Brooklyn & DUMBO: Open-top Bus Tour and Guided Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and want a well-rounded way to see both the bustling sights and the charming neighborhoods, this Brooklyn & DUMBO: Open-top Bus Tour and Guided Walking Tour might just be worth considering. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the details and reviews available, it’s a trip that offers a good mix of sightseeing, fun photo moments, and local insights—all in about three hours.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines a breezy bus ride with a leisurely walk through DUMBO, often called one of America’s most Instagrammable neighborhoods. Plus, the on-board commentary promises helpful context that can turn a simple photo op into a story about the city’s history and character. The second thing that caught our eye is how it seems to cater to travelers who want to see more without tiring themselves out—covering multiple landmarks and neighborhoods in a manageable timeframe.

However, a potential downside is that with only around 15 minutes at Brooklyn Bridge Park and a focused walk through DUMBO, you might feel a little rushed if you’re the type who loves spending lots of time exploring every nook and cranny. Also, since the tour is designed to be inclusive, it probably doesn’t delve too deeply into hidden gems, but it’s definitely great for getting a solid overview.

This experience seems ideal for visitors who want to maximize sightseeing without dragging their feet, those who enjoy snapping photos, and anyone who appreciates good guides and curated routes. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Brooklyn and Manhattan’s iconic sights.

Key Points

• Unobstructed views from the open-air top deck make for great photo opportunities.
• The combination of bus and walking allows you to see more while saving your energy.
• The guided commentary adds useful context and makes the experience more educational.
• The DUMBO tour is perfect for Instagram lovers and photo enthusiasts.
• The tour is reasonably priced at $69 per person, considering the combination of transport, walking, and extras like chocolate tasting.
• Small group size (max 75 travelers) helps keep things more personal and engaging.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at M&M’S New York, 1600 Broadway, a lively and central spot that’s easy to find, especially if you’re already exploring Times Square or nearby neighborhoods. You’ll hop onto a double-decker open-top bus around 2:00 pm—perfect for catching the afternoon light and avoiding the heat of midday summer. The open-air deck is a highlight; it means you can truly soak in the sights without glass barriers blocking your views.

The Bus Ride: Views and Commentary

Once aboard, the journey takes you from the energetic heart of Manhattan toward Brooklyn, with stops at several vantage points. Travelers who have reviewed similar experiences tend to love the unique, unobstructed views from the top deck, especially of landmarks like the Manhattan Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge. The onboard narration offers context that turns what could be just a scenic ride into an educational experience—helping you understand the significance of each sight, even if you’re just there for the photos.

The DUMBO Guided Walking Tour

After reaching DUMBO—arguably the highlight of this experience—you’ll step off for a guided walk that lasts about an hour. This neighborhood is a favorite for many visitors due to its mix of historic warehouses, cobblestone streets, and stunning views of Manhattan’s skyline. The guide’s insights seem well-regarded, with one reviewer noting how much they learned from JR, the guide, and how they enjoyed the chocolate tasting included as part of the tour.

In DUMBO, the narrow streets and impressive bridges—like the Manhattan Bridge—offer countless picture-perfect moments. You’ll likely hear about the neighborhood’s transformation from industrial hub to chic, artsy district. And with the included admission ticket, you can explore more of the area’s character and history even after the guided walk ends.

Brooklyn Bridge Park and Photo Opportunities

Next, the tour moves to Brooklyn Bridge Park for about 15 minutes—just enough time to snap some breathtaking photos of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic bridges. It’s probably the most Instagrammable spot on the itinerary, and travelers love the chance to get those classic shots without feeling rushed. The guide will point out good angles and share some interesting tidbits about the park’s development.

Overall Flow and Pacing

The entire experience is designed to be comfortably paced. You’ll spend roughly half the time on the bus and half on foot, a good balance that keeps things engaging without overexerting. The tour’s duration—around three hours—is perfect for fitting into an afternoon without taking up your whole day. Plus, the fact that it ends back at the starting point makes logistics simple.

Price and What You’re Getting

At $69 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the combination of transportation, guided insights, walking, and extras like chocolate tasting. When you compare it to other NYC experiences that focus solely on one landmark, this integrated approach feels like a good deal—especially for first-timers who want an overview of the city’s highlights.

The maximum group size of about 75 travelers also helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable, avoiding the chaos that can come with larger tours.

Real Traveler Feedback

The one review available is glowing, calling it an “Amazing Brooklyn Tour Experience.” They appreciated Greg and JR, the guides, calling them “both fantastic” and noting how much they learned. The mention of Aaron, the photographer, indicates some effort to capture the moment, which can be a fun perk if you want professional photos of your trip.

This kind of feedback suggests that the guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and capable of making the experience memorable. The chocolate tasting, in particular, seems to be a hit, adding a sweet touch to the cultural exploration.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.
• Dress comfortably, especially if you plan to walk around DUMBO and Brooklyn Bridge Park.
• Bring your camera or smartphone for all the photo ops—this tour is prime for snapping shots.
• Consider bringing a small bag with essentials—water, sunglasses, a hat—especially in warmer months.
• Since the tour is in the afternoon, plan to grab dinner nearby afterward, perhaps in Brooklyn, to extend your exploration.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick, rundown of Manhattan and Brooklyn’s most famous sights. It’s also great if you’re a photo enthusiast eager to capture iconic views without climbing towers or hiking long distances. If you enjoy guided tours with storytelling and a relaxed pace, you’ll find this to be a worthwhile way to spend a few hours.

That said, if you’re someone who loves to linger in neighborhoods or explore hidden gems at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed. But for a straightforward, well-organized introduction to Brooklyn and DUMBO, it checks most boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s designed to be inclusive. However, the focus on walking and sightseeing makes it more suitable for those comfortable with moderate activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at M&M’S New York, 1600 Broadway, and ends back at the same meeting point.

What time does the tour start?
The tour starts at 2:00 pm, giving you an afternoon activity that fits well into most schedules.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience lasts about 3 hours, combining bus riding, walking, and photo stops.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the bus ride, guided walking tour of DUMBO, admission to Brooklyn Bridge Park, chocolate tasting, and professional photos.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is public transportation nearby?
Yes, the starting point is near public transit options, making it easy to reach.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the ticket price includes all listed activities. Extra food, souvenirs, or additional snacks are not included.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The open-top bus offers great vantage points, and the stops at Brooklyn Bridge Park are perfect for capturing stunning skyline shots.

Can I extend my visit in Brooklyn afterward?
Definitely. The tour provides a snapshot of Brooklyn’s highlights, but you’re free to explore further on your own afterward.

If you’re after a straightforward, engaging way to see some of New York’s most iconic neighborhoods, this Brooklyn & DUMBO tour from Big Bus Tours offers a friendly, well-organized way to do just that. With knowledgeable guides, plenty of photo opportunities, and a comfortable pace, it’s a solid choice—especially for first-timers wanting a memorable introduction to NYC’s vibrant neighborhoods.