NY: Statue of Liberty, Empire State, and Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Planning a trip to New York City can feel a bit overwhelming — so many iconic sights, so little time. That’s where a well-rounded tour package like this one from Big Bus Tours can really make a difference. It combines the essentials — a hop-on hop-off bus, an elevator ride to the Empire State Building’s observation deck, and a ferry to visit Lady Liberty — into a flexible two-day experience.

What we really like about this tour is its flexibility and comprehensive coverage. Being able to hop on and off at different landmarks lets you tailor your day around your interests. Plus, the panoramic views from the Empire State Building and the ferry ride to Liberty Island are truly memorable. However, a potential downside is that some aspects, like the ferry to Liberty, don’t include entry to the monument itself, which might be a bit disappointing if you’re expecting a full Liberty experience.

This tour is ideal if you prefer an efficient way to see a lot of the city with minimal hassle — especially if your time is limited or you’re visiting for the first time. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate the convenience of combined tickets and want to get the most out of their two days in NYC without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Flexible Itinerary: You control the order and timing of your visits to iconic sites.
• Panoramic Views: The Empire State Building offers sweeping city vistas from its top deck.
• Comprehensive Sightseeing: Stops include Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, and more.
• Value for Money: The bundle saves about 25% compared to individual tickets.
• Multiple Languages: Commentary is available in several languages, enhancing understanding.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, considering diverse needs.
• Can be split across days: Travel days are flexible; your ticket is valid for 48 hours.
• Some Limitations: The ferry ticket doesn’t include entry to the Statue of Liberty monument.
• User Feedback: The tour gets mixed reviews, with some praising the views and others noting some logistical inconsistencies.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Experience

If you’re familiar with city tours, you know the appeal of a hop-on hop-off bus — a chance to explore at your own pace, with the convenience of transportation between sights. This tour offers two distinct routes covering different parts of Manhattan: Downtown and Uptown.

We love that the bus features open-top seating, giving you those great photo angles of the city’s skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and Times Square. The digital commentary, available in multiple languages and with souvenir earbuds, adds context to what you’re seeing — though, as with many audio guides, the quality and clarity can vary depending on bus conditions.

Some reviews mention the size of the groups or the timing of stops, which can sometimes be unpredictable. Still, the live route tracking and the app help you stay informed about bus arrivals and plan your day effectively.

Visiting the Empire State Building

A highlight of this tour is the Empire State Building. The ticket grants you entry and access to the observation deck, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Manhattan — a must-see for anyone new to the city.

We appreciate that you pre-book the time slot to avoid long waits, which are common at popular attractions. The views from above are truly spectacular and offer a different perspective from the ground-level sightseeing. You might find that the photo opportunities are endless, so take your time to soak it all in.

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty is a significant part of this package. While the ferry itself is included, note that entry to the monument isn’t — so if you want to go inside Lady Liberty, you’ll need additional tickets.

The ferry offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue itself. Some users describe it as majestic and iconic, with the opportunity to learn about its history on the grounds. The ferry operates from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM from Battery Park, so timing can be crucial if you want to maximize your visit.

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Stops and Sights Along the Route

You’ll have the chance to hop off at key sights such as Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, and the Empire State Building. This flexibility is a real plus — you can spend longer at the places that catch your eye or get back on the bus to explore more later.

That said, some reviews note discrepancies in transfer locations, such as one traveler mentioning a driver giving different info about ferry stops. It’s a reminder to stay attentive and double-check your meeting points, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

The 48-Hour Validity and Flexibility

Your ticket is valid for 48 hours from the first activation, which means you have plenty of time to spread out your sightseeing over two days. This is a good feature if you prefer to take your time, break up your touring, or revisit favorite spots.

Cost and Overall Value

At $135 per person, this package offers a considerable saving compared to purchasing individual tickets for each attraction. The bundle includes the bus tour, Empire State entry, and ferry to Liberty Island — making it a good value for first-time visitors wanting a rundown.

However, keep in mind that entry to the Statue of Liberty monument isn’t included, so if that’s a priority, you might want to buy an add-on or look for separate tickets.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re the kind of traveler who wants a broad overview of NYC, this package fits the bill. It’s perfect for first-timers who want to tick off major landmarks without the hassle of planning each ticket separately. The flexibility of hop-on hop-off buses allows you to customize your day, spending more time at what interests you most.

It also suits those who enjoy spectacular city views, whether from the Empire State or the ferry. It’s a practical, no-fuss way to get a feel for the city’s layout and its most famous sights.

However, if you’re seeking a deep dive into specific areas or detailed guided tours, this might feel a bit surface-level. Similarly, if visiting the inside of the Statue of Liberty is a must, you’ll need additional arrangements.

FAQs

Is the ferry to Liberty Island included in the tour?
Yes, the ferry ride to Liberty Island and Ellis Island is included with the package if you select that option.

Does the ticket include entry to the Statue of Liberty monument?
No, the ferry ticket is for the ride itself; entry to the monument is not included.

How long is the bus tour valid?
Your ticket is valid for 48 hours from the moment you activate it, giving you flexibility over two days.

Can I hop on and off at any stop?
Yes, with the ticket, you can hop off and reboard at any designated stop along both routes, creating your own schedule.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience provider states the tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating diverse needs.

Are there language options for the audio guide?
The audio commentary is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian.

What are the operating hours for the ferry?
The ferry operates from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM from Battery Park.

Do I need to pre-book Empire State Building entry?
Yes, you must pre-book your time slot for the Empire State Building — details are provided on your voucher or via the booking link.

Is there a tour option for families or children?
The tour is accessible and suitable for most travelers, but specific family-friendly features aren’t highlighted.

Final Thoughts

This NYC combo tour offers a practical way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights without feeling overwhelmed. It balances value and convenience, making it a solid choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick yet rundown. The spectacular views from the Empire State Building and the ferry are definite highlights, providing memorable photo opportunities and a real sense of this vibrant city.

While it may lack some depth, especially regarding inside access to certain attractions, the flexibility and coverage make this tour a worthwhile option for many travelers. Just be prepared for some logistical quirks, like transfer points, and plan your timing accordingly.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, flexible, and scenic introduction to NYC, this tour is worth considering. It’s a good mix of sightseeing, panoramic views, and city exploration, fitting well into a busy itinerary.

Want to explore other options? Check out similar experiences that combine city sightseeing with iconic landmarks, like the New York CityPass or Top of the Rock tickets, to find the perfect fit for your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: