NYC: Gossip Girl Sites Bus Tour

If you’re a Gossip Girl fan or just curious about the glamorous side of New York’s Upper East Side, this Gossip Girl Sites Bus Tour could be just your style. Offering a chance to see the locations where the show’s drama played out, it promises a blend of sightseeing and pop culture. While we haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, the reviews suggest it’s a well-loved experience, especially for fans eager to walk in Blair’s or Serena’s footsteps.

What we really appreciate about it is how it combines entertainment with a city tour, making it more engaging than just a standard sightseeing bus ride. Plus, guided by a local actress, the tour offers insider tidbits that bring the show’s world to life. On the other hand, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, so it’s not a full-day deep dive into NYC’s many neighborhoods.

This experience is likely best suited for fans of Gossip Girl or those interested in the high-society vibe of Manhattan’s Upper East Side. It’s a great way to combine your TV fandom with a relaxing tour of some of the city’s most photogenic spots. If you’re short on time but want a taste of the show’s iconic locations, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: The tour lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day.
• Guided by a local actress: Expect lively, informed commentary and a personal touch.
• Iconic locations: From The Empire Hotel to the Met Steps, the stops are classic Gossip Girl spots.
• Good value for the price: At $78, many reviews say it’s a fun, money-well-spent experience.
• Comfortable transport: Whether in a coach, minibus, or smaller vehicle, the ride is generally smooth.
• Highly praised guides: Multiple reviews mention guides like Clara, Lou, and Katy as engaging, knowledgeable, and friendly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and How Does It Work?

The tour kicks off in front of the Palace Hotel gates, right at Madison and 51st Street. It’s a straightforward setup—no need for complicated bookings or extras. The bus picks you up, and then you’re off on a tour that highlights more than 40 Manhattan locations used in filming.

Led by a local actress, the guide helps you feel like you’re stepping into the show’s world. They share behind-the-scenes stories, fun facts, and often clip moments from the series that relate to each stop. It’s a mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and photo opportunities, making it accessible whether you’re a hardcore fan or just enjoy seeing the city’s glamorous spots.

One of the best parts? The tour’s stops include The Empire Hotel, known for Chuck Bass’s latest hangout, the Vera Wang boutique where Blair tried on her wedding gown, and the famous Met Steps, often featured in key scenes. The stops are well-paced, giving you enough time to snap photos and soak up the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The Tour Itinerary in Detail

The Empire Hotel

We loved the way this hotel looms over the city skyline—glamorous, iconic, and full of showbiz flair. It’s where Chuck Bass lives and works, so it’s a must-see for fans. The guide shares tidbits about the show’s filming here and Chuck’s character traits, adding a layer of context.

Constance Billard and St. Jude’s

These iconic prep schools are the backdrop for many of the show’s high school drama scenes. While you can’t go inside, the outside looks just as cinematic from the bus window. The guide might tell you about the real-life institutions, which adds a little flavor for those interested in NYC’s real private schools.

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Vera Wang Boutique

Blair’s wedding gown shopping scenes are some of the most memorable moments. Passing by the boutique gives you a sense of the fashion-forward world Gossip Girl depicts. It’s a quick stop but a notable one for fans wanting to see where Blair’s style shone.

The Met Steps

No Gossip Girl tour would be complete without a photo op here. These steps are as iconic as the characters who graced them. The guide often encourages everyone to get their best Blair Waldorf pose, making for fun group photos.

The Experience and Atmosphere

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides. Clara, Lou, and Katy are mentioned multiple times for being engaging, friendly, and full of interesting details. One reviewer said, “Clara was awesome!! The tour started at The Palace hotel and then we had macarons, and everything from start to finish was SO FUN!” The added touches like macarons at Ladurée and plenty of photo opportunities seem to enhance the overall vibe.

The group size varies, but many reviews note that around 10 people is comfortable and allows everyone to ask questions. Seating is first-come, first-served, so arriving early to secure seats together is recommended, especially if you’re with friends or family.

The Transport

Depending on the number of participants, the vehicle might be a coach, minibus, sedan, SUV, or sprinter. The ride is generally comfortable, and the duration makes it easy to fit into your day without feeling overwhelmed.

The Cost and Value

At $78, many say this is a reasonable price for the experience—especially given the insider info and the photo opportunities. Reviewers often mention how much fun they had, with some saying even their spouses enjoyed it, which isn’t always the case with TV-themed tours.

Timing and Flexibility

The tour is usually offered in both morning and afternoon slots, and cancellations up to 2 days in advance are free, providing flexibility if your plans change. Keep in mind, the bus won’t wait for latecomers, so plan to arrive at least 15-20 minutes early.

What We Think: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re a dedicated Gossip Girl fan, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a fun way to see the city’s upscale spots associated with the series and hear behind-the-scenes stories. It’s also suitable for anyone interested in a quick, entertaining overview of some of Manhattan’s most fashionable neighborhoods.

Those who enjoy guided storytelling, photo opportunities, and a relaxed pace will find it a good fit. However, if you’re after a deep historic or cultural tour of New York, this might not cover enough ground or provide detailed history. It’s more about the pop culture vibe and the locations made famous by the show.

Final Thoughts

The NYC: Gossip Girl Sites Bus Tour offers a lively, fan-focused way to explore Manhattan’s Upper East Side while reliving some of the show’s most memorable moments. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making the experience engaging and fun. The stops are well-selected, blending iconic landmarks with the show’s signature glamour.

It’s a tour that balances sightseeing with entertainment, making it an ideal choice for Gossip Girl enthusiasts—or anyone curious about the city’s elite. The price point feels fair given the quality of guiding and the photo-ops, and many travelers find it a memorable highlight of their trip.

While it’s not a comprehensive New York tour, it excels at giving you a snapshot of what makes the Upper East Side so distinctive. If you want to combine your love of TV drama with a relaxed, guided exploration of some of NYC’s most fashionable spots, this could be just the ticket.

FAQ

How long is the Gossip Girl Sites Bus Tour?
The tour lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a perfect short activity during a busy sightseeing day.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the Palace Hotel gates, located on Madison and 51st Street.

Is there a guide, and what language is used?
Yes, the tour is led by a live guide who speaks English, often a local actress with lots of behind-the-scenes stories.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 2 days in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility in case your plans change.

Are there any stops or is it just a drive-by?
There are several stops including The Empire Hotel, Vera Wang boutique, and the Met Steps. You’ll have time for photos and to soak in the sights.

Is seating assigned or first-come, first-serve?
Seats are on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended if you want to sit with friends or family.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While it’s primarily a pop culture sightseeing experience, families with older children who are fans of the series will likely enjoy it. It’s not specifically marketed as a family tour, but it’s generally suitable for teens and above.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the bus tour itself, with stops at iconic sites, and often includes some treats like macarons at Ladurée, based on reviews.

If you’re after a fun, TV-inspired tour that offers a good dose of glamour and insider info, the Gossip Girl Sites Bus Tour is a charming way to spend a few hours in NYC.

You can check availability for your dates here: