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

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and considering a way to see the sights without the hassle of navigating busy streets or crowded subways, this Empire State & 48-hour Hop-on Hop-off Tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve looked into what it offers and talked to travelers who have, so I can give you a balanced picture.

What stands out? First, the unlimited hop-on hop-off access over 48 hours means you can explore at your own pace—no rush to cram everything in. Second, the entry to the Empire State Building adds that iconic NYC experience with breathtaking views, which many find unforgettable. That said, there are some considerations like potential traffic delays and mixed reviews on the bus experience, so it’s worth reading on before deciding if this is right for you.

This tour seems best suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Manhattan, or those who prefer an easy, no-hassle way to see key sights. It’s especially handy if you want to combine sightseeing with a visit to an iconic skyline landmark, all in one package.

Key Points

• Flexible 48-hour access allows you to hop on and off at numerous stops, giving you control over your sightseeing schedule.
• Includes Empire State Building ticket for panoramic city views, with the option to pre-book your time.
• Sound commentary and Wi-Fi onboard enhance the experience but can vary in quality.
• Multiple stops across Manhattan cover major neighborhoods, from Times Square to Brooklyn Bridge and Wall Street.
• Some traveler feedback mentions delays and overcrowding, so plan accordingly.
• Additional perks like Butterbeer Ice Cream at Harry Potter Store add fun touches to the day.

Navigating the Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

The Starting Point: M&M’S New York

Your tour kicks off at the M&M’S store on Broadway. It’s a lively, colorful spot and easy to spot at 1600 Broadway. Most travelers report that redeeming tickets here is straightforward, but be sure to arrive early if you want to avoid missing your preferred start time.

Times Square

A must-see for first-timers, Times Square is always buzzing. The tour stops here, giving you a chance to soak in the neon lights, giant billboards, and the hustle. One reviewer shared, “Great to see different parts of the city! And didn’t have to drive!” This area can get crowded, especially during peak times, but it’s an essential NYC experience.

Empire State Building

This is the highlight for many. Your ticket grants access to the observatory, where you’ll get sweeping views of NYC’s skyline. To make the most of it, you’ll need to pre-book a time slot. The views are often described as breathtaking—”Just going up one of the most famous buildings, what a brilliant experience,” says a traveler. The only catch is that the bus doesn’t always stop here in the most convenient way, so check your schedule.

Flatiron Building and SoHo

Next, the tour heads toward the Flatiron District and SoHo, neighborhoods packed with character and great for exploring on foot if you wish. The Flatiron’s distinctive triangular shape is easy to spot, and SoHo offers boutique shopping and art galleries.

Chinatown and Brooklyn Bridge

A mix of historical and scenic spots, Chinatown pulses with energy, and crossing the Brooklyn Bridge offers fantastic skyline views. Expect some traffic, which can slow the bus, as some reviews note, but it’s still a great photo op and a chance to see two of NYC’s most iconic landmarks.

Wall Street and the Statue of Liberty

If you opt for the Statue of Liberty cruise, you’ll get a close-up view of Lady Liberty from the water, which many say is a must-do experience. However, some reviews mention that the bus doesn’t always get close enough to see the statue from the route, so consider the cruise upgrade if it’s important to you.

World Trade Center and Pier 57

These stops reflect the city’s resilience and history. The 9/11 Memorial nearby is a peaceful, somber place to reflect. Pier 57 is a good spot to see the city from the water if you’re doing the cruise.

Uptown Highlights: Central Park, The Met, and Rockefeller

On the Uptown loop, you’ll pass by Central Park, the Met Museum, and Rockefeller Center. A highlight here is the inclusion of the Butterbeer Ice Cream at the Harry Potter Store—something that kids and fans love, and a fun little perk.

Additional Stops

Other stops, like Columbus Circle and Carnegie Hall, add to the well-rounded experience. The tour also includes iconic buildings and neighborhoods, giving you a sense of the city’s diversity.

Practical Considerations for Your NYC Tour

The Bus Experience

While the open-top buses are a classic way to see the city, reviews indicate mixed experiences. Some travelers rave about the commentary and ease of seeing multiple sights without walking, saying, “Good to see different parts of the city and didn’t have to drive.” Others, however, mention overcrowding, dirty buses, and traffic delays—especially around Times Square, where congestion can slow things down.

Timing and Frequency

Buses arrive approximately every hour on both routes, so you’ll want to keep an eye on schedules to avoid long waits. The tour lasts about 90 minutes for a full circle, but actual times can fluctuate due to traffic. The 48-hour ticket lets you hop on and off freely, giving you flexibility, but some reviews suggest that a two-day pass maximizes the experience.

Commentary and Wi-Fi

Most riders appreciate the onboard Wi-Fi and audio commentary, which helps pass the time and provides some insight into the sights. However, some note that the audio can be weak or interrupted, and the commentary is pre-recorded rather than live, which might lessen the personal touch.

The Empire State Building Ticket

You’ll need to pre-book your specific time for the observatory, which adds a layer of planning but ensures you avoid long lines. The combined ticket is a great way to hit two major attractions in one go, especially if you want to skip lines and maximize your day.

Cost versus Value

At $105 per person, including the Empire State ticket and 48 hours of hop-on hop-off access, this package offers good value for those wanting a broad overview. If you’re pressed for time or want to minimize planning, it’s a solid option. However, some reviews reveal that delays and overcrowding might impact the experience, so manage your expectations accordingly.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer shared, “We very much enjoyed the Big Bus hop-on & hop-off tour with entry to the Empire State Building after a bit of a rough start,” highlighting that initial hiccups are common but manageable. Another pointed out that the tour “could have been better,” especially regarding the Statue of Liberty views, which isn’t always visible from the bus route. This suggests that upgrading to a Statue of Liberty cruise or exploring on foot might be worthwhile if those landmarks are your priority.

Conversely, many travelers felt the tour was worth the money, with comments like “Great to see different parts of the city” and “Good fun trip to help you get your bearings,” making it clear that for first-timers or those wanting a quick, hassle-free overview, this package delivers.

A few reviews mention logistical issues—such as confusing meeting points or delays due to traffic—but these seem to be part of the city’s charm and chaos rather than major flaws. Planning ahead and arriving early can help mitigate some of these frustrations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want a convenient way to see NYC’s biggest highlights without worrying about transportation or navigation. It suits travelers who enjoy having flexibility—hopping off to explore a neighborhood or grabbing a quick photo—then hopping back on. If you’re visiting for the first time or have a tight schedule, this combo of bus and Empire State access could be your best bet.

However, if you’re someone who prefers private, guided tours with personalized commentary or is keen on getting close-up views of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, you might find this setup somewhat limited. Also, be prepared for possible delays during busy times and ensure you book your Empire State visit ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Empire State & 48-hour Hop-on Hop-off Tour provides a practical, cost-effective way to get an overview of Manhattan’s most famous sights. It offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, and the inclusion of the Empire State Building visit is a real bonus. While some travelers report challenges like traffic and overcrowding, many still find it to be a worthwhile experience—especially if you plan ahead and manage expectations.

It’s best suited for visitors who want a broad, flexible overview of the city, appreciate the convenience of on-the-go sightseeing, and don’t mind the hustle and bustle that comes with NYC. With good planning, this tour can be a highlight of your trip, giving you a taste of the city’s energy, sights, and vistas.

FAQ

Do I need to pre-book my Empire State Building visit?
Yes, you’ll need to reserve a specific time slot for your visit. This can be done through the booking portal provided after you purchase your ticket.

How often do buses arrive at each stop?
Buses typically arrive about every hour on both routes, so plan your schedule accordingly to avoid long waits.

Can I redeem my tickets at any stop?
Yes, your tickets can be redeemed at any of the listed bus stops, making it flexible to start your journey.

How long does a full circle take without getting off?
A complete round on each route lasts about 90 minutes, but this can vary due to traffic.

Is wheelchair accessibility available?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible with lifts, and accommodations can be requested at checkout.

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

Are food and drinks allowed on the bus?
No food or alcohol, but non-alcoholic drinks in screw-top bottles are okay.

Can I bring luggage?
Luggage isn’t permitted onboard, so plan accordingly.

What if the weather is bad?
Heavy rain or fog might impact visibility or comfort, especially on the open-top bus. The tour will still run but adapt as needed.

What makes this tour a good choice?
Its flexibility, inclusion of Empire State Building access, and coverage of key NYC neighborhoods make it a well-rounded option for many travelers.

If you’re looking for a convenient, flexible way to get your bearings in New York City and experience the Empire State Building from above, this tour offers a solid mix of sights, convenience, and value—just keep an eye on the logistics and plan ahead.