big tour new york

Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Description

Hop on and hop off around New York City with an open-top Big Bus tour, and visit NYC attractions at your own pace. Ride all though Downton New York where you will see amazing restaurants, the buzzing Times Square, Wall Street, and Battery Park where you can catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty. Then follow up with on the Uptown tour and see the famous Apollo Theater, The Metropolitan Museum, and Central Park. These routes have been designed to give you the best New York has to offer in a short amount of time whether it is for 1 day or 2 days.

Itinerary Downtown - Red Route

Route Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Stops on the Downtown - Red Route:

M&M'S World New York - Stop 1 - 7th Ave & W 48th St

W 42nd St and Broadway - Stop 2 - Times Square East

5th Avenue & West 32nd Street - Stop 3 - Empire State Building / KoreaTown ( (in front of CVS Pharmacy)

5th Ave & W 23rd St - Stop 4 - Flatiron District (in front of Eisenbergs Sandwich Shop)

West Broadway & Spring Street - Stop 5 - SoHo (in front of the Nike Store)

100 Lafayette St - Stop 6 - Chinatown / Little Italy (near corner with Walker Street)

Park Row & Beekman St - Stop 7 - Brooklyn Bridge (across from 33 Park Row)

SAMC360 - Stop 8 - Wall Street / Charging Bull (Southwest corner near Rector St)

State St/Bridge St - Stop 9 - Statue of Liberty / Battery Park (in front of the 1 Train Subway Entrance)

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises - Stop 10 - 12th Ave & 40th St (opposite Pier 81)

Attractions on the Downtown - Red Route:

Empire State Building / Rockefeller Center / Times Square / Flatiron Building / Battery Park / Charging Bull (Wall Street Bull) / SoHo / Greenwich Village / Little Italy / Union Square Green Market / Herald Square / The High Line

Operates: 9:30 AM (from Stop #1 - M&M'S World) - 4:30 PM Every 20 to 30 minutes, totally route takes 90 minutes Customers are advised to visit the Big Bus website or to download the Big Bus app to see the most up to date bus stop locations and timings. For live bus tracking on the day of travel - please download the Big Bus App in advance of arrival.

Uptown - Blue Route

Stops on the Uptown - Blue Route:

W 42nd St and Broadway - Stop 2 - Times Square East (*in front of the Knickerbocker Hotel)

7th Avenue & West 50th Street - Stop 11 - Times Square North (in front of Majectic Deli)

5th Avenue & East 83rd Street - Stop 12 - The Metropolitan Museum of Art (outside the museum near 83rd St)

5th Avenue & East 66th Street - Stop 13 - Central Park Zoo (opposite 845 5th Ave)

Central Park South & Columbus Circle - Stop 14 - Columbus Circle (Southwest corner of Central Park, next to Maine Monument)

Attractions on the Uptown - Blue Route:

Carnegie Hall / Columbus Circle / Central Park Zoo / Frick Collection / The Metropolitan Museum of Art / Grand Central Terminal / Bryant Park / Times Square / Central Park

Operates: 10 AM - 4 PM (Stop #11 Times Square North) Every Hour, tour duration takes 90 Minutes Customers are advised to visit the Big Bus website or to download the Big Bus app to see the most up to date bus stop locations and timings. For live bus tracking on the day of travel - please download the Big Bus App in advance of arrival.

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Explore NYC with Ease: Big Bus New York – Ultimate Guide

March 4, 2024 by Deborah Green Leave a Comment

Ever felt overwhelmed by the bustling streets of New York City, with its towering skyscrapers, endless attractions, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered? You’re not alone. The city that never sleeps is vast and vibrant, offering something for everyone but navigating it can be a daunting task. Enter the Big Bus New York , a beacon of hope for tourists and locals alike seeking to explore the Big Apple with ease and comfort.

Big Bus New York offers a flexible and comfortable way to see the city.
Various ticket options cater to all types of travelers.
Insider tips and hidden gems make for an unforgettable NYC experience.
Strategic stops and routes cover major NYC attractions.
Learn how to maximize your Big Bus experience with our guide.

1.1 Maximizing Your Big Bus Experience
1.2 Routes to Remember
1.3 Hidden Gems and Insider Tips
1.4 Navigating New York Like a Pro
2.1 The Experience
2.2 Why Choose the Hop-on Hop-off Tour?
2.3 Planning Your Tour
3.1 Challenging Assumptions
4.1 Spring: Blooms and Beginnings
4.2 Summer: Sunlight and Spectacles
4.3 Fall: A Tapestry of Colors
4.4 Winter: The City in Lights
5.1 Street Food Staples and Where to Find Them
5.2 Neighborhood Noshes: A Taste of Local Life
5.3 Gourmet Getaways and Fine Dining Finds
5.4 Food Markets and Festivals: A Feast for the Senses
6.1 Museum Mile and Beyond: A Journey Through Art History
6.2 Street Art and Urban Canvas
6.3 Live Performances and Theatrical Magic
6.4 Gallery Hopping: From Mainstream to Maverick
7 Conclusion
8.1 Is the Big Bus New York worth it?
8.2 How do I choose the right Big Bus ticket?
8.3 Can I hop on and off at any stop?
8.4 What are the must-see stops on the Big Bus New York?
8.5 Are there any insider tips for first-time Big Bus users?

Why Big Bus New York is a Game-Changer for NYC Visitors

In the heart of a city as expansive and vibrant as New York , navigating through its bustling streets and avenues can be both exhilarating and daunting. This is where Big Bus New York transforms the urban exploration game. Offering a unique vantage point atop its double-decker buses, it allows visitors to soak in the sights and sounds of the city without the hassle of navigating the complex subway system or the expense of cab rides. With meticulously designed routes that cover all major landmarks and attractions, Big Bus New York ensures that you don’t miss out on anything this magnificent city has to offer, making it a game-changer for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.

Maximizing Your Big Bus Experience

Choosing the right ticket can significantly enhance your Big Bus experience . The service offers various ticket options, including Classic, Premium, or Deluxe, each providing varying degrees of flexibility to suit your itinerary. Additional perks such as night tours or boat cruises are also available, depending on the ticket type. An insider tip for savvy travelers: keep an eye out for Big Bus New York promo codes for discounted fares, which are often available through various online platforms or travel agencies. This way, you can enjoy an extensive tour of New York City at a fraction of the cost.

Routes to Remember

The Big Bus’s Red and Blue routes are particularly noteworthy for their comprehensive coverage of the city’s most iconic sights. The Red Route, also known as the Downtown Loop, takes passengers through the heart of Manhattan. It offers unparalleled views of Times Square, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty from afar, and much more, making it an essential experience for any visitor. On the other hand, the Blue Route, or the Uptown Loop, showcases the cultural richness of Harlem and the serene beauty of Central Park, providing a contrast to the bustling downtown area and highlighting the diverse experiences New York City has to offer.

Hidden Gems and Insider Tips

While the Big Bus tours cover many of New York City’s most famous landmarks , they also offer opportunities to explore lesser-known locales that are equally captivating. One such hidden gem is the Brooklyn Bridge stop on the Downtown Loop, where you can hop off and explore DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). This neighborhood is renowned for its stunning waterfront views, picturesque cobblestone streets, and vibrant arts scene. Insider tips like these can help you discover the city’s unique neighborhoods and experiences that lie beyond the typical tourist path.

Navigating New York Like a Pro

The Big Bus New York is not just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing the city like a local . With the help of the Big Bus New York app, you can track bus locations in real-time, making it easier to plan your day around the city’s rhythms. The app also provides detailed information about each stop, including nearby attractions and dining options, allowing you to customize your journey. To avoid the crowds and ensure a comfortable experience, it’s best to catch the bus early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the buses are less crowded, and the city reveals its true character.

New York: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

Explore New York City from Above: The Ultimate Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

New York City, a sprawling metropolis filled with iconic landmarks, bustling streets, and hidden gems, offers an endless array of sights and experiences. For those looking to capture the essence of the Big Apple in a flexible, comprehensive, and exciting way, the hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour by open-top bus presents the perfect solution.

The Experience

Imagine cruising down the streets of New York, the city’s skyline towering above you, as you enjoy unobstructed views from the open-top deck of a bus. This hop-on hop-off tour offers a unique vantage point to witness the hustle and bustle of the city, from the majestic Empire State Building and the sprawling Central Park to the historic Brooklyn Bridge and the vibrant Times Square .

With the flexibility to hop off at any of the numerous stops, you can explore New York City’s museums, landmarks, and neighborhoods at your own pace. Whether you’re drawn to the artistic allure of the MoMA, the historical significance of the Statue of Liberty, or the architectural marvel of the Chrysler Building, this tour puts the city’s best features at your fingertips.

Why Choose the Hop-on Hop-off Tour?

Flexibility: With the option to hop on and off at various stops, you tailor your New York City adventure to your interests and schedule.
Comprehensive Coverage: The tour routes are designed to cover the most iconic and significant parts of the city, ensuring you don’t miss out on any must-see attractions.
Unique Perspectives: The open-top bus offers unparalleled views of the city’s architecture, streetscapes, and the daily life of its inhabitants.
Informative Commentary: Equipped with an audio guide, you’ll receive valuable insights and interesting facts about the city’s history, culture, and landmarks as you travel.

Planning Your Tour

The New York: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus is available with options for 24 or 48-hour tickets, giving you ample time to explore the city at your leisure. With a rating of 4.03 stars from over 2,500 reviews, past visitors have lauded the tour for its convenience, comprehensive route, and the freedom it offers to explore New York City’s diverse attractions.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour by open-top bus is an exhilarating and efficient way to experience the heart of New York City. Don’t miss the chance to embark on this unforgettable journey above the streets of the Big Apple.

For more information and to book your tickets, visit GetYourGuide .

Personal Experiences and Uncommon Angles

Having experienced New York City both with and without the convenience of the Big Bus , I can attest to the unparalleled ease and unique perspectives it offers. There’s something inherently magical about viewing the city from the open deck of a double-decker bus, wind in your hair, as you transition seamlessly from one iconic site to another. This mode of exploration invites you to connect with the city in a way that’s simply not possible through any other means of transportation, offering a blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.

Challenging Assumptions

It’s a common misconception that sightseeing tours like the Big Bus are designed solely for tourists. However, even lifelong New Yorkers can discover new facets of their city through these tours. The Big Bus invites everyone to see New York through a different lens, encouraging passengers to appreciate its history, architecture, and spirit anew. This experience challenges the routine perceptions of the city, revealing its layers and complexities in a way that daily life often obscures.

