New York: Madame Tussauds and Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Planning a visit to the Big Apple? If you’re short on time but want to squeeze in some of the city’s highlights along with a dose of fun, this combined experience might catch your eye. It offers a visit to the world-famous Madame Tussauds wax museum in Times Square and a flexible ride on the Big Bus open-top double-decker, giving you a broad view of NYC’s most iconic landmarks—all in one day.

What we like about this tour is how it blends the interactive, star-studded allure of Madame Tussauds with the easy, panoramic sightseeing of the hop-on hop-off bus. It’s a solid option for first-timers eager to get a feel for the city’s layout and culture without the hassle of planning separate tickets or navigating public transit alone.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost—at $100 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to see NYC, but when you consider the combination of experiences, it’s quite reasonable. Also, since the package is designed as a one-day experience, it’s best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time. This tour is particularly friendly for those interested in pop culture, iconic sites, and flexible sightseeing, but it might not suit those looking for a more in-depth or leisurely exploration.

If you’re after a quick, fun, and varied taste of New York, this combo could be a great fit. Just remember, it’s a fast-paced way to see some highlights, so if you’re after a more relaxed experience or have specific sites in mind, you might want to consider customizing your itinerary.

Key Points

• Includes both Madame Tussauds and a hop-on hop-off bus tour, offering a versatile way to experience NYC.
• Cost-effective bundle that saves you 10% compared to purchasing tickets separately.
• Flexible sightseeing with the hop-on hop-off bus giving access to 13 stops around the city.
• Star-studded fun at Madame Tussauds, with lifelike figures of celebrities, sports stars, world leaders, and more.
• Convenient digital ticketing and app-based access to skip lines and track buses in real time.
• Ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a broad overview of NYC’s major landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience Breakdown

Madame Tussauds in Times Square

We loved the chance to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with over 5 floors of wax figures—from music icons like Lady Gaga and Whitney Houston to Hollywood stars and political figures. The sheer detail of the figures is impressive, making it a prime Instagram spot for those selfies and group shots. You can even engage in themed areas like the Marvel Universe, walk a fashion runway, or sit on Jimmy Fallon’s set, making it a lively, interactive experience.

The Marvel Superheroes 4D Experience is an added perk, especially if you’re into comic book heroes and want a little more than just static figures. According to reviews, many visitors find this part of the museum particularly fun and engaging, adding a splash of Hollywood action to the day.

One caveat: crowds can get quite thick, especially near the most popular figures, so be prepared for some wait times if you’re visiting during peak hours. Also, the museum’s size—spanning 85,000 square feet—means you’ll want to pace yourself, especially if visiting with kids or elderly companions.

Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

The other half of this experience is the 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus, which gives you a panoramic view of NYC’s most famous landmarks. The open-top double-decker buses are perfect for sightseeing, particularly if you want to get your bearings and snap photos from a moving, elevated platform.

Buses run every 10-15 minutes, making it easy to hop on and off at your preferred stops. The Downtown Loop takes you through neighborhoods like SoHo, Little Italy, Chinatown, Battery Park, and the Financial District. Here, you can snap photos at the Charging Bull, visit Wall Street, or just soak in the city’s bustling street life. Each stop provides an opportunity to explore on your own before hopping back on the next bus.

The commentary, available in multiple languages via digital audio, offers context about each neighborhood’s history and culture—though some reviews mention that the audio quality can vary. Still, it’s a helpful feature for those who want to learn as they ride.

Value of the Bundle

Bundling these two experiences not only saves about 10% but also offers flexibility. You can choose to spend more time at Madame Tussauds or explore certain neighborhoods at your own pace, thanks to the hop-on hop-off system. The digital ticketing system simplifies entry, and the real-time bus tracking feature ensures you won’t miss your ride.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Not Included

A key point is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to meet your Madame Tussauds tickets at the designated location or activate your bus pass via the app. This requires a little planning, but the central locations—like 7th Ave & W 48th St outside M&M’s World—are pretty easy to find in Midtown.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This combo is ideal for first-time visitors to NYC who want a quick, comprehensive snapshot of the city’s highlights and the chance to see some star-studded fun. It’s also suited for those who prefer a pay-as-you-go style of sightseeing, with the convenience of digital tickets and real-time updates.

If you love pop culture, iconic landmarks, and a bit of interactive fun, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. However, if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration or a more relaxed pace, you might want to supplement this with additional tours or flexible day plans.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Located at the heart of Times Square, Madame Tussauds is a well-known stop packed with photo opportunities. The museum’s over 5 floors of wax figures allow visitors to get up close with many celebrities, sports legends, and political figures.

Highlights include the chance to see Lady Gaga’s detailed wax figure, Whitney Houston in her prime, or even walk the red carpet like a Hollywood star. The Marvel-themed area adds a fun, immersive touch, especially for superhero fans, with figures of Marvel heroes ready for photos. The “Glow Gala” runway and interactive moments make it more than just a static exhibit—it’s a lively, fun place for all ages.

We’ve read reviews mentioning that visitors appreciated how lifelike many figures looked and enjoyed the opportunity to “strike a pose with celebrities.” Some note that lines can get long during peak hours, so arriving early or later in the day might make for a smoother experience.

The Big Bus Tour

The bus route is designed to give you a broad overview of NYC. The Downtown Loop lasts about 90 minutes and covers neighborhoods like Little Italy, Chinatown, Battery Park, and the Financial District. You’ll see the Statue of Liberty from afar and have opportunities to explore on foot if you wish.

Buses run every 10-15 minutes, which means you’re never waiting long. The open-top design offers great views, especially for photos. The commentary, available in multiple languages, provides interesting tidbits about the city’s history and culture, though some reviews suggest that the quality might vary.

The stops are well-placed for quick visits or just for riding through neighborhoods to get a feel for the city’s diversity and energy.

Practical Tips

• Plan your timing: Since the tour is a one-day experience, consider starting early to maximize time at Madame Tussauds and the bus stops.
• Activate your tickets: Retrieve your tickets either via the app or at the designated booth. Remember, vouchers must be redeemed with Big Bus staff before visiting Madame Tussauds.
• Be prepared for crowds: Madame Tussauds can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Bring a charger: The Big Bus app and audio guide are useful, so keep your phone charged.
• Dress comfortably: Expect some walking and standing, especially if you hop off to explore neighborhoods.

The Value Proposition

At $100 for a day’s worth of entertainment and sightseeing, this experience offers a good balance of cost and convenience. Madame Tussauds alone usually costs around that price, and the hop-on hop-off bus allows you to see many landmarks without the hassle of public transit or walking long distances.

It’s a practical way to orient yourself in the city, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer guided sightseeing. While it’s not a full in-depth tour of every neighborhood, it’s an excellent way to get a taste of what NYC has to offer and create some memorable photos along the way.

Who Will Love It?

Travelers who enjoy interactive attractions and panoramic city views will find a lot to like here. It’s particularly good for first-timers who want a broad overview and don’t mind the fast pace. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates pop culture and sightseeing, this combo will hit the mark.

Those who prefer a more relaxed, in-depth exploration might want to add extra days or tours to their itinerary, but for a quick, engaging experience, this package stands out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to buy your tickets beforehand to secure your spot and to take advantage of the 10% bundle discount. You can activate your tickets via the Big Bus app or at the designated location.

Can I use the same ticket for both Madame Tussauds and the bus tour?
Yes, the package includes both, and your ticket is valid for 24 hours starting from activation.

How do I activate my tickets?
You can activate your tickets by downloading the Big Bus app, entering your booking reference, and following the instructions. Alternatively, you can redeem your voucher with Big Bus staff outside M&Ms World at 7th Ave & W 48th St or with a driver at any bus stop.

Is it easy to hop on and off the bus?
Absolutely. The buses run every 10-15 minutes, and there are 13 stops along the Downtown Loop, so you can explore neighborhoods at your pace.

Are there audio guides?
Yes, commentary is available in multiple languages and can be accessed via the digital audio guide on the bus.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Big Bus tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a phone charger, and perhaps a camera—since you’ll want to capture the fun moments at Madame Tussauds and the city views from the bus.

What time of day is best to start?
Starting early is wise to maximize your time, especially if visiting Madame Tussauds first. Afternoon can work if you prefer a more relaxed start.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if needed.

To sum it up, this combo tour blends iconic NYC sights with fun, interactive moments. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a quick, well-rounded visit, especially if you’re new to the city or short on time. While it’s not a deep dive into each neighborhood, it covers enough ground to give you a real sense of what makes New York so vibrant. Whether you’re snapping pics beside your favorite celebrity wax figure or enjoying the city’s skyline from the top deck, this experience offers a practical, enjoyable way to start your adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: