

New York man charged after Horry County road rage shooting

5 arrested during drug bust executed at Florence home

Latest news.

Medical examiner releases findings in North Myrtle Beach murder investigation

Police investigating shooting at Loris-area gas station

Passenger killed in Galivants Ferry crash identified

‘we got this wrong’: meta acknowledges misinformation spread by ai about carolina forest high school threats.

• WEATHER ALERT High Surf Advisory Full Story
• WEATHER ALERT High Wind Warning Full Story

Venice implements new access fees for day-trippers | What to know about the new system

The waterfront city is popular for Piazza San Marco, canals and bridges.

VENICE, Italy -- Peak summer travel season is fast approaching, and some cities abroad have already implemented fees in an attempt to protect popular destinations from potential damage from increased tourism.

Bustling European cities from Barcelona to Amsterdam that get flooded with tourists, especially at historical hotspots during the high season, have used tourist taxes to help raise revenue without taxing local citizens.

Now, the city of bridges is following in the footsteps of Spain, Greece and Germany, which have all utilized a similar fee-based approach, testing a new entry fee for any visitors who come to Venice just for the day.

Earlier this year, the coastal city, known for it's lagoon, hand-blown glass and close proximity to the heart of Italy's popular Prosecco region, announced a new reservation system that would charge day trippers 5 euros to enter and enjoy Venice.

With nearly 40,000 visitors on average per day -- nearly double the city's population -- local authorities hope this move will help protect the UNESCO World Heritage Site from the influx of tourists.

Starting Thursday, travelers can download an app to pay and attain a QR code, which will be checked by inspectors to enter the city as a visitor. If someone traveling for the day in Venice is caught without the code, they may face a fine of up to 300 euros.

"It is not a revolution, but the first step of a path that regulates the access of daily visitors. An experiment that aims to improve the liveability of the city, who lives there and who works there. We will carry it forward with great humility and with the awareness that there may be problems," Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said in a statement on X regarding the announcement.

"The margins of error are wide, but we are ready, with humility and courage, to make all the changes that will serve to improve the procedure. Venice is the first city in the world to implement this path, which can be an example for other fragile and delicate cities that must be safeguarded," he continued.

Simone Venturini, Venice city councilor for tourism, told ABC News that the smart control center is within the most important part of the city -- Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark's Square.

"Authorities will use the new QR codes, plus cell phone data and the roughly 700 cameras around Venice to track and potentially regulate visitors," he explained. "We are switching to action after 60 years of only debate... our ultimate goal is to find a new balance between the needs of the residents and the needs of tourists."

Venturini told ABC News local officials had "a lot of discussion" with leaders in other cities who have worked to combat overtourism, including Amsterdam, Barcelona and Kyoto.

"We are talking together just to find the solution," he said.

Related Topics

• U.S. & WORLD

Las Vegas transforming through iconic musical residencies

$2.5 billion approved for high-speed rail line between SoCal, Vegas

Lunar New Year celebrations kick off at Disney California Adventure

From pizza to art: The generous act behind SF billboard

Top stories.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrations to continue at UCLA Friday

Ricky Martin to headline 2024 LA Pride in the Park festival

• 13 minutes ago

Police: OC tenant fatally shoots apartment manager, then kills himself

Boy with autism found locked makeshift jail cell: Nevada police report

• 2 hours ago

Tesla laying off 3,300 employees in CA

Mother of 2 recovering from random shooting at IE gas station

Metro declares public safety emergency, bus driver barriers approved

• 3 hours ago

Ex-employee used AI to create racist rant in principal's voice: police

• 23 minutes ago