Big Bus New York: Sightseeing Night Tour by Open-top Bus

Imagine cruising through Manhattan after sunset, with the city’s iconic landmarks illuminated against the night sky. If that sounds appealing, then a nighttime city tour like the Big Bus New York Sightseeing Night Tour might just be your cup of tea. This experience offers a chance to see the dazzling lights of the Big Apple from an open-air double-decker, while enjoying engaging commentary and professional photos to remember your evening.

Two things stand out about this tour: First, the guides are praised for their knowledge and charisma, making the city’s stories come alive. Second, the spectacular views of landmarks like Times Square and the Empire State Building at night are truly unforgettable.

However, a consideration worth noting is that this isn’t a hop-on hop-off experience, so it’s best suited to those who want a concise, guided overview rather than flexible exploration.

If you’re after a lively, well-organized introduction to New York’s nocturnal charm—especially if you enjoy capturing moments with a professional photographer—this tour could be a highlight of your visit.

Key Points

• It’s a 2-hour guided tour showcasing NYC’s most famous landmarks lit up at night.
• The tour features live commentary in English, with recorded options in six languages.
• Professional photos are included, giving you free souvenir shots with the city’s lights as a backdrop.
• It’s best suited for those who want a structured experience rather than a hop-on hop-off.
• The departure is from M&M’S World (7th Ave & 48th St), starting between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm.
• The price is $67 per person, offering good value considering the guided storytelling and photos.
• Reservations are recommended—most travelers book about 20 days in advance.
• The maximum group size is about 100 travelers, providing a lively but manageable atmosphere.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Schedule

The tour kicks off at the iconic M&M’S Store on Broadway at 7th Ave & 48th St. This location is central and easy to find, close to many Broadway theaters and Times Square. The tour doesn’t run continuously but departs roughly every 20-30 minutes, with the last departure around 9:00 pm. This means you should arrive 15 minutes early to secure your seat, especially in peak seasons.

The Itinerary—What You’ll See

While this isn’t a hop-on hop-off tour, it’s a well-structured route designed to maximize your nighttime cityscape viewing.

• Times Square: Your journey begins here, and it’s the quintessential NYC experience. Bright billboards, bustling crowds, and vibrant energy make it a must-see at night. As one reviewer noted, “Seeing New York landmark was spectacular!!” This spot captures the city’s bright, lively personality.

• Discover NYC by Night: The tour then rolls through different neighborhoods, offering a glimpse of the city illuminated after dark. Expect to see the Empire State Building, which often dazzles visitors with its shimmering lights, and the Manhattan Bridge, a lesser-touted but equally impressive sight.

• Nighttime Landmarks: The guide will share stories about the city’s history and architecture, turning a simple ride into an educational experience. As one traveler raved, “Ric, our tour guide, was a 12/10,” showing how a knowledgeable guide can elevate the experience.

• Photo Opportunities: A professional photographer is on board, arriving about an hour before departure. They’ll take your souvenir shots against the glowing skyline—free if you decide to keep the photo, which many find to be a worthwhile memento.

The Open-Top Double-Decker Bus

Traveling on an open-top bus allows for unobstructed views and a sense of freedom. We loved how it enhanced the feeling of being part of the city. However, be prepared for possible weather considerations—if it rains, the open deck might not be as enjoyable, so check the forecast.

Commentary and Guides

The tour features live narration in English, with recorded commentary available in six languages including Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, French, and German. Many reviews praise the guides for their charisma and insights, with comments like “Jennifer is an excellent and charismatic tour guide very knowledgeable about New York.”

The guides are adept at balancing storytelling with keeping the group moving smoothly. Some mention the sound system can have issues—an occasional static or interruptions—but overall, guests find the guides engaging and informative.

Photos and Memories

The inclusion of a professional photographer is a real plus. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to get high-quality photos without the hassle of taking selfies or risking blurry shots. This service is free at the time of the shoot—just pay if you love your picture enough to keep it.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The majority of reviews are positive, with ratings averaging around 4.0 out of 5 based on hundreds of travelers. Commenters frequently mention the expert guides and stunning nighttime views as highlights.

