open top bus tour of new york

• Google Chrome
• Microsoft Edge
• Passes Hop On Hop Off Pass Discover Pass Attraction Pass
• Tours Tea Around Town NYC Skyline Night Tour Liberty Cruise
• Explore All TopView Tix
• More Groups & Charters Maps North Pole Express Things to do in NYC Sunset & City Lights Cruises Explore All TopView Tix About Us Contact Us FAQ Live Map
•   Leave A Message

Start Your New York Hop On Hop Off Adventure Here

NYC’s most extensive routes showcasing the most sights

See the best of NYC with one pass

Most hop-on hop-off stops in NYC

Buy your tickets today for the best deal - we’ll see you out in the city!

To protect you and others, face covering is required for customers seating on the lower deck (indoor area).

Best Rated New York Bus Tours and Sightseeing Packages

Online Deal

• 24 and 48 Hours Passes available, one free Start Date change
• Hop-On Hop-Off Downtown
• Hop-On Hop-Off Uptown | Select Passes
• Skyscraper Museum, Butterbeer at Harry Potter Store | Select Passes
• Central Park Bike Rental | Two Hour Extension
• 48 to 120 Hours Passes available, one free Start Date change
• Hop-On Hop-Off Uptown
• Statue of Liberty Cruise
• NYC Skyline Night Tour with Audio Narration
• Brooklyn Tour
• Museum of the City of New York
• Skyscraper Museum, Butterbeer at Harry Potter Store
• 1 to 7 Day Passes available, flexible Start Date
• Hop-On Hop-Off bus for entire pass duration
• Edge Observatory
• One World Observatory
• Top of the Rock Observatory
• Intrepid Museum
• Guggenheim Museum
• Sunset Cruise
• 9/11 Museum Workshop
• Walking tours
• And many more
• Elegant 90min experience on an air conditioned double-decker bus with glass ceiling
• Fine selection of tea with 3 tiers of scones, savory, and sweet treats
• Private table seating
• Live entertainment with narration
• 360 views of NYC landmarks, including NY Public Library, Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, Columbus Circle, and more
• See the lights of Times Square, Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, Grand Central Terminal, and more!
• Breathtaking open-top views of iconic NYC landmarks
• Options of live Entertaining Host and audio narration in 11 languages
• A free Start Date change
• Fastest way to see Statue of Liberty
• Panoramic views of NYC skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and more
• Live tour guide

Why Choose TopView ® ?

Experience a 360° view of nyc above the crowd.

Our tours are created by a team of local experts who know NYC inside out. We’ve got New York City covered: Downtown, Uptown, as well as The Night Tour–If it’s worth seeing–our hop-on hop-off NYC bus tours go there!

Start Your NYC Hop-On Hop-Off Adventure Here

New York Bus City Tours and Manhattan Sightseeing Guided by Local Experts

TopView ® offers the best New York sightseeing bus tours led by local experts so you won't miss the most important attractions. On our NYC bus tours, hop on, hop off, and take time to enjoy all of the different places to visit in New York City. We have dozens of hop-on hop-off bus tour stops near all major points of interest. Our New York sightseeing bus will take you by all of the biggest NYC attractions!

5 Best Routes for Open-Top Sightseeing Bus Tours in NYC

We have five New York tours that allow you to experience the best of New York City, including two hop-on hop-off NYC bus tours, Downtown and Uptown, along with Brooklyn, and an exciting Night Tour route! While enjoying our NYC bus tours, hop on or hop off to take part in the excitement, explore the sights, and make the most of your visit. We'll make sure you hit every stop on your list of NYC attractions to see and give you plenty of Instagram-worthy views from atop our NYC sightseeing bus!

What Is There to Do in New York? Top Manhattan Attractions

Our hop-on hop-off NYC tours can take you to the top of Manhattan and back again, stopping at some of the most famous sites in New York City, NY. Here are a few examples of city locations you can see on an NYC sightseeing bus around Manhattan:

• Rockefeller Center
• Times Square
• Empire State Building
• Flatiron Building
• Union Square
• Washington Square Park
• Battery Park
• Garment District

Our New York tours and sightseeing packages include multi-day passes and 24-hour passes as well as individual hop-on hop-off and nonstop double-decker tours. We offer plenty of choices so you can customize your New York City tours any way you want, and our flexible ticketing means that you can buy your tickets online now without having to plan a set schedule: Once you book your tour or package, you'll have twelve months to exchange your online booking confirmation for a boarding ticket. And our buses run seven days a week, 365 days a year, in any kind of weather, so no matter when you choose to visit New York City, we can help you make the most of your trip. Whether you want a day trip or simply to see the city sights at nighttime, you will find a TopView ® sightseeing pass that fits your needs.

Rain or Shine Manhattan Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tours

Learn more about the history, culture, and architecture of this one-of-a-kind city with our audio narration. Our big bus tour is available in 11 languages, with free earphones provided. And this isn't the only perk we offer! Our New York tours also provide free ponchos for rainy days.

Two Million and Counting Passengers on the Best Sightseeing Double-Decker Bus Tour in NYC

No matter your travel style, an adventure with TopView Sightseeing ® will add convenience and comfort to your trip. More than two million people have already discovered why TopView ® is the best choice for Big Apple sightseeing. For the best NYC bus tours at the best prices, book with us today!

Bike Rentals and Other Popular New York City Attractions

When you book our New York City tours as part of a complete All City package, we also include a 2-hour extension to any bike rental purchase, so you can cruise Central Park the way it was meant to be enjoyed, as well as free admission to the Museum of the City of New York . You can also enjoy a Liberty Cruise of New York Harbor and get close-up views of the Statue of Liberty. You know you want a selfie with Lady Liberty!

Send Us a Message

Request your quote, leave your feedback, don't hop off yet, checkout now and get 15% off your entire purchase.

Coupon code is not valid for special events

Check out now and get up to 43% off

• TOURS BUS TOURS BOAT TOURS & CRUISES HELICOPTER TOURS ESCORTED TOURS WALKING TOURS DAY TRIPS FROM NYC
• ATTRACTIONS & MUSEUMS MUSEUMS ATTRACTIONS OBSERVATION DECKS
• PASSES & PACKAGES
• TRANSPORTATION
• AGENT LOGIN
• MORE DISCOUNT COUPONS GARDENS & ZOOS BIKE RENTALS AMUSEMENT PARKS
• NYC Guided Tours (3)
• Discount Coupons (3)
• Transportation (7)
• NYC Bus Tours (15)
• Broadway Shows (1)
• NYC Sightseeing Passes & Packages (12)
• NYC Helicopter Tours (7)
• Cruises & Boat Tours (10)
• Day Trips from NYC (7)
• NYC Walking Tours (4)
• Museums in New York (11)
• Attractions (12)
• Observations Decks in NYC (6)
• Guided Walking Tours (1)
• New York Bike Tours & Rentals (4)
• NYC Gardens & Zoos (2)

Protect Your Trip »

The 5 Best NYC Bus Tours for 2024

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

Getty Images

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

Big Bus Tours

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

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

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

Check prices & availability on:

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

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

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

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

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

Price: From $66 Duration: 3.5 hours

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

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

USA Guided Tours – Discover NY Tour

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

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

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

Hush Hip Hop Tours – Birthplace of Hip Hop

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

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

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

Check prices & availability on:  

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

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

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , New York City , New York Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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

You May Also Like

Fun things to do in minnesota.

Rachael Hood Sept. 27, 2024

The 8 Best Hollywood Tours

Gwen Pratesi and Ann Henson Sept. 26, 2024

The 10 Best Snowmobile Tours in Colorado

John Rodwan Sept. 26, 2024

What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Erin Vasta and Timothy J. Forster Sept. 26, 2024

The Top Everglades Airboat Swamp Tours

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson Sept. 26, 2024

The Best Road to Hana Tours in Maui

Ashley Probst Sept. 25, 2024

The Best Solo Cruises

Gwen Pratesi Sept. 25, 2024

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Teens

Holly Johnson Sept. 23, 2024

All-Inclusive Family Resorts in Mexico

Sharael Kolberg Sept. 20, 2024

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

Amanda Norcross Sept. 19, 2024

New York Bus Tour

Discover the city that doesn’t sleep. Hop on and off in New York Bus Tour as many times as you like with ticket options valid for 1, 2, or 3 days.

Hop on Hop off New York Tour

• Duration 1 day
• English-speaking guide

Manhattan Sightseeing Bus Tour

• Duration options: 6 hours
• Small group

Ferry or Night and New York Bus Tour

• Duration 2 hours - 3 days
• Optional audio guide

Midtown Manhattan Multimedia Bus Tour

• Duration 1.5 hours
• Theater seating

TOP SELLING

Nyc bus tours and attractions tickets.

• Duration 1 - 3 days
• 3 Attraction Entry

Downtown Virtual Reality Bus Tour NYC

• Virtual reality headsets

New York City: Superhero Bus Tour

• Duration 3 hours
• Private group

Dyker Heights Christmas Lights Bus Tour

• Duration options: 4 hours
• Small group available

create your vacation destiny

New york bus tour options, hop on hop off new york tour.

How should one go about the desire of travelling through the city that never sleeps? A hop on hop off bus tour swoops in to save the day. One can explore the city and see its landmarks and monuments from Times Square, to the Empire state building. The New York bus tour consists of 40 key points of interest that take a tour through all the notes of culture, diversity, ethnicity, beautiful architecture, and picturesque views. There are three ticket options that one can available.

Them being:

• Classic ticket: unlimited boarding on the Uptown Loop and the Downtown loop for a whole day.
• Premium package: unlimited boarding for two days on the uptown, downtown, Brooklyn, Harlem and NYC by night, loops.
• 2-day deluxe package tour: unlimited boarding for two days on Uptown, Downtown, Brooklyn, Harlem, NYC by night loops, and 1-hour circle line Liberty cruise, and entry to The Empire state building. Every loop has an average duration of 1.5 hours, and the frequency and timing depend on the loops. 

This Hop on Hop off New York tour includes an English speaking guide, free Wi-Fi, recorded commentary in 10 languages, a one-hour circle line liberty cruise, entry to the Empire State building, and live bus tracking via free app. (A few depend on the kinds of options selected).

Big Bus New York, Ferry or Night Tour Options

Exploring New York could be a teeny bit more fun if availed the sightseeing bus. One could go to his or her favourite locations and explore at his own pace. There happen to be 1,2 and 3-day tickets. Uptown and downtown are two convenient options that can be boarded anytime, and also one can opt for the night tour or ferry tour to look at the city from a different perspective. 

New York’s best monuments and prestigious skyscrapers can be viewed. One board has access to quite a few amenities too. 

The downtown loop has 21 stops, the uptown loop has 23 stops, and the non-stop night NYC bus tours cover Times Square north and south and the Empire state building. One through this connects to the most iconic landmarks and attractions, while also getting the brief of how the city comes together. 

• The highlights of this big bus New York tour are tonnes. One discovers illuminated landmarks and basks under the brilliant lights of the city. 
• The culture through Chinatown to Harlem is one worthy of praise, so is the informative tour on Big Apple history that the tour guide introduces with a certain ease. 
• The major landmarks like the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, 9/11 memorial and many more are covered too. 
• The open-top deck of New York City and the panoramic views of it soothe the might, instilling also an enthralling charisma. 

3-Hour Superhero NYC Bus Tours

Do you want your superhero fantasies to come to life? Do you want to interact with the way the comics portray NYC? Well, look no further! All the famous locations of your favourite superhero comic movies are here and you get a tour of them! Delve into the most filmed city in the world with a tour guide.

The adventure starts in the heart of Times Square where movies like Spiderman, Captain America, The Amazing Spiderman 2, Incredible Hulk TV series, have been filmed. One will also get to see the Chrysler building, Flatiron building, Madison square park, Lower east side, Chinatown, and the historical buildings in the Financial District.

• The highlights of NYC bus tours are many. One can visit the heart of New York City that was featured in Captain America: The first avenger and The Amazing Spider-Man. 
• The Statue of Liberty, from X-Men and Superman, is also one of the most popular highlights.
• Adding to this list, are The Daily Planet (from Superman Franchise), Park Avenue from Avengers, City Hall, and tonnes others featured in DC and Marvel movies.

Manhattan Sightseeing Bus Tour NY

The city of New York presents the world with Manhattan. The city lets you enjoy vibrant sights, while your guide fills you in on the various stories that go with the sights. One gets to explore the various facets of the city and its various neighbourhoods. Through this, one also discovers the awe-inspiring landmarks of Rockefeller centre, Chrysler building, Empire state building, Lincoln centre, Central Park, and Fifth Avenue. 

One can also head to Greenwich Village, the artsy SoHo district, the hub-hub in the bustling streets of Chinatown, the always busy Wall street, Sidewalk cafes in little Italy, etc. In the end, one finally visits the charming Battery Park to soak in the beauty and enjoy stunning views of the Statue of Liberty- one of the icons of New York and the United States of America.

Highlights 

• This tour has one enjoy the views of the Empire state building and the statue of liberty. 
• This knicks in the opportunity to hear interesting stories of each neighbourhood from your expert guide. 
• Also, one can visit Greenwich Village, SoHo, and Central Park.

Open-Top Night NYC Bus Tours with Live Commentary

What does one do when he wants to visit and take in all of the city that never sleeps, at night time? How should one go about this desire and how is it possible? Well, this tour comes in handy when in doubt. Accompanied by an entertaining and live tour guide, one gets to enjoy the Big Bus Night tour of NYC. 

This is a 1.5-hour ride, and through this one enjoys the absolutely beautiful Manhattan skyline, that is lit up. Also enjoyed are the stunning glow of the various attractions in this city, like the Radio City Music hall, and the empire state building. The night NYC bus tours also make their way across the river, where one gets to have a look at the marvellous lit up Skyline of Manhattan from the Brooklyn waterfront. 

• The highlights of this New York bus tour include the magnificent skyline of Manhattan from Brooklyn.
• One gets to learn about the city’s major landmarks during the live commentary.  
• The city that never sleeps is all lit up, and one gets his way into soaking it all in and becoming a part of it. 
• One could also head up to the Avenue of the Americas for views of Macy’s department store and radio city music hall. 
• Most importantly something that one can never miss out on is the bright lights of Times Square at night. It is thoroughly beautiful.

Things to know before you go

Advantages of new york bus tour.

Why should one choose the top view?

This is because they have the most curated tours there could ever be, and their local experts know NYC inside out. Another list of reasons go as such:

• Presents unlimited hop on hop off services so that the tourists can enjoy their favourite locations with much ease.
• Their routes are the best to see NYC with over 40 stops near major attractions in the city.
• Their 2-3 day passes include free entry to the Statue of Liberty cruise and bike rental.
• It has a live map to track the bus. The only one with a live map. 
• With an app, one can board the busses without any toil. No printed documents are required as an app can do it all.
• One can stay connected with friends and family as there is WiFi available on the bus.

