Experience the Best of New York in Just Three Days
Planning a quick getaway in the Big Apple can be overwhelming, but this 3 Days, 2 Nights Tour offers a well-organized way to see the highlights without the stress. Starting from Montreal, this package, priced at $300 per person, takes you through some of New York’s most famous landmarks like Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and the Statue of Liberty. You’ll also visit the World Trade Center Museum, Madame Tussauds, and enjoy shopping along 5th Avenue. The tour’s strength lies in its organized itinerary and included hotel stay—no endless online searching or hunting for accommodations.
We love how the itinerary is carefully planned so you can relax and enjoy each location without feeling rushed. The comfortable, air-conditioned transfers between sights make the experience more enjoyable, especially during the summer months or busy seasons. Plus, having a friendly tour guide to enrich your understanding of each landmark adds a personal touch.
However, a potential downside to consider is that admission tickets for key attractions such as the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and Museum of Illusions are not included. This means you’ll need to purchase these separately, which can add to the overall cost if you’re not prepared. Also, while most travelers find the schedule packed but manageable, those who prefer a very leisurely pace might find the itinerary a bit full.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of New York—from history and culture to shopping and entertainment—without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s ideal if you’re visiting from Montreal and want a value-packed trip that hits the main sights with guides who help bring the city’s stories to life.
Key Points

- Well-organized itinerary ensures you see the main sights without stress
- Includes two nights in a hotel, saving you time and effort
- Comfortable transfers keep the pace smooth
- Frequent optional attractions allow flexibility in your experience
- Guide-led insights add depth to your sightseeing
- Additional costs for entry tickets mean budget planning is necessary
A Deep Dive Into the Itinerary
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Day 1: Maritime and Cultural Landmarks
Your adventure kicks off at Pier 86, home to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. We appreciate the placement here—this museum offers a fascinating look at American military history, with ships and aircraft that make history tangible. Though the admission is extra, the exhibit is often praised by visitors for its impressive collection of aircraft, submarines, and space artifacts. It’s a solid start, especially for those interested in military and maritime stories.
Next, you’ll head to Madame Tussauds, on 42nd Street, where the wax figures offer fun photo opportunities with figures of celebrities, historical icons, and pop culture stars. With about 1.5 hours allocated, it’s enough time to snap some memorable photos and enjoy the playful atmosphere. Reviewers have mentioned that guides often help with tips and suggestions, making the experience more engaging.
Day 2: Iconic Landmarks and Reflective Memorials
The day begins with a cruise to see the Statue of Liberty. While the admission ticket isn’t included, the option to purchase tickets through your guide is convenient. The cruise is a fantastic way to see Lady Liberty close-up and get great views of Manhattan’s skyline. Prepare for some crowding, especially during peak season, but it remains one of the most memorable parts of any New York visit.
Next, you’ll visit Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock. From the observation decks, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of New York City’s skyline—a highlight for many travelers. Many reviews mention that admission isn’t included, but tickets can be bought on the spot. The views are especially striking at sunset or at night when the city lights sparkle.
The day wraps up with a visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. While the museum’s admission is extra, the memorial itself is open and free, offering a poignant space to reflect on the city’s resilience. The tour allows about an hour here, which is enough for a respectful visit.
Day 3: Shopping and Leisure
Your final day is dedicated to shopping at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. This outlet mall is a shopper’s paradise, offering significant discounts on designer brands. With three hours allocated, you can browse, find deals, and perhaps indulge yourself—reviewers have appreciated the free time for shopping or exploring nearby towns.
The tour ends back at your meeting point, leaving you free to explore more or head home.
Authentic Experiences and Practicalities
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Transportation is one of the tour’s biggest perks. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during long days of sightseeing, and the group size—typically around 50 travelers—strikes a balance between socializing and managing your own pace. Most travelers find the schedule packed but well worth the price, especially considering the included hotel stay.
Hotel accommodation is a major value, removing the hassle of searching for a place after long days of sightseeing. However, some reviews have pointed out inconsistent hotel quality—one reviewer lamented a “filthy place that was barely a 1-star hotel,” so it’s worth managing expectations or considering your own preferences if you have sensitivities.
Guides seem to be a mixed bag—many reviewers praise Jack’s detailed and friendly approach, making the experience more engaging. Others mention language barriers or logistical hiccups, like being left behind or issues with communication. It’s a reminder that group tours can vary in execution, but the majority seem quite satisfied.
Cost-wise, $300 for three days, including hotel, is quite competitive, especially given the convenience and the ability to see numerous landmarks. Just remember that you’ll need to buy tickets for certain attractions, which can add to your expenses.
Who Will Love This Tour?
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If you’re an active traveler who enjoys a well-structured schedule and a mix of cultural landmarks, shopping, and some leisure, this tour is a good fit. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want an organized overview of New York without the stress of planning every detail. Travelers who value guided narratives and wish to maximize their short stay often find this package rewarding.
However, if you’re seeking a very leisurely pace or highly personalized experience, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Also, if visiting specific museums or attractions is a priority, be prepared to purchase tickets separately.
Final Thoughts
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This 3-day New York tour from Montreal offers an excellent way to tick off many of the city’s iconic sights without the fuss of planning each detail yourself. The included hotel stay, comfortable transport, and guided insights make it a value-conscious choice for those on a time crunch or traveling from abroad.
The tour excels in giving you a rundown while allowing some flexibility for shopping or optional attractions. The reviews highlight that most travelers walk away feeling they experienced a lot in a short time—some even say it felt like a week packed into three days.
While not perfect—some might face issues with hotel quality or want to buy tickets beforehand—it remains a solid option for first-time visitors eager to see the best of New York with a trusted group. If you’re looking for a convenient, affordable way to explore the city’s core, this tour is worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to budget for your own food, but there are plenty of dining options available along the route and at shopping outlets.
Can I buy tickets for attractions like the Statue of Liberty or One World Trade Center?
Yes, the tour guide offers the option to purchase tickets for these attractions on the bus, making it convenient to skip long lines or online booking.
What is the hotel accommodation like?
The tour includes a hotel stay for two nights, but reviews indicate that hotel quality can vary. One reviewer mentioned a hotel that was not up to expectations, so it’s worth managing your expectations.
How long do I have at each site?
Most stops are scheduled for about one hour, with some longer periods at shopping outlets (around 3 hours) to give you time to explore at your own pace.
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, which help make long days of sightseeing more pleasant, especially during warmer months.
Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s perfect for those who want a guided overview of New York, enjoy a mix of sightseeing and shopping, and appreciate the convenience of organized logistics. It’s particularly suitable for first-time visitors or travelers from Montreal looking for a value-packed experience.
In the end, this tour offers a sensible way to see New York’s most famous sights with a friendly guide and all the practical arrangements taken care of—ideal for those who prefer their sightseeing straightforward, fun, and memorable.
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