NY: Statue of Liberty, Empire State, and Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Getting a taste of New York City in just two days might seem ambitious, but this combo package aims to pack in some of the biggest highlights. For $135 per person, you’ll enjoy a 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour, a ticket to the Empire State Building, and a round-trip ferry to Liberty and Ellis Islands. This tour promises a flexible way to see the city’s most iconic landmarks at your own pace.

One of the biggest advantages of this experience is the flexibility. You can hop off at sights like Brooklyn Bridge or Times Square, then jump back on to continue exploring. Plus, the stunning panoramic views from the Empire State and Liberty Island are hard to beat—these are the moments you’ll want to remember long after your trip ends. We also appreciate that the package includes digital commentary in multiple languages, making the tour accessible for international visitors.

That said, a potential drawback is the possibility of long lines or crowding, especially at the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building, which are very popular. Also, entry to the Statue of Liberty monument itself is not included, so if you want to go inside Lady Liberty, you’ll need to plan separately. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible overview of New York’s highlights without overextending their schedule.

If you’re looking for a balanced way to see Manhattan’s skyline, historic landmarks, and scenic views, this experience could be just the ticket—especially if you enjoy creating your own itinerary while covering a lot of ground.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing: Hop on and off the bus at multiple stops to customize your day.
• Iconic landmarks: Visit the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.
• Breathtaking views: Expect stunning cityscapes from the top of skyscrapers and ferry rides.
• Value-packed package: Combines multiple attractions at a discounted rate.
• Accessibility: Digital audio guides and wheelchair access make it suitable for many travelers.
• Timing considerations: Book your Empire State entry in advance, and be prepared for busy spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review: What to Expect on This Tour

The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Experience

We loved the freedom to explore at our own pace. The big plus here is the ability to hop off at attractions like Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, and the Empire State Building. The open-top buses provide excellent views of the Manhattan skyline and allow you to see a broad swath of the city quickly. With two distinct routes—DownTown and Uptown—you get a rundown, from the Financial District to Harlem.

The buses run on a 48-hour timetable, which means you can split your sightseeing over two days, making it easier to avoid rushing. The digital commentary—offered in various languages—adds an informative layer without the need for a guided tour, which many travelers find convenient.

Visiting the Empire State Building

Ascending to the top of this iconic skyscraper is a must-do. We appreciated that you need to pre-book your entrance time via the provided link, ensuring your visit is smoother. The views from above are breathtaking—you can see the sprawling cityscape, spot other landmarks, and capture memorable photos. This spot is particularly valuable because of the panoramic vistas and its historic significance.

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The ferry ride to Liberty Island offers some of the best views of Lady Liberty, with a backdrop of Manhattan’s skyline. The round-trip ferry operates from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and while the ferry ticket is included, accessing the Statue of Liberty monument itself is not—so if exploring inside is your goal, you’ll need to arrange that separately.

From reviews, we understand that some travelers have experienced confusion about transfer points, with one mentioning the driver giving a different location for Liberty Statue pickup. It’s wise to confirm your meeting point and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.

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Additional Perks and Practicalities

• The bike rental discount (rent for 1 hour, get 1 hour free) is a nice bonus for those wanting a quick pedal around the city.
• The app with real-time bus tracking helps you plan your next move efficiently.
• The wheelchair accessibility makes this tour an inclusive option.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience works best for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of NYC’s highlights. If you prefer self-guided exploration combined with the convenience of transportation, this setup is ideal. It also suits travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing within a limited time and who enjoy flexibility.

What Can Be Improved?

A few reviews pointed out long lines or crowded spots, particularly at popular attractions. While this is somewhat unavoidable in a city as busy as New York, planning ahead—like pre-booking your Empire State ticket—can mitigate some frustration. Also, those expecting inside access to the Statue of Liberty might need to consider additional tickets or tours.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This combo package offers solid value, blending transport, iconic landmarks, and scenic ferry rides into a manageable two-day experience. The ability to hop on and off at your own pace means you can spend extra time at spots that catch your eye—whether it’s snapping photos from the Empire State or strolling through the neighborhoods. The views from the top of Manhattan and Liberty Island are truly memorable moments that justify the cost for many travelers.

This tour is particularly well-suited for first-timers or those with limited time who want a comprehensive, flexible overview of New York City’s most famous sights. The included digital commentary adds an educational element without the pressure of a guided group, and the overall logistics aim to keep things smooth.

If your goal is to get a taste of NYC’s highlights without feeling rushed, and you’re comfortable with some crowds, this is a practical and enjoyable way to spend two days in the city that never sleeps.

FAQ

Does the tour include entry to the Statue of Liberty monument?
No, the ferry ticket is included, but access inside the Statue of Liberty is not. You can explore the grounds but not go inside unless you purchase separate tickets.

How do I activate my ticket?
You can activate your ticket either through the Big Bus app by entering your booking reference and pressing “Activate,” or by redeeming a voucher with Big Bus staff at the designated stop in front of M&Ms World on 7th Ave and 48th St.

Can I use the hop-on hop-off bus over multiple days?
Yes, your ticket is valid for 48 hours from first activation, allowing flexible scheduling over two days.

What attractions are included in this package?
You get access to the Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour, Empire State Building (with pre-booked entry), and a ferry ride to Liberty and Ellis Islands. The ferry operates from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and digital commentary is provided in multiple languages.

Are there any discounts or add-ons?
Yes, you receive a bike rental discount—rent for 1 hour and get 1 hour free.

Can I book the tour now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

To sum it up, this NYC combo tour offers a practical, flexible, and value-packed way to see many of the city’s most beloved sights in just two days. With panoramic views, iconic landmarks, and the freedom to craft your own adventure, it’s an option worth considering for first-time visitors eager to get a broad, authentic feel for the Big Apple.

You can check availability for your dates here: