New York: Empire State & 48-hour Hop-on Hop-off Tour (Save 25%)

Traveling through the streets of New York City can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. Our review covers a popular combo tour that offers a taste of the Big Apple’s highlights—perfect for first-timers or those wanting a broad overview. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect. You’ll find this tour offers great value for money and the chance to see multiple neighborhoods at your pace, but there are a few caveats worth noting.

We love that this tour combines the classic Empire State Building experience with a flexible hop-on hop-off bus route, giving you the freedom to explore at your speed. The included entry to the Empire State is a highlight, along with the Wi-Fi onboard and the free Butterbeer Ice Cream at Harry Potter Store, which adds a fun touch. On the flip side, some reviews mention issues like overcrowded buses or traffic delays, so it’s not perfect for every traveler. Still, this experience is best suited for those who want a hassle-free way to cover a lot of ground in NYC without renting a car or planning intricate public transit routes.

Key Points

• Combines Empire State Building access with a 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour.
• Offers unlimited hop-on hop-off flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
• Includes Wi-Fi on the bus and a fun treat at the Harry Potter Store.
• The itinerary covers all major neighborhoods and iconic sites.
• Some reviews mention crowded buses and traffic delays, so flexibility is key.
• Ideal for first-time visitors or those who want a broad overview of NYC.

An Introduction to the Tour

Imagine spending a day or two weaving through the streets of New York City, jumping off at the places that catch your eye—times like Times Square, Central Park, Wall Street, or Brooklyn Bridge—without the stress of public transportation or driving. That’s what this combo tour promises. It’s designed for travelers wanting convenience and flexibility, blending the traditional sightseeing bus with an iconic skyscraper experience.

What makes this tour stand out? We’re drawn to its unlimited hop-on hop-off access for 48 hours—you can pause at landmarks, take photos, or grab a quick snack, then hop back on. Plus, the entry to the Empire State Building means you skip the lines and go straight to the observation deck, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Manhattan. The added perks like free Butterbeer Ice Cream at the Harry Potter Store and onboard Wi-Fi make it more than just a bus ride—it’s a mini adventure.

However, it’s worth considering that traffic congestion can sometimes slow down the buses, and during peak times, buses might get crowded, which isn’t ideal if you prefer quiet or intimate touring. Still, for a cost-effective, broad overview of NYC, especially if time is limited, this tour hits many marks.

This experience suits first-timers eager to cover major sights or travelers who prefer guided commentary and hassle-free navigation. If you’re the type who enjoys spontaneous exploration, this can be a good jumping-off point.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour’s itinerary is a sprawling snapshot of Manhattan and surrounding neighborhoods, with stops at some of the city’s most famous sights.

Stop 1: M&M’S New York (7th Ave & W 48th St)

Starting at a colorful, fun location, this is a popular first stop. Though not a major sightseeing point, it sets a lively tone for your day.

Stop 2: Times Square (W 42nd St & Broadway)

The neon-lit heart of NYC, Times Square is a must-see for any visitor. Expect crowds, giant screens, and the energy of hundreds of fellow travelers. Many reviews highlight how vibrant and quintessentially New York this location is, perfect for photos or grabbing a quick snack.

Stop 3: Empire State Building (5th Ave & W 32nd St)

The tour’s highlight—your included entry grants you access to the observatory deck. From here, you’ll see panoramic views of Manhattan, and on clear days, even beyond. Many travelers mention that this “super amazing” experience makes the tour worthwhile. The building’s art deco charm and the view from above are worth the visit, especially if you skip the long lines by booking in advance.

Stop 4: Flatiron Building (W 23rd St & 5th Ave)

Iconic for its distinctive triangular shape, this is a quick stop perfect for photos. Nearby eateries offer quick bites if you want to extend your visit.

Stop 5: SoHo (Spring Street & W Broadway)

Known for its boutique shops and artsy vibe, this neighborhood is a favorite for a leisurely walk. The tour gives you a taste of NYC’s fashionable side.

Stop 6: Chinatown (Lafayette St)

A sensory overload of sights, smells, and sounds—this stop is ideal for enjoying NYC’s diverse culture. You might find great street food or souvenir shops here.

Stop 7: Brooklyn Bridge (Park Row & Beekman St)

You’ll get a chance to admire the historic bridge, a symbol of NYC. Many travelers enjoy walking a portion of it, but the bus view alone is quite impressive.

Stop 8: Wall Street (Wall St & Statue of Liberty)

While many picture Wall Street as a financial hub, it’s also a symbol of global capitalism. Quick photo ops here, or maybe a walk past the famous Bull statue.

Stop 9: Statue of Liberty (Trinity Church)

The bus stops near Trinity Church, providing views of the iconic statue from a distance. If you want a closer look, the optional ferry might be available (depending on your ticket choice).

Stop 10: World Trade Center (Vesey St & Church St)

Home to the 9/11 Memorial, this stop offers a somber but important glimpse into recent history. Many reviews mention that the area has a reflective atmosphere and impressive modern architecture.

Stops 11-13: Pier 57, Hudson Yards, and Circle Line Cruises

These stops connect you with more contemporary views and attractions, including the vessel at Hudson Yards and a cruise option for skyline views or the Statue of Liberty.

Stops 14-19: Midtown Highlights (Hope Sculpture, Rockefeller Center, The Met, Central Park Zoo, Columbus Circle, Carnegie Hall)

These stops cover culture, shopping, parks, and entertainment districts, giving you a well-rounded feel of Manhattan’s core.

What to Expect from the Bus Experience

Traveling on the open-top buses, you’ll enjoy audio commentary in different languages—some travelers found it informative, although a few noted it was a bit generic or music-heavy. The buses operate approximately every 15-30 minutes, depending on the route, so timing is crucial if you’re trying to catch specific sights.

Wi-Fi onboard is a plus, especially if you want to upload photos or look up information during your ride. The buses are equipped to be wheelchair accessible, which is an important consideration for travelers with mobility needs.

The Plus: Flexibility and Extras

With unlimited hop-on hop-off access during 48 hours, you can explore at your own pace—get off to visit a museum, grab lunch, or just relax in a park. Several reviews note that doing this over two days allows for a more leisurely experience, avoiding rushing through each site.

The included Empire State Building ticket means you won’t have to wait in long lines or buy separate tickets. Many travelers find this a significant value, especially with the breathtaking views from the observatory.

Additional perks—like free Butterbeer Ice Cream at Harry Potter Store—add a bit of fun, especially if you’re traveling with kids or Harry Potter fans. The bike rental offer might entice those who want to mix cycling with sightseeing.

Potential Drawbacks

Despite the benefits, some reviews flag crowd levels and traffic delays. During peak hours or bad weather, buses may get overcrowded or stuck in congestion—common frustrations in Manhattan. A few travelers found the buses dirty or uncomfortable, which can detract from the experience.

Another point to consider is the audio commentary—some found it somewhat weak or music-heavy, which might limit the depth of your understanding of NYC’s history and culture. If you prefer live guides or more detailed narration, this might not fully satisfy.

Lastly, traffic congestion can make the 90-minute routes longer, especially around Times Square or Wall Street. It’s worth going into this with patience and a flexible mindset.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a solid choice for first-timers or travelers with limited time who want an overview of major landmarks without the hassle of navigating public transit or paying for multiple tickets. It’s also a good option for those who appreciate multi-day flexibility and the chance to hop on and off at their leisure.

If you’re traveling with family, the entertainment value, combined with the viewing platforms and fun extras, makes it appealing. But if you crave more in-depth local insights or a more intimate tour experience, you might consider other options.

In essence, this tour offers value, convenience, and broad coverage—great for a first taste of NYC’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a traveler seeking a straightforward, flexible way to see the highlights of New York City, this combo tour delivers. It’s perfect if your priority is saving time and covering a lot of ground, with the bonus of skipping long lines at the Empire State Building. The Wi-Fi and extra perks add a modern touch that can make the experience more enjoyable.

However, if you prefer a more personalized or in-depth guided experience, or if you dislike crowds and traffic, then you might want to explore other options. This tour is about convenience and variety—a good fit for those who want to grab the essentials and soak in the city’s atmosphere at their own pace.

To sum it up, for around $105, you’re getting a comprehensive, multi-faceted NYC experience that balances iconic sights with practical flexibility. It’s a solid choice for first-timers, families, or those looking to maximize their limited time in the city.

FAQ

Do I need to pre-book a time for the Empire State Building?
Yes, you’ll need to book your visit in advance through the provided online portal or at the departure points, to ensure smooth access.

How often do buses arrive?
Buses arrive approximately every hour on each route, giving you plenty of options to plan your stops.

Can I redeem my ticket at any bus stop?
Yes, your ticket can be redeemed at any of the listed stops, making it flexible to start your journey where it’s most convenient.

How long is a full round trip without getting off?
Each route takes about 90 minutes to complete, but your ticket’s validity allows you to hop on and off as you like.

Are the buses wheelchair accessible?
Yes, they operate lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices up to 650 pounds.

Can I bring my pet?
Only service animals are permitted onboard; pets are not allowed.

Is food or drink allowed onboard?
No alcohol or food, but non-alcoholic drinks in screw-top bottles are fine.

Can I bring luggage?
Luggage is not permitted onboard, so plan to carry only essentials.

What if it rains heavily?
Heavy rain can affect visibility and comfort, but buses are equipped to handle weather. Some reviews note that heavy fog or rain can be disappointing, so dress accordingly.

What are the main benefits of this tour?
The combination of skip-the-line access to the Empire State, unlimited hop-on hop-off flexibility, Wi-Fi, and fun extras makes it a versatile choice for broad sightseeing.

Overall, this tour provides a value-packed, flexible way to see New York City’s highlights, especially if you’re short on time or want to avoid the complications of navigating the city solo. Just keep in mind its potential crowds and traffic delays, and plan your day accordingly.