Exploring the Seasons with Big Bus New York

New York City, a metropolis that dramatically transforms with the seasons, offers a different charm whether it’s the blooming beauty of spring, the sun-drenched streets of summer, the golden hues of fall, or the snowy silence of winter. Big Bus New York provides an exceptional platform to experience these seasonal shifts , each bringing its own unique flavor to the city’s landmarks and landscapes. This section delves into how the Big Bus tour adapts to and enhances the experience of New York’s changing seasons, making every ride, regardless of the time of year, a unique adventure.

Spring: Blooms and Beginnings

As the city shakes off the winter chill, Big Bus tours in spring offer a front-row seat to New York’s awakening. The routes become scenic journeys past blossoming parks and vibrant street art, symbolizing renewal and growth. The mild weather makes it an ideal time for open-top bus rides, allowing unobstructed views of the cherry blossoms in Central Park and the colorful murals in SoHo and the Lower East Side. Springtime also sees a host of festivals and outdoor events, many of which are highlighted and accessible on the tour’s stops.

Summer: Sunlight and Spectacles

Summer in New York is an invitation to bask in the bustling city life, and Big Bus tours are your gateway to the action. With extended daylight hours, the tours offer longer operating times, ensuring you can make the most of your day exploring. Summer routes emphasize waterfront attractions, such as Battery Park and the Brooklyn Bridge, where you can enjoy the breeze off the water and stunning skyline views. The season’s lively atmosphere is contagious, with street performers, open-air markets, and waterfront concerts adding to the immersive experience.

Fall: A Tapestry of Colors

Fall brings a mesmerizing palette of colors to New York’s parks and streets , making it a favorite season for many. The Big Bus tour during these months is a moving vantage point from which to admire the changing leaves against the backdrop of urban architecture. The crisp air and golden light enhance the beauty of landmarks like the High Line and Central Park, offering a picturesque journey through the city. Fall also marks the season of cultural events, such as film festivals and art shows, many of which are easily accessible from the tour’s various stops.

Winter: The City in Lights

Winter transforms New York into a twinkling, festive wonderland , and the Big Bus tour offers a cozy way to explore the city’s seasonal decorations and holiday markets. Wrapped in the warmth of the lower deck or braving the chill for those magical snowy views from the top, passengers can enjoy the holiday lights of Fifth Avenue, the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, and the ice-skating rinks dotted throughout the city. Winter tours often include special routes that focus on the best of New York’s holiday spirit, making it a memorable way to experience the city’s festive cheer.

Regardless of when you visit, Big Bus New York adapts to the city’s rhythm, offering a unique perspective on its ever-changing character. Each season unfolds with its own story, and aboard the Big Bus, you’re sure to witness the narrative of New York City in a way that’s both comprehensive and captivating.

Navigating New York’s Culinary Landscape with Big Bus Tours

New York City is not just a melting pot of cultures but also a culinary capital that offers an array of gastronomic delights from around the globe. With Big Bus New York, food enthusiasts can embark on a delicious journey that goes beyond the typical tourist spots, diving deep into the city’s diverse food scene. This section explores how the Big Bus tour can be your guide to discovering New York’s best eats, from iconic street food to hidden gourmet gems.

Street Food Staples and Where to Find Them

The streets of New York are lined with vendors serving up quick, delicious bites that are as much a part of the city’s fabric as the Empire State Building. With Big Bus, you can hop off at strategic stops to sample famous New York hot dogs near Central Park, indulge in halal gyros in Midtown, or savor artisanal ice cream in Greenwich Village. The flexibility of the tour allows you to explore these flavors at your own pace, turning your sightseeing adventure into a culinary exploration.

Neighborhood Noshes: A Taste of Local Life

Each of New York’s neighborhoods offers a distinct dining experience reflective of the city’s multicultural makeup. Big Bus tours provide the perfect opportunity to discover these diverse culinary landscapes. Hop off in Chinatown for authentic dim sum, venture into Little Italy for a slice of Neapolitan pizza, or explore the Lower East Side for traditional Jewish delicacies. The tour’s comprehensive route ensures you can experience the authentic tastes of New York without missing out on the sights.

Gourmet Getaways and Fine Dining Finds

For those looking to splurge on a gourmet experience, New York City’s fine dining scene is unparalleled. The Big Bus tour passes through neighborhoods known for their high-end eateries, including the Michelin-starred restaurants of Tribeca and the avant-garde culinary establishments in Chelsea. While these stops may require a reservation and a more considerable portion of y our t ravel budget, they promise an unforgettable dining experience that’s worth every penny.

Food Markets and Festivals: A Feast for the Senses

New York’s food markets and festivals offer a taste of the city’s best dishes all in one place, and Big Bus tours make it easy to join in the feast. Seasonal markets like the Winter Village at Bryant Park or the Smorgasburg in Brooklyn are accessible via the tour, offering everything from gourmet snacks to international dishes. These markets not only provide a chance to sample a wide variety of foods but also offer a glimpse into the local lifestyle and the city’s vibrant community spirit.

With Big Bus New York, your journey through the city becomes a movable feast, offering a taste of the world within the confines of a few square miles. Whether you’re a foodie seeking the next great bite or a traveler looking to immerse yourself in New York’s cultural diversity, the Big Bus tour serves as your passport to a world of flavors waiting to be discovered.

Unlocking New York’s Art and Culture with Big Bus Tours

New York City, a global hub of art and culture, boasts an impressive array of museums, galleries, and performance venues that attract artists and enthusiasts from around the world. The Big Bus New York tour not only offers a convenient way to see the city’s iconic landmarks but also serves as a key to unlocking its rich cultural tapestry. This section highlights how you can leverage your Big Bus experience to immerse yourself in New York’s vibrant art scene, from world-renowned institutions to underground galleries.

Museum Mile and Beyond: A Journey Through Art History

One of the most culturally enriching stops on the Big Bus tour is the famous Museum Mile along Fifth Avenue, home to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, and the Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, among others. Each museum offers a deep dive into different art periods and styles, from ancient artifacts to contemporary installations. The convenience of the Big Bus allows you to hop off at any of these institutions and spend your day wandering through centuries of creative expression.

Street Art and Urban Canvas

New York’s art scene isn’t confined to museum walls; it spills out onto the streets, transforming the city into a dynamic canvas. Neighborhoods like Bushwick in Brooklyn and the Lower East Side in Manhattan are famous for their vibrant street art, with murals that cover entire building facades. The Big Bus tour routes through these areas provide a unique opportunity to witness the ever-changing urban art landscape, showcasing works by both renowned international artists and local rising stars.

Live Performances and Theatrical Magic

No visit to New York is complete without experiencing the magic of its live performance scene . Whether it’s a Broadway show, an off-Broadway play, or a live music performance in a historic venue like the Apollo Theater, the Big Bus tour offers easy access to these cultural experiences. With stops near the Theatre District and other performance hubs, you can easily plan an evening of entertainment after a day of sightseeing.

Gallery Hopping: From Mainstream to Maverick

For art lovers looking to explore beyond the major museums, New York’s gallery scene offers a glimpse into the contemporary art world’s heart. Areas like Chelsea and the Lower East Side are teeming with galleries that feature works by both established and emerging artists. The Big Bus’s flexible schedule allows you to embark on a self-guided gallery hop, discovering cutting-edge art and perhaps even meeting the artists and curators who are shaping the future of art in New York.

Through its comprehensive routes and flexible hop-on, hop-off service, Big Bus New York opens up a world of artistic and cultural exploration. It invites you to delve into the city’s creative soul, offering a seamless blend of historical insights and contemporary perspectives. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a curious traveler, the Big Bus tour is your gateway to experiencing the rich cultural fabric of New York City.

The Big Bus New York transcends the conventional tour experience, offering a key to unlock the vast, dynamic landscape of New York City. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to see all the iconic sights or a seasoned local looking to rediscover your city, the Big Bus provides a fresh perspective on both the celebrated and the hidden corners of the city. So, grab your ticket, hop on, and embark on an adventure that promises to redefine your New York City experience.

Is the Big Bus New York worth it?

Yes, for its convenience, comprehensive routes, and the unique perspectives it offers on the city, the Big Bus New York is definitely worth it.

How do I choose the right Big Bus ticket?

Consider your schedule, interests, and whether you want extras like night tours or boat cruises. Each ticket type offers different benefits to suit various needs.

Can I hop on and off at any stop?

Yes, the Big Bus New York allows unlimited hop-on hop-off privileges at any of its designated stops, making it easy to explore the city at your own pace.

What are the must-see stops on the Big Bus New York?

Don’t miss Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge, among others. Each stop offers a unique slice of NYC life.

Are there any insider tips for first-time Big Bus users?

Yes, start early or late to avoid crowds, use the app to track bus times, and don’t be afraid to explore the lesser-known stops for a unique NYC experience.

Big Bus Tours New York Official Website
NYCgo – The Official Guide to New York City
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Reader Interactions

Big Bus 1-Day Downtown & Uptown Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Explore New York with The New York Pass®

What you'll do.

LIMITED TIME SPECIAL OFFER: enjoy a FREE upgrade to a consecutive 2-day Hop-On Hop-Off ticket with Big Bus if you visit before September 30. Your pass must still be valid to redeem this offer.

See it all and get to know the city on the Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off. A complete NYC sightseeing experience from a comfortable vantage point.

Enjoy a Big Bus 1-Day Downtown & Uptown Hop-on Hop-off Tour with The New York Pass®

See all the top sights and get to know the city.
Ride two bus routes: the Downtown and/or Uptown loop.
Commentary in a pre-recorded guide.
Ask a Big Bus agent about upgrading your ticket to include additional days and tours.

What could be better than cruising around NYC with the wind in your hair? This hop-on hop-off New York bus tour offered by Big Bus allows you to discover the city's attractions, with a few extra benefits.

About the Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off in NYC: 1-Day Ticket

If you're looking to explore the wonders of New York City without the stress, one of the best ways to get around is with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. The Big Bus New York is a popular tour company offering hop-on hop-hop-off bus tours of the city. These tours are a convenient and affordable way to see all of the major attractions throughout New York City, including Times Square, Central Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

The hop-on hop-off feature allows you to jump off the bus to explore a specific sight, and then hop back on the next bus to continue your journey. This gives you the flexibility to organize your sightseeing schedule, customize your experience, and enjoy total freedom during your visit.

Big Bus New York offers two main loops – the Downtown Loop and the Uptown Loop – as well as the Brooklyn Loop which takes you over the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Each loop offers a different perspective on the city and its landmarks. With continuous commentary onboard from knowledgeable guides, you'll learn about the city's history, culture, and attractions as you make your way through the city.

Why People Prefer Bus Tours in New York

The tours run year-round and are perfect for visitors who want to maximize their time exploring the city. Instead of navigating the city on your own, the Big Bus New York's Hop-on Hop-off bus tours allow you to relax while you sightsee. Plus, with the convenience of the bus, you can see more attractions in less time compared to a self-guided tour.

Overall, the Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus New York tours are a fantastic way to see the city and its sights at your own pace. They offer you the freedom to customize your sightseeing experience while also providing you with the knowledge and information to fully appreciate everything that the city has to offer. So, hop on the Big Bus and explore all of the magic, sights and culture that New York City has to offer !

As the highest-rated bus tour on Tripadvisor, Big Bus New York offers access to 15 bus stops throughout the city so you can get on and off whenever you want.

Popular stops

Times Square
Brooklyn Bridge
The Statue of Liberty and Battery Park
Central Park
Grand Central Station
W 42nd Street and Broadway
Empire State Building: 5th Avenue and 32nd Street
Brooklyn Bridge / City Hall: Park Row & Beekman
Battery Park: State Street between Battery Place and Bridge Street
7th Avenue and W 48th Street
W 42nd Street and 8th Avenue

Get the Big Bus Hop on Hop off Route Map .

Two Bus Routes

Uptown Loop – Times Square M&M Store: explore the Upper East Side, home to some of New York's most popular museums. Get lost in history and the arts by exploring the Guggenheim and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The loop also takes you through Midtown, passing by the Grand Central Terminal and the famous Chrysler Building.

Downtown Loop – Times Square M&M Store: take in the lower part of Manhattan while passing through the Flatiron District as well as Union Square, Greenwich Village, and Chinatown before the bus tour heads back toward Times Square along the Hudson River, stopping at Pier 84, where you can hop off to the take the Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise

Please note: the Big Bus tour ticket offered on The New York Pass® remains subject to change.

Know before you go

Getting in: guests must visit a Big Bus agent in front of the M&M Store in Times Square to redeem your pass.

Tips for taking the Big Bus Tour

Download the free Big Bus Tours mobile app and get access to all the New York landmarks , routes and bus times right in your pocket. Plan which stops to hop on and off at to see all the landmarks, museums and attractions you want to visit with its customizable map feature. Plus, it includes fascinating facts about the city’s top sites.
Big Bus buses are fully wheelchair accessible. Please note, customers with mobility issues may not be able to access the upper deck.
Both the Uptown and Downtown routes last approximately 90 minutes.

For more information visit the Big Bus Tours website.

Q. What is a hop-on hop-off bus tour? A: Hop-on hop-off bus tours in NYC are the most convenient and efficient way to sightsee in the city. With a designated route, you can hop on and hop off at any of the stops throughout the day, allowing you to customize your itinerary and explore the sights and attractions at your own pace.

Q. Which is the most popular company for hop-on hop-off bus tours in NYC? A: Several companies offer hop-on and hop-off tours, but the most popular is Big Bus Tours. They offer a variety of tour options, including downtown loop, uptown loop, and Brooklyn tours, with multilingual narration and knowledgeable guides.

Q. Are hop-on hop-off bus tours in NYC wheelchair accessible? A: Yes, most hop-on hop-off buses in NYC are wheelchair accessible. However, it is recommended that you request special accommodations from the tour operator ahead of time.

Q. What sceneries can I expect to see on hop-on hop-off bus tours in NYC? A: Hop-on hop-off bus tours in NYC offer a variety of scenic routes showcasing the city’s famous landmarks including the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Wall Street, SoHo, the Brooklyn Bridge, and many more. Have your camera ready to capture the iconic views of New York City from a comfortable vantage point on the bus.

Where you'll be

Operating hours.

Downtown Loop Starting location: Times Square M&M Store Departs: 9AM – 5PM, every 10 - 15 minutes

Uptown Loop Starting location: Times Square M&M Store Departs: 10:00AM – 5PM, every 30 minutes

Tip : this attraction is less busy in the afternoons.

We recommend checking directly with Big Bus for the most up-to-date opening hours.

Closings & holidays

4th of July, Thanksgiving Day and New Year’s Eve

(212) 685-8687

How it works

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The NYC Big Bus Downtown Discover Tour is where the excitement of New York City awaits!

Embark on a thrilling journey through the heart of Manhattan aboard our iconic double-decker buses. With convenient hop-on-hop-off stops, you'll have the freedom to explore the city's most famous landmarks at your own pace. The Downtown Loop is a great way to explore Lower Manhattan including popular neighborhoods such as the Flatiron District, Union Square, Little Italy, Chinatown, Soho & NoHo, Greenwich Village & the East Village, Chelsea and the Financial District.

Marvel at the towering skyscrapers of downtown Manhattan, soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Times Square, and snap photos of the iconic Statue of Liberty from Battery Park. Our expert guides will share fascinating insights and stories about each stop, giving you a deeper understanding of the city's rich history and culture.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our Big Bus Downtown Discover Tour offers an immersive experience that you won't soon forget. Join us and discover the best of New York City in style! Book your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure with CitySightsNY.

Up to 10% Off

Check the schedule to find stops based upon your route. Choose the Red Route for exploring downtown or the Blue Route for exploring uptown. Bus schedule: https://www.bigbustours.com/en/new-york/service-information

Present your e-tickets to one of the agents across the street from M&M World at 48th Street and 7th Avenue (Stop 1)

NYC Big Bus Downtown Discover Tour

Duration: 90 minutes if you stay on; however, you can hop on and off throughout the day

Operates: Every hour from 9:30am to 4:30pm

Please note that starting Sunday, March 10th, 2024: The last regularly scheduled bus will be at 5:00 pm instead of 4:00 pm.

Stops available on the Downtown Loop are:

M&M's World (Stop 1 - 7th Ave & 48th St
Empire State Building / Koreatown – 5th Ave & W 32nd St
SoHo - Broadway and Spring St
Chinatown / Little Italy - 100 Lafayette St (corner of Walker St)
Brooklyn Bridge - Park Row and Beeckman St
Wall Street - Broadway and Wall St (SW corner near Rector St)
Statue of Liberty / Battery Park – State St
Circle Line Sightseeing – 40th St & 12th Ave
Times Square East - W 42nd St and Broadway
Flatiron District - 5th Ave and 23rd St

Service Notice Bus schedule is subject to change due to street closures, weather conditions and other circumstances beyond our control. Visit https://www.bigbustours.com/en/new-york/service-information to see current service changes.

Please note the advisory below: Saturday, April 20, 2024: Due to Car Free Earth Day, there will be road closures and detours in the city. The following routes will be affected: Downtown Tour- Stops 2, 3, and 4 will be inaccessible all day. Uptown Tour – Stop 2 will be inaccessible all day.

Big Bus Holiday Schedule: November 23rd, 2023, Thanksgiving Day – CLOSED December 24th, 2023, Christmas Eve – OPENED Regular Day December 25th, 2023, Christmas Day – OPENED Regular Day December 31st, 2023, New Year’s Eve – CLOSED January 1st, 2023, New Year’s Day – OPENED Regular Day

+1 (212) 445-7599

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Travels & Treasures

Review: I Took the Big Bus Tour in New York City and Found this Secret

This post may have affiliate links which is used to cover administrative costs at no additional charge to you. I pour my heart into providing quality insights, and your support means the world to me. (Full Disclosure)

I absolutely loved the Big Bus Tour in New York City. It’s the best way to go sightseeing in an open-top, hop-on hop-off, top-rated tour and explore the best New York attractions !

If this is your first-time visiting New York and you want to see all the top landmarks, this double-decker tour bus will take you there.

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The Big Bus Tour in New York

You may be wondering if a hop on hop off New York bus is worth it. Absolutely, yes!

Taking the downtown loop of the New York tour bus is a convenient way to see many of New York’s top attractions on your sightseeing date.

The Big Bus Tour’s downtown loop service provides an efficient tour of lower Manhattan’s iconic sites without having to navigate the city’s hectic downtown on foot.

If you consider the time and money spent on transportation costs, waiting for buses, navigating the subway (which can be confusing for visitors), and getting from one point of interest to another, it is worth every dollar!

I had a great visit on the NY bus tour. My goal was to show the city to some friends from Italy who were visiting the US for the first time.

Since we only had about two days to spend together, the hop-on hop-off was undoubtedly the best decision.

From our experience, I’ll answer commonly asked questions about the Hop-on Hop-off bus while visiting New York City.

Big Bus Tour NYC Reviews from Google

TL;DR ➤ Get discounts for the best Hop On Hop Off Bus NYC !

Why Take the Big Bus Tour in New York

While seeing New York from the open-top deck of the double-decker bus, the city unfolded block by block with panoramic views from every angle.

As we traveled through the streets, the sights were unobstructed and new visual backdrops were revealed.

The towering skyscrapers and colorful billboards filled the air with excitement and as the cityscape continued to change, it gave a grand feeling to the experience.

I especially enjoyed being able to relax from the upper deck of the bus while taking in the energy of city scenes.

Because I also live in a large city, the rhythm felt familiar from the elevated vantage point .

Car horns were honking, crowds traversed through the streets and there was an endless hum of activity.

Fortunately, an online account is not needed for the Big Bus Tour. Be sure to select the downtown loop option if you want to focus sightseeing on the downtown area.

Best of all, the tour gave me the chance to interact with other travelers who were seeing New York while waiting for the tour to began.

While in line, we struck up conversations and exchanged stories, insights, and recommendations for our stay in New York.

How Much is the Big Bus Tour in New York

The regular price of an adult and child ticket is $60.00 and $50.00, respectively. However, you can use the link below for discounted fares.

➤ Get discounts for the Hop on Hop Off New York City tour .

How Long is the Big Bus Tour in New York

The round-trip NYC bus tours take about two hours from start to finish.

The bus is the perfect solution for visitors worldwide because they offer pre-recorded audio narratives and translations in five languages — French, German, Spanish, Italian, and English.

Are There Toilets on the Big Bus

No. Unlike charter buses, you won’t travel long between stops. So the best thing to do is exit at a stop, find a public restroom, see an attraction, if desired, and then catch the next bus.

If you are not sure where to find one, ask a Big Bus guide on the street. The driver may also have some suggestions.

Charter buses come equipped with a bathroom because travel is expected to be for a much longer period.

Plan Your Trip to New York City

🌱 When to Go: May through October are the best months to enjoy the outoors. Summer is great for the beach and waterside fun.

‍✈️ Book Your Flight: Find great deals on Skyscanner .

🏨 Where to Stay: Stay at Pod 51 . This affordable hotel has a rooftop terrace and it’s a short walk to 5th Avenue.

