NYC Bundle: Empire State, Big Bus Tour, and Circle Line Cruise

Planning a trip to New York City can be overwhelming—there are so many must-see sights and experiences, it’s tough to know where to start. That’s where a bundled tour like this one comes in handy. We’ve looked into the NYC Bundle: Empire State, Big Bus Tour, and Circle Line Cruise to help you see if it fits your travel style.

What we like about this package? First, the combination of iconic experiences, giving you a solid taste of Manhattan’s highlights. Second, the flexibility of the hop-on hop-off bus makes sightseeing more relaxed and personalized. But, a possible downside is that with so many stops and options, you might feel a bit rushed or need to plan your timing carefully.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of NYC without the hassle of organizing multiple bookings. It’s great for first-timers eager to hit the big landmarks, but also for those who want to maximize their sightseeing in a short amount of time.

Key Points

• Excellent value for money, especially when bundled, with over 40% savings compared to booking each experience separately.
• Flexible itinerary with 48 hours of hop-on hop-off bus access, letting you explore at your own pace.
• Stunning views from the Empire State Building’s observation deck and the Circle Line cruises.
• Multiple languages available for audio guides, making it accessible for international travelers.
• Convenient booking with a mobile ticket, saving time and hassle.
• Some stops might be crowded, and timing needs to be considered for the cruise and bus connections.

An Insider Look at the Itinerary

This bundled experience combines three of NYC’s must-dos, each offering its own special flavor of the city. Let’s walk through what you can expect at each stop, and how they fit into your overall adventure.

Visiting the Empire State Building

Starting with the Empire State Building is a no-brainer. The express entry lets you skip lines, so you’re up on the 86th-floor observation deck faster. From here, you get sweeping 360° views of Manhattan—think Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and beyond. The art deco architecture inside the building is worth noticing, too. Many reviews mention how the views are the highlight, with one reviewer praising it as a “must-see art deco masterpiece.”

Keep in mind that this is a timed experience, so plan for about an hour here. The clarity of the views and the iconic status of this landmark make it well worth the visit, especially if you’re a first-timer.

The Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Experience

After the Empire State, your next major component is the 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour. This flexible option is ideal if you want to explore at your own pace. You can ride the open-air top deck for the best views, or sit inside if the weather isn’t cooperating.

The routes cover key neighborhoods—Times Square, Wall Street, SoHo, Chinatown, Brooklyn Bridge, and more. The audio commentary is available in multiple languages, which adds a layer of insight that many travelers find helpful. One review celebrates the real-time tracking via the Big Bus app, making it easier to catch the next bus and reduce wait times.

The convenience of hopping off at spots like the MET, Flatiron, or the World Trade Center means you can tailor your day to your interests, spend more time at places you love, and skip others if needed.

The Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise

Finally, the cruise offers two options: the 60-minute Liberty Midtown Cruise or the 90-minute Landmarks Cruise. Both are operated daily from Pier 83 in Hudson River Park, and they cruise past major sights like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center.

The onboard amenities—café, bar, restrooms, outdoor deck, and indoor seating—make the experience comfortable. The large windows provide excellent views, and the audio guides in various languages help you identify landmarks as you glide past. One reviewer mentioned the cruise’s stunning views and the ability to relax while taking in the skyline, which is a definite highlight.

What Travelers Can Expect in Practice

This bundle offers a well-rounded NYC experience, but it’s important to understand what’s involved so you can make the most of it.

Timing and Flexibility

The Empire State ticket is generally quick to access, especially with express entry. The bus tour is valid for 48 hours, which gives you ample time to explore at leisure. You can hop off at major sites like Times Square, the Flatiron District, or Wall Street, then catch the next bus when you’re ready.

The cruise operates daily, with options to choose between the 60-minute or 90-minute experience. Since the cruise location is at Pier 83 in Hudson River Park, it’s convenient if you’ve already been exploring in that area or plan to finish your bus tour nearby.

Group Size and Transportation

Most travelers will find the bus tours to be comfortably paced, with open-top decks that are great for photos. The group size depends on the time of day and season, but the experience is generally lively without feeling crowded.

The transportation is all via the Big Bus, which makes for a straightforward experience. Most stops are near public transit, so you can plan your route to include other destinations as well.

Cost and Value

At $99 per person, this bundled experience offers serious savings—over 40% off if you booked each part separately. Considering the cost of tickets to the Empire State alone, plus the price of a cruise and a hop-on hop-off tour, this is a solid deal. Many reviews point out that it’s good value for money and covers the major highlights without the stress of booking multiple tickets individually.

Reviewer Insights

One reviewer shared that the tour included “all the main highlights that are a must see for a New York visit,” and appreciated the good value. Others mentioned the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as major perks. Still, keep in mind that some stops might be crowded, and timing is key, especially for the cruise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This bundle is ideal for first-time visitors who want to see the city’s most famous sights without the hassle of organizing separate tickets. It’s perfect if you prefer a balanced mix of guided and independent exploration, with the ability to hop off and on as you wish.

Those who enjoy scenic views, iconic landmarks, and a flexible schedule will find this package a practical choice. It also suits travelers on a budget, given the significant savings. However, if you prefer a very structured, guided tour with less wandering, this might feel a bit too loose.

The Sum Up

If you’re visiting New York City and want a comprehensive, cost-effective way to see the major landmarks, this NYC Bundle delivers. You get the thrill of the Empire State’s panoramic views, the convenience of a hop-on hop-off bus, and a relaxing cruise past the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge—all in one package. The combination of stunning vistas, flexible scheduling, and good value makes it appealing, especially for first-timers or travelers eager to maximize their time.

While it’s not a guided tour with detailed narration at every stop, the available audio guides, open-air buses, and scenic cruise make for an engaging experience that lets you soak in the city at your own pace. Just remember to plan your day carefully, especially for the cruise timing, and take full advantage of the 48-hour bus pass.

For those looking to get a broad, memorable glimpse of NYC without breaking the bank or fussing over multiple bookings, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s straightforward, enjoyable, and offers a good mix of must-see sights and leisurely exploration.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, children often enjoy the open-air bus rides and the cruise. Keep in mind that some stops involve walking, and the cruise might be more enjoyable for older kids or teens.

How long does each part of the tour last?
The Empire State ticket is quick to access, about an hour. The bus tour lasts 48 hours, allowing flexibility for hopping on and off. The cruise options are 60 or 90 minutes long.

Can I activate the tickets on the day of my tour?
Yes, you can activate your tickets either through the Big Bus app or with staff at designated stops. Be sure to activate your tickets on the day you plan to do each experience.

What languages are available for the audio guides?
Both the Big Bus and Circle Line cruises offer audio commentary in multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Mandarin Chinese, Korean, and Japanese.

Is the cruise operated daily?
Yes, the Circle Line cruises operate daily from Pier 83, making it easy to include in your itinerary.

Can I do each experience on separate days?
Yes, the Empire State Building and the cruise can be booked on different days, offering added flexibility. You just need to select the appropriate date and time.

What is the best time to take the cruise?
While specific times aren’t detailed, most cruises operate throughout the day. For the best views, daylight hours are ideal, especially if you want clear photos.

Are there any dining options on the cruise?
Yes, the cruise features an onboard café and a full bar, so you can enjoy refreshments while taking in the views.

Is the bus tour wheelchair accessible?
Most stops are near public transportation, but accessibility details aren’t specified. If needed, it’s worth checking with the provider directly.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the experience start time aren’t refunded.

If you’re after a practical, enjoyable way to see NYC’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail, this bundle offers solid value and a good overall experience. Just plan your day, or days, well, and leave plenty of room for spontaneous moments—those are often the best part of any trip.