Big Bus NYC: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and want a flexible way to see the city’s iconic sights, the Big Bus NYC hop-on hop-off tour is worth considering. With open-top double-decker buses, you can enjoy stunning views and explore at your own pace—whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor. The tour offers a chance to relax while soaking up the atmosphere, all while learning tidbits via audio commentary.

Two things we really like about this tour are the flexibility it provides—being able to hop on and off at any stop—and the convenience of multiple routes that cover both the bustling downtown and the upscale uptown areas. Plus, the added extras like Brooklyn & DUMBO tours or Vox walking guides can make your experience even richer.

That said, one consideration is the price point. At $60 per person for roughly 90 minutes of full-ride time, it’s not the cheapest option, especially for budget-conscious travelers. However, when you factor in the ease of seeing many sights in one day and the included commentary, many find it good value. This tour suits visitors who want a comprehensive, flexible overview of New York without the hassle of public transit or multiple ticketing systems—perfect for those who prefer a relaxed, guided experience with plenty of opportunities to explore on their own.

Key Points

• Flexible hop-on, hop-off system lets you explore at your own pace.
• Audio commentary enriches your understanding of NYC’s landmarks.
• Multiple ticket options—24, 48, or 72 hours—allow for extended sightseeing.
• Additional routes and extras, like Brooklyn tours and Vox walking guides, offer extra value.
• The open-top buses provide great photo opportunities and immersive city views.
• The tour is best suited for travelers wanting a convenient overview rather than an in-depth, guided museum visit.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

A Practical Overview of the Itinerary

The initial stops serve as a handy introduction to Midtown Manhattan’s highlights. Starting at M&M’S New York on 7th Ave & W 48th St, you’ll see the colorful candy store—an Instagram favorite—and then move on to the famous Times Square at 42nd St & Broadway. From there, you’ll pass the Empire State Building at W 32nd St, giving you a quick peek at its towering presence.

The route continues through the Flatiron District at W 23rd St, where the iconic triangular building is a favorite photo spot. Next, you’ll cruise into SoHo, known for its trendy shops and art galleries, then into Chinatown and nearby Little Italy—both vibrant neighborhoods worth exploring on foot.

Highlights and Potential Drawbacks

The Brooklyn Bridge stop at Park Row & Beekman St is a highlight, offering a chance to walk across one of NYC’s most recognizable landmarks. Many reviews praise the flexibility here, noting it’s a perfect way to combine sightseeing with some physical activity. “We opted to take this tour mainly because it gave us the opportunity to walk the Brooklyn Bridge & get off at Battery Park,” one traveler noted.

Wall Street and the Statue of Liberty stops are conveniently located near major financial and historical sites, although some reviews mention a lack of specific attractions at certain stops—for example, “Stop 9 by Battery Park was non-existent, so we had to walk back.” Still, the opportunity to hop off and explore further is what makes this tour appealing.

The Uptown route takes you past cultural landmarks like Rockefeller Center and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, with stops at Columbus Circle and Carnegie Hall. These stops are perfect for visitors wanting a quick orientation before heading into museums or neighborhoods.

The optional extras include a self-guided Vox walking tour and a dining or shopping experience at key spots like the Harry Potter Store, which offers free Butterbeer ice cream—an unexpected delight.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Many users rave about the scenery and ease, with comments like, “Good way to see landmarks & learn about the area,” and, “Clean bus, easy to purchase tickets & find meeting location.” On the other hand, some caution about “long queues and delays,” especially on the uptown route, which can be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule.

A recurring theme is the knowledgeable guides and commentary, which adds a layer of context that makes the sights more meaningful. As one reviewer said, “The narration was very low volume and had more music than facts about NYC,” but others appreciated the storytelling that accompanied their ride.

The Experience of the Bus

The open-top double-decker buses are a favorite for their panoramic views, and the approximate hourly arrival ensures you’re not waiting too long at stops. The duration of a full circuit is about 90 minutes, which is enough to get a good overview without feeling rushed.

Comfort and accessibility are also considered good—most buses are wheelchair accessible and equipped with lifts, making this a feasible option for travelers with mobility concerns.

Price and Value

At $60 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest way to see NYC, but when you factor in the unlimited hop-on hop-off access, the multiple routes, and the ability to customize your itinerary, many travelers find it a practical investment. Especially for first-timers, this is a stress-free way to cover a lot of ground and decide what areas to explore further.

The extra features like Brooklyn tours and Vox guides are an added bonus, offering further value. Plus, the convenience of live bus tracking through the app helps plan your stops and avoid long waits.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance, as many tours are booked about a month ahead, especially during peak seasons.
• Download the Big Bus app for real-time tracking and route updates.
• Choose your ticket duration wisely—if you plan to explore multiple neighborhoods, go for 48 or 72 hours.
• Be prepared for weather—an open-top bus means you’ll want sunscreen or rain gear.
• Plan your stops—some may be more crowded or less accessible, so check the route map and reviews beforehand.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for visitors who want a low-stress, overview of the city. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic rides with commentary and want the flexibility to explore different neighborhoods without rushing. Families, first-time visitors, and those with limited time will appreciate the convenience and variety.

However, if you’re looking for a deep, guided museum visit or personalized service, this might not be the best fit. Also, keep in mind the price—if you’re on a tight budget, a city pass or public transit might be more economical, but with less comfort and guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does a bus arrive at each stop during the Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Open Top Tour?
Buses arrive roughly every hour on both the Downtown and Uptown routes, helping you plan your day without long waits.

Do I have to go to a central location to redeem my ticket?
No, you can show your printed or electronic ticket at any listed bus stop, making it convenient to start your journey wherever suits you.

How long is a full circle ride without getting off?
Each full circuit on the Downtown or Uptown route takes about 90 minutes, but your total experience can be longer if you hop on and off multiple times.

How will I know which stop to use?
The bus commentary and live updates on the Big Bus app will inform you of upcoming stops. Plus, you can download route maps ahead of time.

Is the bus accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, most buses are wheelchair accessible with lifts capable of handling up to 650 pounds. Just let them know at booking if needed.

Can I bring pets?
Only service animals are allowed onboard. Pets or non-service animals are not permitted.

Can I bring food or drinks?
Food and alcohol aren’t allowed onboard. Non-alcoholic drinks in screw-top bottles are fine.

Can I bring luggage?
Luggage isn’t permitted onboard, so plan accordingly if you’re carrying bags.

The Big Bus NYC hop-on hop-off tour offers a practical, flexible way to get a broad view of the city’s most famous sights. Its open-top design allows for stunning photos and a lively, open-air experience, all while providing audio commentary to add context. The multi-route options and extra tours make it adaptable to a variety of interests and schedules.

While it might not be the cheapest sightseeing option, the combination of convenience, comfort, and variety can make it a worthwhile investment—especially for first-time visitors who want an overview without the hassle of navigating public transit or rushing from site to site.

This tour shines brightest for travelers seeking an easy, relaxed way to familiarize themselves with NYC’s neighborhoods and landmarks, leaving room to explore further on foot or by subway. If you prefer a guided experience, enjoy scenic rides, and value the ability to hop on and off at your own pace, this is certainly worth considering.