NYC in a Day Tour: Lady Liberty, Times Square, Freedom Tower

New York City , United States of America

NYC in a Day Tour: Lady Liberty, Times Square, Freedom Tower

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(1720 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience an immersive journey through New York City, led by a local guide. This top-rated tour captures the city's iconic highlights.

Designed to let you embrace the essence of the city by walking, using the subway, and taking the Staten Island ferry, this experience takes you from vibrant Times Square to the historic Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty.

With a small-group setting, you'll enjoy a more intimate experience and personalized attention from your guide.

Additionally, the tour provides the opportunity to upgrade for a visit to the One World Observatory for breathtaking views from all three levels.

Available options

NYC in a Day Walking Tour

NYC in a Day Walking Tour Only: The ultimate one-day NYC tour so you can see it all. Does not include One World Observatory ticket.

Full-Day New York "Must See" Small-Group Tour plus One World Observatory Ticket

What's included

Visit to Broadway, Rockefeller, Wall Street, Federal Hall, Trinity Church, and more

Expert local guide who travels with you by foot, subway, and ferry

Ride up the SkyPod elevator to the One World Observatory with sweeping views from 1,250 feet high

Photo ops at Times Square and the Charging Bull Statue

Freedom Tower exhibits, including touch-screen displays, the “Voices” film & the See Forever Theater

Tour inside Grand Central Terminal, including the unusual Whispering Corners

Staten Island Ferry ride with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and NYC skyline

Tour of the richly evocative 9/11 Memorial

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

In the entertainment hub of Midtown Manhattan, experience what makes this one of the busiest tourist destinations in the world. Snap a selfie with the lights and signs!

Stop 2 Pass by

Follow in the footsteps of legends like Ethel Barrymore and Lin-Manuel Miranda as you discover how Broadway began in America.

Stop 3

Home to shopping, dining, and beautiful art deco architecture, Rockefeller Center is a place you may want to return during your stay. Your guide has tips for your visit!

Stop 4

This is the largest Gothic Catholic cathedral in the country. Admire its white marble exterior and towering spires.

Stop 5 Pass by

See this NYC institution on our route and wave to the lions.

Stop 6 Pass by

As we pass, you’ll glimpse the building that was briefly the world’s tallest.

Stop 7

Test the mystery of the Whispering Corners and be awed by the celestial mural on the ceiling.

We’ll board the subway for a quick ride to Lower Manhattan, and you’ll learn how to travel like a real New Yorker.

Stop 9 Pass by

Take a photo with this bronze sculpture that symbolizes American commerce. You might be surprised what will bring good luck here!

Stop 10 Pass by

This Beaux-Arts landmark built in the early 20th century was once a building used to collect duties. Learn why it’s named for Hamilton.

Walk the famous ticker-tape parade route starting in Battery Park as you learn the story of the Canyon of Heroes.

Stop 12 Pass by

Glimpse New York’s most famous bridge, seen from our route.

Stop 13

Ride the ferry for an authentic NYC experience, and enjoy views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. It’s great for photos.

Stop 14 Pass by

See where Alexander Hamilton and other famous New Yorkers lie buried in the graveyard outside this Gothic Revival church dating to 1846.

Stop 15

This peaceful plaza features the largest man-made waterfalls in the country. We’ll learn more about the stories and heroism of that fateful day as we pause here.

Stop 16

This is the symbolic center of American finance. See the New York Stock Exchange and learn why Wall Street looks so large on the global financial scene.

Stop 17 Pass by

See the place where George Washington was inaugurated as president, though the original building is gone. The many-columned national landmark that stands here today was built in 1842.

Stop 18

Upgrade to visit this 360-degree observation deck at the One World Trade Center. Your upgrade is optional but a perfect capstone to your day in NYC!

What's not included

Gratuities

Transportation - at least $5.50 per person on a Metrocard needed

This is NOT a bus tour

Transportation on a Metrocard, Times Square

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

689 reviews

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626

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Tripadvisor 4.9

1,031 reviews

5★

995

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Approximately 5 miles of walking. Please do not book this tour if you cannot walk 5 miles over 7 hours.

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

The meeting point is across the street from 1552 Broadway. It is the George M. Cohan Statue at the corner of W 46th Street and 7th Ave. The guide will be there 15 minutes prior to the tour start time and they will be wearing an orange hat and/or a blue shirt or jacket.

Important notes

The meeting point is across the street from 1552 Broadway. It is the George M. Cohan Statue at the corner of W 46th Street and 7th Ave.

- Please arrive 15 minutes early as we start promptly.
- You will NOT be able to catch up to the tour if late.
- Just tell the guide your name. No need to print out the ticket.
- ACTIVITY TAKES PLACE RAIN OR SHINE: The activity runs regardless of weather conditions. In the rare situation where the seller is forced to cancel the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule to another time (subject to availability) or offered a refund.
- ACTIVITY TAKES PLACE OUTDOORS: Dress appropriately for the weather-downtown Manhattan is particularly windy.
- Gratuities always appreciated.
- Approximately 5 miles of walking. Please do not book this tour if you cannot walk 5 miles over 7 hours.
- Transportation - at least $5.5 Metrocard

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