Elf Movie Locations Tour

Experience NYC through the whimsical eyes of Buddy the Elf on this festive, film-inspired pedicab tour packed with holiday cheer and local charm.

A Fun-Filled Peek into the Elf Movie Locations Tour in New York City

Elf Movie Locations Tour - A Fun-Filled Peek into the Elf Movie Locations Tour in New York City

If you’re a fan of Elf or just looking for a unique way to explore NYC’s holiday spirit, the Elf Movie Locations Tour might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this exact ride, I’ve read plenty of reviews and details that make this experience sound like a joyful, lighthearted break from the usual city sightseeing. It’s aimed at those who love Christmas, charming storytelling, and a touch of movie magic—all from the comfort of a decorated pedicab.

What I particularly like about this tour is its personalized, private vibe and the fact that it’s all about celebrating the holiday cheer in a fun, approachable way. Plus, the guide sounds genuinely engaging and adaptable, which makes a big difference when you’re on a short, festive jaunt. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that it’s a relatively short tour, just about an hour and fifteen minutes, so if you’re craving an in-depth exploration, you might need to look elsewhere. Still, if you’re after a cheerful, festive snapshot of NYC, this tour could be just the ticket—especially if you’re traveling with a small group and love holiday movies.

This experience is best suited for fans of Elf, families, or anyone wanting a whimsical, holiday-themed activity that’s easy and fun. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy guided storytelling and don’t mind a tour that’s more about the vibe and photos than intense history or walking miles.

Key Points

Elf Movie Locations Tour - Key Points

  • Private, festive pedicab tour with holiday decorations and holiday music.
  • Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes—short and sweet, ideal for a quick Christmas break.
  • Location starts at 1411 6th Ave, close to public transportation, making it easy to reach.
  • Cost is $250 for up to three people—good for small groups who want a personalized experience.
  • Refreshments include cozy blankets and festive tunes, enhancing the holiday atmosphere.
  • Highly rated with a perfect 5.0 based on 2 reviews, praised for engaging guides and fun storytelling.

Discovering the Tour: What to Expect

The Elf Movie Locations Tour is built around a decorated pedicab, turning a typical city ride into a moving holiday celebration. The tour takes you through key spots associated with the Elf movie, all while you’re comfortably seated, bundled up with blankets, and humming along to Christmas music. It’s a simple but effective way to combine sightseeing with festive movie nostalgia.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at 1411 6th Ave, right in the heart of Midtown NYC—an easy spot to find and close to subway lines. The ride lasts about 75 minutes, giving you enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. Since it ends back at the start point, it’s perfect if you want to stick around or grab a meal afterward.

The Decorated Pedicab and Atmosphere

The pedicab itself is festively decorated, which instantly sets the mood. This isn’t just a regular city tour; it’s a holiday-themed experience designed to evoke cheer and nostalgia. The blankets provided are a thoughtful touch, especially if you’re doing the tour during colder months. The Christmas music adds to the feeling of being in a holiday movie—think jingle bells, cheerful tunes, and a generally cozy vibe.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Elf Movie Locations Tour - The Itinerary Breakdown

While this isn’t a detailed sightseeing tour with multiple stops and in-depth commentary, the focus lies in the locations associated with the Elf movie. The guide is noted to be adaptable, which suggests you can ask questions or take a more playful approach depending on your group’s interests.

What makes this tour special is the storytelling around the filming sites. The guide, praised for their knowledge, will likely share fun facts, behind-the-scenes tidbits, and maybe even some personal stories about the movie’s filming or New York City’s holiday traditions.

Focus on the Holiday Spirit

Since the tour is holiday-themed, you can expect it to amplify the Christmas atmosphere, making it ideal for celebrating the season or creating special holiday memories. The small group size and private booking make it feel intimate—more like a personalized holiday outing than a mass tour.

Pricing and Value

Elf Movie Locations Tour - Pricing and Value

At $250 for up to three people, the cost might seem a bit steep compared to larger bus tours, but the private element and personalized storytelling could justify it. If you’re traveling with a partner or a small group of friends, this price is quite reasonable for a tailored experience. It’s also a sunk cost, meaning it’s not designed for large tour groups or crowds, but rather for those who want a private, festive escape.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in your ticket are the decorated pedicab, blankets, and holiday music—these create a cozy, immersive experience. Tips aren’t included, so if you enjoyed the guide’s storytelling, tipping is appreciated but optional. Hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t provided, so plan to meet at the designated spot, which is easily accessible by public transportation.

Authentic Opinions from Past Participants

Elf Movie Locations Tour - Authentic Opinions from Past Participants

The reviews speak volumes about this tour’s charm. One reviewer called it “a great tour,” highlighting the fun and the guide’s adaptability to questions and preferences. Another reviewer raved about Buddy the Elf’s entertainment and educational value, recommending the tour highly for a fun time with friends.

Both reviews emphasize the guide’s knowledge and engaging personality, which seem to be the tour’s standout features. The overall rating is a perfect 5.0, which is notable even with just two reviews—indicating that those who do it tend to really enjoy it.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

Elf Movie Locations Tour - Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

  • Book in advance—most travelers reserve about 12 days ahead, so plan ahead, especially during peak holiday season.
  • Arrive on time—the tour starts promptly at 10:00 am, so give yourself some extra time to find the meeting point.
  • Dress warmly—even with blankets, outdoor city rides in winter can be chilly, so layers are key.
  • Bring questions—the guide is adaptable, so this is your chance to ask about the movie, NYC holiday traditions, or any fun facts.
  • Consider tipping if you enjoyed the guided storytelling and experience.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

Elf Movie Locations Tour - The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Elf Movie Locations Tour offers a breezy, cheerful way to experience NYC’s holiday vibe through the lens of a beloved film. It’s best suited for movie fans, holiday enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a cozy, personalized activity during the busy holiday season. The private nature of the ride, combined with the knowledgeable guide, makes it a fantastic choice for small groups or couples wanting a festive escape.

While it isn’t a comprehensive sightseeing tour, it excels at capturing the warmth and whimsy of the holiday season, making it a memorable little adventure in the city that never sleeps. If you want a fun, lighthearted experience that mixes film, city views, and holiday cheer, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Ready to Book?

Elf Movie Locations Tour



5.0

100% 5-star

“This was a great tour. So fun and the tour guide was great. He was adaptable to all kinds of questions and preferences. I enjoyed it very much.”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Mar 2025

FAQ

Elf Movie Locations Tour - FAQ

Is this a guided tour with commentary?
Yes, the guide is known for being adaptable and engaging, providing fun facts and answering questions during the ride.

How long does the tour last?
The ride lasts about 75 minutes, with the entire experience ending back at the starting point.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes the decorated pedicab, blankets, and Christmas music, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation if you do so at least 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the short, fun, and festive nature may appeal to older children or teens. Just consider their comfort with outdoor rides.

Where do I meet the tour?
At 1411 6th Ave, New York, NY 10019, which is near public transportation.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup or drop-off isn’t included, so you’ll need to meet at the designated spot.

Are tips included?
No, gratuities are not included but are appreciated if you enjoy the guide’s service.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this experience good for a romantic date or small group?
Absolutely. Its private setting and personalized vibe make it a charming choice for couples or small groups wanting a festive, intimate activity.

If you’re looking for a cheerful, uniquely New York holiday experience that’s easy to fit into a busy schedule, this tour might just be the perfect little adventure.