NYC Bundle: Empire State, Big Bus Tour, & Circle Line Cruise

Planning a trip to the Big Apple can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many sights packed into such a small space, it’s hard to decide where to start. That’s where this NYC Bundle—featuring the Empire State Building, a 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour, and a Circle Line cruise—comes in. It promises a well-rounded introduction to Manhattan’s highlights, all at a competitive price.

What stands out most about this package is its combination of land, sky, and water experiences, giving a multi-dimensional view of the city. We love that it offers flexibility: you can explore iconic neighborhoods at your own pace, ascend one of the most famous skyscrapers for sweeping views, and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Hudson River.

One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention logistics hiccups, like bus driver familiarity with online tickets or difficulty locating cruise departure points. These are manageable with a bit of planning. This bundle offers solid value for first-timers or repeat visitors eager to see the city from different angles without breaking the bank.

This experience suits travelers who want a rundown of New York without endless individual bookings. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate flexible schedules, want to see major landmarks, and enjoy combining attractions with scenic boat rides.

Key Points

• Exceptional value with over 40% savings compared to purchasing each experience separately
• Flexible 2-day ticket allows you to explore at your own pace, with unlimited hop-on hop-off access
• Iconic views from the Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observatory
• Scenic cruise offers unique perspectives of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan skyline
• Convenient digital tools: app-based bus tracking and route info simplify navigation
• Accessible for all: includes wheelchair accessibility and options for multiple languages

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What You’ll Experience

Starting with the Empire State Building

Few sights evoke the spirit of New York more than the Empire State Building. The 86th-floor observation deck offers a panoramic view that encompasses Manhattan, the Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn, and New Jersey on a clear day. The art deco masterpiece isn’t just a photo op; it’s a chance to get a true sense of the city’s scale and layout.

The ticket includes skip-the-line access, which is a big plus given how busy this site can get. However, it’s worth noting that this experience can be scheduled on a separate day from the cruise, providing flexibility to plan your visit during daylight or sunset hours for different photographic effects.

Navigating the City with the Big Bus Tour

The 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus is the backbone of this package. It covers both downtown and uptown loops, meaning you can visit everything from Times Square and Central Park to SoHo and the Financial District. What we appreciate is the freedom to hop on and off as you please, allowing for spontaneous exploration or longer stays at particular sights.

The digital commentary enhances the experience, providing interesting tidbits about neighborhoods, landmarks, and history. Plus, the live bus tracking in the app means you won’t be left waiting in the cold or rain wondering when the next bus will arrive.

Some reviews mention that not all bus drivers are familiar with online tickets, so it’s worth preparing by downloading the app and having your booking reference handy. The buses are open-top, which is perfect for sightseeing, but you might want to bring an umbrella or dress in layers for comfort.

A Relaxing Cruise Along the Hudson River

The Circle Line sightseeing cruise is a standout feature. Whether you opt for the 60-minute Liberty Midtown Cruise or the 90-minute Landmarks Cruise, you’ll get a different perspective of NYC’s skyline. The cruise departs from Pier 83, a familiar starting point in Hudson River Park, and offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan’s waterfront.

The boats are well-equipped with full bars, restrooms, outdoor decks, and indoor seating with large windows. The live English guide enriches the experience with stories and historical facts, making it engaging whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor.

Reviewers have noted that seating is first-come, first-serve, so arriving 30 minutes early is wise. The cruise schedule is daily, providing flexibility, and the departure points are easy to find.

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Practicalities and Logistics

You can activate your tickets either via the Big Bus app or by visiting designated locations, like outside M&Ms World on 7th Ave. or directly on the bus. The multi-day aspect means you don’t need to cram all experiences into one day; you can spread them out over your stay.

The accessibility features are notable, with 100% of the fleet being wheelchair accessible and strollers needing to be folded. The tours offer audio guides in multiple languages, making them accessible for international travelers.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Authentic comments highlight the overall enjoyment but also flag some minor frustrations—such as a reviewer from Germany noting that not all bus drivers are familiar with online tickets, which can be a hiccup. Another reviewer pointed out that the cruise doesn’t specify where to catch it, so a quick heads-up or map would help.

Despite these small issues, many travelers rave about the ease of booking, the convenience of the app, and the variety of sights covered. One traveler from Norway called it a “really cool package” and praised the well-designed app that makes navigation straightforward.

Why This Bundle Offers Great Value

When you consider the cost of individual attractions—especially the Empire State ticket and separate cruise—you’ll see that paying $99 per person for this bundle is a bargain. You gain unlimited land transport for 2 days, an iconic city view from above, and a scenic water tour—all designed to give a comprehensive snapshot of New York.

This package is especially good for first-time visitors who want an overview without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also flexible enough for those who prefer to take things at their own pace, with plenty of opportunity to explore independently between scheduled experiences.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Travelers seeking value and convenience
• Visitors wanting a balanced mix of indoor and outdoor experiences
• First-timers aiming to get a solid orientation of Manhattan
• Those with limited time but a desire for a multi-sensory experience
• People who appreciate flexibility and digital tools to manage their sightseeing

FAQs

Can I take the Empire State Building and the cruise on different days?
Yes. You can enjoy the Empire State Building and the Circle Line cruise on separate days for more flexibility.

How do I activate my tickets?
You can activate the tickets via the Big Bus app by entering your booking reference and pressing “Activate,” or you can redeem the voucher and activate at designated spots like outside M&Ms World or with a bus driver.

Is the bus tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, 100% of the fleet is wheelchair accessible, and the buses are designed to accommodate mobility devices.

What languages are available for the audio guides?
The buses offer digital commentary in several languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, and Italian.

When should I arrive for the cruise?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes early, as seating is first-come, first-serve, and the cruises run daily from Pier 83.

Can I book the Empire State or cruise for specific times?
Yes, you can select your preferred date and time for the Empire State and the cruise during redemption or in advance.

What’s the difference between the 60-minute and 90-minute cruises?
The Liberty Midtown Cruise lasts about 60 minutes and focuses on Statue of Liberty views, while the Landmarks Cruise lasts around 90 minutes and covers more waterfront sights.

Is there anything I should know about the reviews?
Some travelers noted minor issues, such as bus driver familiarity with online tickets or not knowing where to catch the cruise. Planning ahead will help avoid these inconveniences.

Final Thoughts

This NYC Bundle offers a well-curated mix of sightseeing, combining the thrill of a skyline view from the Empire State Building, the freedom of a hop-on hop-off bus to explore neighborhoods, and the serenity of a boat cruise with unparalleled views of the Statue of Liberty. Its value is hard to beat, especially considering the savings versus individual ticket prices.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the essentials, families wanting a flexible and fun experience, or solo travelers looking for a comprehensive, stress-free way to navigate Manhattan. The combination of land, sky, and water truly captures the essence of New York—fast-paced, scenic, and full of surprises.

While minor logistical issues may arise, these are easily managed with a little planning. The overall experience delivers great value and memorable moments that will leave you with a new appreciation for the city’s energy and grandeur. Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, this bundle makes seeing New York both straightforward and fun.

Note: Always check the availability of tickets and operating hours before your visit. The package can be customized by choosing different days for the Empire State and cruise, providing maximum flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby