New York City , United States of America

NYC Holiday Lights Sightseeing Bus Tour

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About this experience

Experience the magic of New York City’s holiday season like never before! Hop aboard a festively decorated double-decker bus and enjoy a cozy, guided 7-mile journey through the city’s most dazzling lights and iconic landmarks. With live storytelling, Christmas carols, and a chance to meet Santa and his elves in person, this isn’t just a tour — it’s a joyful holiday adventure for the whole family. Plus, with complimentary hot cocoa, cozy blankets, and special gifts, we bring the spirit of Christmas to life in every moment. Join us and make unforgettable memories in the city that truly knows how to celebrate the season!

Available options

NYC Holiday Lights Sightseeing Bus Tour

What's included

A cozy winter hat and blanket to keep you warm and merry

Cheerful interactions with Santa’s elves and the whimsical Express Conductor

A guaranteed upper-deck seat aboard our festively decorated double-decker holiday bus

A secret gift from Santa for every guest — a little extra holiday magic!

Narrated holiday tour filled with festive facts and heartwarming stories

Steaming hot cocoa and delicious sweet, festive holiday cookie treats to enjoy during the ride

A one-on-one meet-and-greet with Santa Claus at the magical North Pole

A magical 7-mile tour of NYC’s brightest holiday lights and landmarks

A special Golden Ticket to board the Holiday Express

Live holiday storytelling and Christmas caroling on board

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Located in Midtown Manhattan, this charming park transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, complete with a skating rink, holiday shops, and festive lights. It’s also your departure point, just beside the New York Public Library.

Stop 2 Pass by

Catch a glimpse of the world-famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree, beautifully lit and surrounded by dazzling ice skaters and sparkling decorations — a true symbol of NYC's holiday season.

Stop 3 Pass by

Home of the legendary Rockettes, this iconic venue shines with neon lights and classic holiday decor, making it a must-see stop on your journey.

Stop 4 Pass by

Admire the stunning Gothic Revival architecture of this historic cathedral, beautifully illuminated and framed by Fifth Avenue’s famous holiday window displays.

Stop 5 Pass by

View the grand facade and twinkling interior of one of NYC’s most historic and beautiful train stations, decorated each year with wreaths, garlands, and a festive light show in the main concourse.

Stop 6 Pass by

This legendary skyscraper dazzles with color-changing LED lights throughout the season — a breathtaking display set high above the city.

Stop 7 Pass by

One of NYC’s Art Deco masterpieces, the Chrysler Building’s illuminated crown adds a sleek sparkle to the skyline during your ride.

Stop 8 Pass by

Drive past this vibrant area at the southwest corner of Central Park, often decorated with glowing stars and close to the Holiday Market known for seasonal shopping and lights.

What's not included

Transportation to and from the meeting point is not included

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Boarding starts 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time—late arrivals may not be accommodated.

Infants under 2 years old may travel free of charge when seated on a guardian’s lap (guardian must be 16+ years old).

If you prefer to reserve a separate seat for your infant, please purchase a Kids ticket.

The tour includes hot cocoa, treats, and a cozy blanket and hat, but no full meals.

This tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; guests must meet at the designated meeting point near Bryant Park

Restrooms are not available on the bus, so plan accordingly before the tour begins.

Meeting point

The departure point is located on 42nd Street, between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue, along the side of Bryant Park.

Important notes

To board your experience, you’ll need to present a digital ticket using the TopViewTix app. Follow the steps below:
1. Download the TopView App
Go to https://topviewtix.com/new-york/apps to download the app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Add Your Ticket (Required to Board)
You can add your ticket in one of the following ways:
From your Email Confirmation:
Locate your Tour Operator Confirmation Number in the Viator email and enter it in the TopView app.
From the Viator App:
Tap “View Voucher,” download the PDF, and find the confirmation number on the ticket. Enter it into the app.
3. Boarding Requirement
A valid digital ticket in the TopView app is required to board.
Paper vouchers will not be accepted.

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information