🚗 How to Get Around: You can get everywhere using the New York subway (highly recommended). If you prefer a car, use Discover Car to find the cheapest option.

✨ Top 3 Highlights : Don’t miss this yummy Chelsea Market food tour and Highline Park, seeing the Empire State Building , and a walk in Central Park.

📖 Before You Go: Read Breakfast at Tiffany’s or The New York Triology

How Does the Big Bus Tour Work in New York City

The tour offers three options for purchase — 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day.

When you decide the number of days of your tour and purchase your ticket, the clock starts when your ticket is scanned while boarding the bus for the first time.

The ticket is good for 24, 48, or 72 hours. So, if you have a 1-day ticket and board the bus at 11:00 AM on Monday, it can still be used until 11:00 AM on Tuesday.

We found a ton of touring options for sightseeing in New York.

Aside from the extended period, the 2 and 3-day tickets also offer discounted bike rentals.

The buses run every 20 minutes on average. However, the first stop at the M&M store can be a long wait during peak season.

You can exit or board at any of the designated stops as much as you want.

The only exclusion is the one-loop tour Night Tour which is a panoramic non-stop tour.

Where to Catch the NYC Tourist Bus

On the New York tourist bus, they only stop at designated places along the route.

Your ticket is good for as long as the buses operate during the day and it may be used on both the red and blue routes.

When you board, make sure you get a Big Bus New York bus route map!

Big Bus NYC Red Route

The red route sightseeing tour covers lower Manhattan and you’ll see many landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Wall Street, the Chrysler Building, and General Grant’s Tomb.

Riding the downtown loop is a great way to maximize your time in New York by touring key downtown attractions like the 9/11 Memorial, Wall Street, and the Brooklyn Bridge on the double-decker bus.

You can catch a tour at any one of the following Big Bus New York stops and you can get your tickets in advance of boarding.

1 – M&M’s World – 7th Ave & W 48th St (Outside M&M World & Majestic Deli)

2 – Times Square East – W 42nd St & Broadway (at Knickerbocker Hotel)

3 – Empire State Building / Korea Town – 5th Ave & W 32nd St (at CVS Pharmacy)

4 – Flatiron District – 5th Ave & W 23rd St (at Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop)

5 – SoHo – Broadway and Spring Street (at Nike Store)

6 – Chinatown / Little Italy – 100 Lafayette Street (near the corner at Walker St)

7 – Brooklyn Bridge – Park Row & Beekman St (across from 33 Park Row)

8 – Wall Street / Charging Bull – Broadway & Wall St (Southwest corner near Rector St)

9 – Statue of Liberty / Battery Park – State St and Bridge St (at Subway Entrance)

10 – Circle Line Sightseeing – 12th Ave & 40th St (opposite Pier 81)

11 – Times Square North – 7th Ave & W 50th St (at Majestic Deli)

Big Bus NYC Blue Route

The blue route covers upper Manhattan, and half of the ride is mostly views of Central Park. You can switch to the blue route at red stop #2.

We recommend changing routes at stop #11 (the Majestic Deli) where you can take a break and have a nice lunch.

12 – The Metropolitan Museum of Art – 5th Ave & E 83rd St (near 83rd St)

13 – Central Park Zoo – 5th Ave & E 66th St (opposite 845 5th Ave)

14 – Columbus Circle – Central Park & Columbus Circle (SW corner of Central Park)

➤ Get discounts for the Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour .

Tips and Things to Know Before You Go

The downtown loop of the sightseeing bus in NYC is a popular choice for first-time visitors to New York who want an introductory tour of the city’s most famous downtown sights and landmarks. There is also a bus night tour.

So, expect a line because this city is the most popular tourist destination in the United States .

The bus has two levels, the upper level offers panoramic views of the city but be careful of overhanging traffic lights and trees. Don’t stand while the bus is in motion.

After you find a seat, check the audio to confirm it is working when the tour starts.
Snacks are allowed. Bring a frozen bottle of water and protein bites to keep you energized.
When on the upper deck, cover up with sunscreen to protect your skin on hot sunny days.
If you are a family of 3 or more, take seats across from one another so you’ll have views and photos from both sides of the bus.

When we went, travelers were lined up at stop #1 at least an hour before the first departure time and the line extended the entire block and rounded the corner.

We decided to see other points of interest and returned around 11:00 AM.

The wait to board the bus was about 20 minutes. It was a relaxing ride and we saw so much!

By the time we reached stop #9, we were pumped and ready to exit the bus so that we could explore the city! And you probably will be too.

Here’s the secret sauce that really made the experience memorable. Exit at stop #9 and take a free ferry to Staten Island.

To see the Statue of Liberty, stand on the left side of the boat. When returning, stand on the right side.

➤ Traveling on a budget? Read my review of the Westside YMCA Hotel !

Final Thoughts About the Bus Tours in New York

Overall, the Manhattan bus tour was a pleasant way to see the city and when you are on the upper deck, you hardly notice the traffic.

Some other advantages of seeing the city by bus include:

Avoiding parking hassles. I mean, who actually drives in New York while on vacation?!
Photo opportunities. With the open-top or large windows, you have excellent photo opportunities as you pass by iconic landmarks and cityscapes.
Comprehensive sightseeing of major landmarks and attractions within two hours.
You can get local recommendations from the guides who operate the bus.

I usually opt for a hop-on hop-off bus when I am short on time or to get my bearings in the city before deciding what to do.

Either way, when you take the tour bus, it doesn’t appear impossible to take a bite out of the Big Apple. Happy travels!

Grab a copy of our free US Foodie Guid e . ✨Another gem for your journey.

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Tanya, a writer and travel expert who has lived in Chicago for over 30 years, is your go-to local expert for Chicago's hidden treasures. Tanya's deep knowledge of various cities and attractions is acquired through personal exploration, making her articles a treasure trove for travelers and families. She has visited 43 of the 50 United States, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Japan, and the UK.

This is all great information, thank you for sharing! I hadn’t even heard of the Big Bus Tour before this but it seems like a stress free way to get yourself to most of NYC’s big stops. 🙂

It really made the tour of NY incredibly easy, and it is a nice and relaxing ride from lower Manhattan back to stop #1.

I still cannot figure out the cost if I buy 4 attractions , the edge, the ride, Central Park and a museum if purchasing these 4 attractions allows me to use bus for three days. Where do I search to get my purchase of 4 attractions and hop on hop off bus for 3 days. Thank you

Hi Sharon, I can help you with your questions and will send an email about this!

Comments are closed.

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The 5 Best NYC Bus Tours for 2024

Let a trained driver worry about the traffic while you enjoy the Big Apple's best sights.

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As one of the largest cities in the world, New York City has so much to see and do. That's why many visitors start their trip off with a bus tour to see iconic sights and neighborhoods and get the lay of the land. To help you find the tour that's best for you, U.S. News reviewed traveler sentiment and expert input to determine the top New York bus tours. Read our suggestions below for some of the best bus tours you can book for your next trip to the City That Never Sleeps.

Big Bus Tours

Price: Adults from $80; kids from $70 Duration: 75 to 90 minutes

Big Bus New York offers a hop-on, hop-off tour that features 18 stops at major attractions like Bryant Park, Broadway and St. Patrick's Cathedral, with prerecorded commentary provided along the way. Double-decker buses frequent stops every 20 minutes on the Red Line (which runs through downtown) and every 30 minutes on uptown's Blue Line. The Essential Ticket, which is valid for one day, grants you access to the 90-minute downtown and 75-minute uptown routes and lets you add on extras like tickets for Madame Tussauds, the Empire State Building or a harbor cruise. Big Bus New York is a hit with travelers who appreciate the ability to tailor tours to their interests. Others bemoaned the overcrowded buses and long wait times.

You can also book a Discover Ticket, which explores famous landmarks downtown, or an Explore Ticket, which is a two-day hop-on, hop-off bus tour experience. Big Bus Tours also operates a seasonal night tour.

Check prices & availability on:

A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours – The Original Brooklyn Pizza Tour

Price: Adults from $105; kids from $95 Duration: 4.5 hours

Brooklyn has so much to see and do – and eat! The Original Brooklyn Pizza Tour, which reviewers describe as a great experience with even better pizza, lasts 4.5 hours and takes travelers throughout the borough to sample delicious slices from places like Grimaldi's and L&B Spumoni Gardens. You'll also see filming locations for movies like "Saturday Night Fever" and "Goodfellas."

Ticket prices include lunch. Tours are available Friday through Monday and Wednesday at 11 a.m. A Slice of Brooklyn also leads a seasonal tour exploring Dyker Heights' Christmas lights , among other options.

On Location Tours – "Sex and the City" Hotspots Tour

Price: From $66 Duration: 3.5 hours

Fans of Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda can relive all their favorite "Sex and the City" moments during this New York bus tour, which features more than 40 popular locations from the show and movies. During the tour, you'll view iconic filming locations, walk past Carrie Bradshaw's brownstone apartment, sample cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery, drink a cosmopolitan (if you wish) and shop in Greenwich Village. Plus, you'll visit stops from the reboot "And Just Like That," including Bergdorf Goodman and Chelsea Market. Reviewers peg this tour as fun and fabulous.

Tourgoers can pay another $10 for priority seating. Participants must be 18 or older. Tours generally depart Thursday to Sunday at 2 p.m., though additional days may be available during the summer months. On Location Tours operates other filming locations tours for shows and movies, including "Gossip Girl," "The Sopranos" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," among others.

USA Guided Tours – Discover NY Tour

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $89 Duration: 6 hours

On this full-day tour, you'll drive through some of the city's most famous neighborhoods and most-visited areas. You'll have your choice of a traditional bus or a bus with either a glass top or a convertible top. Regardless of the vehicle, enjoy the expert commentary and a history lesson from your tour guide as you cruise past Times Square, Madison Square Park, Central Park, Rockefeller Center and more. A 15-minute stroll through each of the main stops is included, as is a boat cruise that takes you to see the famous NYC skyline. Many travelers call this tour fantastic and a must-do in New York.

Tours depart at 9 and 10 a.m. daily. USA Guided Tours also offers a night tour of the Big Apple.

Hush Hip Hop Tours – Birthplace of Hip Hop

Price: Adults from $79.99; kids from $58 Duration: 3 hours

Travelers routinely praise the Birthplace of Hip Hop tour not only for its cultural lessons about Harlem, but also for the informative guides who explain the history of hip-hop music. During this tour, you'll see famous clubs, murals dedicated to artists and the Apollo Theater. Plus, you'll get to observe a dance session and show off your moves.

Outings run Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. Hush Hip Hop Tours also operates walking tours of Harlem and Brooklyn, among others.

Check prices & availability on:

Interested in more New York City tours? Check out the:

Best New York City Tours
Best New York City Food Tours
Best Statue of Liberty Tours
Best New York City Boat Tours
Best New York City Walking Tours

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , New York City , New York Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations , US Vacations

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Big Bus Tours New York: 3 Ways to Save Up to 6% Off

big bus tour bus driving through new york city

Planning your first trip to the Big Apple can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Visit all the top sites and attractions effortlessly with the best hop-on hop-off NYC Bus Tour.

With all New York City has to offer, it’s understandable why even the most seasoned traveler takes time to plan a Big Apple adventure. This urban jungle has everything you can possibly imagine, from iconic attractions like the Statue of Liberty to the most breathtaking views on top of the One World Observatory.

If you’re keen to see as many of the amazing soaring skyscrapers, monuments, and flourishing five boroughs of the nation’s big city–the solution is quite simple. Book a New York City Big Bus Tour! We promise you won’t regret it.

Follow along as we share everything you have to know before experiencing the best New York bus tour there ever was.

Big Bus Tours New York Discount Tickets

First, purchase your NYC Big Bus Tours ticket from Tripster New York City. Sometimes Big Bus Tours New York discount tickets are offered on Tripster, so you have to keep checking!

You can choose from the following tour loops of the New York Bus Tour:

Uptown Loop
Downtown Loop
Brooklyn Tour
Multiple Day and Loop Packages

Once you have your Bus Tour NYC e-Ticket, you can redeem it and begin your hop-on/hop-off tour experience at either stop:

The M&M World Stop (Stop 1) at 48th Street and 7th Ave. in Times Square
The Welcome Center inside BB King’s at 237 West 42nd Street, between 7th and 8th Avenues.

From here, enjoy your ride! Tours run every 20-30 minutes, allowing you plenty of time to explore and discover the NYC landmarks you desire.

Big Bus Tours New York Coupons and Discounts

Big bus tours new york military discount.

Are you an active duty military, reserve, national guard, or veteran? If yes, take advantage of the 15 percent discount offered by Big Bus Tours! Hop aboard the NYC Big Bus with this discount and enjoy even more savings at other New York City attractions that offer military discounts.

Big Bus Tours New York AAA Discount

Looking forward to using your AAA card for more savings? We regret to inform you that there is no Big Bus Tours New York AAA discount. Alternatively, check out Big Bus Tours New York tickets on Tripster.

Big Bus Tours New York Senior Discount

Wondering if Big Bus Tours is offering an NYC Bus Tours senior rate? The quick is no. Big Bus Tours New York does not offer a senior discount and ticket prices are the same for all adults. Nor is there a Big Bus New York promo code.

Hotels Near Big Bus Tours New York

Stop #1 for the New York City tourist Bus is located at M&Ms World – 7th Ave & W 48th Street. If you’re planning to start your tour from here, check out some of the best hotels nearby:

MOXY NYC Times Square
Courtyard by Marriott New York Manhattan/Times Square
Holiday Inn Express New York City Times Square
Park Terrace Hotel

New York City Attractions

The lion king.

Can you feel the love tonight? Sing along to one of the best all-time favorite songs at The Lion King broadway musical! Disney babies will feel goosebumps rising while re-watching the timeless story of love and redemption through the eyes of the young lion cub Simba.

One World Observatory

Get a good look at New York City from up above at the One World Observatory . One of the highest observation decks in Manhattan will give you a whole new perspective of what The Big Apple looks like, especially during a magical sunset.

The Museum of Modert Art – MoMA

Easily spend a day at The Museum of Modert Art – MoMA and you won’t even notice the time passing by. With six floors of breathtaking art, Instagrammable spots and angles everywhere, plus various restaurants to stop over for lunch or dinner, this art-filled day will be one of the highlights of your New York City trip.

Insider Big Bus Tours New York Tips

What to bring.

Check the weather before you and bring the necessities, such as:

Raincoat or waterproof jacket
Extra pair of clothes

Don’t forget to use the provided Big Bus New York map by the New York Big Bus Tour. Keep it in your bag as this will help you identify other attractions along the way, find your tour stops, and plan the rest of your NYC vacation.

Can I Bring Food into Big Bus New York City?

Since the best way to experience an NYC Big Bus Tour is to take your time, it is important that you bring water and snacks along for the ride. Keep in mind that some attractions may not allow food or beverages inside.

However, you’ll have plenty of time to purchase additional beverages or snacks before hopping back on the bus.

How Long is the Big Bus Tour New York City?

Tours run every 20-30 minutes, so take your time and go at your own pace. NYC moves fast, but there’s no need to rush! The Uptown and Downtown loops, also known as the Big Bus New York route, take approximately 2.5 hours each to complete – meaning you’ve got time to explore; especially if you’ve purchased a multi-day tour pass (highly recommended).

Try to get an upper-deck, outdoor seat. These seats provide the best views of the city, landmarks, and sites. Perfect for taking phenomenal photos of the city, landscape, and landmarks!

Experience a Night Tour

Want to see the city light up at night? (The correct answer is, yes!) If so, then purchase your ticket for a night tour . You can see all of the famous landmarks glow and experience the buzz of the Big Apple at night.

About Big Bus Tours New York

Wondering what does New York hop on hop off bus mean? NYC Big Bus Tours offer guests the freedom to explore any of the attractions or sites visited on the tour. For instance, if you want to experience the Empire State Building, simply hop-off when the tour arrives at the building. When you’re done, hop back on!

Now you might be wondering, what do NYC Big Bus Tours provide? Why are bus tours to New York City so popular? Is the Big Bus Tour in NYC worth it? An NYC Tours Bus provides visitors with the best tours in NYC through:

A local knowledge of the city
Complimentary headphones with 10 audio languages available for commentary
Rain ponchos (if necessary — tours operate rain or shine!)
A phenomenal view of all 30+ NYC sites
A map and phone app to help plan your day

You’ll have everything you need to see the city and explore some of the greatest attractions in the Tri-State area through the Big Bus New York, such as:

The Empire State Building
The Statue of Liberty
Rockefeller Center
The World Trade Center Memorial
Central Park
The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Instead of walking all over the city trying to fit everything into one vacation, you’ll zoom from one landmark to another – all with the freedom to get on and off the bus as you wish! Check out New York City Bus Tours!

Big Bus Tours New York Reviews

Want to find out what other readers think of Big Bus Tours New York? Check out the most recent Big Bus New York reviews .

Take a big bite of the Big Apple! Take it all in–the attractions, the city views, and the bright lights that make this city come alive. Big Bus Tours New York is the perfect hop on hop off NY sightseeing bus for travelers on the go.

Which Tourist Attraction is Your Favorite in NYC?

Leave us a comment below!

Written by Nicole King

There are only two things that make Nicole really happy–books and travel! When her head’s not buried in a book, she’s most likely...

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Home / Discover NYC In Comfort: A Guide To New York City Bus Tours

Discover NYC In Comfort: A Guide To New York City Bus Tours

New York City bus tours unveil the mosaic of cultures, history, and vibrancy that define the Big Apple. This city, alive with endless energy and tales at every corner, offers a journey beyond the ordinary. From the towering skyscrapers reaching for the skies to the hidden gems in the city’s historic neighborhoods, New York presents a canvas painted with strokes of diversity, resilience, and innovation. It’s not just a city; it’s a world of its own, awaiting discovery.

Get into the heart of New York’s cultural scene with discounted Broadway tickets from Visit NYC. We bring the allure of the theater within your reach, offering deals that open doors to mesmerizing performances. Witness stories unfold on stage, where emotions run high and talents shine bright. Our Broadway experiences promise a show and a journey into the soul of New York’s theatrical world.

Best Time to Take a Bus Tour in NYC

The sights of New York are not limited to a season or a time. But some moments bring out the best in the city. Warm spring days and crisp fall mornings often offer the perfect balance of comfort and clear skies, ideal for a bus tour that will take you past historical highlights and modern marvels alike. During these times, the city sheds its extreme heat and cold for a pleasant day of sightseeing.

For those willing to wrap up warmly, winter brings its charm. The streets are less crowded, and holiday lights frame the view from the bus window – this is a quiet time to contemplate the city’s architecture without the usual hustle. It’s when you can appreciate the true structure of the city, the bones beneath the flesh of everyday rush.

Night Tours to See New York City Lights

There is something about New York at night – a certain magic that daylight can’t capture. The city buzzes with different energy after sundown, and night bus tours are an excellent way to witness this transformation. The city’s famous buildings light up like stars against the night sky, and you see the true liveliness of New York.

These tours can offer a fresh perspective on familiar sights. Times Square’s neon lights seem to glow hotter, and the quieter streets of downtown take on a dignified grace. On a bus, you are privy to an unobstructed view of it all as the city’s nightlife comes alive around you. It’s a visual treat, an absolute shouldn’t-miss experience.

Themed Bus Tours for Every Interest

New York has a tour for every type of traveler, and bus tours in the city are no exception. Themed tours are unique trips planned around specific interests – food, film locations, or historical landmarks. You could spend a morning nibbling through New York’s culinary routes or an afternoon following the fictional footsteps of your favorite TV show.

Film aficionados will be thrilled to follow a route showcasing iconic movie scenes in real-life settings. On the other hand, history buffs can be whisked off to sites steeped in the city’s past, complete with tales of bygone days. These tours are created not just to show but also to tell – narrative journeys guided by themes that take you beyond the mere view from the window.

Each of these themed explorations offers more than the sum of their stops – they provide stories, tastes, and sights that stick with you, providing a richer understanding of the diversity and depth of New York. They’re specially tailored snippets of the city, delivered on the move.

Tips for a Comfortable and Enjoyable Bus Tour

A bus tour in New York City promises adventure and new sights, but comfort and enjoyment don’t just happen. They require a bit of planning. First, it’s wise to check the weather before your tour. The city’s weather can shift suddenly, so dressing in layers allows you to adjust to changes throughout the day. Comfortable shoes are a must, too, in case you want to hop off at an intriguing location.

Remember to pick seats that suit you best. If you love to capture moments, a seat on the upper deck of a double-decker bus might be your best bet for unobstructed views. However, if you’re sensitive to the sun, you might prefer the sheltered lower deck. Bringing along water and snacks can keep energy levels up without pausing the tour for refreshments.

How to Combine Bus Tours with Other NYC Attractions

New York City bus tours offer a comprehensive overview of the city, but pairing them with visits to specific attractions can deepen your experience. A smart strategy is to review the bus tour route in advance and note any stops near attractions you’re keen to explore further. Many bus tickets offer hop-on and hop-off options, allowing you the flexibility to explore an area on foot and then continue your journey later.

