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The 5 Best NYC Bus Tours for 2024

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

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

Big Bus Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Price: From $66 Duration: 3.5 hours

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

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

USA Guided Tours – Discover NY Tour

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

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

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

Hush Hip Hop Tours – Birthplace of Hip Hop

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

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

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

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

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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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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 .

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

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

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

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The 10 best bus tours in NYC

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

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

Want to take in all that NYC has to offer but with maximum comfort and convenience? Book yourself an NYC bus tour — these stellar sightseeing options are a visitor's best friend. While you could get your steps in on a walking tour or eat your way through NYC on a foodie jaunt, you’ll see more sights in a smaller amount of time on one of the city’s top bus tours. Whether you’re looking for the classic hop-on hop-off experience that stops at all the major attractions, a themed TV and movie route spotlighting popular filming locations or a spirited excursion to the outer boroughs, we’ve got you covered with our guide to the best bus tours in NYC. Read on, then hop on!

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

Best NYC bus tours

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

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

2.  THE RIDE New York City

Double-decker bus tour not your thing? Amp up your usual sightseeing excursion with this dynamic part-show, part-city tour. Yes, it’s as wild and wonderful as it sounds. The multi-million-dollar bus (yep, you heard that right) offers outward-facing stadium seating with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Billed as a “traveling theater,” the uniquely designed bus allows riders to take photos of top attractions ( the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Terminal) and interact with street performers during the 75-minute ride. It's a blast.

3.  New York Bus Night Tour

If New York is the city that never sleeps (which it totally is, btw), it makes sense to experience it in all its nighttime glory. This after-hours tour starts in midtown Manhattan, then drives past iconic and illuminated landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square and Chinatown, with expert commentary on the city’s history and celebrity residents along the way. There will also be time to stretch your legs during the four-hour excursion, with guided walks in High Line Park and Grand Central Station. And trust us, all those glittering, gleaming views of Manhattan at night are just as glorious as billed. 

4.  Sex and the City Hotspots Tour

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

5.  Brooklyn, Bronx and Queens Coach Tour

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

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

Like R euben sandwiches, eggs Benedict and Martin Scorsese, hip-hop was born right here in New York City. Discover the origins of the groundbreaking musical genre on this bus tour of Manhattan, Harlem and the Boogie Down Bronx . Led by a grandmaster —no, not Flash, but similarly legendary emcees like Kurtis Blow, Johnny Famous, Roxanne Shante and Reggie Reg — the excursion starts at the location of the first hip-hop party in Manhattan before heading uptown to iconic spots like the Apollo Theater, the Graffiti Hall of Fame and Yankee Stadium. You’ll get to watch a real b-boy and b-girl dance session, snap photos in front of famous murals dedicated to Big L and Kool Herc, and even learn how to freestyle!

7.  Superhero Film Tour of New York

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

8.  Sunday Harlem Gospel Guided Tour

Explore the culture of Harlem, one of the meccas of Black-American identity, on this guided tour. The tour visits both iconic and lesser-known attractions, such as  Columbia University, the Cotton Club and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. After visiting the Apollo Theater, where Michael Jackson once performed, and the famous stretch of 125th Street, where Duke Ellington lived, guests will be welcomed by a local congregation to participate in a Gospel mass. 

9.  Gossip Girl Bus Sites Tour

“Spotted at Grand Central, bags in hand” is the opening line of the New York-centric hit show Gossip Girl . And this is a big “XOXO” to the city and its super-elite, showcasing a number of memorable locations from the hit teen drama. Follow in the footsteps of Blair Waldorf , Serena van der Woodsen and the rest of the Constance Billard crew and explore many of the show’s glamorous locations on this three-hour bus tour, including The Empire Hotel (where Chuck Bass lived and worked), the Vera Wang boutique where Blair tried on her wedding gown and, of course, those iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where you can take a photo op.

10.  The Sopranos Filming Locations Bus Tour

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

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The Statue of Liberty is a colossal neoclassical sculpture on Liberty Island in New York Harbor in New York City. The copper statue was o riginally conceived as an emblem of the friendship between the people of France and the U.S. and a sign of their mutual desire for liberty, over the years the Statue has become much more. It is the Mother of Exiles, greeting millions of immigrants and embodying hope and opportunity for those seeking a better life in America. It stirs the desire for freedom in people all over the world. It represents the United States itself.

Come and experience sightseeing bus tours in NYC – The best tours New York has to offer!

Small Bus Tours NYC is not commercially operated. We are a family owned and operating tour company for over 35 years. We will take you out like family and by the end of the day we will be family. We offer a 6-hour Bus and Boat Tour in New York City. Our tour guide hops off and hops on with you! Each of our tour buses fit 14 passengers with a tour guide on board, so you will have a more personalized and comfortable tour.  It combines a bus tour with short walks with your tour guide while the bus waits for you to return! Come experience Sightseeing Tours New York City in our climate controlled buses for your viewing pleasure. The best Bus and Boat Tour in NYC New York, NY.

Small Bus Tours NYC is not commercially operated. We are a family owned and operating tour company for over 35 years. We will take you out like family and by the end of the day we will be family. We offer a 6-hour Bus and Boat Tour in New York City. Our tour guide hops off and hops on with you! Each of our tour buses fit 24 passengers with a tour guide on board, so you will have a more personalized and comfortable tour.  It combines a bus tour with short walks with your tour guide while the bus waits for you to return! Come experience Sightseeing Tours New York City in our climate controlled buses for your viewing pleasure. The best Bus and Boat Tour in NYC New York, NY.

Serving you top-quality tours of NYC for 35 years!

As a tour agency in nyc we have the know-how you need.

"Bryant was an amazing tour guide, Guy drove like a pro! This was recommended to us by a friend and did not disappoint, we will definitely be telling everyone else to do this tour- worth the money and then some!"

"Very interesting and entertaining tour with Bryant. Skip the Big bus nonsense and do this instead! Bonus group selfie with Bryant’s friend the major of New York!"

"Great Tour, Request Bryant as your guide. Top notch! Busses are clean, All factual information, gives good recommendations to places to eat and visit. This is a must if you are traveling to NYC for the first time."

"Nice comfortable 12 passenger van with A/C and lots of (free) water. Our tour guide, Bryant, was great. Wonderful sense of humor, helpful and caring and very knowledgeable about the various sites of NYC."

"Our driver was top notch and our tour guide, Bryant, was first class! I highly recommend this tour. There may be other tour companies in NYC but this is the one you want."

PIONEERING SPIRIT

We understand that the Big Apple (Concrete Jungle) can be very intimidating. We know that many tourists sightseeing in NYC, get lost in the process, and lose their valuable time. We promise our small group bus and Boat tour in NYC to give you concise directions to our pick-up location. We have a thirst for knowledge and the courage to explore uncharted waters. We not only live up to our reputation but strive to exceed expectations. Our team is known for its unrivaled knowledge of The Big Apple, which enables us to fashion bus tours in NYC designed to pique your interest.

SERVICE EXCELLENCE

We are committed to providing our bus tours in NYC customers outstanding service. We listen to our customers, anticipate their needs, and respond to their request promptly and with care. Our buses are climate controlled suitable for any weather. We cater to the customer’s needs. We realize social interaction with a person who knows the city is very important, hence a Tour Guide is always there right to the end of the tour.

ACCOUNTABILITY

Small Bus Tours NYC pledges to abide by its code of ethical practices in all company and social activities. We hold ourselves accountable to provide customers of our small group bus tours in  NYC the highest standards of service, punctuality, reliability, and open communication. We ensure that all our staff is devoted to the same standards of integrity and common values. We understand that honesty is the best policy, and we strive to uphold that.

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Tours From New York

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

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

Available Days : Tuesday & Special Dates

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

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

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

Available Days : Wed & Special Dates

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

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

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

Available Days : Monday

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

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

2-Day New York/New Jersey to Thousand Islands, Cornell University and Taughannock Falls State Park Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-170

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

Available Days : Wed, Fri & Sun

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

• Minimum 2 people required.

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

Departure City : Brooklyn NY, Flushing NY, Manhattan NY

Available Days : Saturday

Highlights :

Hotel breakfast.

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

Departure City : New York City NY

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

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

• Sightseeing of Boston

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

Departure City : Newark NJ

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

Highlights : 【Safety First】Travel with thoroughly disinfected sightseeing coach and our professional well-trained tour escort. 【The Big Apple】Visit iconic sites, buildings, and parks in New York, one of the most prestigious cities. 【Eastern US】Pack an array of top landmarks and attractions on the east coast, learning more about local culture and history. 【Wonder of Nature】Take an in-depth visit to Niagara Falls, getting astonished by the power of nature and spectacular view! 【World Top University】Walk into two of the world top ranked universities -- Havard University and MIT. 【Foodie’s Choice】Grab a bite of authentic local taste, check out the fresh products at Quincy Market and enjoy a real Boston lobster meal.

Buy 2 get 2 free Buy 2 get 1 free

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

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

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

Available Days : Mon, Wed & Fri

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

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

Available Days : Mon, Thu & Sat

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

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

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

Available Days : Fri

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

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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)

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City Tours in New York

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

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Review: The Big Bus Tour in New York City

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

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

The Big Bus Tour in New York

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

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

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

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

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

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Why take the big bus tour in new york.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Much is the Big Bus Tour in New York

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

Get discounts for the Big Bus Tour NYC  here .

How Long is the Big Bus Tour in New York

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

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

Are There Toilets on the Big Bus

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

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

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

How Does the Big Bus Tour Work in New York City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Catch the Big Bus Tour in New York City

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

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

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

Big Bus NYC Red Route

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big Bus NYC Blue Route

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

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

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

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

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

Tips and Things to Know Before You Go

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts About the Big Bus Tour in New York City

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

Some other advantages of seeing the city by bus include:

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

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

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

Happy Travels!

new york city tours

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

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

See all of the tours that Travac offers.

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