Sex and the City Hotspots Bus Tour

If you’re a fan of Sex and the City, chances are you’ve dreamed about wandering through the streets where Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda, and Samantha lived out their fabulous NYC lives. This tour promises to take you right there, following the show’s footsteps across some of Manhattan’s most recognizable locations. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, numerous reviews suggest this 3.5-hour guided bus tour offers a fun, immersive way to relive your favorite moments from the series—and maybe even see some of the city’s best sights along the way.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines entertainment with sightseeing. First, you get to visit over 40 filming locations, including iconic spots like Carrie’s brownstone in West Village and the bar where she met Aidan. Plus, the tour is led by guides who are praised for their knowledge and personality, making the journey more than just a list of addresses. The second perk is the chance to step into the real-life NYC backdrop of the show, often with quick stops that allow you to stretch your legs, snap photos, or even enjoy a cocktail at a bar used in the series.

However, a point worth considering is the timing and logistics. The tour starts at 3:15 pm near Bergdorf Goodman and lasts about three and a half hours, which might be a long afternoon for some. Also, given New York traffic, the bus can sometimes run a bit late—something a few reviews mentioned, which can be stressful if you’ve booked theater tickets or other timed plans afterward. Still, for dedicated fans who want a curated, story-rich experience, the overall value tends to outweigh minor hiccups.

This tour is a good fit if you’re looking for a casual, fun way to see NYC through a pop culture lens. It’s not about the most comprehensive sightseeing—it’s tailored to show you the most relevant spots from the show, with some extra touches like a visit to a sex shop Charlotte bought her bunny from or a cocktail stop at Steve and Aidan’s bar. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of storytelling, sightseeing, and maybe some nostalgic gossip. If you’re a hardcore SATC enthusiast, this will likely hit the spot.

Key Points

• Focused on SATC highlights: Perfect for fans wanting to see the show’s filming locations.
• Guides are highly praised: Knowledgeable, friendly, and often entertaining.
• Convenient transportation: Comfortable coach with some quick stop-off points.
• Includes notable landmarks: Carrie’s brownstone, Meatpacking District, and more.
• Price reflects value: At $81 per person, many say it’s fair for the experience provided.
• Timing might be tight: The 3.5-hour duration and NYC traffic could cause some delays.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off near Bergdorf Goodman at 3:15 pm. From there, you hop aboard a luxury coach bus—these are air-conditioned in summer and heated in winter, with some buses equipped with bathrooms, which is a nice touch for comfort during the ride. Over about three and a half hours, you’ll visit more than 40 locations, which are split into manageable stops, usually around 15 minutes each.

The Stops and Their Charm

On Location Tours is the company behind this, and they’ve designed the itinerary to cover the most iconic NYC spots featured in the series and movies. One of the first stops is Carrie’s brownstone in West Village, the home of our beloved fashionista. This is a highlight for many fans—they get to see Carrie’s steps and soak in the neighborhood’s vibe, a classic New York scene.

Next, the tour takes you through the Meatpacking District, an area that’s evolved into one of NYC’s trendiest neighborhoods. Here, you can imagine Samantha walking the streets or catching a glimpse of the clubs she loved. The tour also includes a visit to Buddakan, the restaurant where Carrie and Big had their rehearsal dinner. This stop offers a chance to take photos and get a feel for the real-life setting of that memorable night.

The Bars and Shops

A big part of the fun is stopping at Steve and Aidan’s bar, where you can enjoy a cosmo (at your own expense)—a nod to the show’s signature drink. Many reviews mention that guides are friendly about giving behind-the-scenes stories and gossip, which adds flavor to the experience. You’ll also browse The Pleasure Chest, the sex shop Charlotte bought her rabbit from, which adds a quirky, authentic touch.

The Guide and Atmosphere

According to multiple reviews, guides like Hannah, Lou, Christine, and Amanda are standout because they’re friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. They often share fun facts and behind-the-scenes stories, which make the tour lively and interesting. Many customers comment that their guides made the tour memorable, blending humor with NYC history.

How It Feels to Participate

Expect to sit back and enjoy the ride, with a few quick walking stops. The bus is designed to give you a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for fans who want to indulge in nostalgia without the hassle of navigating the city on their own. The tour wraps up near 42nd Street and 6th Avenue, right in the heart of Midtown, close to many other attractions or transport options.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $81 per person, the tour is a fair investment for many fans. It includes the guided storytelling, transportation, and an insider look at over 40 filming locations. Many reviewers feel it’s a good value because of the depth of information and the chance to see so many spots in a relatively short time. Plus, the quick stops at key neighborhoods offer some flexibility—you’re not just stuck on the bus the entire time.

Some reviews highlight that the tour might run a little late due to traffic, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re balancing other plans. The timing and group size (up to 40 travelers) help keep things manageable and personal, especially with guides who really know their stuff.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for dedicated Sex and the City fans eager to revisit beloved locations. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy storytelling and pop culture. If you’re looking for a relaxed, social atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for photos and fun facts, you’ll probably enjoy this.

However, if your time in NYC is tight, or if you prefer a more comprehensive sightseeing experience, you might find this tour a bit narrow in scope. It’s not a full city tour; instead, it zeroes in on specific show-related sites, which is exactly what many fans want.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, including stops, starting at 3:15 pm.

Where does the tour begin?
The meeting point is near Bergdorf Goodman, at 754 5th Ave.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers a guided tour and transportation by a comfortable coach bus.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they are not included, but you can purchase a cocktail at the bar stop if you like.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for those 18 and under, given the mature themes and adult-oriented locations.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. Closer than that, no refunds are given.

Are the buses equipped with amenities?
Most buses are air-conditioned, and many have bathrooms, making the journey more comfortable.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Service animals are allowed, but specific accessibility details aren’t listed; it might be best to contact the provider for confirmation.

Can I buy souvenirs or visit shops?
The tour includes stops at notable shops, but shopping isn’t the main focus. It’s more about seeing the locations.

What if I want to see more NYC sights?
The tour is focused on SATC hotspots. For broader sightseeing, consider combining this with other NYC tours.

Final Thoughts

For fans of Sex and the City, this guided bus tour offers a unique way to step into the show’s world without navigating the city alone. The stops are carefully curated, the guides are highly praised, and the overall experience is often described as fun, informative, and nostalgic. It’s a good mix of sightseeing and storytelling, perfect for those who want to indulge their love of the series while exploring some of Manhattan’s most iconic neighborhoods.

While it may run into traffic delays and isn’t a comprehensive city tour, it excels at what it promises: a focused, charismatic journey through the places that made the show famous. Whether you’re visiting NYC for the first time or are a long-time fan, this tour can add a memorable layer to your trip—especially if you enjoy soaking in cultural moments and iconic settings.

If you’re ready to walk in the footsteps of Carrie and her friends, or simply want a fun, themed way to see the city, this tour might just be the perfect fit.