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The 11 best boat tours in NYC

All aboard! Book these NYC boat tours for incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and other iconic landmarks

In all of planet Earth, there is no other skyline quite like that of New York City. Whether by air or by land , the Big Apple’s skyscrapers and landmarks are iconic. But there’s one way of touring NYC that beats out the rest, hands down—by boat.  Whether from the upper deck of a yacht or hunkered down on a speedboat, views from the harbor show NYC at its absolute finest. From the Statue of Liberty to the One World Trade Center, you can take in all the biggest sights without dealing with packed subway cars and endless traffic jams. Below are some of the Big Apple’s biggest and best boat tours.

How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favorites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines .

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Best NYC boat tours

1.  Luxury Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise

So this is how to really do an NYC boat tour. Choose which fine dining food option you fancy and then settle into a blissful tour around New York Harbor, with a live pianist your exceptional aural entertainment. And sure, the luxury dining and the music might be pretty good but you wait until you gaze out across the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and One World Trade Center from your private table with 360-degree panoramic views. 

Don't miss: The sultry sounds of the onboard jazz pianist who's on a mission to get people dancing.  

2.  Statue of Liberty Express Cruise

Perfect for the sightseer who knows exactly what he or she wants, this Circle Line express tour goes right to the Statue of Liberty – no pit stops this time. Listen to an expert guide point out some lower Manhattan landmarks before pausing for photos right next to Lady Liberty. And since this cruise only takes an hour, it’s easy to fit into even the busiest itinerary.

Don't miss: The perfect photo opp of the famous sculpture and other harbor landmarks. 

3.  New York City Sunset Sailing with Wine Tasting

Here’s one for the schmoozy, romantic vacationers. The NYC sunset sailing with wine tasting gives you the chance to gaze out as the sun drops below Manhattan, seeing NYC’s biggest landmarks (including the Statue of Liberty) all lit up in a golden glow. And to top it all off, you’re on a luxurious sailing boat, which is equipped, crucially, with a full bar. Not that you'll need it after your third cab sauv.

Don't miss: The snacks and cheese that have been expertly paired with the wines. 

4.  Manhattan: Private Sailing Yacht Cruise

Don’t want to share your views of the city skyline? You don’t have to on this private tour of the Hudson River at sunset. It’s your party, so you can bring any food or drinks you like on board. You’ll feel like a high roller as you kick back on your private yacht for the evening.

Don't miss: Chill with your crew on any of the three lounge areas, including the outdoor deck and sun pad. 

5.  Circle Line: Complete Manhattan Island Cruise

How better to get your bearing in a city as enormous as NYC than by circumnavigation? The Circle Line’s two-and-a-half-hour tour does a full loop of Manhattan Island, taking passengers past plenty of the city’s most popular sights in the process. Spanning three rivers and all five boroughs, you’ll even pass within touching distance of Lady Liberty herself. In other words, get your camera ready!

Don't miss: Non-English speakers can download the Circle Line app for a translated commentary. 

6.  New York City: Alive After Five Cocktail Cruise

Get a taste of the Big Apple’s nightlife scene with this happy hour boat tour on the Hudson River. The Alive After Five cocktail cruise has everything you need: a fully stocked bar, a dance floor, and a killer DJ. Did someone say tequila? 

Don't miss:  Views of the Manhattan skyline as the sun goes down and the lights turn on. 

7.  New York Water Taxi Cruises

You can't miss the water taxis, they look just like the car versions: big, bright and yellow. These little beauties cruise round New York Harbor daily, passing major sites like the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. You can stay on and complete the entire loop in 70 minutes, or hop on and off as you please, exploring the greats eats, shops and attractions in NYC's waterside neighborhoods.

Don't miss: They have a team that can help you create a custom route for your journey. 

8.  AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour

The area south of 59th Street is packed with architecturally significant buildings; there’s the Chrysler Building, the Woolworth Building, the Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center, just to name a few. This 90-minute boat tour led by a member of the New York chapter of the American Institute of Architects will cover all of Manhattan’s most significant structures, plus the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty.

Don't miss: Sip complimentary beer, wine, or Champagne from the bar while you learn about infrastructure, parks, and architecture.

9.  Staten Island Ferry

Put your purse away, because the Staten Island Ferry is totally free. That's right, in one of the most expensive cities in the world, you can find a free ride. This old chugger has been going since before any bridges were built, transporting folks from the 'burbs to Manhattan in 25 minutes. Boats leave South Ferry at Battery Park and run 24 hours a day.

Don't miss: The stunning panoramas of lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

10.  1920s Schooner Cocktail Sail

Fresh air, ocean waves, Champagne cocktails, and a massive brunch spread of sandwiches, baked goods, fresh bread, fruit and more – it’s fair to say that this midday cruise on the Shearwater really does have it all. Sit back and relax as the crew guides the restored 1929 sailboat out into the harbor. If you’re lucky, the captain will even let you take a turn at the helm.

Don't miss: Each passenger is entitled to four Champagne-based cocktails – make sure you get your fair share! 

11.  Circle Line: Beast Speedboat Ride

Adrenaline junkies will want to book tickets for this supercharged half-hour ride through New York Harbor. The 70-foot speedboat known as the  Beast  zooms toward the Statue of Liberty at 45 miles per hour, kicking up plenty of waves. In fact, the ride can get so intense that guides recommend wearing wetsuits.

Don't miss: The ride is accompanied by a thumping soundtrack to really kick things into high gear.

Keen to beat the summer heat?

Where to go in NYC when you don’t have air-conditioning

• Things to do

When it’s as hot as it is humid in New York City, that leaky window unit just isn’t going to cut it

Want to rent your own boat?

The best boat rentals in NYC

Debating between a two-hour hire or a full-day trip along the Hudson? Choose a boat to start your adventures around NYC

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

NYC Boat Tours Compared

Cruise around manhattan.

Living in a city surrounded by two rivers means there are a lot of opportunities to get out on the water. As a local, I’ve enjoyed my fair share of boat rides and encourage you to do the same. 

Seeing the city from this perspective makes for a lovely outing and offers plenty of great photo-ops. 

This post compares New York City boat tours, including cruises around Manhattan and night cruises, ferries, speedboats, and sailboats.

• Biggest Variety of Boat Tours
• Most Thrilling Speedboat Tour
• Most Relaxing Sailboat Tour
• Most Affordable Boat Tour
• Best Night Cruise

When writing this post I relied on my experience and that of my fellow local tour guides. I also looked at what members of our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group had to say.

Our group of over 340,000 members consists of locals, frequent visitors to NYC and newcomers to the city.

You don't need to join the group to search for and read the posts, comments, and suggestions.

Check out the group once you are finished reading this post. A link can be found at the bottom of the page .

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

BIGGEST VARIETY OF BOAT TOURS (CIRCLE LINE)

Probably the most popular, and most well-known cruise company is the Circle Line.

They offer 3 different sightseeing boat tours, as well as themed tours, such as a sunset tour . Below the details of each are provided.

All Circle Line cruises run daily and last between 1 to 3 hours.

Sightseeing commentary is provided throughout the tours and paid bars are onboard.

Where do Circle Line tours depart from?

All Circle Line boats leave from the west side of Midtown Manhattan, at West 42nd Street on the Hudson River.

The cost of the trip varies depending on which cruise you select.

Since Circle Line Cruises are included for free in the New York Pass, Explorer Pass, and New York Sightseeing Pass, you can save money by taking advantage of one of the tourist passes!

Read our guide about these tourist discount passes to find out if one is a good fit for you. 

Does Circle Line go around Manhattan?

Yes, they currently have two different cruises that will take you around Manhattan (more or less).

This company currently has a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide.

Although there are some negative reviews, a majority of customers felt that the views and commentary provided on their cruise were excellent.

I've taken both day and night Circle Line tours over the years and have always been satisfied with the quality and experience.

TIP : Many of our NYC Travel Tips Facebook group members suggest that it's worth purchasing premium seating.

Liberty Cruise

This 1-hour cruise (also referred to as the Statue of Liberty Express) covers the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and One World Trade Center.

This cruise gets very positive reviews.

• Departs several times daily
• Adult - $31 | Child - $26 

Included for free with the purchase of many of the tourist discount passes .

This cruise is sometimes included in a combo package with a Big Bus hop-on-hop-off bus ticket .

If you're interested in visiting Liberty Island, read our post on Statue of Liberty cruises for more details.

Landmark Cruise  

This 90-minute cruise focuses on Lower and Midtown Manhattan, with the highlights being views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and other notable architecture.  

This cruise also gets very positive reviews.

• Departs 2-3 times daily.
• Adult - $37 | Child - $31 | Senior - $34

Included for free with the purchase of any of the tourist discount passes . 

Best of NYC Cruise

This 2.5-hour NYC sightseeing cruise circles around the entire island of Manhattan and includes commentary on the Lady Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Harlem, and Yankee Stadium, among other things.  

This is their flagship tour and it offers excellent views of the Manhattan skyline.

• Adult - $44 | Child - $37
• Departs 2 - 3 times per day

This cruise is included for free with the New York Pass and the NYC Explorer Pass, both tourist discount cards.  

MOST THRILLING SPEEDBOAT TOUR (THE BEAST)

The Beast is exactly that! It's fast, furious and a fun way to enjoy New York City's water!

I've taken my nieces and nephews on this ride and though I was a bit nervous, they had a blast!

Needless to say, if you are traveling with kids, take them on The Beast.

Operated by the Circle Line company mentioned above, the Beast travels at 45 mph (73 kph) and gets within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty.

The Beast Speedboat Ride has earned a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide.

Very few people have left negative reviews, indicating that this speedboat tour is a pretty fun experience. 

How much does the Beast NYC cost?

• $30 - Adult | $25 - Child
• Departs every hour on the hour 11 am – 6 pm from Pier 81 ( map ).
• Available Wednesday - Sunday.

The Beast is included for free in at least one of the NYC tourist attraction passes , such as the Go City Explorer Pass.

RIB New York

A RIB (rigid-hulled inflatable Boat) is safe, exciting, and perfect for sightseeing.

With speeds of up to 50 mph, there’s a good chance that you’ll get splashed while seeing such popular sites as the Statue of Liberty, Battery Park, The World Trade Center, and more.

Tickets start at $39 per person

• Not currently available.

MOST RELAXING SAILBOAT TOUR (MANHATTAN BY SAIL)

This isn't the kind of boating adventure you probably had in mind when you planned your trip to New York City.

But when you think about it, sailboats were once the only way to travel the city's waterways.

As a history lover who likes to get out on the water, I loved sailing around New York City. I could imagine what it was like during the colonial era!

  Ticket prices are a bit higher than some other options on our list, but you can also enjoy some of these services for free with various attraction passes .

Manhattan by Sail 

Manhattan by Sail has 2 types of boats, the Shearwater and Clipper City, each offering a variety of tours.

Sailing adventures include trips near the Statue of Liberty, NYC Skyline sightseeing, and sunset outings around the city.

Manhattan by Sail is a good option for those using a tourist pass, as some of these passes typically include this service.

Currently, Manhattan by Sail offers at least one of their cruises on the New York Sightseeing Pass.

• Adult Tickets: $45 and up
• Child Tickets: $25 and up

Much like their competitors, Manhattan by Sail has received respectable reviews with an overall score of at least 4½ out of 5 stars .

Guests note that the prices are very reasonable and they provide excellent service. Customers also report that it’s easy to move around on the boat despite the boats being crowded sometimes.

Classic Harbor Line  

There are 3 types of boats available, the Luxury Yacht Manhattan, the Schooner Adirondack, and the Schooner America 2.0.

Each offers different tours of surrounding sites, as well as a brunch option. You can expect sails at sunset, around the Statue of Liberty and tours that provide views of the NYC skyline.

• Adults: $60 and up
• Children: $28 and up

Reviews for this service are pretty good, with most people giving Classic Harbor Line at least 4 ½ out of 5 stars .

The only complaint anyone had was that the boats may be crowded at times.

Aside from those issues, most people report that the views are spectacular and the service is excellent.

MOST AFFORDABLE BOAT TOUR (FERRIES)

One of the best things you can do in NYC without spending a lot of money is to take a ride on the NYC Ferry .

Though it's a commuter service, it can be used like a traditional boat tour. It costs just $4 per person.

As it travels along the East River from neighborhood to neighborhood, you'll see a lot of the city and the views are amazing .

You can get off the ferry at any of the stops, though to get back on again, you will have to pay for a new ride. Still, at such a low cost, it's worth using the ferry like a hop-on, hop-off tour!

If you’re looking for transportation that will allow you to enjoy a self-guided tour of NYC, this is one of the most affordable options.

Though it isn't a cruise company, the NYC Ferry has a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor.

My fellow tour guides and I take these ferries all the time as a way to get around the city quickly. Plus the view is a whole lot better than looking out of a subway car window!

Learn more about this ferry line and others from our visitor's guide to riding NYC ferries .

New York Water Taxi 

Like its competitors, New York Water Taxi offers a hop-on-hop-off boat service that takes 90 minutes to complete.

However, you are free to jump off and explore the city at your own pace, hopping back on whenever you wish at several stops throughout the city.

NYWT offers 6 piers to explore compared to the 4 offered by City Sightseeing.

Although this isn’t technically a boat tour, they do provide recorded narration describing some of the sights you’ll see on the cruise.

This company runs about as frequently as similar services.

With a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Viator, New York Water Taxi might be more popular than its competition.  

Ticket Costs:

• $37 - Adult | $26 - Child
• Departure every 30 - 40 minutes from each stop (10 am to 7 pm).

All-Day Access Passes are sometimes available at no extra cost with the New York Pass. This is not currently being offered, but it will likely return to the pass very shortly.

City Sightseeing Cruise

This is a hop-on, hop-off service with several terminals.

This boat makes stops at South Street, DUMBO, the World Financial Center, and Midtown. City Sightseeing also offers twilight and night tours.

They also offer a rainy day guarantee, which allows you to use your boat ticket at several popular indoor attractions.

The entire route takes 90 minutes if you do not get off. 

• $35 - Adult | $25 - Child
• Schedule posted below

The cruise service is also usually included for free with the purchase of the Sightseeing Pass and in their multi-day bus passes .

BEST NIGHT CRUISE (CIRCLE LINE)

Interested in hearing some great live music while drifting along the water or are you looking to wine and dine that someone special? Night cruises offer both these experiences.

You can read about the many options from our complete post on the best dinner cruises in NYC in which we provide a list of the best dining cruises in the city based on 5 criteria: lowest price, best dinner, best music, most romantic, and best specialty cruise.

We also include information about saving money on these services with tourist passes and offer sites, so you can get a good deal on your dinner cruise.

Circle Line

If you're looking for a sunset cruise, consider one of these below outings.

This company offers a 60-minute Statue by Night Tour. See the Statue of Liberty after dark!

Cruises depart at 7:30 pm (19:30) from Pier 16/South Street Seaport ( map ).

Harbor Lights Tour

There is also a 90-minute Harbor Lights Tour which departs just before sunset so you can enjoy the skyline while the sun goes down!

Departs at 7 pm (19:00) from Pier 81 ( map ).

This cruise is well-reviewed.

• Adults/$41 | Children/$34

Included for free with the purchase of the New York Pass and the Explorer Pass.

Statue by Night Cruise

• $31 – Adult | $19 – Child
• Departs at 7:30 pm (19:30) from Pier 16/South Street Seaport ( map )

What Boat Ride in NYC is Free?

This section summarizes the various free, and almost free, options for you to get out on the water of NYC.

Though none of these options are "official" boat tours, each offers guests incredible views of the New York skyline, Statue of Liberty, Governors Island, and more.  

• Staten Island Ferry
• East River Ferry
• IKEA Shuttle Ferry
• Kayaking + Rowb oats

Budget Tip:  If you are planning on purchasing the one of the New York City tourist passes, most have boat tours included in the price. Read our post to see if one of New York tourist passes are for you . 

1.   Staten Island Ferry  

This may be the best-known "secret" in the Big Apple. This is a free commuter ferry.

It just so happens that this ferry offers one of the best views of the New York skyline including a pretty close look at the  Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

The ferry departs Lower Manhattan and takes approximately 25 minutes to reach Staten Island, where you could get off and explore or just get back on and return to Manhattan. The ferry departs from Whitehall Terminal.  

The Staten Island Ferry operates 24 hours a day, so consider making this also a fantastic thing to do at night for a sparkling view of the city. 

Riding the ferry before or after our Lower Manhattan Tour  is a great way to spend half a day without spending half your budget!

We also offer this tour as a GPS-enabled audio tour .

2.  NYC Ferry  

This is the cheapest boat ride in NYC, after the free Staten Island Ferry.  This is also a commuter ferry and costs the same as a subway, just $4 one way. 

The East River Ferry connects Lower and Midtown Manhattan making stops in Brooklyn and in Queens along the way.

In the summer, the ferry also goes to  Governors Island , located just near the tip of Manhattan.

From start to finish a ride is about 45 minutes.

Riding the ferry will give you great views of Lower Manhattan , the Freedom Tower, the Brooklyn Bridge (you ride right under it), the Manhattan Bridge, the Williamsburg Bridge and more.

Read our NYC Ferry  post for all the details, schedules, stops and how to buy your ticket.

3. Water Taxi IKEA Shuttle Ferry  

This ferry service runs from Wall Street Terminal to Red Hook in Brooklyn.

It's free on weekends and $5 on weekdays. If you make at least a $10 purchase at IKEA, then your weekday ride is free.

It's a great way to get to the cool NYC neighborhood of Red Hook, Brooklyn and back without taking the subway.

4. Free Kayaking

The Downtown Boathouse , one of the organizations that run the kayak rides is an all-volunteer organization. Donations are accepted.

They have four locations: Pier 26, Governors Island, Pier 40 and Pier 96.  

The Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse also offers free kayaking, where you can kayak underneath the Brooklyn Bridge .

5.  Village Community Boathouse  

Perfect for a more adventurous soul, Village Community Boathouse offers guests the chance to participate in completely free community rowing sessions after dusk from April - November.  

On Sundays they also have an additional rowing session at noon, as well as a variety of other activities intermittently throughout the year.

During the winter, guests can join in for a free boat-building lesson.

Is the Statue of Liberty ferry free?

No. Although there are many ways to save money on this activity, it is not free to visit the Statue of Liberty.

The Statue of Liberty ferry is the only way to reach this island. If you only want to see the landmark from a short distance, consider taking a Statue of Liberty cruise instead.

For more details, read our post covering how to visit the Statue of Liberty .

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27 Best Boat Tours in NYC – Which One to Choose?

• 6 Pinterest

The City That Never Sleeps, New York is a treasure trove of adventure, and the best boat tours in NYC epitomize the concrete jungle’s allure to a tee. The streets are always buzzing with activity and you’ll never run out of things to do in NYC , which is exactly why more and more travelers are turning to the water to escape the crowds.

Gliding down both the East and the Hudson Rivers, these enchanting adventures present a wonderful change of pace from the jam-packed streets; showing off a new, utterly beautiful perspective of New York City .

Check out my top picks to enjoy the best views on the iconic skyline of Manhattan, or scroll further down and use our table of content to find the experience that best suits your interests!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• boat tours in NYC

1 – Harbor lights cruise by Circle Line Cruises

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 126 reviews )

“It’s was great!! We sat on the very top of boat & we had a great view & beautiful evening! A highlight of our NYC visit!!” Angela, Tiqets

The Harbor Lights Cruise by Circle Line Cruises is an iconic and romantic way to explore the New York City skyline at night. This slow-paced, 2-hour cruise takes you along the Hudson River, past the Lower Manhattan skyline and up the East River, dishing up stunning views of famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island , Battery Park, the Brooklyn Bridge , and Roosevelt Island along the way.

As the skyline twinkles under the moonlight, you’ll be treated to lovely views of skyscrapers like the Empire State Building , the Chrysler Building and the Freedom Tower from afar.

On board the luxurious boat, you can relax on comfortable outdoor decks or in the climate-controlled indoor cabin while listening to the value-packed narration from knowledgeable guides.

Summary of the experience:

• Sunset cruise with live commentary
• Access to outer deck
• Free wifi and custom app available in 6 languages
• harbor lights cruise tickets

The Harbor Lights Cruise by Circle Line Cruises is one of the best boat tours in NYC for anyone looking to see the city’s beautiful skyline lit up at night.

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to see the sights while learning about the landmarks, it’s a wonderful option.

Read more: Fun things to do in New York City at night

2 – Statue of Liberty & Midtown sightseeing cruise by Circle Line Cruises

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 27 reviews )

“We loved it!!!! The tour guide was awesome, very funny and informative. I would definitely recommend it!” Anna, Tiqets

A fast, fun and thrilling way to visit the iconic Statue of Liberty (without the heavy price tag of going to Liberty Island itself), this popular daytime cruise combines classic Lower and Midtown Manhattan sightseeing with an educational twist.

With live narration from the knowledgeable crew, you can learn about the history and significance of Lady Liberty — an icon who has held the torch over Manhattan since 1886 — as you take in spectacular views of the concrete jungle’s skyline.

En route to Lady Liberty, you’ll also get to see notable landmarks like Chelsea Piers, the High Line, Governor’s Island and the Lower Manhattan skyline.

• Live commentary
• Photo stop near the Statue of Liberty
• Statue of Liberty & Midtown cruise tickets

Great for families and first-time visitors who want a quick but in-depth look at the Statue of Liberty, this cruise is the perfect balance between sightseeing and relaxation. The tour guides are knowledgeable and entertaining, providing interesting facts and anecdotes throughout the journey. Take a seat on the open-air upper deck when the weather’s warm to really soak up the beauty of the New York skyline. Definitely recommend!

Read more: Statue of Liberty last minute tickets

3 – Manhattan architecture cruise by Classic Harbor Line

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 703 reviews )

“This was a great way to look at all of New York famous buildings and learn about their history! I would go again!” Jessica, Viator

In partnership with AIA New York (the American Institute of Architects), this cruise is tailor-made for architecture enthusiasts.

Departing from Chelsea Piers aboard a luxury 1920s-style yacht, this cruise takes you on a 2-hour ride along the Hudson River, showcasing some of Manhattan’s most iconic feats of human engineering — the Empire State Building , the Woolworth Building, the Chrysler Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge, to name a few.

On board, a licensed architect will guide you through the history and design aspects of each structure, giving you a newfound appreciation of the myriad diverse architectural styles that make up New York City.

• 1920s style yacht
• Guide from the NYC chapter of the American Institute of Architects
• One drink included
• check this offer

A non-negotiable NYC boat tour for architecture buffs, this highly educational adventure combines all the best elements of a harbor tour with a comprehensive look at the city’s most iconic buildings. The guides are great at telling the story of how NYC has developed throughout the eras! 10/10.

4 – The Beast speedboat ride by Circle Line Cruises

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 371 reviews )

“Great! Super excited and so much fun! It’s worth it for those who have children!!! Gives a super excited and very good to cool off!!! My 10 year old son loves it!” Aracy, Getyourguide

Designed exclusively for adrenaline junkies, The Beast NYC combined a highlight reel of sightseeing with a high-speed, max-thrills adventure on the picturesque rivers that surround Manhattan.

Capable of hitting dizzying speeds of 45 miles per hour, this custom speedboat promises dramatic powerslides, jumps and bursts of speed guaranteed to get the heart rate up.

But it’s not just about the excitement; the Beast is also a terrific way to check out the quintessential New York City landmarks. In between spins down the Hudson and jumps on New York Harbor, you’ll be able to float slowly by the Statue of Liberty and catch a stunning panorama of the Lower Manhattan skyline.

• check offer

The BEAST Speedboat experience is a great alternative if you want to see the Statue of Liberty. The hosts are funny, nice, and make sure that your adventure is equal parts thrilling and breathtaking. If you are visiting in the warmer months (and don’t mind getting a little wet) and want a quick and fun way to see iconic parts of the Lower Manhattan skyline, this is a fantastic choice!

5 – “Best of NYC” sightseeing cruise by Circle Line Cruises

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 43 reviews )

“It was the most relaxing entertaining cruise ever I’m gonna do it yearly now perfect way to see New York” Simonne, Tiqets

Lasting close to 2.5 hours, this cruise acts as a highlight reel of the five boroughs, taking you down all three NYC rivers (the Hudson, the East and the Harlem) and passing by infamous sights like Ellis Island , One World Trade Center, Yankee Stadium and more.

In total, you’ll cruise under 20 different bridges — none more famous than the Brooklyn Bridge — learning all about the history and architecture of this great city along the way.

Compared to most other boat tours in NYC, the “Best of NYC” sightseeing cruise by Circle Line Cruises provides a much more comprehensive look at the city’s iconic landmarks and skyline.

• “Best of NYC” cruise tickets

The “Best of NYC” cruise is a fantastic and incredibly relaxing way to see the iconic sights of New York City. The circular route around Manhattan Island ensures that you won’t miss any major landmarks, and the onboard tour guide adds another layer of excitement and knowledge to the experience.

Try to get in line early to get the top back seats!

Read more: Best family things to do in New York City with kids

6 – Manhattan sightseeing cruise by Circle Line Cruises

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 106 reviews )

“A spectacular boat ride, with fantastic views. Highly recommended” Isabel, Civitatis

Focusing on the many faces of Manhattan , this 90-minute tour shows off the diversity and beauty of New York City’s most famous borough.

With commentary from your local crew the whole way through, you’ll learn about postcard-worthy landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, underrated spots like the UN Headquarters, and all of the towering skyscrapers in between.

For the best things to do in Manhattan , this tour offers an overview of the city’s highlights, passing by iconic neighborhoods like Chinatown , Greenwich Village , and the Financial District, where you can catch a glimpse of the Freedom Tower, Manhattan’s tallest building.

• book this boat tour

Manhattan is as postcard-worthy as they come, and there’s no better way to appreciate it than from the water.

The Manhattan Sightseeing Cruise serves up a fresh perspective of the Big Apple’s iconic skyline. If you’re looking for a leisurely and entertaining way to take in the sights and learn more about the city’s history, this tour is a must-do.

Read more: Best NYC city tours

7 – New Year’s Eve cruise by Circle Line Cruises

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 104 reviews )

“My husband and I had a wonderful new year’s eve. The firework at the statue of liberty was incredibly beautiful, the atmosphere on board really great.” Matteo, Viator

NYC is special any time of year. But when the city is lit up with sparkling Christmas lights and colorful fireworks on New Year’s Eve, it reaches a whole new level of magic.

Besides the obvious advantages of viewing the city’s skyline, the cruise also gives you a front-row seat to the festivities as the clock strikes midnight.

With an open bar full of cocktails, as well as delicious hors d’oeuvres and a DJ spinning the latest hits, there’s arguably no better way to ring in the new year.

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Compared to the chaos that is the Times Square ball drop, a cruise along the Hudson River is a peaceful and luxurious way to celebrate the start of a new year. The open bar and the live DJ set the mood terrifically, but it’s the skyline lit up with fireworks that steals the show. 10/10.

8 – Sunset Yacht cruise by Classic Harbor Line

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 223 reviews )

“We had the best time on the Manhattan II. It was all so elegant and festive with lovely music, amazing cocktails, and great food options.” Bonnie, Getyourguide

By day, the New York skyline is a feast for the senses. But as the sun goes down and the colors change; as the buildings begin to be illuminated by sparkling lights, it becomes all the more enchanting — and there’s no better vantage point for it all than a Classic Harbor Line 1920s-style yacht on the Hudson River.

Easily one of the more romantic boat trips in NYC, this sunset yacht cruise escorts you down the Hudson, past Battery Park and the South Street Seaport en route to the New York Harbor.

Take your pick from the open-air deck or the glassed-in back-deck observatory; either way, expect picture-perfect sunset views.

The beautiful, historic boat adds an extra level of romance to this already special sunset cruise. The views are breathtaking and the friendly crew make sure you learn a thing or two along the way. Ideal for those warm summer nights, this intimate, classic yacht cruise is definitely worth the extra few bucks.

9 – Sailing on the Schooner Adirondack by Classic Harbor Line

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 138 reviews )

“I will keep unforgettable memories! It’s actually my favorite moment in New York. I absolutely recommend!!” Laura, Getyourguide

Taking place on a glorious 80-foot schooner (a big sailboat), the Schooner Adirondack by Classic Harbor Line promises a wonderful 2-hour retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the New York streets.

As you set sail from Chelsea Piers, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Lower Manhattan, with the chance to snap pictures of the Statue of Liberty and the southern tip of Manhattan — glass of bubbly in hand.

Expect to hear plenty of colorful commentary about the world-famous landmarks as you sail by.

A less touristy experience compared to other sightseeing vessels, this sailing experience is a fantastic option for open-aired Lower Manhattan sightseeing.

Given that this sunset cruise is more popular with adults, it’s an excellent choice for couples or friends looking for a peaceful evening on the water.

10 – Evening Jazz Cruise by Classic Harbor Line

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 172 reviews )

“Wonderful experience in every way! An unforgettable ride, with excellent attention from the crew, personalized and warm. The best thing about my stay in New York!” Pamela, Getyourguide

One for the music aficionados, this toe-tapping cruise takes you along the Hudson River with live jazz music ringing out as you sail. With a complimentary drink in hand, you can sit back and take in the iconic Manhattan skyline transforms from day to night.

Operated by Classic Harbor Line, the Evening Jazz Cruise transports you back to a bygone era; not only through the music, but through the 1920s-style luxury yacht as well.

As you sail past picturesque spots like the Financial District and Governor’s Island, you’ll hear classics from Duke Ellington, modern R&B grooves and everything in between.

A guaranteed magical evening on the water, this cruise takes the culture and excitement of a jazz concert to the serene setting of a yacht. It’s a very romantic experience that’s not at all touristy compared to some of the other sightseeing cruises. 10/10 recommend for music lovers!

11 – Holiday cruise by Classic Harbor Line

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 303 reviews )

“This was one of the best NYC experiences ever! So glad that we did this, I definitely will be recommending it to anyone that is visiting New York City.” Krystal, Viator

If you’re lucky enough to be in New York City during the holiday season, the Big Apple comes alive with bright lights, festive decorations and Christmas cheer.

On board the Classic Harbor Line’s NYC Holiday Yacht Cruise, not only are you blessed with lovely views of the skyline — particularly that of the Financial District — but you’re immersed in a winter wonderland of carols, cocoa, cookies and holiday spirit.

The luxurious yacht features a glass-enclosed cabin, heated interior and plenty of blankets to ensure you stay nice and cozy when it’s cold outside – a lovely overall experience.

Guaranteed to leave you feeling oh-so festive, the Holiday Yacht Cruise embodies what NYC at Christmas time is all about: twinkly lights, warm drinks, and scenic views. The music and hot cocoa are delightful, and the detailed holiday décor is the cherry on top.

12 – Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Cruise by Attractions4Us

Rating: ⭐️ 4.1/5 ( 143 reviews )

“I love the one hour ride, it was fun to see the Statue of the Liberty really close, there was a wonderful oportunidad to take very nice pics to of around of the bay!” Elena, Tiqets

Operated by Attractions4Us , this affordable sightseeing tour takes you onto the picturesque waters of New York Harbor aboard a three-level paddle boat.

You’ll get within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island , learning about the rich 150-year history and significance of these iconic landmarks along the way from your upbeat, expert crew.

The boat boasts both indoor and outdoor viewing areas, allowing you to snap those envy-evoking photos of Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline regardless of the weather. Take your pick from daytime cruises, romantic sunset cruises , or a moonlit night cruise .

• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island cruise ticket

This adventure is a great option for anyone wanting a quick and easy boat tour experience to squeeze into a day of sightseeing. The crew is helpful and the audio guide is very insightful. Its East River departure point is very convenient too. Recommend!

13 – Adventure boat ride by New York Media Boat

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 493 reviews )

“It was fun experiencing the speed boat on the waves; all the different angles of the sights was nice to take pictures and memories!” Marco, Viator

A fast-paced, hair-raising ride adventure awaits with New York Media Boat . Taking place on the New York Harbor where you’re treated to top-notch views of the Freedom Tower, Staten Island and the underrated Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, this tour is not for the faint of heart.

You’ll be holding on for dear life as your experienced captain navigates through the waves and performs thrilling maneuvers – think jumps, powerslide, and rapid acceleration moves.

And in between high-octane spins, your captain will share all kinds of tidbits about the nearby landmarks (such as the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty ).

If you’re a thrill seeker, this rollercoaster-like tour is a no-brainer. The captain makes sure that the adventure is fun as well as educational, and you’ll get to see some of the most famous landmarks in NYC from a unique perspective. The tour is relatively short, so it’s easy to fit into your busy sightseeing schedule.

14 – Brunch or Lunch cruise by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 223 reviews )

“The sightseeing, the food, and the music was great. I would recommend the lunch buffet cruise on the Spirit of New York for any visitor to New York.” Ralph, Getyourguide

A great way to add a touch of luxury to your NYC sightseeing itinerary, the City Experiences tours – take your pick from brunch, lunch or dinner – provide a more leisurely pace compared to some of the other boat tours on this list.

As you make your way along both the Hudson and East Rivers on the Spirit of New York ship, you’ll be treated to views of landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Freedom Tower.

Meanwhile, you can tuck into an al-fresco-style buffet while you enjoy tunes spun by the onboard DJ – what’s not to love?

Not only is the food amazing, but so are the staff and the views. The cruises aren’t overcrowded, and there’s more than enough food for everyone to feast. The skyline views are epic, especially on dinner cruises, and the live entertainment is the cherry on top.

15 – Statue cruise by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 1097 reviews )

“Perfect boat ride to see Lady Liberty. Easy on and off, plenty of seating and standing room. Also loved the availability of snacks and drinks on board. Well spent 1.5 hours with my daughter.” Jana, Headout

Focusing on the infamous Statue of Liberty – a symbol of America that’s stood tall in the New York Harbor since the late 1800s – this short and sweet City Experiences tour acts as a sneak peek to the Lower Manhattan icons.

You’ll get to see the statue and her pedestal up close and personal, as well as cruise by other notable sights like Ellis Island , the historic South Street Seaport, and the upscale Seaport District.

This tour also offers an audio guide that provides insight-packed commentary on the landmarks as you pass them by.

One of the more affordable Statue of Liberty cruises, this 1-hour sightseeing tour is perfect for anyone on a time crunch in NYC. The audio guide is extremely insightful, telling the history of the area. The fact that you can cancel 24 hours before the experience and get a full refund provides that extra peace of mind. A+.

16 – Dinner cruise by City Experiences

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 378 reviews )

“I was very pleased with our cruise. The Statue of Liberty was a wonderful highlight and the crew members and music made it very memorable and moving.” Lesa, Civitatis

Combining a 3-course meal with live music and unlimited (non-alcoholic) drinks, this evening adventure promises a romantic, easy-going night out on the water.

With a non-compulsory semi-formal dress code, this cruise sells itself as an elegant alternative to the typical tourist sightseeing packages.

As you tuck into your delicious meal, you’ll be blessed with unobstructed views of the Lower Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and more.

If you’re traveling as a couple, this City Experiences excursion (by Hornblower) is the perfect date night option.

Great views, great food, and a brilliant live band to top it all off! While it might be a little more expensive compared to other dinner cruises, the City Experiences Hornblower cruise promises a highly romantic excursion that’s worth every penny.

17 – Statue of Liberty Cruise by Liberty Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 3/5 ( 102 reviews )

“This tour was the best. The guide was extremely knowledgeable. My daughter and I really enjoyed it and would take this cruise again.” Gigi, Viator

Operated by Liberty Cruise , who have run Lower Manhattan tours for years, this particular Statue of Liberty cruise is compact, affordable and highly educational — a great option if you’re looking for something simple and budget-friendly.

Thanks to a live narration, you’ll hear all about the history of the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island and immigration to America as you sail around the New York Harbor.

Regardless of the time of day, you’re treated to exceptional vistas of the Financial District’s skyline, plus the shores of Brooklyn, New Jersey and Governor’s Island.

The views and the information are top-notch. Thanks to the cheap price, it’s a good option if traveling with kids. Getting on the boat leaves something to be desired, so make sure to arrive early to make the process smooth.

18 – Statue of Liberty Super Express Cruise by New York Water Taxi

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1598 reviews )

“I went with my husband and we took a bunch of awesome pictures of the city during the sunset. I definitely recommend this!” Gabriela, Viator

Taking place in an iconic yellow NYC Water Taxi (boat-style), this short and sweet tour is tailor-made for those short on time,

Thanks to the smaller vessel, it’s faster to get around compared to bigger boats, yet still allowing enough time for great photo opportunities of the Statue of Liberty and the New York Harbor. The onboard narration ensures you’ll learn plenty about the iconic sights as you cruise by them.

Plus, the boat leaves every hour, so it’s easy to fit into an already jam-packed day of sightseeing.

Fast and fantastic! If you have limited time to visit the area, this is a quick way to see a couple of New York’s main tourist landmarks. You get to see Lady Liberty up close and learn about its history. Great value for money too. Definitely recommend.

19 – 4th of July Fireworks Cruise by Go Sailing NYC

“I booked a 2 hour sail on the 4th of July as a surprise for my husband’s birthday and he said it was the best birthday present ever” Nina, Google Review

New York already boasts the world’s most recognizable skyline. But when the Fourth of July rolls around, the city takes it to a whole new level with festive fireworks lighting up the night sky.

The Go Sailing NYC cruise is more like a private party on the water; you’ll have the entire boat to yourself, with an open bar and catering options to turn it into a full-blown celebration.

As you sail around the New York Harbor, you’ll see Lady Liberty and the Lower Manhattan skyline up close, with luxury front-row seats to the dazzling fireworks.

• firework cruises in NYC

It’s not cheap, but it’s one of the more magical experiences you can have on the New York waterways. The views are spectacular and the crew are so friendly and respectful. If you want to celebrate Independence Day in style, there’s no better way.

20 – Sailing on the Shearwater Classic Schooner by Manhattan by Sail

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 53 reviews )

“Beautiful views of Hudson, Manhattan, Brooklyn, East river, Statue of Liberty. And the journey is really comfortable!” Sam, Viator

Like stepping back in time, the Shearwater Classic Schooner sells itself as a nostalgic and elegant way to experience the New York Harbor. Dating back to 1929, the Shearwater has a rich history; and with its spacious outdoor deck, you’ll be treated to amazing city views.

You can expect a knowledgeable and courteous crew who can share interesting historical facts about the city and its iconic landmarks — the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge , to name a couple.

The incredibly relaxing tour, run by Manhattan by Sail , promises an intimate experience with only 37 passengers on board.

A much more intimate experience than the larger tour boats, the Shearwater is a delightful adventure that combines peaceful and picturesque sightseeing with a touch of old-school sailing. The boat is beautifully maintained, the crew is friendly, and it’s decent value for money. Overall, a lovely afternoon experience.

21 – Tall Ship Sail aboard Clipper City by Manhattan by Sail

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 223 reviews )

“It was a great Saturday afternoon for a sail around NYC, the weather was outstanding, jazz music and atmosphere was on point. Thank you guys for a wonderful day in NYC.” Ray, Viator

Looking like an old-timey pirate ship, the Clipper City tall ship invites sightseeing travelers to join an open-aired adventure through NYC.

While the skyline views and up-close look at the Statue of Liberty and the Governors Island National Monument are notable highlights, the boat is an attraction in its own right.

This 158-foot long, 120-foot-high vessel is an impressive sight — able to accommodate more passengers than any other sailboat in the county.

Guests are encouraged to help with the ropes to raise the sails, making it a highly engaging experience too.

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This tour is fantastic! Not only do you get to see the magnificent skyline and Lady Liberty, but you can also help hoist the sails and steer the ship. If you want more than just sightseeing – if you want an experience, then the Clipper is a great option.

22 – Sightseeing Cruise by N.Y.C Skyline Tours & Cruises

A relaxing, informative, and affordable way to see the Statue of Liberty and its surroundings, this N.Y.C Skyline Tours sightseeing excursion keeps it simple.

You’ll be able to sit back on the Majestic Princess and enjoy the scenery as a guide narrates your journey through some of New York City’s most iconic landmarks — the Freedom Tower, Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island and Governors Island, to name a few.

Take a seat on the open-air bow or back deck if the weather’s nice, or stay cozy indoors – either way, spectacular views await.

A no-frills and informative cruise that won’t break the bank, the NYC Skyline Tour is perfect for anyone looking to take in the quintessential sights within a shorter time frame.

Since it departs from the Historic Seaport, you explore the quaint neighborhood before or after the cruise too.

23 – Sailing tour in New York by Brooklyn Sail

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 123 reviews )

“The captain was very knowledgeable about all the landmarks and very friendly with the all the customers treated everyone with respect. Will definitely book again.” Vincent, Viator

A more intimate sailing and sightseeing experience, the Brooklyn Sail cruise provides all the notable highlights of a Manhattan cruise (iconic landmarks, killer views and plenty of fascinating insights) without the need to actually set foot in the busy island.

Plus, being on a smaller boat means you get to sail closer to iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.

The best part? With a maximum of six guests allowed on board, you can ditch the tourist crowds and enjoy a leisurely cruise with your nearest and dearest without the noise and chaos of a big boat.

This is far from the “typical” tourist experience. The Brooklyn Sail is a small-group, authentic, super fun couple of hours on the water. You feel relaxed, like you’ve got your very own boat, and the guides (Ian and Tyler) are incredible. Definitely recommend for anyone staying in Brooklyn.

Read more: Best things to do in Brooklyn

In the bustling metropolis of New York City, a plethora of companies provide intimate, private boat tours that offer a refreshing escape from the crowded streets (and the overcrowded, touristy sightseeing cruises).

If you love an exclusive experience, services like SamBoat and Click & Boat act as marketplaces for boat rentals, allowing you to navigate the city’s waterways at your own pace.

Whether you’re looking to charter a yacht and a captain for a luxury sunset cruise, or simply rent a small boat for a laid-back afternoon, these platforms have something to suit every preference and budget.

Let’s take a look at the most popular options below.

24 – Private sailing charters by Tribeca Sailing

Oozing luxury, Tribeca Sailing boasts a slew of packages for intimate charters and private sailing tours.

The team offers bespoke trips on their gorgeous sailboats, ranging from family-friendly afternoon jaunts to romantic sunset cruises and twinkling moonlit city lights excursions — each with a maximum of up to six people onboard.

Bring your own food and drinks, connect to the speaker, and learn the ins and outs of sailing — it’s all part of the intimate adventure.

Regardless of the time of day, you’ll get a breathtaking perspective of the city’s iconic skyline, with the flexibility to customize your route as you please.

The boat is charming, the captain is kind and easy-going, and the entire sailing trip is an absolute delight. The experience is intimate, personalized and so much fun. Don’t overthink it – Tribeca Sailing is the way to go!

25 – Private luxury daytime boat tour by NYCbySEA

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 25 reviews )

“Captain Mike was super friendly, our family had an amazing time definitely the way to see the city away from crowded ferry. We will definitely do it again when we are back in the city.” Nichole, Viator

If luxury and comfort are what you’re after, then the NYCbySEA opulent powerboat should sit high atop the list.

After stepping onto the elegant 28-foot vessel, you’ll be taken on an intimate tour past some of the Big Apple’s most postcard-perfect landmarks; the Freedom Tower, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty, to name a few.

Thanks to a maximum of 6 guests, it’s a wonderful alternative to the overcrowded tourist ferries. And, as the cherry on top, you’ll get an in-depth run-through of all the sights as you float them by.

The NYCbySEA private tour is a fabulous option for a quick showcase of Lower Manhattan’s sights. The personalized service and smaller groups make this a great option for couples and families looking for a more intimate experience. Skip the big, touristy boats and spend a little extra for this wonderful experience!

26 – Private boat charter by New York Harbor Tours

With two boats in its shed — the 6-passenger Tireless and the 16-passenger Reliance — New York Harbor Tours can serve us a delightful, intimate experience no matter how many people are in your party.

Perfect for birthday parties and bachelor/ette shindigs, these cruises come in a handful of shapes and sizes — take a short sightseeing tour around the Upper New York Harbor (to see the Statue of Liberty), or opt for a circumnavigation around the entire Manhattan island.

Either way, you’ll be doing it in style aboard these vintage yachts with a friendly captain to boot.

Dave and the team are phenomenal! If you’re looking for an intimate, customizable, and scenic boat tour of New York City, look no further than Reliance (and Tireless) yachts. Dave and Joel are experienced and knowledgeable, providing an educational yet fun discussion throughout the tour.

27 – Boat rentals by SamBoat

Offering the ultimate in flexibility and self-guided exploration, SamBoat is an online third-party marketplace — the boating equivalent of Turo — where you can take your pick from all kinds of different vessels scattered around New York City (and beyond).

From 101-foot superyachts in Long Island to 6-person motorboats in Chelsea Piers and bareboats in the Hamptons, you’ll find a wide selection of boats, ships and yachts to choose from – with and without skippers included.

Simply choose your dates, set your budget, and browse the marketplace to see what’s available.

• boat rentals in NYC

If you want to ditch the tourist scene altogether and really explore NYC off the beaten path, a boat rental is your best bet. Tip: Choose an option that has a skipper included so that you can sit back, relax, and let someone else navigate the waters for you.

What is the best time to go on a boat tour in NYC?

The best time to take a boat tour in New York City is from April to June and September to early November when the city enjoys warm and pleasant weather. Even better, the tourist crowds are not as overwhelming as in July, August, or December, and it’s also a great time to bag some good cruise deals.

What happens in case of bad weather?

If you’re aboard your NYC boat tour and you encounter bad weather, you do not need to worry as most of the boat tour providers boast ultra-modern amenities like the climate-controlled cabin and indoor seating to avert the rain.

And in case, the boat tour is canceled due to extreme weather conditions, you’d either be provided with a different date for an excursion or the entire deposit, 100% of it, will be refunded to you.

How to book boat tours in NYC?

The best way to book boat tours in NYC is to do so online.

Several websites sell a huge array of boat tour options, so using a comparison service like TourScanner can help you compare prices and read reviews before making your final decision.

You can also visit ticket booths located at popular tourist spots like Chelsea Piers and the South Street Seaport.

• compare boat tours in NYC

Travel tips

• Before booking a boat tour, it is advisable to keep a close eye on the weather. New York’s weather can change quickly, so bring an extra layer just in case.
• During the summer months, the NYC sun can sizzle. Make sure you wear sunscreen and bring a hat that won’t fly away on a windy day.
• Bring along a camera (or, at the very least, a fully charged phone) so you can take photos of the iconic Lower Manhattan skyline as you pass it by.
• Sometimes boat decks can get a little slippery. To avoid any embarrassing falls and navigate the stairs with ease, make sure to wear comfortable shoes that have a good grip (flip flops and high heels should be avoided).
• book a NYC boat tour

10 Best Boat Tours In NYC To Book Right Now

Checking out New York City via the water is the best way to see skyline views, and here's the best tours to book!

With spring officially here and summer looming soon, it’s almost time to get out on NYC waters and explore the city! New York’s two main rivers, the Hudson River and East River are chalk full of incredible boat tours that are simply amazing. The cruises allow you to check out the skyline from every angle, and some even have live entertainment, special meals, and one-of-a-kind events.

If you’re looking for your next adventure to explore NYC the best way—via boat—here’s the best NYC boat tours to book right now.

1. Circle Line’s “Best of NYC” Cruise

This Circle Line boat tour separates itself in a class of it’s own…and there’s a reason it’s number 1 on our list! The 2 hour and 30 minute cruise goes completely around   the island of Manhattan , offering unobstructed views of over 130 of the city’s most iconic landmarks including the  Manhattan skyline ,  Little Island ,  Hudson Yards ,  One World Trade Center ,  Brooklyn Bridge ,  Yankee Stadium , and more! Their boats are state-of-the-art and climate controlled, and they have some of the most knowledgable tour guides in the whole city!

🛥️ Book your tickets to this boat tour here!

2. City Cruises’ Bateaux New York Premier Brunch Cruise

How about a cruise of NYC and a delicious brunch ?! This 2.5 hour cruise (brought to you by City Cruises) includes a chef-prepared 3-course plated brunch on the water with bottomless mimosas , panoramic views of the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty , a live DJ , and so much more! It’s truly an experience that will impress a date, your family, or even your work crew!

3. Liberty Cruise’s Statue of Liberty Tour

The Statue of Liberty is undoubtedly one of our favorite attractions in NYC, and this boat tour will bring you up close and personal with Lady Liberty! With both standard and premium tour options, the 75 minute adventure departs from Pier 36 multiple times per day. If you’re looking for a boat tour with the best view of the Statue of Liberty , go for this option.

4. Manhattan by Sail’s Clipper City Ride

Fancy riding on a boat cruise around NYC in… a sailboat ?! The Clipper City is the largest tall ship in New York City at 158 feet long and has the capacity to bring 134 passengers on a ride! The nostalgic-feeling ride departs from Pier 17 downtown, and takes passengers all around the New York Harbor. They also have special cruises too like sunset jazz cruises, golden hour cocktail sails, wine tasting cruises, and more .

5. Circle Line’s The Beast Speedboat Ride

This Circle Line cruise is for the adrenaline junkies…and it’s a 30 minute speedboat ride through NYC waters like never before. Starting at Pier 83 on the Upper West Side, “The Beast” rips through NYC waters with all kinds of twists, turns, and splashes along the way . The jet-powered thrill ride can get up to 45 mph, and will take you on a whipping and winding tour all the way out to the Statue of Liberty! “The Beast” opens for the 2024 season on May 4th !

6. Circle Line’s Landmarks Cruise

Check off all the landmarks from your bucketlist with this no frills boat tour that starts and ends at Pier 83 in midtown Manhattan. The 90 minute cruise will bring you down the west side, with peeks of Hudson Yards  and  Little Island before wrapping around downtown and heading up the East River. Amenities include an incredible outdoor viewing deck, an onboard café, free Wifi, and more!

7. New York Media Boat’s Private Boat Tour

Live out your luxury dreams with a private boat tour of NYC with New York Media Boat! Their private boat charters come at a steep price, but there’s nothing quite like taking in the 360° NYC views with a hand-selected crew. Rides are typically 60 minutes long and group sizes can range upwards to 12 passengers. Prices for private boat tours range from $550-$1100/ hour based on group size.

8. New York Water Taxi Cruises

New York Water Taxi provides a “hop on, hop off”-type of service that makes it easy for you to sightsee all different parts of NYC as efficiently as possible! Their daily ferry service connects Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Jersey City all together, making it the perfect way to explore the city…and also catch some waterfront views too!

9. Staten Island Ferry

We’re going to let you on our secret little FREE boat tour of NYC …the Staten Island Ferry! The fare-less journey is operated by the New York City Department of Transportation, and runs a 5.2 mile route through the New York Harbor between Manhattan and Staten Island in about 25 minutes . Whether you’re looking to explore a different borough for a day, or want to ride for free on the water, it’s our favorite hidden gem!

10. NYC Ferry

Similarly to the Staten Island Ferry, the NYC Ferry acts almost as subway system via the water! There are 6 routes, as well as one seasonal route, connecting 25 ferry piers across all five boroughs . The fare is $4 per ride and it’s the perfect way to have a do-your-own-boat-tour, especially during the summer! They have an open air deck, a bar on deck, and ports all over the city!

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Best of NYC

PIER 83, MIDTOWN

The only sightseeing cruise that completely circles Manhattan. See all of NYC's landmarks from temperature-controlled indoor seats or our huge outdoor deck.

• Outdoor Deck Space
• Snacks & full bar
• Photo stop at the Statue of Liberty

Cruises starting Saturday, June 8

CRUISE SUMMARY

Our World Famous Best of New York Cruise

Experience the only sightseeing cruise in New York City that completely goes around the island of Manhattan in our temperature-controlled, state-of-the-art boats.

During this 2 hour and 30 minute cruise you’ll cruise along all three NYC rivers, pass under 20 bridges and see over 130 of the city’s most iconic landmarks including the Manhattan skyline , Little Island , Hudson Yards , One World Trade Center , Brooklyn Bridge and downtown Brooklyn , Yankee Stadium , the George Washington Bridge and, of course, an up close look at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island !

Our world-famous tour guides tell the story of New York City as you journey around the full island and enjoy the best sightseeing experience NYC has to offer!

Please Note In the rare event that extreme high tides or other occasions out of our control prevent us from circumnavigating the entire island of Manhattan as planned, we'll modify our route to still give you a fantastic 200+ landmarks tour. If you have concerns, please give us a call as early as 9:30 AM the morning of the day you plan to take a cruise (212) 563-3200.

What you'll see

Our flagship cruise with the best views + every NYC landmark

Sit back, relax and enjoy breathtaking views of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty while our award winning tour guides narrate every detail along your route.

Empire State Building

Standing 1,250’ (381m) tall, it was the world's tallest building from 1931 until the World Trade Center was completed in 1972.

Chrysler Building

Classic Art Deco architecture, the building dons gargoyles that depict car ornaments and a spire modeled on a radiator grille.

An extraordinary 1.45 mile-long (2.33 km) elevated park built on an abandoned section of a former railroad.

Statue of Liberty

Standing 305’ (93m) tall, Lady Liberty has welcomed visitors since she was bequeathed to America from France in 1886.

Ellis Island

The busiest US immigrant port processed over 12 million immigrants from 1892 to 1954.

South Street Seaport

The South Street Seaport is a historic area in New York City. It features some of the oldest architecture in downtown Manhattan.

Brooklyn Bridge

The longest suspension bridge when it opened in 1883, its 276’ (84m) high towers are built of limestone, granite and cement.

Manhattan Bridge

Constructed in 1901, the Manhattan Bridge is a suspension bridge, connecting Lower Manhattan with Downtown Brooklyn.

United Nations Headquarters

Designed by an international team of architects, the UN is an international zone with its own fire department and postal service.

Gracie Mansion

This federal-style home, currently the residence of NYC mayors, was once a country estate, an ice-cream parlor and a museum.

Yankee Stadium

In its 85+ year history, this “cathedral to baseball” has hosted 6,581 Yankees regular season home games.

George Washington Bridge

The world’s busiest suspension bridge spans the Hudson River and carries over 103 million vehicles per year.

Onboard Amenities

Our state-of-the-art boats come equipped with almost everything you need for a relaxing and comfortable cruise.

Unparalleled Views Pick a seat on the outdoor deck or enjoy the view from the huge panoramic windows in our temperature-controlled indoor cabins.

Did You Say ... Incredible Outdoor Deck The best way to see NYC and Lady Liberty is "al fresco" - outside in the fresh air, enjoying the cool breezes and the warm sunshine. It doesn't get better than this!

Temperature-Controlled Indoor Space Whether it's hot or cold, rainy or sunny, we have a temperature-controlled indoor deck with plenty of seating for everyone

Onboard Café *Freshly prepared menu of sandwiches, salads and snacks available to purchase.

Refreshing Drinks *Enjoy a full bar serving hot and cold beverages including beer, wine and cocktails.

Free WiFi No need to wait to upload your favorite photos and selfies!

George Washington bridge

Guests Looking at Henry Hudson Bridge

Onboard Offerings

While we kindly ask that you refrain from bringing outside food or beverages, we've got you covered with a fully stocked snack bar and a delightful selection of beer, wine, and cocktails available onboard.

Click Here for our Full Onboard Menu

Plan Your Visit

Get ready, Get set, Get Directions to Pier 83

What To Do When You Arrive

• If you purchased Premier Tickets directly from circleline.com, please alert a red-shirted Ambassador and they will help you get through security to get to your seat quickly.
• If you bought standard tickets from circleline.com, Viator, Get Your Guide or Expedia, please go directly to boarding at the entrance to our Pier. Please have your bag open and ready to be checked by our security personnel.
• If you have a CityPASS and you have reserved your seats in advance at citypass.circleline.com , please proceed to directly to security.
• If you have another pass, such as NY Pass, Explorer Pass or Sightseeing Pass, or a voucher, please go to our ticket office to pick up your tickets and proceed to the security line.

Parking at Pier 83

If you're driving to Pier 83 we've got parking for you!

We offer convenient parking just steps away from our boats. We have a parking attendant and security personnel to ensure the safety of your vehicle and we offer covered parking as well.

Our daily rates start at $35.

Our Sightseeing Cruises Are Smoke-Free!

Smoking is not permitted on Circle Line’s regular sightseeing cruises including Liberty Midtown, Liberty Super Express, Statue at Sunset, Landmarks, Best of New York and Harbor Lights.*

Smoking may be permitted in designated areas on Circle Line’s Music Cruises, Bear Mountain Cruises, 4th of July and New Year’s Eve Cruises. Please plan your trip accordingly.

5 Great New York City Boat Tours for Tourists

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Sail ho and test your sea legs by taking a boat or ferry trip around New York City. It's impossible to explore the whole city on foot, and using the subway means missing out on all of the impressive views while in transit.

Sightseeing from the water offers a totally different perspective of this colossal city, and visitors have countless cruise options available that are family-friendly, budget-friendly, or booze-friendly. Once you're up close to the Statue of Liberty or sailing directly underneath the Brooklyn Bridge, you'll see there's really no other way to experience these New York landmarks.

The BEAST Speedboat

Philippe Debled / Getty Images 

This high-speed boat whips travelers around the lower Hudson River and New York Harbor at 45 mph, right past top harbor sights like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island . This "roller coaster on the water" is not for the faint of heart, but offers an exhilarating way for thrill-seekers to see the city. You are likely to get wet on the Beast, so don't forget a change of clothes if you plan to continue sightseeing after the cruise.

The Beast runs from early May until the end of September and doesn't go out during rain.

Board the boat: Pier 83 near West 42nd Street and Hudson River Park

Classic Harbor Line

Fancy sailing in the harbor with billowing white sails overhead? Then look no further than the exemplary Classic Harbor Line, which takes guests out on working schooners to enjoy views of Lady Liberty and the New York City skyline. Included in the rates are a few rounds of wine, beer, or soft drinks, for added value to this relaxing and memorable boat outing.

You can choose your cruise based on an activity or special event, such as fall foliage viewing, champagne sunset cruise, New Year's Eve fireworks, or Pride, among many others.

You can book these cruises year-round, seven days a week, except from January to mid-March, when they are only available on weekends.

Board the boat: Chelsea Piers at West 21st Street and Hudson River Park; North Cove Marina in Battery Park

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

 MollyNZ / Getty Images

There's a reason that the Circle Line remains so popular with tourists. The company offers several different sightseeing cruises around the city, including the popular 90-minute landmarks cruise, which provides views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and other well-known sites. You can also schedule an enchanting sunset Circle Line cruise for a relaxing end to a busy day of city sightseeing .

Circle Line offers trips every day of the year except December 25.

Board the boat: Pier 83 near West 42nd Street and Hudson River Park; Pier 11 at the South Street Seaport

Staten Island Ferry

 andreiorlov / Getty Images

This free ferry ride to Staten Island takes only 25 minutes and offers stunning views of the Lower Manhattan skyline and New York Harbor, as well as the Statue of Liberty. You can ride the ferry directly back to Manhattan or disembark on the other side and explore what Staten Island has to offer.

The Staten Island ferry runs 24/7 with more frequent service during weekday rush hour. Be aware of scammers around the terminal trying to sell tickets for the ferry.

Board the boat: Whitehall Terminal, 4 Whitehall St.

New York Water Taxi

 JANIFEST / Getty Images

New York Water Taxi is the maritime version of the hop-on, hop-off bus. Purchase a one-day or two-day pass, and you can board the boat as often as you wish at any one of the four docking locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn. The year-round New York Water Taxi is the only cruise that allows visitors to explore New York via land and water, and even offers neighborhood guides for all of the areas around its docks.

Board the boat: Hudson River at West 42nd Street; Battery Park; Pier 11 at the South Street Seaport; and Pier 1 at Brooklyn Bridge Park

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The 12 Best Statue of Liberty Cruises

There are multiple ways for you to see the Statue of Liberty in New York. Our personal favorite is seeing the Statue of Liberty from the water! That’s why, in this article, we’d like to present the 12 best Statue of Liberty Cruises.

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Our Favorite Statue of Liberty Cruises

First of all, let us reiterate that the only way to set foot on Liberty Island is by taking the ferry. This can be done with an appropriate ticket or within a guided tour. Any other Statue of Liberty Cruise will be  cruising around the Statue of Liberty . They may make a stop on the water, but they do not stop at the island . For us, however, cruises around the Statue of Liberty are the perfect way of combining panoramic scenes of Manhattan’s skyline with a close view of the Statue of Liberty. If you do want to visit the island, be sure to be informed about all the different ticket types in advance.

There are also a bunch of private tours that are offered to explore the Statue of Liberty. Even though the reviews are excellent, we do not believe a private tour is necessary. A guided tour in a small group is just as good and much more affordable.

Should you want to climb all the way to the top, into the crown of the Statue of Liberty , you would need a different ticket. Those tickets are limited and sell out many weeks in advance, so be sure to secure your tickets.

Details about each Statue of Liberty Cruise

2-hour day sail to statue of liberty on america 2.0.

This sailing tour is one of the most enjoyable boat tours I’ve ever done in New York! On board on this 105-foot schooner you sail from the Chelsea Piers to the Statue of Liberty and can always see the beautiful skyline of Manhattan and New Jersey. Included in the price is a drink and guaranteed a lot of fun. 

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island (Ferry & Stop)

Go and see one of NYC’s most famous attractions: the Statue of Liberty. Don’t miss out seeing this iconic attraction up close! You will also get to visit the Ellis Island Immigration Museum which is a great educational experience for adults as well as kids.

New York City Sunset Cruise: Sail Schooner Adirondack

The sailing trip into the sunset is definitely one of my highlights in New York and definitely one of the best cruise in New York. During this two-hour tour, the Statue of Liberty awaits you, you can have a drink and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere!

Circle Line - New York Landmarks Cruise

This Circle Line cruise will take you past NYC’s most famous attractions and landmarks. You will head past the Statue of Liberty, the One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, amd much much more. If you are looking to explore Manhattan from the water and learn some of the history of NYC at the same time, this is definitely the cruise for you. At a lenght of approximately 1.5 hours, this cruise will take you half way around the Island of Manhattan as well as once around the Statue of Liberty for the ultimate photo opportunity.

60-Min Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Sunset Cruise

You start at the South Street Seaport right next to New York’s most famous bridge – the Brooklyn Bridge. From there, you will make a leisurely drive to the southern tip of Manhattan and you will be in the Port of New York where you can see the Statue of Liberty for the first time. On the way there you can also clearly see the new highest building in the evening skyline: the One World Trade Center.

Circle Line - Harbor Lights Night Cruise

The Harbor Lights Cruise by Cricle Line is an amazing way to see the NYC from the water. As the lights start to sparkle across the Hudson and East Rivers at dusk you see the beauty of the city at night from a whole different angle.

Classic Harbor Line: Architecture Yacht Cruise

The architecture boat tour takes you around Manhattan in 2.5 hours. On a 30 meter long wooden ship in the style of the 1920s you can relax and learn a lot of interesting facts about the many small and large buildings of the city. The tour is super-relaxing and the price includes a drink (vino, soft drinks) and small snacks.

Circle Line - Best of NYC Cruise

The Best of NYC Cruise takes you once around the whole island of Manhattan. This is a great way to explore the city from the water and see more than 25 of the top sights NYC has to offer. Because this is one of the most popular cruises make sure to book your tickets beforehand online to secure your spot.

Circle Line - Liberty Cruise

If you want to see the Statue of Liberty from close by, without all the hassle of having to wait in a long line for the ferry and being one of very many toruists on Liberty Island, this is the perfect alternative. The Liberty Cruise by Circle Line is a great way to see the NYC skyline from the water, as well as get up close to the Statue of Liberty for some amazing pictures.

Classic Harbor Line: Sail to the Statue of Liberty

A day sail on this 105-foot schooner is perfect for family outings, dates, and entertaining guests from out of town and locals alike. A sail on America 2.0 is guaranteed to be a memorable experience.

Bateaux Lunch Cruise

This boat tour with lunch on board the Bateaux New York will take you from the Hudson River to the East River, which means you will see all the major buildings of the NYC skyline. And of course, the Statue of Liberty is included! Since the atmosphere on the Bateaux Lunch cruise is a bit more formal, guests are asked to wear long pants and no shorts or hot pants or flip flops.

New York Harbor Evening Sail with Live Jazz

You will sail with the beautiful tall ship “Clipper City” from Battery Park southwards into the harbor of New York and can admire the illuminated One World Trade Center and the skyline from close range. The atmosphere on the tall ship is really very special: you are surrounded by locals, the hustle and bustle of the city is far away and you are immediately deeply relaxed.

Classic Harbor Line: Sailboat Day Cruise to the Statue of Liberty

By far the best way to admire New York City’s iconic skyline is from the water. With this day cruise along the Hudson River, you can take in the most recognized cityscape in the world while relaxing on board the elegant Adirondack schooner. Sip complimentary wine, beer, and Champagne while looking out over iconic sights like the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and Battery Park.

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The 19 best new york city tours of 2024.

Explore the best parts of NYC with a local expert.

The Best New York City Tours

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Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, you're guaranteed to learn something new on these guided tours of New York City. Tour options range from sightseeing outings to the city's famous attractions to leisurely dinner cruises on the Hudson River.

Editor's Pick: USA Guided Tours – Discover NY Bus Tour

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

U.S. News independently paid to send  Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner , an travel writer based in New York City, on this tour to provide readers with an unbiased, first-hand perspective of what to expect. USA Guided Tours – Discover NY Bus Tour was selected by our team as an Editor’s Pick thanks to its popularity and favorable user reviews.

This tour starts in Midtown and provides a comprehensive survey of well-known Manhattan landmarks, cultural institutions and tourist attractions, peppered with local knowledge. It's an enjoyable way to see much of the city in half a day. The tour is perfect for first-time travelers to get their bearings, check off some photo-ops and see the range of activities that await during their time in New York: shows, parks, museums, live tapings, skyscraper tours, eateries and more. A comfy bus seats about 30 passengers, ideal for quick group gatherings at stops. Tour activities include a walk through Central Park 's west side, a peek at the Empire State Building and a pause at the 9/11 memorial . Guides address ways to further enjoy each space for a return visit, plus pertinent history, standout events, cultural hot spots and more. A round-trip journey on the Staten Island ferry offers close views of the Statue of Liberty , and a real New York commuter experience.

For an additional fee, you can opt to take this tour in a glass-top bus. If you're hoping to admire the city at night, consider the company's evening bus tour.

Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Why we love it:

• A 45-minute stop by Zuccotti Park for lunch offers visitors the chance to eat at Gansevoort Liberty Market, outdoor food carts, Eataly and more, just like countless New Yorkers downtown.
• The drive up Broadway, and down Fifth Avenue offers visitors a taste of several neighborhoods they may want to return to (think: West Village and Chinatown). Guides are happy to recommend how to return to these areas and share personal recommendations for shopping, dining and low-priced tickets. 
• There’s never a boring moment – each block has a story about a synagogue, a celebrity, a changemaker or other notable figures in New York history. The comprehensive overview takes visitors from 1600s New Amsterdam to 2024’s Tony Award contenders. 

– Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Check prices & availability on:

Bike Rent NYC – Central Park Bike Tour

Price: From $49 Duration: 2 hours

Led by Bike Rent NYC, the Central Park Bike Tour covers roughly 5 miles of Central Park in two hours, and stops along the way include the Bethesda Fountain, Strawberry Fields and the Reservoir. Reviewers generally praise the guides' knowledge of and enthusiasm for the park, and they note that the tours are not paricularly strenuous.

Tours are available multiple times daily, with the first departing at 9 a.m. Tickets cover the use of bicycles as well as helmets, which are mandatory for riders 14 and younger. Bikers can purchase insurance for an additional fee.

Prefer to explore on your own? The company also rents bikes for self-guided tours.

Ahoy NY Tours & Tasting – Chinatown and Little Italy Food Fest Walking Food Tour

Price: From $105 Duration: 3 hours

Eat your way through Chinatown and Little Italy on this three-hour walking tour of New York City. As you explore iconic neighborhoods with an expert guide, you'll stop for seven samples of traditional dishes. Tastings may include Chinese dumplings, cannolis and homemade mozzarella, among other delicacies. Participants praise guides for their historical knowledge of the area and the amount of food served; many warn that you'll want to arrive hungry to fully enjoy all of the tour's offerings.

Tickets cover all food, and participants 21 and older have the option to add a glass of wine or beer at the seated tasting. If you're still hungry, Ahoy NY Tours & Tasting also offers tours of Mulberry Street.

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

Price: From $66 Duration: 3.5 hours

New York City offers something for just about everyone, including fans of a certain television show starring four fashionable women. On Location Tours' "Sex and the City" Hotspots Tour takes travelers via bus to more than 40 locations where Sarah Jessica Parker and her costars were filmed wining, dining and shopping. Travelers visit famed neighborhoods, such as midtown Manhattan, Greenwich Village, SoHo and the Meatpacking District, stopping for photo-ops along the way. Tourgoers rave about the experienced and amusing guides and assure you don't have to be a fan to enjoy the tour.

The adults-only (18 and older) outings are generally offered Thursday through Sunday at 2 p.m., but the tour runs daily during the summer months. Availability may be more limited in the winter. The company also offers a variety of other TV- and movie-themed bus tours, including those that visit locations featured in "Gossip Girl." If you'd rather walk, consider the company's Central Park TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour.

Courtesy of ExperienceFirst

ExperienceFirst – Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Guided Tour

Price: Adults from $79; kids from $75 Duration: 5 hours

For an in-depth look at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, sign up for this excursion with ExperienceFirst. The five-hour tour includes access to the grounds of Liberty and Ellis islands, the Immigration Museum and the Statue of Liberty Museum, as well as round-trip ferry tickets. What's more, you'll enjoy priority line access to board the ferry. Guides win praise from reviewers for their expertise and engaging delivery, as well as their ability to navigate the crowds.

Tours depart daily at 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The 3.5-hour guided portion of the five-hour tour begins at Castle Clinton in Battery Park and ends at Ellis Island. From there, you can continue to explore on your own for as long as you wish or hop back on the ferry to return to Battery Park. ExperienceFirst also conducts three-hour "express" Statue of Liberty tours , in addition to walking tours of various New York City neighborhoods, including Little Italy and Chinatown.

Broadway Up Close Walking Tours – Broadway's Beginnings

Price: Adults from $41; kids from $36 Duration: 1 hour, 45 minutes

Theater fans can't miss the chance to tag along on the Broadway's Beginnings tour. During the nearly two-hour, half-mile walking tour, you'll pass by the theaters at the southern end of the Broadway theater district, from 41st Street to 44th Street. Along the way, your expert guide will share tales of Broadway's early years and detail how Broadway shows evolve from the first rehearsal to opening night. Plus, guides regale you with stories of the ghosts that reportedly haunt the district's theaters. Reviewers rave about the guides' passion for theater and the behind-the-scenes scoop they share.

Tours are generally available Sunday, Wednesday and Friday at 11 a.m. A maximum of 15 participants are allowed to tour. Can't get enough of Broadway? The company offers a variety of other themed tours, including one that focuses on "Hamilton: An American Musical" and another one all about the Shubert brothers (best known for their theater empire in the 1900s).

Top Dog Tours New York City – Ghosts of Greenwich Village Tour

Price: From $35 Duration: 2 hours

Hear all about the ghosts that purportedly haunt Greenwich Village on this two-hour stroll. Among the sites you'll pass by are the Anne Charlotte Lynch House, where Edgar Allan Poe debuted some of his most famous works, the Hangman's Elm, a more than 300-year-old tree in Washington Square Park that is believed to be the site of many hangings during the American Revolution, and the Jefferson Market Library, a former courthouse. Travelers recommend this tour if you're a fan of the paranormal and are interested in the history of Greenwich Village. Reviewers give kudos to the guides, who they describe as friendly and captivating.

Tours operate nightly at 8 p.m. and are offered in English and Spanish. Note that Top Dog Tours says this experience is not suitable for kids younger than 12.

You'll visit the 9/11 Memorial, a plaza at the former site of the twin towers, during the 9/11 Ground Zero Tour.

9/11 Ground Zero Tour

Price: Adults from $39; kids from $35 Duration: 1.5 hours

Go beyond the 9/11 Memorial with this 90-minute walking tour, led by New Yorkers with personal connections to 9/11. Tours begin at St. Paul's Chapel, which served as an impromptu rescue center during the attacks, and then move to the 9/11 Memorial, a plaza at the former site of the twin towers. From there, your tour may also stop at the FDNY Memorial Wall, the "Survivor Tree" or the Oculus at the World Trade Center transit hub, depending on your tour guide. Tour-takers find the guides to be insightful, respectful and passionate.

Tours take place daily at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Packages that combine the 9/11 Ground Zero Tour with a visit to the 9/11 Museum or to the One World Observatory are also available.

New York Media Boat – Adventure Sightseeing Tour

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $75 Duration: 1 hour

If you're looking for a unique (and thrilling) tour of NYC's top sights, consider this 60-minute speed boat ride aboard a vessel originally reserved for photographers and news crews. After departing from North Cove Marina in lower Manhattan, you'll zip across the Hudson River for views of downtown, midtown and the Empire State and Chrysler buildings. You'll also sail under the Brooklyn Bridge, along the Brooklyn waterfront and around Governors Island. Plus, the tour offers up-close views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Reviewers say this is a fun and memorable way to see the sights and applaud the captain for their interesting commentary and handling of the boat.

Boats depart several times daily, but availability is limited in the winter months. New York Media Boat also operates private tours.

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Nice Guy Tours – Lower East Side Tour

Price: From $89 Duration: 3 hours

You'll want to come hungry for this New York City food tour, which visits a minimum of seven eateries for samples of pickles, pastrami and doughnuts, among other dishes. During the three-hour walking tour, you'll stop at famous restaurants like Katz's Deli and Russ & Daughters as your guide regales you with stories about the Lower East Side's history and culture. Reviewers are particularly fond of the guides, who they describe as friendly, informative and entertaining. Travelers are also complimentary of the generous amount of food offered.

Tours are available Sunday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:30 a.m. A maximum of 12 people are allowed on each tour. The company also offers food tours of Greenwich Village.

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises – Landmarks Cruise

Price: Prices vary Duration: 1.5 hours

The Landmarks Cruise offered by Circle Line allows you to soak in dramatic views of the New York City skyline from the water surrounding Manhattan. The 90-minute boat ride sails beneath New York's famous bridges, including the Brooklyn Bridge, cruises past the Statue of Liberty and glides by other famous structures. English-speaking guides, who are characterized by reviewers as informed and entertaining, provide a running commentary about the various sights. Food and drinks, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic, are available for purchase.

Prices may vary based on the time and date of the cruise. Passengers also have the option of purchasing premier seating. Cruises depart at multiple times daily between 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. from Pier 83 at Hudson River Park. Specialized cruises to the Statue of Liberty and evening cruises are also available.

Foods of NY Tours – Heart and Soul of Greenwich Village

Price: Adults from $75; kids from $50 Duration: 3 hours

The Heart and Soul of Greenwich Village tour highlights the diverse culinary offerings of one of the city's most eclectic neighborhoods. Reviewers enthusiastically praise the varied array of food sampled during the three-hour walking tour, which stops at various cafes and specialty shops for seven tastings – two seated, the rest on the go. Specific tastings vary by day and time, but may include artichoke pizza, fresh pasta, empanadas or kati rolls.

Tours are offered Thursday through Monday year-round. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, tours depart at noon (with a possible additional tour at 12:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday); on Thursday and Monday, tours start at 2 p.m. The tickets cover the food and one bottle of water. Excursions are limited to 16 people. Foods of NY Tours also conducts tours of other neighborhoods, such as Chinatown and Little Italy, as well as Brooklyn.

Tommy's New York – The Catacombs by Candlelight

Price: Adults from $36; kids from $30 Duration: 1.5 hours

Explore the crypts beneath the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral and enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour with Tommy's New York. On the 90-minute tour, participants will learn the history of the catacombs, which date back to 1815, and the histories of the people buried here, including bishops, priests and families. Unlike the catacombs in Paris and Rome, there are no visible bones. Tourgoers will also walk through the cathedral and see its Erben pipe organ. Reviewers applaud guides for their engaging and educational delivery and vast knowledge of New York history.

Tours are available Thursday through Monday at multiple times between 10:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m.

Learn all about Brooklyn, Brooklyn Heights and Dumbo with Free Tours by Foot.

Free Tours by Foot – Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO Tour

Price: Free Duration: 3 hours

For a local's perspective on Brooklyn history, consider this three-hour walking tour. You'll start your tour by walking a mile over the Brooklyn Bridge. Then, you'll explore America's first suburb, Brooklyn Heights, before stopping to admire the views of Manhattan and New York Harbor. You'll end the tour in Dumbo. Participants compliment guides for their expertise and friendly personalities, as well as their willingness to answer questions. Because it's a name-your-own-price tour, participants choose if they want to compensate the guide at the tour's conclusion.

Tours, which meet at City Hall Park, are offered daily at 9:30 a.m. Though the tour is free, reservations must be made on the company's website. The company offers a variety of other themed tours, including walks through Harlem, Chinatown and Little Italy.

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Zip Aviation – Big City Helicopter Tour

Price: From $279 Duration: 20 minutes

Escape the crowds and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Big Apple on Zip Aviation's Big City Helicopter Tour. The route extends from Liberty Harbor up to the Bronx with views of landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Yankee Stadium and New York's various rivers and iconic bridges, along the way. Reviewers repeatedly laud the exceptional views, the one-of-a-kind flight experience and the professional staff. Plus, prerecorded commentary is provided in multiple languages.

Zip Aviation limits tours to six passengers, depending on the aircraft. The tour, which is available Monday to Saturday at a variety of times between 9:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., lasts 20 minutes. The company also offers 15-minute flights concentrating on the Liberty Harbor area and nighttime skyline tours.

The Wall Street Experience – Wall Street Insider Tour

Price: Adults from $39; kids from $35 Duration: 75 minutes

The Wall Street Experience's Wall Street Insider Tour traverses some of the oldest streets of New York City. The 75-minute walking tour goes past (but not inside) the New York Stock Exchange, which is closed to the public, and the Federal Reserve. As you meander the streets of lower Manhattan, guides – many of whom are traders, investment bankers and stockbrokers – discuss the Financial District's history, architecture and related trivia. Travelers describe guides as funny and extremely well-versed in both finance and New York history.

Outings start at Broad Street, just around the corner from Wall Street, at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The company also offers tours that focus on the 2008 financial crisis.

Courtesy of Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises – Harbor Lights Sunset Cruise

Price: Prices vary Duration: 2 hours

The Big Apple shines at night, and a great way to take in the glistening skyline is from the water. The Harbor Lights Sunset Cruise allows you to do just that, admiring some of the city's most recognizable landmarks, including the Empire State Building and the High Line, during the two-hour evening sail. Cruisers relish the expansive views, photo-ops and engaging commentary, and describe the tour as relaxing.

The tours, which depart nightly at 7 p.m. from Pier 83, feature narration by guides. Prices vary based on time and date of cruise. Cruisers also have the option of purchasing premier seating. Circle Line offers daytime cruises, as well as specialized cruises to the Statue of Liberty.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – New York Tenements, Tales, and Tastes Discovery

Price: From $79 Duration: 3 hours

This walking tour of the Lower East Side, Little Italy and Chinatown illustrates how immigration shaped New York's culture and culinary history. Throughout the three-hour tour, you'll sample four ethnic foods (such as knishes, prosciutto and dumplings) with a knowledgeable guide providing information about the cuisine and culture of the area. Stops include restaurants, bakeries, churches and historic sites. Reviewers heap praise on the attentive guides and recommend pairing this tour with a trip to Ellis Island to gain a better understanding of the early immigrant story.

