Big Bus NYC: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover New York City at your own pace on the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour — the most flexible and fun way to experience the city that never sleeps. Enjoy panoramic views from an open-top bus, engaging audio commentary, and the freedom to explore world-famous landmarks whenever inspiration strikes.
Downtown Loop
Get to the beating heart of NYC's most iconic neighborhoods. Cruise past Times Square, 5th Avenue, Broadway, and Wall Street, surrounded by legendary skyscrapers and nonstop city energy. Enjoy unforgettable views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island — perfect for photos and skyline moments.
Uptown Loop
Discover the cultural soul of Manhattan with world-class museums, galleries, and theaters, including The Met and Grand Central. Soak in the beauty of Central Park, stroll Madison Avenue, and take in the excitement of Times Square from the top deck.
Plus, explore more with our exclusive digital walking tours of The City That Never Sleeps. Choose from 4 tour options.
Available options
72hr - Downtown & Uptown Loops
Duration: 3 days<br/> Downtown & Uptown Loops: Hop on and off at convenient stops around New York and enjoy digital audio commentary while aboard.
<br/>Exclusive Walking Tours: Includes 4 digital tour options
48hr - Downtown & Uptown Loops
Duration: 2 days<br/>Downtown & Uptown Loops: Hop on and off at convenient stops around New York and enjoy digital audio commentary while aboard.
Half-Day Ticket - Downtown
Hop-on Hop-off Tour: Hop on and off at convenient stops around New York and enjoy digital audio commentary while aboard.<br/>Duration: 3 hours: Valid for 3 hours of hop-on hop-off access. Redeem any time during operating hours.<br/>Downtown Loop Only
24-Hour - Downtown Loop only
Duration: 1 day<br/>Downtown Loop only: Hop on and off at convenient stops around New York and enjoy digital audio commentary while aboard.
What's included
Open-top double decker bus
24/48/72hr Unlimited hop-on hop-off access during ticket validity
Exclusive Digital Walking Tours with 4 tour options (if option selected)
Live bus tracking through Big Bus app
Two Routes - Downtown & Uptown Loops
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
PT
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.7
1,675 reviews
5★
723
4★
368
3★
228
2★
136
1★
220
Tripadvisor
3.4
3,080 reviews
5★
1200
4★
507
3★
355
2★
352
1★
666
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
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
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tickets with multiple days must be used consecutively.
Guests may activate ticket via Big Bus app or in person with staff
Important notes
Guests may activate ticket in two ways:
1. Download and open the Big Bus app. Tap "Add Booking" and enter your booking reference. On the day of travel, open your ticket and press "Activate" then show your activated ticket to the driver at any stop along the route. Plus, use the app for route information and live bus tracking.
2. Redeem voucher and activate with Big Bus staff at 7th Ave & W 48th St (Outside M&Ms World), or with a driver at any stop along the route.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