Hop on Hop off New York Routes and Timetable

• Explore Downtown – Red Route Timetable  

The tour duration of this is 90 minutes with the frequency of a bus every 60 minutes. There are 10+  main locations of this tour: Empire state building, SoHo, Chinatown/ Little Italy, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, Circle line sightseeing, M&M World, etc. every bus features audio commentary in 10 languages that are pre-recorded. 

• Explore Uptown – Blue Route Timetable

The Hop on Hop off New York tour duration is 90 minutes, while the frequency of the buses is every 2 hours.  Hop on from 7th Avenue and W 5oth St at 10 am, 12 pm, and 2 pm daily. This covers the uptown section of the city, with Times Square north being the most prominent of the stops.

Top New York's Landmarks by NYC Sightseeing Bus

There are quite a few places in New York that deserve to be awed at. A few of such places are:

• The Statue of Liberty: This was France’s gift to America on the centennial of the American Declaration of Independence. One could get here early for a ticket and then climb to the top to see how the city looks from up there.
• American Museum of Natural history: The dinosaur collection in this library is the best and it is the largest museum of natural history in the world.
• Brooklyn Bridge: The Brooklyn Bridge is extremely safe, and once a parade of 21 elephants crossed over to prove the point!
• Central Park: This is a huge lush oasis in the city, and the best place to pass some time!
• Chrysler Building: This is one of the most breathtaking buildings in the world. While up close, it is even more beautiful.
• Empire state building: on a clear day, one can see five states from the observation deck!
• Fifth Avenue: This is the most iconic store line up there ever will be!
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art : This is the largest museum in the US. 
• Rockefeller centre: This is where the New Yorkers come to chill and hang out. 
• Wall Street: $54 billion worth of shares are exchanged here every day. One can even not be a millionaire and enjoy the sight here.
• Times Square: it is definitely a sight to behold. This has the world’s largest LED sign!

What's Include in Bus Tours NYC

• It comes with a live guide, with audio guides that are available in ten different languages. that, and also free WiFi.
• The New York bus tour includes headphones and commentary within the bus, Ferry or night tour (if option selected), Hop on hop off bus ticket (route and duration depend on option booked). The package does not include Attraction tickets.
• The main icons (Brooklyn bridge, Empire state building, Times Square), Midtown, Uptown(Central park, museum mile), or a very personal customized journey.
• One through this tour, can loop around New York and take a moment to awe at the beauty that it has to offer.

Smile and enjoy New York. take a Bus Ride of The NY City.

Discover the best of New York City by taking the Hop on Hop off tour which brings you to the most iconic attractions in NY.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

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

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

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

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best of New York for free.

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

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

Love the mag?

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

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

The 10 best bus tours in NYC

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

Want to take in all the best bits of NYC without tiring yourself out? That's what these New York bus tours are all about. There'll be plenty of time to explore the restaurant and bar scene come the evening, but make sure you spend your days right by riding around all the landmark-laden hotspots and lesser-known neighborhoods that house some iconic filming locations from the silver screen. 

Whether you’re looking for the classic hop-on hop-off experience that stops at all the major attractions, a themed TV and movie route spotlighting popular filming locations or a spirited excursion to the outer boroughs, we’ve got you covered with our guide to the best bus tours in NYC. Read on, then hop on!

RECOMMENDED: 🚶 Find more New York City tours 🏨 The best hotels in New York City 🗝️ Michelin Key hotels in New York City

This article was written by Dan Q Dao , a commercial editor for Time Out New York. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

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

Best NYC bus tours

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

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

Don't miss: Pay tribute at the 9/11 Memorial and explore the original Twin Towers site. 

2.  THE RIDE New York City

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

Don't miss:  I nteract with street performers during the 75-minute ride. 

3.  New York Bus Night Tour

If New York is the city that never sleeps (which it totally is, btw), it makes sense to experience it in all its nighttime glory. This after-hours tour starts in midtown Manhattan, then drives past iconic and illuminated landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square and Chinatown, with expert commentary on the city’s history and celebrity residents along the way.

Don't miss: There will also be time to stretch your legs during the four-hour excursion, with guided walks in High Line Park and Grand Central Station. 

4.  Sex and the City Hotspots Tour

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

Don't miss:  Grabbing a Cosmo at Steve and Aidan's bar, Scout. 

5.  Brooklyn, Bronx and Queens Coach Tour

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

Don't miss:  Taking one last look at the New York City skyline as the tour ends with a drive over the Brooklyn Bridge. 

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

Like R euben sandwiches, eggs Benedict and Martin Scorsese, hip-hop was born right here in New York City. Discover the origins of the groundbreaking musical genre on this bus tour of Manhattan, Harlem and the Boogie Down Bronx . Led by a grandmaster —no, not Flash, but similarly legendary emcees like Kurtis Blow, Johnny Famous, Roxanne Shante and Reggie Reg — the excursion starts at the location of the first hip-hop party in Manhattan before heading uptown to iconic spots like the Apollo Theater, the Graffiti Hall of Fame and Yankee Stadium.

Don't miss: You’ll get to watch a real b-boy and b-girl dance session, snap photos in front of famous murals dedicated to Big L and Kool Herc, and even learn how to freestyle!

7.  Superhero Film Tour of New York

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

Don't miss:  Relive the Battle of New York along Park Avenue from The Avengers.

8.  Sunday Harlem Gospel Guided Tour

Explore the culture of Harlem, one of the meccas of Black-American identity, on this guided tour. The tour visits both iconic and lesser-known attractions, such as  Columbia University, the Cotton Club and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. You'll also visit  the Apollo Theater, where Michael Jackson once performed, and the famous stretch of 125th Street, where Duke Ellington lived.

Don't miss: Guests will be welcomed by a local congregation to participate in a Gospel mass as the end of the tour. 

9.  Gossip Girl Bus Sites Tour

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

Don't miss: Top stops include the Empire Hotel (where Chuck Bass lived and worked), the Vera Wang boutique where Blair tried on her wedding gown and, of course, those iconic steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where you can take a photo op.

10.  The Sopranos Filming Locations Bus Tour

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

Don't miss: You’ll also catch a glimpse of Satin Dolls (the Bada Bing bar).

Want to see New York by bike?

The best bike tours in nyc.

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

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

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

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

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• United States
• New York City
• Things To Do

5 Best Bus Tours in New York City

The energy of New York City is found in its streets. One of the best ways to experience this vitality, and cover serious ground at the same time, is with a bus tour, rolling between Manhattan neighborhoods, one beautiful block at a time.

From a themed tour (like the Sex and the City Hotspots tour) to hop-on, hop-off options that offer direct transportation to the top landmarks in the city, here are the five best bus tours that NYC has to offer.

Big Bus New York

The Big Bus is easy to spot: bright red, open top, and double-decker. This classic bus tour provides a thorough introduction to Manhattan, with two routes, the downtown red loop, and the uptown blue route – and hop-on, hop-off service for stopping at top landmarks along the way. Take a seat in the open-air top deck and instead of traveling by subway (where you see nothing as you move between neighborhoods), you will see New York’s famous street life as the bus travels between the Financial District, Chinatown, Greenwich Village, and Chelsea . The most popular stops on the downtown route include the 9/11 Memorial and the High Line, while popular stops on the uptown loop include 5th Avenue shopping and Harlem ’s Apollo Theater. For some fresh air, stop in the 843-acre Central Park and go for a stroll.

Climb aboard The Ride – and the bus becomes the theater while the New York City streets are the stage. Instead of seats facing forward with the flow of traffic, seats aboard The Ride are turned toward the floor-to-ceiling windows, stadium-seating style. This 75-minute tour combines sightseeing (including landmarks like the Chrysler Building and Carnegie Hall) with live entertainment (both from onboard guides providing fun facts and screening movie clips, and on-the-street performers including break dancers and improv comedians). The busy Manhattan streets provide additional entertainment and the bus is equipped with 40 TV screens, tons of LED lights, and a club-quality sound system to keep the atmosphere festive. Kids age 6 and up are welcome to join.

Gray Line CitySightseeing Holiday Lights Tour

Witnessing New York City by night is an essential experience when visiting Manhattan. The streets always have certain electricity, but by night, the thoroughfares, landmarks, and bridges are lit up in spectacular fashion. There’s no better way to see it than from the open-air top deck of a double-decker bus. This after-dark excursion takes between two and three hours to complete and includes the chance to see famous attractions including Rockefeller Center (and its famous sparkling Christmas tree ), the bright lights of Radio City Music Hall , the department store holiday windows along 5th Avenue and Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. From Times Square to Central Park, this tour showcases the best of New York’s famous holiday lights .

Open Loop New York

Take advantage of technology to know exactly when your bus is coming, with the “Where’s My Bus?” web page from Open Loop . This bus tour, with an uptown route and a downtown route, offers a double-decker experience complete with an audio guide available in multiple languages (including English, Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, and more). Tickets are available for one, three, or five days of unlimited use, offering convenient transportation to attractions across Manhattan including the Empire State Building, the Metropolitan Museum of Art , Times Square, and the High Line. Hop-on, hop-off stops are also available in favorite downtown neighborhoods, including the West Village and the East Village. When you’re done with exploring, use your phone to confirm where and when to hop on the next bus.

Sex and the City Hotspots Tour

Strut the same streets as Carrie and shop in the same stores as Samantha during this 3.5-hour bus trip from On Location Tours complete with Sex and the City trivia, cocktails, and New York City sightseeing. The tour begins in front of the iconic Plaza hotel and continues throughout neighborhoods featured in the popular HBO series including the Meatpacking District , the West Village , and SoHo . The tour includes a glimpse of Carrie’s gorgeous brownstone (which is actually in the West Village and not the Upper West Side, where it is supposed to be located in the show) and stops include an adults-only sultry boutique and a cupcake bakery favored by Carrie. The tour wraps up with a drink at the bar that stood in for Steve and Aidan’s bar in the series. 

Related Articles

More related articles.

• Book Tickets
• Must-See NYC Tours
• Top NYC Attractions
• Icons of NYC
• Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club
• & Juliet
• The Lion King
• Year Round NYC Attractions
• NYC Hidden Gems
• NYC Attraction Tours
• Stay in Midtown Manhattan
• Stay in Lower Manhattan
• Stay on the Upper East Side
• Stay on the Upper West Side
• Stay in SoHo
• Stay in Chelsea
• Stay in Harlem
• Stay in Brooklyn
• Current NYC Events
• Navigate NYC
• OMNY Pay & MetroCard
• Rent A Bike
• Accessible NYC
• Drive Around
• Take a Walk
• Things to Do
• Accommodations
• Traveler Info

Click Here to See What's Happening Now in NYC

Home / Discover NYC In Comfort: A Guide To New York City Bus Tours

Discover NYC In Comfort: A Guide To New York City Bus Tours

New York City bus tours unveil the mosaic of cultures, history, and vibrancy that define the Big Apple. This city, alive with endless energy and tales at every corner, offers a journey beyond the ordinary. From the towering skyscrapers reaching for the skies to the hidden gems in the city’s historic neighborhoods, New York presents a canvas painted with strokes of diversity, resilience, and innovation. It’s not just a city; it’s a world of its own, awaiting discovery.

Get into the heart of New York’s cultural scene with  discounted Broadway tickets  from Visit NYC. We bring the allure of the theater within your reach, offering deals that open doors to mesmerizing performances. Witness stories unfold on stage, where emotions run high and talents shine bright. Our Broadway experiences promise a show and a journey into the soul of New York’s theatrical world.

Best Time to Take a Bus Tour in NYC

The sights of New York are not limited to a season or a time. But some moments bring out the best in the city. Warm spring days and crisp fall mornings often offer the perfect balance of comfort and clear skies, ideal for a bus tour that will take you past historical highlights and modern marvels alike. During these times, the city sheds its extreme heat and cold for a pleasant day of sightseeing.

For those willing to wrap up warmly, winter brings its charm. The streets are less crowded, and holiday lights frame the view from the bus window – this is a quiet time to contemplate the city’s architecture without the usual hustle. It’s when you can appreciate the true structure of the city, the bones beneath the flesh of everyday rush.

Night Tours to See New York City Lights

There is something about New York at night – a certain magic that daylight can’t capture. The city buzzes with different energy after sundown, and night bus tours are an excellent way to witness this transformation. The city’s famous buildings light up like stars against the night sky, and you see the true liveliness of New York.

These tours can offer a fresh perspective on familiar sights. Times Square’s neon lights seem to glow hotter, and the quieter streets of downtown take on a dignified grace. On a bus, you are privy to an unobstructed view of it all as the city’s nightlife comes alive around you. It’s a visual treat, an absolute shouldn’t-miss experience.

Themed Bus Tours for Every Interest

New York has a tour for every type of traveler, and bus tours in the city are no exception. Themed tours are unique trips planned around specific interests – food, film locations, or historical landmarks. You could spend a morning nibbling through New York’s culinary routes or an afternoon following the fictional footsteps of your favorite TV show.

Film aficionados will be thrilled to follow a route showcasing iconic movie scenes in real-life settings. On the other hand, history buffs can be whisked off to sites steeped in the city’s past, complete with tales of bygone days. These tours are created not just to show but also to tell – narrative journeys guided by themes that take you beyond the mere view from the window.

Each of these themed explorations offers more than the sum of their stops – they provide stories, tastes, and sights that stick with you, providing a richer understanding of the diversity and depth of New York. They’re specially tailored snippets of the city, delivered on the move.

Tips for a Comfortable and Enjoyable Bus Tour

A bus tour in New York City promises adventure and new sights, but comfort and enjoyment don’t just happen. They require a bit of planning. First, it’s wise to check the weather before your tour. The city’s weather can shift suddenly, so dressing in layers allows you to adjust to changes throughout the day. Comfortable shoes are a must, too, in case you want to hop off at an intriguing location.

Remember to pick seats that suit you best. If you love to capture moments, a seat on the upper deck of a double-decker bus might be your best bet for unobstructed views. However, if you’re sensitive to the sun, you might prefer the sheltered lower deck. Bringing along water and snacks can keep energy levels up without pausing the tour for refreshments.

How to Combine Bus Tours with Other NYC Attractions

New York City bus tours offer a comprehensive overview of the city, but pairing them with visits to specific attractions can deepen your experience. A smart strategy is to review the bus tour route in advance and note any stops near attractions you’re keen to explore further. Many bus tickets offer hop-on and hop-off options, allowing you the flexibility to explore an area on foot and then continue your journey later.

Your Invitation to Discover Iconic New York City Attractions

With Visit NYC, exploring the iconic New York City attractions becomes an adventure infused with tales, history, and sights that leave you in awe. Walk in the shadows of giants at the Statue of Liberty, lose yourself in the electric buzz of Times Square, or find solace in the green embrace of Central Park. Each attraction tells a story; with Visit NYC, you become part of that narrative.

Let's Explore More

Rise Above: The Ultimate Thrill at the Top of the Rock

NYC’s Ultimate Adventures For Thrill-Seekers

Walking Tours of NYC

You may also be interested in

St Patrick’s Cathedral Official Audio Tour

Rockefeller Center

Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience

Carnegie Hall in New York City

Madison Square Garden Tour Experience

Guided Bike Tour Of Central Park

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour: All Options

New York Yankees Baseball Tickets

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy