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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:

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Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

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

Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

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. 

THE RIDE New York 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.

New York Bus Night Tour

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. 

Sex and the City Hotspots Tour

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!

Brooklyn, Bronx and Queens Coach Tour

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 .

Birthplace of Hip Hop Tour - Harlem & The Bronx

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!

Superhero Film Tour of New York

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.

Sunday Harlem Gospel Guided Tour

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. 

Gossip Girl Bus Sites Tour

9.  Gossip Girl Bus Sites Tour

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

The Sopranos Filming Locations Bus Tour

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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The 5 Best NYC Bus Tours for 2024

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

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

Big Bus Tours

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

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

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

Check prices & availability on:

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

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

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

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

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

Price: From $66 Duration: 3.5 hours

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

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

USA Guided Tours – Discover NY Tour

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

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

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

Hush Hip Hop Tours – Birthplace of Hip Hop

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

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

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

Check prices & availability on:  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Viator Experience Awards 2023: Top 20 for the USA

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

Tripadvisor Reviews

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

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

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

Recommended NYC Tours

From our blogs, a tour guide’s new york city.

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

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Holiday Lights Christmas New York City Sightseeing Tour

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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)

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Technologically advanced party-bubble ! Perfect & wonderful.

BroadwayWorld logo

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

Vicky G. (Tonyrefail, UK)

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

Group Tour Magazine logo

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.

New York Post logo

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.

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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

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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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Big Bus Tour - New York

Photo of Big Bus Tour - New York - New York, NY, US. My grandson on the bus. Check out the lovely seat behind him.

Review Highlights

Maria R.

“ John Harkins was the tour guide - absolutely wonderful - a big reason we enjoyed the tour. ” in 8 reviews

big-bus-tour-new-york-new-york photo aWJolwEY0fcU15DMibCcLw

“ We took the Downtown Loop and Aaron provided great information mixed with comedy. ” in 19 reviews

Dennis U.

“ I strongly believe it is one of the best deals in town for tours and is a must for first time visitors of Manhattan . ” in 33 reviews

Location & Hours

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New York, NY 10156

Theater District, Midtown West

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The open-top Big Bus sightseeing tour is the most enjoyable and convenient way to see New York, where you will take in the world famous landmarks; from the inspiring Statue of Liberty to the dramatic Empire State Building. Throughout the tour, you can learn about the city's history from our entertaining and informative commentary. You can hop-on and hop-off at any of the 30+ Big Bus stops to explore and visit NYC's tourist attractions such as the American Museum of Natural History and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. There are three ticket types to choose from, allowing you to explore the sights of New York in several neighborhoods spanning Downtown, Midtown and Uptown at your own leisure. Present your printed or smartphone e-tickets to board the bus at any one of our Big Bus stops - travelling with us is easy! New York is one of the most thrilling and dynamic cities in the world and taking the Big Bus tour of this multi-faceted city will let you experience all it has to offer. Big Bus Tours operates tours in cities across the world and we're committed to providing you with fantastic customer service; all the way from purchase through to your open-top sightseeing experience. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Do the tours take longer during the workweek since there is more traffic? Which days are the least busiest? During the week or on the weekend? How is the night tour?

Yes, traffic is lighter on weekends , but ridership is heavier..night tour 90 min

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Overall rating

750 reviews

Photo of Elizabeth C.

Great way to see an overview of the city and get an idea of what you want to take more time on. They have moved away from human tour guides though and that was a huge bummer. At some points there was too much static to even hear the words, so the learning aspect was greatly diminished. For the cost we paid, I really felt gipped that there were no human guides. The people helping you get on the bus were also rude. We purchased online, which means you have to get scanned by someone, then they hand you a PAPER RECEIPT that you must have to get back on the bus. This means if you buy a two day ticket, you better not lose the paper, because the qr code cant be scanned again. The bus was clean, we felt safe, the stops were good. I was just very disappointed in the human element.

Photo of Jamie W.

Several years ago we got the hip on hip off pass and were very happy with them. Last week we had the opposite experience. Very limited route, rude employees and you cannot ride the bus all the way around. Every bus we got on would stop halfway, then kick everyone out. You had a choice to wait 20 minutes for another bus or walk to another stop. Save your money and take the subway.

Photo of Julie M.

It was raining so we thought this would be a nice overview of the city. We were told to get on a bus that was fully wrapped (including windows) with an advertisement. The windows were fogged over and when I asked if they could turn the vents on we were told "No because it will mess up the wrap." So we spent $80 each to ride around for 2 hours and not be able to see anything. Worst "tour" of my life. I will be reporting them to BBB. Please if you have a bad experience also, report it. That is the only way to try and get things better for the next person.

Photo of Chris M.

Imagine taking a tour bus without a tour guide. And they oversell the seats so you aren't guaranteed to get one. All for the low low price of $80 a person!

Photo of Abraham S.

The reviews suggest a helpful/knowledgeable guide. It was basically public transportation with an awful audio tour. They refused to refund after I got off after just 1 stop. You could see that NO one on the bus was having a good time.

Photo of John M.

Worst tour I have been on in a long time the audio was awful and the information was few and far between

Photo of John R.

I have been in and out of the city for many, many, years, but have never done a bus tour. With visitors joining from out of town, it was time to give it a try! Here are some pluses and minuses for the tour and route: 1. It does get pricey for a lot of people. It depends on how many stops you are going to make and what the trade-offs are for other options. This, you need to figure out and use your judgement on. 2. The tour people are generally friendly and available. However, the tour narration is 100% through ear buds and though they are "free" they are awful. Bring your own wired buds or headphones. 3. The narration is pretty brief. You are not going to learn a lot about the city, but you might pick up on some interesting notes like I did. 4. No, you do NOT want to be on the bus on the lower level. If you do that, this is just an uncomfortable bus ride. Do this on a good weather day and wait as long as you need to get on top. Doing this on a pleasant weather day in August was not an issue getting on the top. 5. Being on top of the bus in the open is really what the tour is all about. Enjoying great weather, seeing the city from a new angle, these were worth the price alone. 6. The stops sound more interesting than they are. If you are a tourist without knowing the city, you WILL be disappointed. If you know the city, understand where the stops are, and have an idea of what you want to see in the area which might be different from what they are labeled, this could be a great tour for you!

Photo of Dustin C.

Well, not what I expected, but not sure what other options were available. We wanted to get a tour around the city, and I'd say we got on a bus that went around to most of the spots, but didn't really get much of a tour. It's a prerecorded message that highlights a few of the main attractions. I've been on other on/off buses that there is an actual Tour guide, much more valuable and interesting/interactive and informative. However, this was fine to go around the two loops they offer. We paid online and got a 10% discount. To find out, if we would have purchased from one of the people hanging out at a stop, it would have been 15% discount. With so many of the salespeople around, I felt more secure buying online. Overall, it was fine to get a ride and ability to hop on and off at their stops. Was it more than it should be, for what you get? I think so. So, it was average. Finally, 1 day option is probably good enough. And, check out the top of each bus. We got on one and it was a quarter covered, which is fine on a sunny or rainy day. But if you are sitting right behind it, it prohibits you from seeing ahead of you or around.

Book online, save 10%, book by salesperson save 15%

Book online, save 10%, book by salesperson save 15%

Hope statue

Hope statue

Photo of Flora H.

Note: it's cheaper to buy tickets in person than online (10% discount online, 15% discount in person). There is a representative at every bus stop to do so (I wasn't sure there would be as we were getting on at the flatiron stop, but there was). If you buy the uptown/downtown tours (classic package) you'll need to switch buses in Times Square. One day tickets are good for 24 hours from when you first activate them. This was a great way to see the city. You definitely need to sit on the top so make sure to pick a good weather day. There are headsets and commentary which are okay - I wouldn't really say they qualify this as a "tour" - it's just a bus ride around the city. We didn't take advantage of the hop on/hop off option (honestly it would be easier to walk or take the subway and we didn't want to lose our spot on the top of the bus). It was kind of cool going through the times square foot traffic from atop the bus (crazy perspective of how many people there actually are) and we actually got a glimpse of Ryan Seacrest on the podium practicing for NYE (it was the day before). It's kind of expensive for what it is, but taking a car around the city would cost much much more. A great thing to do when you have out of town friends visiting!

Photo of Joseph B.

Having lived in the city for over a decade in the past -- but visiting the city with our kids for their first time -- when it was recommended we do a double-decker bus tour, it sounded like a brilliant idea. Other folks do it and have a good time, so my initial hesitation was clearly just that of being an elitist crank, you know? $220 spent, plans made. The experience is that of a "tick the box" / "I saw a thing" variety. $220 to sit miserably in traffic, rumbling impersonally past ubiquitous sights with nothing more than a canned recording to listen to via your headset (no vibrant tour guide personality to engage the passengers and distract them from the agony). While some folks seem to use the bus as a hop on/off service, do yourself a favor and just ride the subway and/or city bus. Experience the place you're visiting by walking and riding amongst New Yorkers, planning out exactly what matters most to you to experience. The city is best seen on foot, as everyone knows, and while you might not see everything you would on the impersonal $220 Tourist Hell Bus, you'll have better stories, a better understanding of the city you're visiting, and you'll save time by not having to write a Yelp review. Ciao.

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new york tour by bus

Review: The Big Bus Tour in New York City

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

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

The Big Bus Tour in New York

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

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

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

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

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

Google Reviews

Why take the big bus tour in new york.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Much is the Big Bus Tour in New York

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

Get discounts for the Big Bus Tour NYC  here .

How Long is the Big Bus Tour in New York

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

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

Are There Toilets on the Big Bus

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

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

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

How Does the Big Bus Tour Work in New York City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Catch the Big Bus Tour in New York City

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

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

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

Big Bus NYC Red Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big Bus NYC Blue Route

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

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

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

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

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

Tips and Things to Know Before You Go

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts About the Big Bus Tour in New York City

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

Some other advantages of seeing the city by bus include:

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

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

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

Happy Travels!

view of new york from tour bus

Watch CBS News

"Elsbeth" star Carrie Preston discusses new show on Tea Around Town tour of New York City

By Kristie Keleshian

April 4, 2024 / 7:33 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK -- The new CBS original series "Elsbeth," starring Carrie Preston, returns Thursday night.

CBS New York's Kristie Keleshian took a Tea Around Town bus tour of New York City with Preston to talk about the show.

The star plays attorney-turned-sharp detective Elsbeth Tascioni, who first appeared on "The Good Wife" and "The Good Fight."

"Elsbeth is enamored of New York City. She couldn't wait to move here. She's the dream tourist. So we're on this tour bus, we're gonna go around and see all the great sights," Preston said.

In her spinoff series that debuted on Feb. 29 , Elsbeth leaves her successful legal career in Chicago for investigative work alongside the NYPD. Through her quirkiness and outlandish observations, she gets the job done better than anyone else.

"Sometimes it feels like shows have gotten an over-inflated sense of self," said Robert King, "Elsbeth" co-creator and executive producer.

"That is what it's meant to be, a bit of a respite for the ugliness that one sometimes sees in the world and in the news, and this is a character having fun and finding justice," said Michelle King, "Elsbeth" co-creator and executive producer.

Michelle and Robert King and producer and showrunner Jonathan Tolins joined in on the ride around New York City landmarks, just as newcomer Elsbeth does in the series.

"She just goes a little bit further and actually speaks the truth around, in this case, New Yorkers who ... could use to have their balloon popped every once in a while," Tolins said.

Elsbeth is an unconventionally sharp leading lady in a show that's a love letter to New York City itself, leaving viewers with a mystery solved and a good laugh.

"People are experiencing a lot of challenges in the world that we live in right now, and I think when people tune into our show, they'll be able to let go of those things," Preston said.

"Elsbeth" returns Thursday with back-to-back episodes at 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. on CBS.

Keegan-Michael Key, Blair Underwood and Jesse Tyler Ferguson are just some of the guest stars featured in upcoming episodes.

"Elsbeth" is also streaming on Paramount+.

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new york tour by bus

Olivia Rodrigo Is Bringing Her ‘GUTS’ World Tour Bus Experience To NYC This Weekend

Coinciding with Rodrigo's tour dates at MSG comes a special immersive tour bus experience!

Corey Fuller

Mega pop-rock star and self proclaimed “All-American B*tch” Olivia Rodrigo is heading to New York City this weekend to kick off her string of 4 sold out tour dates at Madison Square Garden!

After the smashing success of her October 2023 pop-up shop here in NYC , she’s once again bringing an immersive pop-up experience for fans to check out during her tour stops!

The ‘GUTS’ Tour Bus Experience will feature plenty of Insta-worthy photo opps , tour merchandise available for purchase , and even freebies inspired by the singer’s hit album !

View this post on Instagram A post shared by livies hq ❤️ (@livieshq)

Fans will be able to get up close and personal with Olivia’s inspirations behind the album…with even iconic nods to the vintage VHS tapes on the shelf from “Making the Bed” and past tour outfits she wore during the SOUR Tour .

Plus, the bus is in collaboration with American Express and Sony LinkBuds S , meaning fans with AMEX cards can shop exclusive merchandise , get their hands on a limited edition trading card set , and even try out Olivia’s limited-edition violet LinkBuds S earbuds from Sony .

new york tour by bus

Where: Chelsea Triangle & Herald Square Plaza

When: April 5: 2 – 8 pm, April 6: 1 – 7 pm (Chelsea Triangle), April 8 & 9: 2 – 8 pm (Herald Square Plaza)

new york tour by bus

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How the Key Bridge Collapsed in Baltimore: Maps and Photos

By Weiyi Cai ,  Agnes Chang ,  Lauren Leatherby ,  Lazaro Gamio ,  Leanne Abraham and Scott Reinhard

On Tuesday, a major bridge in Baltimore collapsed into the water seconds after it was struck by a cargo ship, sending vehicles on the bridge into the river below. The ship lost power and issued a mayday call shortly before it hit the bridge.

A video shows the cargo ship striking the bridge and the resulting collapse of the bridge.

The ship, a 948-foot-long cargo vessel called Dali, was about a half hour into its journey toward Colombo, Sri Lanka, when it hit a main pillar of the bridge. All crew members are safe, according to the ship’s owners.

Follow our live coverage .

A mayday call from the ship gave officials enough time to stop traffic at both ends of the bridge. The waters where the bridge collapsed are about 50 feet deep. By Tuesday morning, six construction workers who had been fixing potholes on the bridge remained missing as divers and other emergency workers on boats and helicopters continued to search for them. Two others had been rescued, and one was in the hospital.

Francis Scott

Patapsco River

The ship left the Port

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Where impact occurred

Direction of the ship

The ship hit the

bridge at 1:28 a.m.

The ship hit the bridge at 1:28 a.m.

Where impact

Source: Spire Global

The New York Times; satellite image by Google Earth

The lights of the ship flickered on and off as it lost power in the minutes before the ship changed bearing and hit the bridge.

Ship approached from

the Port of Baltimore

Road repair crews

Ship changed heading

as it neared pillar

Ship hit pillar

Southern and central spans

of bridge began to collapse within

seconds of impact

Northern span began to

collapse seconds later

Within 30 seconds of impact,

the central part of bridge had

entirely collapsed.

Source: StreamTime Live via YouTube

Timestamps are from StreamTime Live video.

The New York Times

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was opened in 1977 and carried more than 12.4 million vehicles last year. The bridge was one of the three major ways to cross the Patapsco River and formed part of Baltimore’s beltway.

The Port of Baltimore is a major trade hub that handled a record amount of foreign cargo last year. It is an especially important destination — the nation’s largest by volume last year — for deliveries of cars and light trucks.

Ship impact

To Chesapeake Bay

Sources: Maryland Port Administration, OpenStreetMap, MarineTraffic

Note: Ship positions are as of 2:46 p.m. Eastern time.

Overall, Baltimore was the 17th biggest port in the United States in 2021, ranked by total tons, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The bridge collapse brought marine traffic there to a standstill, with seven cargo or tanker ships stranded in the harbor as of Tuesday afternoon.

Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of emergency for Maryland and said that his office was in close communication with Pete Buttigieg, the U.S. transportation secretary. The White House issued a statement saying that President Biden had been briefed on the collapse.

A photo shows the cargo ship with the collapsed bridge.

Erin Schaff/The New York Times

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