Tours are generally offered daily at 10 a.m. Groups are limited to 14 people. Intrepid Urban Adventures also leads tours all about Alexander Hamilton, in addition to private outings.

HeliNY – The New Yorker Tour

Price: From $199 Duration: 12 to 15 minutes

Soar above the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, Chelsea Piers, Times Square and more on this approximately 15-minute helicopter flight. As you marvel at the sights below, your pilot will point out landmarks and answer any questions. Previous passengers describe the flight as magical and an amazing way to see NYC. Reviewers also praise the staff for their friendliness and professionalism.

Ticket prices start at approximately $199 per person and do not include the additional $40 facility and fuel fees. Prices may fluctuate depending on the time and date of your booking. There is a 275-pound weight limit per passenger. If you're looking for a longer flight, consider booking HeliNY's Deluxe Tour, which lasts up to 30 minutes.

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10 NYC Water Cruises That Are Actually Worth The Cost

A water cruise is a great option to consider for a memorable New York activity or for spending a romantic day with one's significant other.

The Statue of Liberty, luxury boutiques, dazzling Broadway shows , and Central Park are just a few reasons New York has long been a popular tourist destination. New York City looks breathtaking from the water, so travelers flock to take the city's water cruises for a memorable experience.

A fleet of boats transports tourists on excursions to New York City's must-see attractions and other notable locations every da y. Here's a list of the best water cruises in New York.

10 Best of NYC Cruise By Circle Line

Circle Line Sightseeing offers a 2.5-hour tour of New York City's most renowned landmarks. The tour departs from Pier 83 and circles the entire island of Manhattan, stopping by Yankee Stadium, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and more. The trip provides an in-depth insight into the city due to the guides' captivating storytelling abilities. Tours typically depart daily; however, the precise departure time varies depending on the number of participants. There is free Wi-Fi and a cafe on board the boats.

• Find out more & book tickets here.

9 Statue of Liberty Super Express Cruise

From the heart of Manhattan, the Liberty Super Express sightseeing boat is the quickest and most convenient way to get to the Statue of Liberty and back. As early as 11 a.m., you can board a ship at Slip 6 in Battery Park or Pier 16 in South Street Seaport and travel 50 minutes to see Lady Liberty in all her splendor. As you get close to the Statue of Liberty, you'll want to be ready with your phone or camera to take the best picture possible.

• Find out more & book tickets here .

Related: Ready For Something Different? Take A Jet Ski Tour Of NYC

8 New York Media Boat

A ride on the New York Media Boat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It takes about an hour and a half to learn about the exciting things to see in the surrounding rivers. Visitors see the city from various angles chosen by the photographer. The boat gets within a few feet of some of the city's most famous landmarks to give tourists the best view of the skyline. The boat's US Coast Guard-licensed captains make frequent stops to ensure that passengers get the best shots and learn about the attractions along the way.

7 Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry in New York City is one of the last remnants of an entire ferry system before bridges arrived to connect Manhattan and the future boroughs. The Staten Island Ferry now transports 22 million passengers annually between St. George on Staten Island and Whitehall Street in lower Manhattan. Furthermore, the 25-minute journey provides a breathtaking view of New York Harbor and a relaxing boat ride. The ferry's deck provides a clear picture of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

• Find out more & see the schedule here .

6 City Cruises by Hornblower

Hornblower's City Cruises depart from Manhattan's historic Seaport area. On this New York City sightseeing boat tour, guests sail through iconic sites, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge, Battery Park, and Hudson Yards, on their way from downtown to midtown. In addition, there is a multilingual tour guide and complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Relax with a drink on the open-air upper deck and enjoy the sights of passing sailboats and the big apple's monuments.

5 La Barca Cantina

In New York City, La Barca Cantina is the first and only floating Mexican restaurant of its sort. This Hudson River cruise provides both inside and outdoor dining. In addition to the enormous outer deck, three bars, and two magnificent air-conditioned inner decks, the large luxury boat features a superior sound system that plays Latin pop, salsa, and dance music. The ship travels on the Hudson River multiple times per day, allowing passengers to dine and drink while viewing a beautiful view of New York City.

Related: Complete Guide On Where To Kayak For Free In New York City

4 Bateaux New York Premier Lunch Cruise

Bateaux New York provides a two-hour European-style, glass-enclosed boat ride in the heart of Manhattan. The elegant cruise includes a three-course meal, a pianist, and narration, as well as stops at some of New York City's most famous locations with guests advised to dress in business-casual or business-casual attire. Alcoholic beverages are available for a fee. Cruises depart for destinations around the world at midday, Monday through Saturday.

3 The BEAST Speedboat Ride

The Beast is New York's only jet-powered thrill ride speedboat, operated by the world-renowned Circle Line. Two ZF 3000 marine gears powered by twin Hamilton Jets propel the Beast across the water at an exhilarating 40 knots (about 45 mph). This 30-minute New York City speedboat trip allows you to explore the city's wild side. This high-speed boat tour of New York Harbor is comparable to riding a roller coaster on the sea, complete with rocking music and light narration.

2 Seastreak Ferry

Seastreak, with its climate-controlled cabins and an open-air top deck with panoramic windows, is the best way to see New York City and the surrounding area. Take advantage of deals such as the Thursday and Saturday evening NYC Sunset Cocktail Cruise from Highlands, New Jersey, for the most sophisticated way to reach the city. In addition to voyages to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, Seastreak offers departures from Pier 11 and 35th Street in Manhattan and trips to Nantucket.

1 Classic Harbor Line Cruises

The Classic Cocktails with a Twist and the Champagne & Cheese Pairing Cruise are two of the Classic Harbor Line's liquor cruises in NYC. Both are 1.5-hour voyages for adults 21 and older on vintage ships from the 1920s. Passengers enjoy a sunset sail around New York Harbor while sipping traditional cocktails with a modern spin.

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NYC Architecture Cruise

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Join us for a NYC Architecture boat tour! AIA New York Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), in collaboration with Classic Harbor Line, is pleased to announce the 2023 AIANY Around Manhattan Boat Tour’s fourteenth Season.

This NYC Architecture Boat Tour is a popular pick!  To accommodate demand, the Yacht Manhattan II has joined the Classic Harbor Line’s fleet to serve an expanded menu for architecture and infrastructure tours.  three distinct tours are offered: Around Manhattan Architecture, Climate Change Tour: Resiliency, Sustainable Architecture,  Tour and Industrial Waterfront Tour to Freshkills Park.

Meticulously designed 1920’s-style yachts offer comfortable, teak detailed, climate controlled cabins with excellent sight lines. Guests are free to wander the decks for even greater views!

What do the tours cover:

These NYC Architecture Boat Tours, provided by AIANY guides, are scheduled seven days a week and offer visitors, locals, architecture tourists and students insightful narration covering New York’s iconic landmarks, modern architecture and engineering masterpieces including Art Deco spires, harbor monuments and infrastructure like the Chrysler Building, the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge, plus recent buildings by Frank Gehry, FAIA, Renzo Piano, Hon. FAIA, among other world-renowned architects are just a few of the tour highlights seen from New York City’s historic waterways.

Tour features are thematically linked to illustrate the transformation of NYC’s waterfront from industry to booming residential development, ecologically driven park design and resilient urban planning to accommodate storm surge and rising sea levels.

AIA CES 2.5 LU HSW Continuing Education Credits offered.

Read more Praise for the AIANY Architecture Tours . Meet the guides

**Each AIANY cruise occurring during the month of October, are presented in association with  Archtober – an annual conglomeration of New York City wide events dedicated to Architecture and Design. 

AIANY Industrial Waterfront Tour into Freshkills Park

Cruise the active, vibrant waterway of the Kill Van Kull and into the heart of Freshkills Park of Staten Island on one of our luxury yachts. The AIANY & planners of the Freshkills Park host this special Classic Harbor Line tour. This is the only water tour available to the public into the Freshkills waterway. Officially closed in 2001, Freshkills has embarked on a 30-year project to be transformed into the largest city park in NYC! Continuing education credits available »

AIANY Around Manhattan Architecture Tour

Explore NYC’s new and enduring architecture, engineering marvels and the revitalized waterfront from the teak decks of Classic Harbor Line’s elegant motor yachts. The “Around Manhattan’s” insightful tour narration is eloquently shared by AIANY (American Institute of Architects) members.  The story of NYC’s development is described as a broad overview for visitors yet includes deeper insights to satisfy demanding locals. Catch new and alluring sites including Little Island at Pier 55, the Hudson Yards “mega-project”, the continuing ascent of “supertall” luxury residential towers and join a discussion of how cities might adapt in the post-Covid era. Continuing education credits available »

BUY GIFT CERTIFICATE

AIANY Climate Change and Architecture Tour

The best way to understand the many facets of climate change in New York City is by traveling along its waterways….Join us aboard Yacht Manhattan or Manhattan II for the *AIANY Climate Change Tour: Resiliency, Sustainable Architecture and the Future of NYC * and learn about how climate change is affecting our city and people, and the actions NYC is taking to mitigate pending threats and reduce its carbon footprint. This tour will address the pressing need for sustainable design and greater resiliency, delving into how New York City is reducing fossil fuel consumption, strengthening its natural habitats, and reimagining its transportation infrastructure. The tour will also explore the importance of the environmental justice movement in New York City. (Offered on Fridays!) Continuing education credits available »

Military History Tour of New York Harbor

In honor of our National Holiday Weekends, Classic Harbor Line and Turnstile Tours have teamed up to offer a special series of Naval Harbor History Tours! Join us on Memorial Day Weekend for a special, in-depth tour of our rich harbor-related war history.  This special 2.5-hour tour will explore the military history of New York Harbor from the Revolutionary War to today, with special emphasis on the role of the port in World War II. We will visit historic military sites, monuments, fortifications and see historic and modern fighting ships up close (especially during Fleet Week).

Paseo en Barco por la Arquitectura de Nueva York con narración en Español

THIS TOUR IS ONLY OFFERED ON PRIVATE EVENTS – Narrado en español por uno de los guías del Instituto Americano de Arquitectos – Nueva York (AIANY). Se ofrece a bordo de Kingston es un mini yate de casco blanco con una cabina totalmente cubierta con grandes ventanales, y una sección de proa exterior. Disfrute de los tesoros arquitectónicos de Nueva York desde un elegante y cómodo barco. La mejor manera de conocer la ciudad. Las obras de arquitectos ganadores de premios nacionales e internacionales, incluidos muchos arquitectos españoles y latinoamericanos.

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Gift certificates, see our calendar of events, private charters.

Sail out into NY Harbor and impress your guests. Step aboard one of our classic vessels for a private charter. These yachts are perfect for Corporate outings, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Team Building and more. Read more »

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THE BEAST IS Back!

take a ride on nyc's only speedboat thrillride... only if you dare.

EXPERIENCE THE BEAST, IF YOU DARE

ROAR DOWN THE HUDSON RIVER FROM PIER 83 TO THE STATUE OF LIBERTY WITH LOTS OF TWISTS, TURNS AND SPLASHY ACTION.

The Beast departs from Pier 83, W. 42nd Street at West Side Highway , every hour on the hour 11 AM – 7 PM, six days a week (closed Mondays).

In other words:

11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6pm & 7pm

The ride is about 30 minutes long. Please arrive 30 minutes before your departure time to ensure that you can get on the boat!

IT’S LIKE A ROLLERCOASTER ON THE WATER!

Operated by the world-renowned Circle Line, The Beast   is New York’s only jet-powered thrill ride speedboat attraction! Don’t be fooled – The Beast isn’t just a monster on the surface.

The Beast has 1400 BHP-horsepower with two ZF 3000 marine gears powered by twin Hamilton Jets, rocketing you through the water at a heart-pounding 40 knots (about 45 mph)!

YOU’LL GET WET!

Not definitely, but it usually happens. So leave your laptop at home.

IT’S EXTREME!

We travel at high speeds and bounce around, so nobody who is pregnant, has heart conditions or back injuries should ride.

HOLD ON TO YOUR HAT!

Things like hats and sunglasses can fly away during the boat ride.

Twin jet engines, what do you expect?

40″ OR TALLER!

You have to be this tall to ride. That’s 102cm in the rest of the world.

Kids must be able to sit in their own seat without assistance.

…and buckle up. Passengers must be seated at all times!

NO SMOKING!

There is no smoking allowed while riding The Beast.

NO RAIN, ONLY SHINE!

The Beast does not go out when it’s raining. Check beforehand by calling our box office to confirm.

thebeastnyc

The fastest speedboat ride in NYC! 🌊🗽 🚨CLOSED FOR THE SEASON‼️🚨

There's some mean, green, dancing machines on our crew, and we'll get you on your feet after being strapped into our speedboat 🌊! ...

We've got your back. Talk to us nice, and we might let you snap the perfect selfie on the captain's deck this summer 🤳! ...

#DidYouKnow? Before The Beast was a mean, green machine, it was raging in red down the #HudsonRiver 👿! ...

Imagine explaining a ride on The Beast to Jack and Rose from The Titanic... 🥶 ...

Sources say it's an excellent way to boost your immune system, and we can't argue there... 🌊 ...

Splish splashing down the #HudsonRiver is always a classic 🌊! ...

Paging @IdinaMenzel, you can let everyone know you wrote this song about me now... 👹 ...

A few moments of calm (but mainly utter chaos) when @benaarontv stopped by with our pals from @pix11news to see what our speedboat is all about 🌊! ...

Don't be scared! The #HudsonRiver splash zone might be where you come to find your superpowers 💧! ...

Last season brought out the very bravest riders to our speedboat 👹! Y’all think you can top that in 2024…? ...

Miss seeing me on Pier 83? I hear my sister boat @circlelinenyc has some less super soaked fun setting sail 🌊! ...

I SPY WITH MY BIG YELLOW EYE... My bestie @bfplny 😍 who I miss splashing on the way to the #statueofliberty 😈!!! ...

GROUPS, SCHOOLS, CAMPS & FREINDS!

It’s beastier with friends.

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THE BEAST W. 42nd Street @ West Side Highway New York, NY 10036

[email protected]

+1 (212) 563-3200

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10 Best Eco-Tours You Can Take In New York City

• Choose eco-friendly transportation: Use the highly efficient and cheap mass transit system of subways and buses in NYC to reduce carbon footprint and contribute to sustainable tourism.
• Explore NYC's top attractions sustainably: Opt for these eco-friendly NYC tours that have a minimal impact on the environment and showcase the city's history, parks, and cultural landmarks. Walk, cycle, or take an eco sailboat tour to experience the Big Apple while being environmentally conscious.
• Embrace sustainable food options: Join a walking food tour that showcases quintessential New York street food while walking through the city's streets instead of using vehicles. By supporting local eateries and choosing sustainable transportation, tourists can contribute to a greener New York City.

Eco-tourism and eco-travel in New York City? Yes, the world's busiest cosmopolitan does a lot to make it an environmentally friendly destination. The best example of this is its highly useful and used mass transit system of subway and bus services. Citizens and visitors are highly encouraged to use this super efficient and cheap mode of transportation within the city.

Sustainable tourism is conscientious travel, and this means being careful with the environment and respecting the community. Visitors can contribute towards this effort by choosing mass transit over taxis, staying at eco-friendly New York City hotels or homestays that make an effort to be “green,” shopping at a locally owned store, and eating at a diner or coffee shop instead of at a branded fast-food chain. Plus, New York City recycles its bottles and cans (including bottled water), and travelers can look for containers for recyclables before discarding litter.

Outside of the everyday small things that people can do to be eco-friendly during an NYC vacation, they can also be kind to the environment while sightseeing and having fun in the Big Apple. Tourists have an incredible amount of interesting things to do in NYC, and the city offers them lots of eco-friendly options while doing so - in the form of eco-friendly NYC tours. Here is a list of some of the best eco-tours in New York City that let travelers explore its top sights and sounds while ensuring a low-impact, low carbon footprint at the same time.

The following eco-friendly tours in New York City were selected based on their minimal impact on the environment, low carbon footprint, and appreciation and value of nature. From walking and cycling tours to excursions to botanical gardens and farms that highlight nature's importance, these environmentally friendly NYC tours are worth it for eco-conscious travelers.

Historic NYC Downtown Walking Tour

Downtown New York City! No other historical neighborhood can lay claim to so much impact or influence in the world over a relatively brief period in global events, and so a tour like this one is an essential item on the bucket list of things to do in NYC for anyone.

The tour retraces the evolution of Lower Manhattan, the historic role of New York Harbor, and the covert activities of the Revolutionary War. While on the tour, visitors will explore key historical locations like Wall Street, Stone Street Historic District, Trinity Church, Federal Hall, Hamilton's grave site, etc., and discover how Lower Manhattan has transformed since 9/11.

Downtown Manhattan is one of the most densely populated places in New York City, and a walking tour is a refreshing and most eco-friendly way of seeing this iconic city.

• Price: $50 per person
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Meeting Point: Upon reservation, travelers will receive a confirmation with maps and the best mode of transportation to get to the meeting point
• Reservation: Click here for reservations

Related: Just 25 Beautiful Photos Of New York City's Skyline

Central Park Walking Tour

Central Park is certainly one of the most popular places in New York City. They say even a few days walking through Central Park (which is free to visit) will not be enough to cover its many hidden corners and stories. The only way to see the park to justify the park's true potential is by walking, and this expert-led Central Park Walking Tour offers views and entrance to areas unavailable to even cyclists.

It is a relaxing stroll of a little over two hours covering the history, structures, plants, animals, and movies filmed in the park, told in a way both entertaining for adults and children. Visitors are expected to have a moderate fitness level of being able to walk for 2 hours at a comfortable pace. Being a rather large park, it's best to follow a guide who knows it very well to have a richer experience.

• Price: $45 per person
• Duration: 2 hours
• Meeting Point: CENTRALPARKHORSES, 7TH AVE &, Central Park S, New York, NY 10019

This tour will have a maximum of 12 travelers.

New York Botanical Garden Visit

Located in the Bronx, the 250-acre New York Botanical Garden is nature's paradise in every season of the year. With 50 breathtaking gardens, indoor rain forests and deserts, 50 acres of native forest, a river, waterfalls, and rolling green hills, the Garden is a blessing for the environment and a must-see destination for NYC visitors.

The garden is open Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays. Most of the Garden consists of outdoor spaces and are open in all weather conditions. Visitors are advised to dress for the weather and exploration. Refreshments are available at the Pine Tree Café within the property.

• Price: $35 per adult, $31 per student/senior (65+), $15 per child (2-12), Free (children under 2, members)
• Duration: All day pass
• Location: 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 10458

Related: The New York Botanical Gardens Are Home To NYC's Old Growth Forests, But That's Not The Only Reason To Visit

New York City Skyline Night Sailboat Tour

Seeing New York City's lights at night is a spectacle that just cannot be missed. City Lights Sail on America 2.0 is a breathtaking eco-friendly cruise through the waters of New York Harbor, sailing past One World Trade Center, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty, all lit up brilliantly to offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience that begs to be repeated, and more than just once.

This incredible eco-friendly ride is one of the best places to view the New York City skyline . It's better enjoyed with a romantic companion or a close group of friends who want to have a quiet, relaxed evening and watch the most admired skyline in the world. Each seat allows a complimentary beer, wine, champagne, or soda, and additional beverages are available for purchase by credit card.

• Price: $76 per person
• Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

Extreme high winds, fog, torrential rain, extremely low temperatures, etc., may contribute to a cancelation decision.

New York Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

New York City isn't just a bustling financial capital. With its rich history of culture and cuisine, it is also a food capital of the world, with delicacies from around the globe in fine dining restaurants as well as finger-licking street food.

This tour allows visitors an opportunity to contribute towards a greener New York by walking the vehicle-riddled streets of Manhattan instead of using a cab or bus, all the while sampling several quintessential New York street food favorites like classic bagels, New York-style pizza and gourmet doughnuts. The local tour guide takes visitors to some of New York’s best under-the-radar eateries.

• Price: $85 per person
• Duration: 2.5 - 3.5 hours
• Meeting Point: IFC Center, 323 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014

This tour requires a minimum number of 12 travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, guests will be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Hudson River Greenway Bike Tour

Nothing could define an eco-friendly activity more than people using their energy while exploring nature. This is a small-group guided bike tour along the Hudson River in New York City on one of the most popular places to ride, offering beautiful water views, fresh unpolluted air, and a dedicated bike path that is closed to car traffic.

The use of a bicycle and a helmet is included in the Hudson River Greenway Bike Tour, so visitors have one less thing to be concerned about. Just land up there with comfortable clothing and shoes (suggested shorts or track pants with sneakers and a T-shirt) and get ready to spend some time refreshing yourself from the city's bustle. The tour prefers small groups of no more than 15 to allow a more personal experience for the group.

• Price: $53 per person
• Duration: 30 - 45 minutes
• Meeting Point: Pier 84 at Hudson River Park, 555 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036

Infant seats are available on request.

A Day In Brooklyn Bike Tour

Brooklyn is one of New York City's coolest neighborhoods. This bicycle tour through Brooklyn explores tough-to-reach areas that most tourists often miss. The eco-friendly ride also goes through popular landmarks and hidden gems, like areas under the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, including breweries and eateries to stop and refuel.

Photo stops and complimentary tastings along the way make this a popular choice for active New York City visitors, especially those who prefer environment-friendly activities that are fun, informative, and don't leave a carbon footprint.

• Price: $118 per person
• Duration: 5 hours
• Meeting Point: Under the Manhattan Bridge - Brooklyn, NY 11205. (This location is a Lock away SeflStorage. Guests are requested to wait at the front gate for a tour guide to meet them here)

This tour will have a maximum of 12 travelers. The minimum age for travelers is 13 years old.

Prospect Park Walking Tour

Prospect Park is a 585-acre park located in the center of Brooklyn. On this tour, the experienced guide helps the visitors discover hidden treasures, natural wonders, and little-known tales of Prospect Park .

While taking in the beauty of this iconic park’s woodlands, waterways, wildlife, and landmarks, visitors also get to explore layers of history, flora, and the architecture of the surroundings. The tour gives an insight into how the park supports environmental conservation, historic preservation, and recreational and cultural access for locals and visitors from around the world.

• Price: $25 per person (children under 5 are free)
• Meeting Point: Brooklyn Public Library Central Library, 10 Grand Army Plaza

Related: The Ultimate Eco-Travel Checklist: 10 Things To Be Aware Of When Traveling

Farm.One Classic Tasting Tour

Farm.One’s indoor hydroponic farm uses LED lighting, hydroponics, and technology to grow hundreds of culinary plants with no pesticides or chemicals and up to 90% less water than a traditional farm. The tour offers visitors a chance to connect with fellow plant lovers while experiencing new flavors and culinary plants in a sensory experience not easily found anywhere else in New York.

This 1 hour guided tour takes visitors to the grow room, display racks, and packing room. It allows guests to taste rare herbs, microgreens, and edible flowers. Each visitor gets a complimentary 0% ABV beverage crafted with Farm.One greens.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Location: 625 Bergen Street in Brooklyn, New York

Exploration Day At Randall’s Island Urban Farm

Despite its concrete density, New York City has hundreds of farms and gardens that produce fruit, vegetables, and herbs that are distributed and consumed within the city. Randall’s Island Urban Farm, set on 1 acre of land, grows hundreds of plants and teaches visitors about sustainable farming practices like pollination and composting.

The farm also has rice paddies, berry bushes, and greenhouses, all of which are open to the public on Exploration Days during weekends in the summer months. Throughout the year, the farm hosts over 200 free public events on the grounds of Randall's Island Park Alliance, including tours, waterfront activities, annual Earth Day and Harvest Festivals, and more.

• Price: Free
• Duration: Subject to individual interest
• Timing and Reservation: There are specific days when visitors can explore the farm. Please check for relevant information .

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Breaking news, how much are tickets to see billy strings on tour in 2024.

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Billy Strings won’t have many days off this year.

In addition to his summer tour and festival headlining gigs, the beloved bluegrass musician just added 16 concerts to his 2024 tour schedule and announced his live album ‘Billy Strings – Live Vol. 1’ will hit shelves on July 12.

And while he doesn’t have any New York or New Jersey gigs lined up, he will get close when he performs back-to-back nights at Bridgeport, CT’s Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater on July 26-27, Worcester, MA’s DCU Center July 30-31 and Baltimore, MD’s CFG Bank Arena on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 .

As of now, tickets are available for all concerts and festival dates on Strings’ itinerary.

Some are quite cheap, too.

At the time of publication, the lowest price we could find on tickets was $55 before fees on Vivid Seats.

All other shows have tickets starting anywhere from $56 to $563 before fees.

Want to see the artist that made WTF podcast host Marc Maron say “his fingers and mind and heart are all synced together in a very rare way”?

You’re in the right place, Strings fans.

We’ve got everything you need to know and more about Billy Strings’ 2024 tour below.

Prices listed above are subject to fluctuation.

Billy Strings tour schedule 2024

A complete calendar including all tour dates, venues and links to the cheapest tickets available can be found here:

(Note: The New York Post confirmed all above prices at the publication time. All prices are in US dollars, subject to fluctuation and include additional fees at checkout .)

Vivid Seats is a verified secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand. 

They offer a 100% buyer guarantee that states your transaction will be safe and secure and your tickets will be delivered prior to the event.

Billy Strings 2024 festival appearances

As you may have noticed above, Strings has a handful of spots at major festivals lined up this summer.

For a closer look at the who, what, where and when, here are all the essential details you need to know about each Billy Strings fest:

Outlaw Music Festival

For just one show, Strings will join elder statesmen 91-year-old Willie Nelson and 83-year-old Bob Dylan on their ‘Outlaw Music Festival.’

That show takes place Aug. 10 at George, WA’s Gorge Amphitheater . The aforementioned trio — Nelson, Dylan and Strings, that is — will be joined by John Mellencamp and Brittney Spencer.

You can grab tickets for the star-studded affair here .

Billy Strings set list

Like many other adventurous artists, Strings does not stick to a script on the road.

Each show is a bit different than the last.

Still, for a closer look at a sampling of what you  might  get, here’s what Strings played at an April 2023 gig in Mobile, AL, courtesy of  Set List FM .

01.) “Hide and Seek”

02.) “While I’m Waiting Here”

03.) “A Robin Built a Nest on Daddy’s Grave” (Ralph Stanley cover) 04.) “Libby Phillips Rag” 05.) “Enough to Leave” 06.) “Hollow Heart”

07.) “Dealing Despair” 08.) “Cattle in the Cane” (Tony Rice cover) 09.) “All Fall Down” (John Hartford cover)

10.) “Little Addy”

11.) “Dust in a Baggie” 12.) “So Many Miles” (Billy Failing cover) 13.) “Paddy on the Turnpike” 14.) “Leaders”

15.) “Doin’ Things Right”

16.) “In Case You Ever Change Your Mind” (Bill Anderson cover) 17.) “Stuck Inside of Mobile With the Memphis Blues Again” (Bob Dylan cover) 18.) “Alabama Bound” (Lead Belly cover) 19.) “Rank Stranger” (The Stanley Brothers cover) 20.) “Meet Me at the Creek” Encore:

21.) “Doin’ My Time” (Jimmie Skinner cover)

Billy Strings new music

On Friday, July 12, Strings will release his first-ever live album.

Prior to the record’s release, fans will have the opportunity to win free Billy Strings tickets for life if they accurately guess the complete track list.

Huge stars on tour in 2024

Many acts that with distinctly American sounds are on the road this year.

Here are just five of our favorite acts you won’t want to miss live these next few months.

•  Tyler Childers

•  Chris Stapleton

•  Sturgill Simpson

•  Marcus King

•  Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit

Who else is on the road? Check out our list of the 50 biggest concerts in 2024 to find the show for you.

Why you should trust ‘Post Wanted’ by the New York Post

This article was written by Matt Levy , New York Post live events reporter. Levy stays up-to-date on all the latest tour announcements from your favorite musical artists and comedians, as well as Broadway openings, sporting events and more live shows – and finds great ticket prices online. Since he started his tenure at the Post in 2022, Levy has reviewed Bruce Springsteen and interviewed Melissa Villaseñor of SNL fame, to name a few. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

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Chris Brown tour 2024: How to secure last-minute tickets to his N.J. and NYC shows

• Updated: Jun. 07, 2024, 11:37 a.m. |
• Published: Jun. 07, 2024, 11:30 a.m.

Chris Brown will perform in New Jersey and New York City during "The 11:11 Tour" running now through Aug. 6, 2024. Charles Sykes/Invision/AP

• Nicole Iuzzolino | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Chris Brown is on his way to New Jersey and New York, and fans couldn’t be more excited.

The R&B singer is scheduled to play several shows in New Jersey and New York this June, including at the Prudential Center in Newark on June 12 , at the UBS Arena in Belmont Park, N.Y. on June 14 and at the Barclays Arena in Brooklyn, N.Y. on June 16 - 17 .

If you are an AMEX cardholder you can access the American Express Card Member Entrance, which allows you to skip the line and enter the arena before non-cardmembers, and discounts at concession stands. Cardholders can also get 10% off on food and drinks at concession stands and two free drinks, including alcoholic beverages, in the 40/40 Club and Modelo Bar.

Similar to Barclays Center, cardholders can access the American Express Card Member Entrance at the UBS Arena . Cardholders can use a discount of 10% off on food and drinks at the concession stands around the stadium.

Brown began his summer trek called “The 11:11 Tour” on June 5 in Detroit and will wrap up on Aug. 6 in Los Angeles .

Up-and-coming R&B singer Ayra Starr will join as a special guest for all tour dates.

“The 11:11 Tour” celebrates the release of Brown’s 11th studio album of the same name.

How to see Chris Brown in N.Y. and N.J. on 2024 tour

Chris Brown fans can find tickets for his New York , New Jersey and all other shows on secondary market websites, such as Vivid Seats , StubHub , TicketCity , SeatGeek and Ticketmaster .

The cheapest ticket for his Prudential Center show, before fees at the time of publication, is $137 on Vivid Seats .

For Chris Brown’s UBS Arena show, the cheapest ticket at the time of publication before fees is $96 on Vivid Seats .

The cheapest tickets for one of his Barclays Center shows is $96 on Vivid Seats .

If you find that you never secure the tickets at the best cost or in the section you want to be in through StubHub , you can find some tips and tricks here .

First-time Vivid Seats users can save $20 on ticket orders over $200 by entering promo code NJ20 at checkout.

TicketCity users can save $15 on orders over $400 using promo code TCITYSAVE15 at checkout.

A complete list of Chris Brown’s tour dates is available here .

More massive upcoming rap tours 2024

Chris Brown is not the only rap artist heading out on tour.

Here are a few more tours you do not want to miss: A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie , Nicki Minaj , Megan Thee Stallion and Childish Gambino .

The Best Upcoming 2024 Tours

• Disney Jr. Live On Tour 2024: Here’s how to get tickets as low as $34
• Billy Joel tour 2024: How to get the cheapest tickets to his 2nd to last MSG concert
• Vitamin String Quartet tour: How to score cheap tickets to see them perform your favorite Taylor Swift and Bridgerton songs live
• Ice Spice ‘Y2K! World Tour:’ Here’s how to get tickets to her shows in N.J. and NYC

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The Best Upstate New York Day Trips From NYC

By Laura Ratliff

Upstate New York's Hudson and Beacon , Montauk at the tip of Long Island—you’ve heard those names before. And while they’re all perfectly lovely New York City day trips or getaways, there’s a whole host of new hotels, restaurants, and things to do and see outside the five boroughs well beyond those highly trafficked hotspots. Here, we’ve rounded up four incredible upstate New York getaways that should go on your calendar this summer.

Hotel Lilien in Tannersville is home to Nat's Mountain House, a rollicking upstate iteration of a classic New York City institution.