One guest described the tour as “perfect in every way,” praising the driver and guide for their professionalism. Another mentioned how much they appreciated “going through all the neighborhoods,” emphasizing the comprehensive feel of the ride.

There are occasional complaints, notably about the sound system or the limited flexibility due to the tour’s fixed schedule, but these are minor compared to the overall positive feedback.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for visitors who want a guided, relaxed introduction to Manhattan at night. It’s perfect if you enjoy storytelling, want to see the city’s famous landmarks illuminated, and appreciate professional photos. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a structured experience over a hop-on hop-off format.

Practical Details and Considerations

Price and Value

At $67 per person, the tour offers a solid value when considering the professional guide, narrated commentary, and souvenir photos. It’s more than just a sightseeing ride—it’s an experience that combines entertainment and education, perfect for first-time visitors wanting a quick but impactful overview of NYC’s nighttime charm.

Duration and Group Size

The 2-hour duration is enough to see the main highlights without feeling rushed. The group size, capped at around 100 travelers, ensures a lively atmosphere but still maintains some intimacy. Remember, this isn’t a hop-on hop-off tour; it’s a single, comprehensive ride.

Accessibility and Convenience

Starting at a centrally located landmark makes it easy to reach via public transit. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transport accordingly. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, but check accessibility if needed.

Weather and Cancellation

Since this is an outdoor experience, weather can influence the enjoyment. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance.

Final thoughts

This Big Bus New York Night Tour provides a bright, lively overview of Manhattan after dark, led by guides who bring the city’s stories to life. It’s a fantastic way to see iconic landmarks illuminated, especially if you’re looking for an organized, engaging experience with the bonus of professional photos.

If you enjoy guided tours, vibrant nighttime scenery, and capturing memories, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for visitors who want a convenient, no-fuss way to experience New York City’s legendary lights without the need to navigate on their own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Travelers eager for a guided overview of NYC’s highlights at night will find this tour enriching. It’s a good fit for those who appreciate storytelling, want high-quality souvenir photos, and prefer not to worry about logistics. If you’re looking for an easy, well-organized evening activity that packs in the sights, this tour fits the bill.

On the flip side, if you prefer flexibility or want to explore neighborhoods at your own pace, a hop-on hop-off route might suit you better. Also, if weather turns sour, keep in mind that outdoor sightseeing is weather-dependent.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You will need to meet at the designated starting point, M&M’S World on Broadway.

What time does the tour start?
Tour departures begin between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm, every 20-30 minutes. Arrive 15 minutes early to secure your seat.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, giving you a solid overview of Manhattan’s nighttime sights.

Are commentary options available in my language?
Yes, recorded commentary is available in six languages besides English, including Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, French, and German.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. A professional photographer will be present about an hour before departure to capture souvenir photos, which are free to keep if you choose.

What landmarks will I see?
Expect to see Times Square, the Empire State Building, and the Manhattan Bridge, among other illuminated landmarks.

Is the open-top bus comfortable in bad weather?
The open-air design offers great views, but it’s not ideal in rain or cold. Check the weather forecast before booking.

What’s the maximum group size?
Around 100 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, and accessibility is allowed for service animals, but consider weather conditions and comfort needs.

What is the price, and is it good value?
At $67 per person, it offers a combination of guided storytelling, scenic views, and professional photos—making it a worthwhile choice for a memorable night out in NYC.

In essence, this tour offers a convenient way to experience the city’s sparkling skyline and iconic landmarks at night, with friendly guides and the bonus of quality photos. It’s perfect for those who want a structured, narrated ride without the hassle of navigating or planning multiple stops. For travelers seeking a memorable, visually stunning introduction to Manhattan after dark, this tour hits the right notes—just remember to arrive early, dress warmly, and prepare for a lively, scenic evening.