Your Invitation to Discover Iconic New York City Attractions

With Visit NYC, exploring the iconic New York City attractions becomes an adventure infused with tales, history, and sights that leave you in awe. Walk in the shadows of giants at the Statue of Liberty, lose yourself in the electric buzz of Times Square, or find solace in the green embrace of Central Park. Each attraction tells a story; with Visit NYC, you become part of that narrative.

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September 26th Walks running as scheduled.

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Take a Big Onion Walking Tour and discover New York's rich history through memorable stories and little known facts.

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A walking tour across the Brooklyn Bridge and into the city's first landmark district.

Greenwich Village Walking Tour

Stroll through one of New York’s most picturesque and historic neighborhoods.

Jewish Lower East Side – The Jewish New Year Tour

Stroll through historic and religious sites, politics and people of what was once the largest Jewish community in the world.

Original Multi-Ethnic Eating Tour

This tour combines the history of the diverse Lower East Side with food sampling from local shops & markets!

Now offering Rover Tours in the Hudson Valley !

Since 1991, Big Onion Walking Tours has led locals and visitors alike on innovative and exciting tours through New York’s ethnic neighborhoods and historic districts.

Our educator and graduate student guides lead the most comprehensive and thought-provoking tours available. Take one today!

See our Covid-19 Health and Safety Guidelines .

Tour Nitty-Gritty

Cost $30 $15 for virtual tours Lower pricing for students and seniors

Why Tour With Big Onion

Each tour is deeply researched and based on factual information.

New York Experience

As varied as the city we serve, we offer over 30 tours, in 20 different NYC neighborhoods.

Expert Guides

History grad students, certified by NYC, you can’t get any better than that.

'Pay-what-you-wish' tours

You know what they say...you get what you pay for. ‘Pay what you like’ tours are guided by freelance guides that develop the tours themselves. Who are the guides? How historically accurate are the tours? Can you ask them questions along the way? Big Onion prides itself on its deeply researched, factual and fun tours. We hire and pay real historians to give you a glimpse into the fascinating history behind the city and encourage discourse throughout the tour.

More About Us

Look Who Thinks We'Re Awesome

“Astoundingly informative tours”

“Best Place to Take Out-of-Town Guests”

“Great way to experience the city”

Private Tours

Have a special event or large party.

Field Trips We specialize in unique out-of-the-classroom excursions. We can assist in integrating our tours into an academic curriculum.

Private Tours Our walking tours are great for families, team building, special events, and entertaining clients.

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Keke Palmer Showcases All Her Talents — and Baby Leo — at Dynamic Big Boss Tour Concert in New York City

The multi-hyphenate superstar proved herself as the next Cher in the making as she brought her Big Boss Tour to NYC's Webster Hall on Monday

Sara Feigin // sarafeigin.com

Is there anything Keke Palmer can't do?

The 30-year-old multi-hyphenate superstar proved herself as the next Cher in the making as she brought her Big Boss Tour to Webster Hall in New York City on Monday, showcasing her talents as a singer, dancer, actress, personality and more in a dynamic and electrifying live experience.

Throughout the show, the performer delivered high-energy renditions of songs from 2007's "Bottoms Up" to her latest album Big Boss , released earlier this year via her own Big Bosses Entertainment company alongside an autobiographical film about her music journey on her network, KeyTV.

But referring to the live event simply as a concert would understate its content — the production may as well be called The Keke Palmer Variety Hour.

Before Palmer hit the stage, she didn't have an opening act. Instead, a large video screen played original sketch comedy videos featuring characters from her one-woman series Turnt Up with The Taylors discussing her career and hilariously trying to steal her spotlight. Two DJs also kept the party going until her performance officially kicked off around 8:30 p.m.

After starting the show with 2016's "Hands Free," the Nope star — alongside four dancers — welcomed fans to the Big Boss Tour and noted that "it's been such a long time" since she last toured.

" Big Boss represents so much for me, especially as it pertains to my journey in the music industry. Honey, mama now can cut all the checks," said Palmer with a laugh. "I'm very blessed and grateful to be able to have this tour and to be able to invest in myself in this way, and to come out here and see y’all and thank y’all for all the love you have shown me all these years."

She spoke about the Big Boss film and how it chronicles her experiences with overbearing figures in the music industry, some of whom have attempted to take advantage of her at different points in her career.

"The gag motherf---ing is, they're always trying to get the last laugh," said Palmer, referencing one of her own memes. "I don't care if you're a singer, or a teacher, or a doctor, or a lawyer, or you do DoorDash, whatever it is. We know what it's like to work with people that don't like us and that we don't like. But the gag is, when you stay focused on what it is you’re trying to do, you will always get the last laugh." Detailing her past encounters with people who've turned out to be "a wolf in sheep's clothing," she told the crowd about lessons she's learned: "Everybody's not gonna come up to you and say, ‘Hey, I'm trying to take advantage of you,’ but what you feel is what you know, and that's what I learned that I have to follow — what I feel, my instincts."

Palmer's personal life — especially new motherhood with son Leodis Andrellton , born in February — played a major role in the show, as she then spoke directly to someone who's helped her as of late: "I have to give a very special shout-out to Miss Beth up here. This is my lactation consultant. She got me through being a mother ."

In that moment, she seemed to reference recent criticism from co-parent Darius Jackson, who criticized the outfit she wore to watch Usher perform at his Las Vegas Residency in July, writing on X (formerly Twitter) at the time, " It's the outfit tho.. you a mom ."

Having recently attended Beyoncé's Renaissance World Tour together , the pair appear to be on good terms nonetheless, which was also represented in the Webster Hall concert through a slideshow featuring pictures of Jackson with both Palmer and baby Leo as she performed her song "I Care."

The first half of the show wrapped with a ballroom moment featuring surprise appearances by four dancers — Malik Miyake-Mugler, Smokey Marc Jacobs, Dee Boujee and Divo Couture — from HBO's voguing competition series Legendary , on which Palmer was a judge for season 3.

While she changed into a second outfit, clips from her roles in projects including Akeelah and the Bee , True Jackson, V.P. , Ice Age: Collision Course , Lightyear and Nope , among others, played on the screen to ravenous applause from the crowd.

Following her return to the stage, Palmer performed an unreleased song titled "Ungorgeous," which she said was recorded "about 12 years ago" but feels pertinent to her life today — perhaps as a result of the relationship drama.

"You used to tell me I’m beautiful / But now I don’t even know no more / It’s like you’re trying to be difficult / You never used to do this before," she sings on the mid-tempo pop track, teased on TikTok last month .

Of the song's fresh personal meaning, Palmer said, "We don't like to go through hard times. We don't like to go through ups and downs and the ways that life takes us, but boy, when we do, do we have a testimony."

"For me, so much has happened since I did that song," she explained after performing the track. "I mean, I got a baby, I turned 30. I got a family. You know, I've experienced things. A lot of the things you'll see in the Big Boss movie and some I keep to my heart because they’re too painful to share. But the truth of what I'm saying is sometimes we gotta let it out, y'all."

Palmer continued, "We wanna be so happy all the time and keep everything so bottled up, but it's not true. It's like that movie Inside Out — you gotta let it go to get through it! And for me, that’s what ‘Ungorgeous’ is. It’s an opportunity to say, ‘Hey, I'm just not feeling it,’ and to share it with you guys, it means a lot because if you know how that feels, let me get an ‘Amen.’"

Later, in an unexpected moment, she exited the stage and entered the crowd to play a game with fans. Alongside a security guard, she went to the merchandise booth and asked audience members trivia questions about her career — including Scream Queens , Ice Age and That's My Jam — in exchange for free t-shirts.

Before the show came to a close, Palmer left the stage, and a pre-shot video played of her backstage with her mom Sharon (who was in the audience) holding baby Leo as they speculated on his favorite songs from the performance. "He loved ‘Hands Free,’ and then he loved ‘Waiting,'" said Sharon in the sweet skit.

As the singer returned to the stage, she declared, "It ain't over, motherf---ers." Appropriately, Palmer ended the set with her song "Bossy," again displaying her position as a skilled performer across countless mediums — as well as a powerful woman, mother and all-around boss.

Beatles alum Ringo Starr cancels tour dates in New York, Philadelphia due to illness

Beatles alum and current rock frontman Ringo Star has abruptly canceled the final two dates on his band's nationwide tour after "coming down with a cold," Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band announced Tuesday.

"Today Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band announced that unfortunately they have to cancel their upcoming last two shows including tonight’s performance at TD Pavilion at The Mann in Philadelphia, PA and tomorrow at Radio City Music Hall in New York City due to illness," a post on the band's Instagram said "Ringo has come down with a cold and after consulting a doctor he was advised to cancel these two remaining shows and get rest," it continued.

Review: Ringo Starr guides a submarine of singalongs with his All Starr band

Canceled shows won't be rescheduled

The planned Tuesday, Sept. 24 concert at TD Pavilion at The Mann in Philadelphia, PA and the Wednesday, Sept. 25 date at Radio City Music in New York City will not be rescheduled, said the announcement. Instead, ticket holders will be notified via email and automatically refunded.

Ring, 84, embarked on the 12-stop tour starting in San Diego, CA on Sept. 7, accompanied by bandmates Steve Lukather, Colin Hay, Warren Ham, Hamish Stuart, Gregg Bissonette and Buck Johnson. "As always, Ringo and the All Starrs send peace and love to their fans and hope to see them soon," said the band's post.

Fans react to shows being canceled

Fans and commenters were overwhelmingly supportive, though some expressed disappointment that Tuesday's show was canceled just hours before doors.

"PLEASE reschedule I’m not waiting another bazillion years for another tour," begged one fan. "Reschedule please, I been dying to see you," said another.

"I’m sad we don’t get to see him tonight, but first and foremost, we just want him to be healthy and happy! Get well soon, Ringo," said one well-liked comment, along with another reading "I’m so disappointed but your health comes first. Will always love you."

Starr has been touring with a rotating roster of All Starr band members since 1989 and released a new EP called "Crooked Boy" in April of this year.

Tours at NYPL

Building and exhibition tours for the public are offered at specific library locations:

Stephen A. Schwarzman Building Tours

With nearly 53 million items, the New York Public Library, known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is the second largest public library in the United States, and fourth largest in the world. READ MORE ›

Schomburg Center For Research in Black Culture Tours

The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture of The New York Public Library is generally recognized as the world’s leading research library devoted exclusively to documenting the history and cultural development of peoples of African descent worldwide. From its founding in 1925 during the Harlem Renaissance, the Center has amassed vast collections of over 10 million items. READ MORE ›

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How To Get SNL Tickets And Hear “Live From New York” In Person

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On Saturday, September 28, NBC’s long-running sketch series, Saturday Night Live , will have its Season 50 premiere in the iconic Studio 8H. People from around the globe have flocked to New York City to try to see a taping of this famous show, but honestly, how difficult is it to get tickets? It turns out that navigating the ticket process for SNL can be a tad overwhelming, so we’ve broken it down for you step-by-step. Here’s everything we know about how to get SNL tickets. With a big dose of luck, you’ll hearing, “Live from New York, it's Saturday Night !” in person in the near future.

Last year, musical guest Jennifer Lopez appeared with host Ayo Edebiri and Heidi Gardner during ... [+] season 49 of SNL. Here's how to get tickets to a future taping of SNL.

The Best Broadway Shows To See In NYC Right Now

How to get tickets for the best concerts in 2024, where to buy tickets to snl.

We’ve got good news and bad news when it comes to getting SNL tickets. The good news is tickets are free. The bad news is that the show runs a digital lottery for fans, and you can only enter during a one-month period, from August 1 through August 31 every year.

How To Enter The Online Lottery For SNL Tickets

While digital lotteries for Broadway shows rely on a website for entries, SNL does something quite different. During the month of August, audience hopefuls need to send an email—yes, an email—to [email protected]. You need to include your full name, email address, and why you want to be a member of the show’s studio audience.

Because this is a lottery, simply emailing the required information is not a guarantee you will get a ticket. Indeed, NBC gets a lot more requests for tickets than the studio can accommodate—hence the lottery. In addition, the network only allows one email per person. Other rules: Only people who are ages 16 and up may be part of the studio audience and you must bring valid photo ID to prove you meet the minimum age requirement.

If you’re lucky enough to win the lottery, you don’t even get to choose your preferred date. Instead, your winning tickets (you’ll be given two) is assigned a show date and time, and if you can’t make it, there’s no opportunity to reschedule. One past winner said they received their email about 10 days before the episode. If you don’t win the lottery, you won’t receive a rejection email, either.

All that said, there is a second way to get tickets if you either missed the lottery entry window or don’t want to wait.

How To Get Standby Tickets For SNL

If you know you’ll be in NYC on a specific Saturday show date, there’s a waitlist option that gives you a chance to secure an available audience seat. To join, you must go to NBC’s reservation webpage , which goes live at 10 a.m. EST on the Thursday before a show day. When you do this, you can request up to four standby spots and the choice to attend either the 8 p.m. dress rehearsal or the 11:30 p.m. live show. You cannot request both, and of course filling out this form does not guarantee you a spot.

After you enter your information, which includes your full name and email address, you will receive email confirmation with a reservation number—“if there’s capacity,” NBC notes. The show is in high demand and seating is limited, so reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. A word of warning: Don’t try to double your chances by submitting more than one entry. If you do this, only the most recent entry will be counted, which could damage your chance at getting a reservation number.

If you get an email confirmation congratulations—but there’s more to do to lock in your seat at the show. You and your entire party need to check into an in-person standby line between 6-7 p.m. on the Friday before the Saturday show. This is located at 49 W. 49th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. Make sure you bring your photo ID.

You will then be assigned a place in line to wait until 12:01 a.m. Saturday morning. Your entire party must wait in line the entire time (except for bathroom breaks), or you won’t get a standby card. If you were thinking about hiring a line-sitter, NBC strongly advises you not to do it . You also may not bring items like tents or sleeping bags to the line. Regular chairs are allowed, though.

Once the clock strikes 12:01 a.m., you then be awarded your standby card. Even now, though, this standby card does not promise you a seat. You are not guaranteed a seat until, well, you’re actually sitting in the studio audience. This standby card simply offers you a chance to get a spot. You won’t know if you’ll actually be in the audience until you arrive and learn if any seating is still available.

When Do SNL Tickets Go On Sale?

The SNL ticket lottery runs throughout the month of August. If you missed the chance to enter, or don’t want to wait and see if you win, you can try getting a standby ticket. This process begins the Thursday before a Saturday live show and requires you to wait in line from 6-7 p.m. Friday to 12:01 a.m. Saturday.

How Much Are SNL Tickets?

The good news: Tickets to SNL are free. They are difficult to get, however.

SNL 2024 Dates

According to NBC , seasons for SNL generally run for 18-22 episodes. While we know the premiere date is 9/28/24 in New York, New York, the rest of the schedule hasn’t been announced yet. Obviously, they will take place on Saturday nights, but for which dates and who’s hosting are to be determined.

Is It Hard To Get SNL Tickets?

Getting tickets to SNL is not a walk in the park. The easiest way is by winning the digital lottery that runs during the month of August. The other way is to try for standby tickets, which is never a guarantee of a spot until you are actually sitting in a seat at Studio 8H.

There’s no way to get an accurate estimate of your chance of getting a seat, but one person on a Reddit thread theorizes that people have a better chance of seeing a show by going the standby ticket route instead of the lottery, noting “some people enter it for a decade [or more] and never get picked.” An older thread about the SNL lottery estimates there is a 10,000 to one chance of getting picked.

What is the age limit for SNL tickets?

Members of the SNL studio audience must be at least 16 years of age on the date of the show they’re attending, regardless of if they’re with a guardian or not. Audience hopefuls must bring a valid photo ID to prove they meet the age requirement in order to gain entry.

Where is SNL recorded?

Saturday Night Live is recorded in New York, New York, at 30 Rockefeller Plaza—aka 30 Rock—in Studio 8H. For non-New Yorkers, this is in Manhattan. This location is where the show has filmed since 1975 .

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NYC Mayor Eric Adams charged with bribery and wire fraud in scheme spanning nearly 10 years

New York City Mayor Eric Adams received more than $100,000 worth of free plane tickets and luxury hotel stays from wealthy Turkish nationals and at least one government official in a nearly decadelong corruption scheme, according to a 57-page federal indictment unsealed Thursday.

In return for free travel benefits and illegal campaign contributions, Adams performed favors for his foreign benefactors, including pressuring the New York Fire Department to allow a Turkish consulate building to open despite serious safety concerns, the indictment says.

The alleged international pay-to-play scheme began after Adams became the Brooklyn borough president in 2014 and helped to underwrite his successful mayoral campaign seven years later, the indictment says. It continued into this year, even after federal officers seized Adams’ electronic devices and raided the home of his chief fundraiser, according to the indictment.

“This was a multiyear scheme to buy favor with a single New York City politician on the rise,” U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said at a news conference.

Charged with five counts, Adams, 64, becomes the first sitting New York City mayor to be indicted in the modern era.

The details of the criminal case come at a time of extraordinary turmoil for the Adams administration. In the past two weeks alone, the city’s police commissioner , top lawyer and schools chancellor have announced their resignations.

Adams, in a defiant address shortly after the indictment was made public, vowed to fight the charges and stay on as mayor.

“We are not surprised. We expected this,” Adams said. “I ask New Yorkers to wait to hear our defense before making any judgments.”

Several prominent politicians have called on the Democrat to resign, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y. , and state Sen. John Liu, D-Queens.

But the most powerful political figures in New York — Sen. Chuck Schumer, the Senate majority leader; House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries; and Gov. Kathy Hochul — have not joined the others in calling for Adams to step down.

The mayor could be arraigned as soon as Friday on charges that include bribery, conspiracy to commit wire fraud and solicitation of a contribution by a foreign national.

"The indictment of a sitting mayor is not just another headline," said James Dennehy, the assistant director in charge of the FBI’s New York field office. "It is a stinging reminder that no one is above the law or beyond reproach, and it serves as a sobering moment for all of us who place our trust in elected officials."

The indictment centers on Adams’ relationship with a handful of well-connected Turkish nationals: a senior diplomatic official, a promoter, a university chairman, an airline manager and a luxury hotel owner.

They provided Adams with free travel and entertainment benefits as well as illegal campaign cash, according to federal prosecutors.

As he was locked in the 2021 mayor’s race, Adams and his staff worked to disguise the foreign money by funneling it through U.S. citizens, the indictment says. His campaign received more than $10 million in matching public funds as a result of the false certifications, according to the indictment.

From 2016 to 2021, he received free business class tickets or upgrades on seven different trips to countries including India, France, China, Hungary, Ghana and Turkey — a value of over $123,000, the indictment says.

Ahead of one trip to Istanbul, an Adams staffer requested that the Turkish airline manager charge him a “real” price in order to conceal the travel gift, the indictment says.

“How much should I charge?” the airline manager asked in June 2021, a few weeks before the Democratic primary.

“His every step is being watched right now,” the Adams staffer replied. “$1000 or so. Let it be somewhat real.”

Prosecutors say Adams kept fake paper trails and deleted messages in order to hide his misconduct — in one instance, assuring a co-conspirator he “always” deleted her messages.

In September 2021, the Turkish government official told Adams it was “his turn” to support Turkey after the official had helped arrange straw donations to his campaign, the indictment says. The official insisted that a new Turkish consular building, a 36-story skyscraper, be opened in time for a high-profile visit by Turkey’s president.

But there was a problem: It would have failed a fire inspection. Adams began pressuring the then-FDNY commissioner to do what was necessary for the building to get approval to open. Soon the official responsible for assessing the safety of the building was told he would lose his job if he failed to approve the skyscraper, according to the indictment.

When Adams delivered the news that the building would be approved to open in time, the Turkish official responded with effusive praise.

“You are Great Eric, we are so happy to hear that,” he wrote, according to the indictment. “You are a true friend of Turkey.”

Adams offered a similar sentiment in his reply.

“Yes even more a true friend of yours,” he wrote, according to the indictment. “You are my brother. I am hear [sic] to help.”

Adams’ election victory two months later was celebrated by his foreign benefactors. The promoter reached out to Adams and others saying he would soon be president of the U.S.

“The president is our brother from now on, sir,” the promoter wrote to the Turkish university owner, according to the indictment. “May it be auspicious for all of us.”

“He is most likely going to assign me as a representative, sir,” the promoter added. “I’m going to go and talk to our elders in Ankara about how we can turn this into an advantage for our country’s lobby.”

The Turkish Embassy in Washington, D.C., did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Adams administration is still facing other federal investigations. Earlier this month, investigators working a separate probe searched homes and seized phones belonging to multiple top officials close to Adams. Police Commissioner Edward Caban, who was among those whose phones were seized, resigned Sept. 12.

Authorities also seized the phone of Caban’s twin brother, James Caban, a former police officer who owns a nightclub security business. Federal investigators were looking into whether bars and clubs in midtown Manhattan and Queens paid James Caban to act as a police liaison and whether those clubs were then afforded special treatment by local precincts, according to sources familiar with the matter.

There is also a public corruption investigation and another federal probe that resulted in a search of homes belonging to Adams’ former director of Asian affairs .

Williams, the U.S. attorney, said the foreign bribery and campaign finance investigation is not over. "We continue to dig and we will hold more people accountable," he said.

FBI agents appeared to make that clear hours before the indictment was unsealed, when they descended on Adams' home, Gracie Mansion, in the predawn darkness. The agents seized Adams' phone for the second time, according to his lawyer.

"They send a dozen agents to pick up a phone when we would have happily turned it in," said the lawyer, Alex Spiro.

He described the law enforcement action as "an effort to create a spectacle." The FBI declined to comment.

Jonathan Dienst is chief justice contributor for NBC News and chief investigative reporter for WNBC-TV in New York.

Tom Winter is a New York-based correspondent covering crime, courts, terrorism and financial fraud on the East Coast for the NBC News Investigative Unit.

Rich Schapiro is a reporter for the NBC News Investigative Unit.

Melania Trump Gives a Rare Interview: 3 Takeaways

While promoting a memoir, the former first lady told Fox News that she blamed Democrats and members of the news media for the assassination attempts against her husband.

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By Katie Rogers

Katie Rogers is a White House reporter who covered the Trump administration and wrote a book on modern first ladies, including Melania Trump.

Sept. 26, 2024, 11:44 a.m. ET

Melania Trump, the former first lady, said that she blamed “leaders from the opposition party and the mainstream media” for creating conditions that led to two assassination attempts against former President Donald J. Trump.

In an interview with Ainsley Earhardt of Fox News that aired on Thursday morning — the first such media appearance the press-averse Mrs. Trump has made in over two years — she echoed what her husband has said about the attempts, without the sort of harsh language he has used .

Mrs. Trump, who is promoting a memoir , is intensely private. Even as first lady, her public appearances were sporadic and she lived a life that kept her largely ensconced from outside scrutiny. Her post-White House life has been similarly isolated, a reality that came through in the interview.

She has been largely absent from the campaign trail and was not near her husband during both recent attempts on his life. After a man with a gun was detained while her husband was playing golf at his Florida club on Sept. 15, Mrs. Trump, who was in New York City, called to make sure Mr. Trump was safe “as soon as I saw it on television.”

And she said a second presidency for Mr. Trump would not be disruptive beyond his presence on social media. “Maybe some, you know, strong tweets. But everything else great for this country,” she said at one point.

Here are a few takeaways from her interview.

She defended Trump’s record while being both vague and selective about the details.

Mrs. Trump, asked about her reaction to Vice President Kamala Harris replacing President Biden as the Democratic presidential nominee, said that her husband’s record spoke for itself.

“My husband as commander in chief, he was leading the country through peace, through strength,” Mrs. Trump said, speaking vaguely and without specifics about what her husband’s administration had accomplished. By contrast, she claimed, “the country is suffering” under Mr. Biden. “People are not able to buy usual necessities for the families.”

She argued that under Mr. Trump, the United States had prospered and “didn’t have any wars,” echoing several claims her husband has made, particularly about the relative lack of military conflicts abroad during his presidency.

By the end of Mr. Trump’s term, nearly 13,000 U.S. troops were stationed in Afghanistan . Records show that at least 65 active-duty troops died in hostile action during his presidency, partly as a result of the Trump administration’s efforts to combat the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

Mrs. Trump also made a glaring omission in her recounting of the Trump years: a coronavirus pandemic that devastated the American economy and led to hundreds of thousands of deaths before Mr. Trump lost the 2020 election.

She also made it clear how she feels about Mr. Trump’s decision to run for another term: “I support him.”

Both Trumps blame others for political strife.

Mrs. Trump rarely speaks publicly, but when she does, she almost always defends Mr. Trump’s incendiary approach to politics, claiming, as she did Thursday, that his behavior represents “strong” leadership.

In the interview, she condemned the attempts on Mr. Trump’s life, and said that she had not been watching on television when a gunman opened fire at a rally on July 13, but eventually reached her husband by phone and was assured by his Secret Service detail that he would survive. “I think something was watching over him,” Mrs. Trump said. “It’s almost like country really needs him.”

She said that she had written a “beautiful letter” calling for an end to the violence after that episode: “Let us reunite. Now,” she wrote at the time. She said she had declined to speak at the Republican National Convention because “in one way, the letter was my speech.”

But on Fox, Mrs. Trump blamed who she thought was the source of the strife.

“Is it really shocking that all this egregious violence goes against my husband, especially that we hear the leaders from the opposition party and mainstream media branding him as a threat to democracy, calling him vile names,” she said. “They only fueling a toxic atmosphere and giving power all of these people that they want to do harm to him. This needs to stop. This needs to stop. The country needs to unite.”

So far, it’s a book tour without many book details.

It is possible that Mrs. Trump’s memoir, titled “Melania,” will be filled with specifics, including about what she saw after Mar-a-Lago, the Palm Beach, Fla., home she shares with her husband, was searched by F.B.I. agents. The book may reveal her thoughts about the wives of the many world leaders she encountered during her time as first lady. She might tell her readers more about what Mr. Trump is like in private.

When Ms. Earhardt raised those questions in the interview, though, Mrs. Trump chose to be circumspect over teasing what might actually be in the book.

Asked to reveal what she saw after the F.B.I. searched her home, the former first lady kept her answer general and called it an invasion of privacy.

“I saw unpleasant stuff that nobody wants to see it,” Mrs. Trump said. “And you get angry because, you know, nobody should be putting up with that kind of stuff. Some person — I don’t even know who or how many people — they, you know, they went through my stuff.”

And she said that people who do not like her husband do not understand that Mr. Trump is a “family man” who enjoys listening to music — “He likes to be the DJ.”

She was light on other examples.

Katie Rogers is a White House correspondent. For much of the past decade, she has focused on features about the presidency, the first family, and life in Washington, in addition to covering a range of domestic and foreign policy issues. She is the author of a book on first ladies. More about Katie Rogers

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Explore more of New York City at your own pace with a 2-day hop-on hop-off bus tour, including access to downtown, uptown, Harlem, and even Brooklyn. With your multi-day Big Bus adventure, you can see sights across the Big Apple, hop on and off at your leisure, and take advantage of extra perks, like the panoramic night tour, entry to the Empire State Building's viewing decks, and even a gift ...
New York: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus
Full description. Experience the perfect introduction to New York with a Hop on Hop off Big Bus tour. Relax on an open-top double decker sightseeing bus while listening to insightful and engaging digital commentary. The bus route takes you on a captivating journey through New York's rich history and vibrant modern life, as well as its many ...
Big Bus Tour: Explore NYC Attractions at Your Pace: Book Tours ...
Experience the best of New York City with the Big Bus open-top hop-on hop-off tour. Explore downtown attractions, visit Times Square and Wall Street, and catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty. Then, discover uptown highlights like the Apollo Theater, The Metropolitan Museum, and Central Park. Choose from 1 or 2-day options and explore at your own pace.
New York Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
Gallery. From US$ 58.00. Select options. Hitch a ride on a double-decker bus that will take you around iconic locations in the Big Apple. Hop on and off at any time during the valid period of your bus pass. Learn about the city of New York through an enthusiastic and knowledgeable English speaking guide.
Big Bus 1-Day Downtown & Uptown Hop-on Hop-off Tour
The Big Bus New York is a popular tour company offering hop-on hop-hop-off bus tours of the city. These tours are a convenient and affordable way to see all of the major attractions throughout New York City, including Times Square, Central Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
NYC Big Bus Downtown Discover Tour
NYC Big Bus Downtown Discover Tour. Duration: 90 minutes if you stay on; however, you can hop on and off throughout the day. Operates: Every hour from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Please note that starting Sunday, March 10th, 2024: The last regularly scheduled bus will be at 5:00 pm instead of 4:00 pm.
Review: I Took the Big Bus Tour in New York City and Found this Secret
The ticket is good for 24, 48, or 72 hours. So, if you have a 1-day ticket and board the bus at 11:00 AM on Monday, it can still be used until 11:00 AM on Tuesday. We found a ton of touring options for sightseeing in New York. Aside from the extended period, the 2 and 3-day tickets also offer discounted bike rentals.
The 5 Best NYC Bus Tours
Big Bus Tours. Price: Adults from $80; kids from $70. Duration: 75 to 90 minutes. Big Bus New York offers a hop-on, hop-off tour that features 18 stops at major attractions like Bryant Park ...
New York Hop On, Hop Off Bus Routes Map
Our New York Sightseeing Routes . Discover the sights of NYC with Big Bus Tours. Our bus tour routes will introduce you to the city's most famous landmarks and attractions, with pre-recorded commentary given by our expert virtual guides. Explore must-see sights such as the Empire State Building, Times Square, One World Trade Center and more.
Big Bus Tours New York: 3 Ways to Save Up to 6% Off
The quick is no. Big Bus Tours New York does not offer a senior discount and ticket prices are the same for all adults. Nor is there a Big Bus New York promo code. Hotels Near Big Bus Tours New York. Stop #1 for the New York City tourist Bus is located at M&Ms World - 7th Ave & W 48th Street. If you're planning to start your tour from here ...
Discover NYC In Comfort: A Guide To New York City Bus Tours
New York City bus tours unveil the mosaic of cultures, history, and vibrancy that define the Big Apple. This city, alive with endless energy and tales at every corner, offers a journey beyond the ordinary. From the towering skyscrapers reaching for the skies to the hidden gems in the city's historic neighborhoods, New York presents a canvas ...
Big Onion
Big Onion Walking Tours leads innovative and exciting tours through New York's ethnic neighborhoods and historic districts. Popular walks and tours include Chinatown, Little Italy, Soho, the Village, Brooklyn, Harlem. Big Onion can provide student and adult group tours as well as lectures on numerous topics. Big Onion Walking tours are wonderful for fundraisers, schools, alumni associations ...
Keke Palmer Showcases All Her Talents
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Tours at NYPL
Building and exhibition tours for the public are offered at specific library locations: Stephen A. Schwarzman Building Tours With nearly 53 million items, the New York Public Library, known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is the second largest public library in the United States, and fourth largest in the world.
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Essential Ticket
Simply present your ticket at any Bike Rent NYC location and receive two hours free with the purchase of a one hour bike rental. Redeem between 8:00am-8:00pm at any Bike Rent Location: 203 W 58th St New York, NY 10019 | 40 W 55th St New York, NY 10019 | 117 W 58th St, New York, NY 10019. Use the Carnegie Hall Stop on our Big Bus Uptown Tour ...
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