The 18-room hotel is set in an 1890s estate formerly known as the Washington Irving Inn and has held fast to that stained-glass, wood-paneled identity.

For the foodie: The greater Hudson Valley

New York City’s pantry sits about two hours north of the city in the Hudson Valley. While it seems like every trendy chef, recipe developer, and writer decamped for the region during the pandemic, the mass exodus has unsurprisingly turned it into one of the best food-fueled parts of the state to explore.

Skip Catskill and Hudson and head just a hair west, where about two hours north of the city, a chain of small towns you’ve almost definitely never heard of have become playgrounds for top New York City chefs.

Check into Hotel Lilien in Tannersville (population: 579), where an 1890s estate formerly known as the Washington Irving Inn has been transformed into an 18-room getaway with a few modern updates. Hotel Lilien has held fast to its stained-glass and wood paneling while adding lighter, more modern updates—think Carrara marble, Brooklinen bed furnishings, and Mies van der Rohe lounge chairs.

Breakfast is included with your stay, and you’ll want to make sure you stay on-site for at least one dinner: Hotel Lilien is home to Nat’s Mountain House , the rollicking upstate iteration of Natalie Freihon’s Nat’s on Bank and Nat’s on Bleecker. Freihon, who was behind Orchard Street’s legendary Fat Radisha bastion of Lower Manhattan cool for yearsbrings her quirky talent to Hotel Lilien in the form of fondue laced with apples and pork belly croutons, pakora-fried radishes, and cocktails like Nat’s G&T, which is what you’d expect with the piquant addition of celery and olive bitters.

Spend time on the property perusing the library, hanging out by the fire pit or pool, or wandering the eight-acre grounds, but don’t miss some of the other culinary heavyweights who have made their presence in the community known: Day June Luncheonette in nearby Windham opened last summer, at the hands of Fabián von Hauske Valtierra and Jeremiah Stone, the Lower East Side chefs behind natural wine bar Wildair and the late Contra, and serves low-key fare like country fried steak and gravy with beef from nearby Highland Hollow, a nearby farm.

Von Hauske Valtierra and Stone are further expanding their upstate presence this month with the opening of Matilda , a more “formal” restaurant in new hotel The Henson. It’s also next door to the duo’s Paracasa , a small grocery and market, in case your home larder could use some Hudson Valley culinary flair.

If you don’t have or don’t want to rent a car, a two-hour Amtrak trip to Hudson, followed by a quick taxi (ideally pre-booked; this isn’t exactly an area rife with Uber or Lyft), will get you where you need to go.

Troutbeck is an estate hotel with 250 acres of nature and amenities that could be mistaken for a vast, comfortable, and sleek country home.

For the art lover: Amenia

If you’re looking for art outside of the city, you’ve probably been to Storm King or Wave Hill or, maybe if you’re extra adventurous, Mass MoCA—but you probably haven’t been to Wassaic.

On the other side of the Hudson River lies the Wassaic Project , an artist-run, non-profit gallery and residence center in the tiny eponymous hamlet. This year’s summer exhibition, Tall Shadows in Short Order , shows work from 30 artists, focusing on massive, site-specific installations spread through Maxon Mills, a seven-story former grain mill where Wassaic Project hosts its contemporary exhibitions. The exhibition is open on weekends through September, but it's one of just many events that the group hosts; throughout the summer there’s an annual benefit, themed late-night dance parties, and open artists’ studios will also fill your calendar.

By Emily Pennington

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By CNT Editors

Stay at nearby Troutbeck , a 250-acre estate hotel reminiscent of your favorite rich auntie’s country house if she had Malin + Goetz toiletries and Frette linens. Regular Manor House rooms are perfect for a night or two, but even if you’re not taking up residence at the hotel, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch of steelhead trout with brassicas and black garlic or garganelli pasta with Veritas Farms’ lamb ragu and ramps before strolling the grounds. Guests also have access to The Barns, a massive wellness complex with a 1,250-square-foot fitness studio, a gym, treatment rooms, changing rooms, and saunas; a newly-renovated pool; and two U.S.-Open surfaced hard tennis courts, among other things.)

Troutbeck’s natural setting makes it tough to leave, but it’s also just a few miles from the Sharon Audubon Center . Situated along the Atlantic Flyway, one of North America’s major paths for migratory birds, it’s home to more than 1,100 acres of woodland with 11 miles of trail, a pollinator garden, and a raptor aviary with live birds of prey.

End your day with a drive-in movie at Amenia’s Four Bros. Drive-In , which touts itself as the newest drive-in theater in America. Movies change weekly here, but Thursdays are a favorite, where Four Bros. often does a triple showing with a classic in the mix.

A 20th-century boarding house perched above Kenoza Lake is now the 22-room Kenoza Hall hotel, an excellent home base for outdoor adventuring.

For the outdoorsman: Sullivan Catskills

The Catskills range is a broad-reaching section of New York State, with part of the district stretching almost all the way down to Pennsylvania’s northeast corner. This more remote region, the Sullivan Catskills, is a paradise for outdoors lovers: the hiking here is some of the best in the Northeast, and the fly-fishing, in particular, is among the best in the world thanks to the assortment of waterways like the Beaver Kill, Willowemoc Creek, and the East Branch of the Delaware River. (Humble Roscoe, New York, proudly wears its badge as Trout Town USA.)

Even if you’re not an angler, the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum in Livingston Manor will enamor you with the poeticism of the sportearly mornings on misty rivers, the shimmering scales of a rainbow trout, hand-crafted bamboo rods, and dry flies meticulously tied with feathers and fur.

Stay at Kenoza Hall , a pandemic product of Foster Supply Hospitality, that transformed a sprawling 20th-century boarding house into a 22-room hotel with excellent views of the expansive grounds and nearby Kenoza Lake. At the end of the day, you can soak your weary bones in a massive tub (all rooms have them) before dining at the on-site restaurant, which has a menu of retro Old World classics: gnocchi Parisienne, filet Rossini, and duck confit.

After hiking the grounds or the Willowemoc Wild Forest, a massage may be in orderand counter to the rough-and-ready nature of a few of its peers, Kenoza Hall has you covered. The onsite spa Hemlock Spa offers body treatments and massages inspired by Sebastian Kneipp, an early promoter of holistic living. The Kneipp Neuromuscular Massage combines deep-tissue therapy with arnica gel for a soothing, tension-relieving treatment that will melt away the soreness from that last cast or rock scramble. (Also, don’t skip the Kneipp walking path—it may sound a bit “woo-woo,” but walking barefoot over things like rocks, moss, grass, and pinecones is surprisingly therapeutic.)

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame gives a behind-the-scenes look at the on-track action that powers Saratoga.

For the socialite: Saratoga

You’ve heard the Carly Simon lyric: “Well, I hear you went up to Saratoga, and your horse naturally won.” Well, 52 years after its release, Saratoga is cooler than ever, with a bevy of hotels, restaurants, and things to do.

Summer in Saratoga is all about the horses, and you’re going to stay as close to them as you can without sleeping on the track. At the Brentwood Hotel , a shedrow-style barn immediately adjacent to the famed track was reinvented as a cozy 12-room hotel. In fact, on early summer mornings, you’ll be awakened by the clip-clop of prized thoroughbred hooves making their way out to their morning workouts. Rooms here are on the small side but incredibly comfortable, and the on-site bar, Farrier, serves biodynamic wines, excellent cocktails, and local beer and cider that can be enjoyed at the outdoor firepit.

Snag one of the hotel’s loaner bikes and make the seven-minute cruise downtown, where Broadway is lined with endless boutiques (some horse-themed, natch), cafes, and restaurants, including Seneca , whose outdoor patio is the perfect spot to wile away a summer evening after a day at the track; high-rollers can go for a prime New York strip served with foie gras-studded mac and cheese and roasted garlic butter. Then, grab a nightcap at Hamlet & Ghost , a buzzy bar where a reservation is a must, especially during the race meet. It’s worth the effort in order to get your hands on a Health & Wealth: a surprisingly earthy blend of olive oil-washed vodka and lemon aperitif with blackberry and pineapple.

While on-track action can quickly fill your days here, it’s worth knowing what goes into the thousands of pounds (and dollars) of horseflesh. The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame gives an in-depth look into the sport of kings, from a racehorse’s first humble steps on Kentucky bluegrass to—hopefully—the pinnacle of the sport. Interactive exhibitions, like the chance to “call” a race and walk through a true-to-size starting gate, all sweeten the experience at this unique museum.

Saratoga is easy to get to from the city, with Amtrak taking just under four hours. You’ll want your own car if you decide to venture out of town-proper to Saratoga Lake or up to Queensbury, but otherwise, biking or rideshare are both easy options here.

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I took my camper van across 48 US states. These are my 10 favorites

Apr 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Setting off on the road in a camper van gives you maximum flexibility as you discover the USA © epicurean / Getty Images

Hitting the road in a camper van is one of the most intimate – and exciting – ways to experience the USA .

Which is why I set off on a two-year road trip with my husband and dog  in 2017. We camped in 48 states, hiked countless national parks , ate in local towns and drove from coast to coast in our 1996 retro camper van. 

As our trip unfolded, we learned that certain states suited us van campers better than others. The states of the  Southwest , for example, contain a wide diversity of landscapes within their free public lands. The East Coast amazed us with stunning fall colors and historic towns we had previously only seen in books.

While every state added something unique to our adventure, a few really stood out. Having now crossed the entire continental United States, we’re delighted to share the 10 best US states that are perfect for your next camper or RV trip.

Where to find the best US national parks for RV campers this summer

Pine forests and craggy coasts  

Driving into Maine from its northwest side brings tall pine trees, skinny roads and no cell phone service for miles. This was the stuff of a novel by famous Mainer Stephen King – and to us West Coast folks, it was the unfamiliar territory that made the trip that much more exciting. In northern Maine, the entire landscape smells like Christmas trees. (We learned from a fellow camper that balsam fir collected from Maine provides the largest supply of Christmas wreaths in the country.) Heading toward the coast, we reached  Acadia National Park , where the mountains meet the ocean. We were happy to find that this is one of the most dog-friendly parks in the USA, which meant we got to bring our travel companion along many of the trails.

The 10 best parks in Maine to hike, snowshoe or swim

2. New York

Forget the city, and head upstate

Putting  New York State  on our top-10 list was a tough call, since it shares so many things we loved about Vermont and New Hampshire as well, like incredible fall foliage. Yet New York makes the cut thanks to its surprising (to us) range of geography. From Eternal Flame Falls in the state’s far west to wineries in the Finger Lakes and watchtower hikes high in the  the Adirondacks , we barely had enough time to check off everything on our must-visit list. And that’s not to mention the more well-known Lake Placid Olympic sites, Niagara Falls  and Letchworth State Park . What’s more the hiking trails all over the state really impressed us. Now that we’ve sampled a bit of all the state has to offer, it’s at the top of our itinerary for future road trips.

6 Hudson Valley road trips for every type of traveler

3. Tennessee

The Great Smoky Mountains are especially beautiful in fall

Great Smoky Mountains National Park  is the most visited one in the whole country – and for good reason. As we visited the park and drove through  Tennessee in the fall, we took in the rolling mountains and waterfalls that dot the landscape, finding countless surprises around each corner of the twisty back roads.

Traveling in a camper van, we’re always on the lookout for affordable things to do. The mountain town of Gatlinburg is the perfect gateway for enjoying free trails in and around the national park. We spent the majority of our visit hiking through the colorful forests and climbing fire towers to get the best viewpoint.

Where to celebrate Dolly Parton in Tennessee

4. California

Experience a little bit of everything

If we had to pick one state to experience a little bit of everything, it would be  California . Its ecosystems are so varied that you don’t need to drive too far to witness something new; in fact, the place is so large and diverse that it shouldn’t even count as a single state. Despite the state’s famous popularity, the vast size of its public lands made finding campsites easy. Within the space of a few days, we spent evenings under the famous redwood trees, had picnics by the ocean and wandered aimlessly among the cacti of Death Valley National Park . Oh, and rock climbed in Joshua Tree National Park , took a dip in Lake Tahoe  and hiked among the rocks of Lassen Volcanic National Park .

Here’s what you need to know before your trip to California

5. Pennsylvania

A cradle of American history 

Pennsylvania turned out to be one of the most memorable states we visited, thanks to its role in the USA’s story. We spent an entire day taking an auto tour around the Gettysburg National Military Park , and seeing the battlefields in person brought to life the history we had read in school.  Eastern State Penitentiary  and  Valley Forge National Historic Park were other stops we hadn’t considered before rolling into Pennsylvania. While federal public land is sparse here, Pennsylvania has numerous state parks that offer free, easily accessible camping.

The 5 best road trips in the Poconos

6. Michigan

Great Lakes and pristine beaches

From its southern stretches to the  Upper Peninsula ,  Michigan  has a surprising number of pristine beaches that are not packed with tourists like the ones we visited in California. One of my favorite memories is camping on the shore of Lake Superior, having dinner on a pebble beach after several days of visiting Great Lakes lighthouses.

We were able to find camping spots all the way north to the UP, feasting on whitefish and pasties (meat pies) along the way. In the summer months, bushes brim with fresh berries to pick, and farmers markets abound with fresh produce.

11 of the best places to visit in Michigan

7. Minnesota

See the northern lights on a fall night

We just loved  Minnesota , which rarely makes the list of top road-trip spots in the USA. Known as the state of 10,000 lakes, Minnesota had no shortage of fishing holes and quiet campsites by the water. We were able to travel all the way north to the border of Canada and take a canoe trip in the Boundary Waters . While Minnesota winters are exceptionally cold, fall is lovely here. And the chances are high that you can see the northern lights on a cloudless night.

Minnesota’s best – and most underrated – state parks

Natural wonders for everyone; off-grid travelers most welcome

For outdoor enthusiasts who love mountain biking, rock climbing and stunning hikes , Arizona is a gem. While most people (rightly) associate the state with the  Grand Canyon , all of it is ripe for adventure. Free campsites are scattered in the forests surrounding Sedona , Flagstaff  and southern Arizona, which makes it one of the most budget-friendly places to visit year-round.

We loved Arizona’s warmth and hospitality toward explorers from elsewhere. Indeed, the state is a magnet for anyone interested in off-grid living. Each February, the town of Quartzsite swells to accommodate nearly 2 million travelers, who visit in camper vans, RVs and converted school buses. Workshops and community events held on the outskirts of town teach travelers about van life, provide help with solar-panel installations and bring people together to share tips on future road trips. All these services for nomads provide a sense of community  – which, together with the fair weather, make Arizona the perfect launchpad for an epic road trip.

Introducing Arizona’s national parks and monuments

9. New Mexico

Do you prefer red or green chile?

Starry nights. Predictable (even if chilly) temperatures. Few flying bugs. What’s not to love about camping in the desert? And when it comes to spectacular desert vistas,  New Mexico is in a class of its own. Endless trails lead through spire-like hoodoo rock formations, while a lack of trees in the north allows for excellent landscape visibility, and some of the most magnificent sunsets we’ve ever seen. It’s also home to our favorite cave system,  Carlsbad Caverns National Park , on the state’s southern border.

New Mexico’s camping logistics are appealing, too. Large swaths of Bureau of Land Management (BLM)–managed areas allow free camping, and the state generally flies under the radar, which makes it less crowded even in the most scenic areas. And we ate vibrant cuisine at affordable prices all over the state, an underrated food haven. Red or green chile? We’ll take both.

How to take a perfect spring-break road trip through New Mexico

Come for the national parks. All five of them 

Home to five national parks , Utah might be the most picturesque state we visited. Our goal? Getting to all of the Mighty 5: Capitol Reef National Park , Canyonlands National Park , Arches National Park , Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park . An essential tip we picked up along the way: get to the national parks early . By following this advice, we were able to beat the crowds; it often felt like we had the park to ourselves. Climbing Angels Landing in Zion had always been a goal of mine – but the trail can be overly packed by 10am. Arriving early made all the difference; here was a fantastic way to take advantage of the mobility a camper van affords you.

15 unique activities to add to your Utah bucket list

This article was first published Jun 19, 2020 and updated Apr 14, 2024.

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