Big Bus New York: Sightseeing Night Tour by Open-top Bus

Discover the magic of New York City after dark with the Big Bus New York: Sightseeing Night Tour. Priced at $67 per person, this 2-hour open-top double-decker bus adventure takes you past some of NYC’s most iconic landmarks, all illuminated against the night sky. Departing from M&M’S World on 7th Ave & 48th St, the tour operates between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm, with departures every 20-30 minutes. While it’s not a hop-on hop-off experience, this tour provides a smooth, guided overview of the city’s brightest sights.

What makes this tour stand out is the inclusion of a professional photographer, available an hour before departure, to capture stunning souvenir photos of your night in NYC. Combined with live commentary in your choice of six languages and the chance to see landmarks like Times Square, the Empire State Building, and the Manhattan Bridge, it offers a well-rounded introduction to the city’s evening glow. Note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan accordingly for your transportation.

Key Points

• 2-hour guided night tour aboard an open-top double-decker bus in New York City
• Departs from M&M’S World on 7th Ave & 48th St, with every 20-30 minutes between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm
• Includes live commentary in six languages, plus a professional photographer for free souvenir photos
• Not a hop-on hop-off service, so timing and route are fixed
• Great for first-time visitors wanting a quick, rundown of NYC’s night-time highlights

Starting Point at M&M’S World on 7th Ave & 48th St

The tour kicks off at M&M’S World, a lively spot on 7th Avenue, where travelers gather for the departure. It’s a convenient location near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors. The meeting point is clearly marked, and arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to ensure a smooth start. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and the activity operating in good weather conditions.

The group size is capped at 100 travelers, helping to maintain a comfortable experience. Since the tour is not a hop-on hop-off, visitors should plan their schedule accordingly to enjoy the route seamlessly. The mobile ticket makes check-in quick and easy, with confirmation received instantly upon booking.

Top Landmarks Lit Up at Night

The main draw of this tour is the chance to see New York City’s most famous sights illuminated after sunset. As the bus cruises through Midtown Manhattan, Times Square becomes a glittering spectacle, with bright billboards and bustling crowds. The Empire State Building lights up the skyline, offering a stunning backdrop for photos. The Manhattan Bridge is also featured, providing spectacular views of the city’s architectural marvels.

Throughout the ride, live commentary enhances the experience by sharing stories and details about each landmark. Passengers appreciate how the guides explain the significance of the sights while pointing out details that might otherwise go unnoticed. The professional photographer on board ensures you capture these moments against the city’s dazzling backdrop, with photos available for purchase if you love your shot.

The Route and Stops: What You’ll See

The tour begins at Stop 1: M&M’S Store, then moves through Midtown Manhattan, with stops at areas like Times Square. The itinerary emphasizes the visual impact of NYC’s skyline at night and includes several stops for sightseeing. While the tour does not allow for hopping on and off, the fixed route ensures you see the most vibrant parts of the city illuminated.

Additional stops or specific landmarks are not detailed, but the route’s highlights are carefully selected to maximize your night-time viewing experience. The bus’s open-top design allows unobstructed views of the illuminated skyline, perfect for photos and taking in the ambiance.

The Guide and Photography Experience

The live guide leads the tour with insights into New York City’s history and sights, engaging audiences with interesting commentary. Guides like Shelley and Jennifer, who receive praise for their charisma and knowledge, make the trip more enjoyable. Reviewers highlight how guides make the experience memorable with their storytelling and enthusiasm.

The professional photographer is a standout feature, arriving an hour before departure to take free souvenir photos. Passengers can choose to purchase these images later if they wish to keep a high-quality memory of their night in NYC. It’s a thoughtful addition that adds value, especially for those looking for great photos without the hassle of taking their own.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

Booking the tour typically requires planning 20 days in advance, as it’s a popular experience. The price of $67 offers a decent value considering the included professional photos and guided commentary. Since the tour is operated on a first-come, first-served basis, arriving early helps secure a preferred seat.

The tour operates rain or shine; in case of poor weather, a different date or full refund is offered. It’s important to note that hotel transfers are not included, so travelers should arrange their own transportation to the meeting point. The mobile ticket makes checking in quick and straightforward.

Experience Quality and Customer Feedback

The tour’s average rating of 4.0 out of 5 reflects generally positive feedback. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, with names like Ric and Shelley singled out for their engaging storytelling. The scenic views of NYC’s landmarks at night are consistently appreciated, with some describing the experience as “spectacular”.

However, some feedback points to minor technical issues, such as the sound system not functioning perfectly on some buses. Nonetheless, most guests find the overall experience rewarding, especially with the opportunity to take professional photos and learn about the city’s highlights from friendly guides.

Comparisons to Other Night Tour Options

Compared to other sightseeing options in NYC, this tour offers a fixed route without the flexibility of hop-on hop-off services. It emphasizes night views and landmarks, making it ideal for those who want a guided overview rather than a self-guided exploration. The photo service adds a unique touch not always found in similar tours, making it a good pick for first-time visitors or those wanting a popular, straightforward experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience suits first-time visitors seeking a rundown of NYC’s iconic landmarks lit up at night. It’s also perfect for photography enthusiasts eager to capture the city’s nightscape with the help of a professional photographer. Families, couples, or small groups who appreciate guided commentary and a comfortable bus ride will find this tour enjoyable.

Since the tour is not a hop-on hop-off, it’s best for those who prefer a structured experience and are comfortable with the fixed schedule. The price point and included photos make it a reasonable option for travelers wanting a memorable snapshot of their evening in New York.

Big Bus New York Night Tour: Final Thoughts

The Big Bus New York: Sightseeing Night Tour provides a convenient, guided way to see NYC’s most famous landmarks illuminated at night. Its 2-hour format keeps it manageable while offering stunning views and insightful commentary. The professional photographer is a thoughtful addition, allowing visitors to leave with beautiful souvenirs.

While the tour has some minor technical hiccups and doesn’t include hotel transfers, its positive reviews and high-quality guides make it a solid choice for most visitors. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a guided, comfortable, and photo-friendly introduction to New York’s nightlife. If you’re eager to see the city’s lights and learn about its sights in a relaxed setting, this tour delivers good value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, departing between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at M&M’S World on 7th Ave & 48th St, near public transportation options.

Are the commentary and photos included?
Yes, there is live commentary in six languages, and a professional photographer is on board to take free souvenir photos.

Is this a hop-on hop-off tour?
No, this is a fixed-route sightseeing tour; it does not include hop-on hop-off flexibility.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
The tour operates rain or shine. If canceled due to poor weather, you are offered a rescheduled date or full refund.