New York: Empire State & 48-hour Hop-on Hop-off Tour (Save 25%)

A practical and flexible way to explore New York City, this combo tour offers a 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus experience paired with entry to the iconic Empire State Building. For $105 per person, you’ll get approximately a 90-minute guided bus ride through the city’s most famous neighborhoods and landmarks, plus breathtaking views from the observatory. The tour’s highlight is the unlimited hop-on hop-off access, allowing you to tailor your day—whether you want to spend time in Times Square, Central Park, or Wall Street—at your own pace.

What we love about this experience is the convenience of Wi-Fi onboard, meaning you can share moments in real time or plan your next stop without missing a beat. Plus, the free Butterbeer Ice Cream at the Harry Potter Store adds a fun, sweet touch to the day. The second thing that appeals is the entry to the Empire State Building, which offers some of the best panoramic views of Manhattan—an absolute must for first-timers.

A possible consideration is the dependence on weather—heavy rain or fog can obscure the sights, especially from the Empire State Building or during the bus ride. Also, some reviews hint that traffic congestion around certain stops can cause delays, making it essential to plan your timing carefully.

This tour suits travelers who want a broad overview of Manhattan, with the flexibility to hop on and off as they explore. It’s especially good for those new to New York who want a well-rounded, fun introduction without the stress of navigating public transit or driving.

Key Points

• Flexible 48-hour access allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Entry to the Empire State Building offers unbeatable city vistas.
• Onboard Wi-Fi and multilingual commentary help you stay connected and informed.
• Multiple stops cover NYC’s highlights from Times Square to Brooklyn Bridge.
• Optional Statue of Liberty cruise enhances your sightseeing options.
• Customer reviews range from enthusiastic praise to warnings about traffic and weather.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This combo tour is designed as a practical and enjoyable way to get an overview of New York City. For $105, you’re paying for the convenience of unlimited hop-on hop-off access during 48 hours, which means you can spread out your sightseeing without feeling rushed. It’s particularly useful if you have limited time but want to see as much as possible.

The Itinerary and Stops

The tour features two loops—Downtown and Uptown—each packed with stops at key landmarks. It begins at the M&M’S store on 48th Street, an ideal meeting point, especially if you’re coming from midtown or Times Square. From there, the bus takes you past Times Square, where neon billboards and street performers create an electric atmosphere. You can hop off here to soak in the bustling energy or continue on to the Empire State Building stop, which includes your building entry.

The Empire State Building stop is a highlight, offering stunning views from the observatory. Many reviews mention how impressive the sunrise from that vantage point can be, and the ticket requires pre-booking a time slot, so plan ahead. The Flatiron Building, SoHo, and Chinatown stops give you a taste of the city’s diverse neighborhoods, perfect for a quick walk or a bite to eat.

The tour also covers Brooklyn Bridge, Wall Street, the Statue of Liberty, and the World Trade Center, rounding out the downtown experience. Up in the uptown loop, you’ll find Central Park, Columbus Circle, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Rockefeller Center—all areas rich in culture and history.

The Bus Ride and Commentary

The open-top bus offers great sightlines, and most travelers appreciate the audio commentary—available in different languages—that provides helpful context about each neighborhood and landmark. However, a few reviews note that the audio can sometimes be weak or interrupted. The onboard Wi-Fi is handy for sharing photos or using the tour app for additional info.

The buses run approximately every 15-30 minutes, depending on the route and traffic, which means you won’t be waiting long. Customer praises often mention friendly attendants and plenty of staff around to answer questions. Still, some travelers report occasional delays due to traffic congestion, especially around Times Square.

The Empire State Building Experience

Included in your ticket is the entry to the Empire State Building. This is a standout feature, giving you breathtaking views from one of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers. Many reviews describe the experience as “super amazing” and highlight that the observation deck offers an unmatched perspective of Manhattan’s skyline.

You need to pre-book your time slot, which helps manage crowds, but it’s crucial to arrive on time. The ticket also includes the hop-on hop-off bus, so you can conveniently combine city sightseeing with the observatory visit.

Additional Perks and Considerations

The tour offers free Butterbeer Ice Cream at the Harry Potter Store, which is a fun bonus for fans or families. For those interested in combining sightseeing with other activities, there’s a bike offer—rent for one hour and get two hours free. And if you opt for the Statue of Liberty cruise (available as an upgrade), you’ll get a different perspective of the city’s most famous statue.

However, some reviews suggest that the tour might not be perfect for everyone. Concerns about overcrowding, weather, and traffic delays are common. Participants have also noted that the sound system occasionally malfunctions, and the bus driver’s demeanor can vary.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of New York without the hassle of planning multiple tickets or navigating transit. It’s great for families, couples, or groups who value the flexibility to hop on and off and enjoy breathtaking views from the city’s most famous skyscraper.

Travelers who appreciate added extras like the Harry Potter ice cream or the option to cruise to Liberty Island will find this package offers good value for money. But if you’re after a more intimate or guided experience, or if the weather turns bad, you might prefer other options.

The Sum Up

This combo tour balances value, flexibility, and iconic sights, making it a solid choice for those arriving in New York City with limited time. The 48-hour hop-on hop-off gives you enough freedom to explore at your own pace, while the Empire State Building entry provides a memorable highlight.

It’s particularly well suited for first-timers or families looking for a fun, stress-free way to see the city’s major landmarks. The onboard Wi-Fi, diverse stops, and optional cruise make it a versatile choice, though travelers should be mindful of traffic and weather, which can impact the experience.

If your goal is to get a broad sense of New York without pinning down precise itineraries, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to do so. Just be sure to arrive on time for your Empire State booking and be prepared for possible delays—NYC traffic has a mind of its own.

FAQ

Do I have to pre-book a time to visit the Empire State Building?
Yes, you’ll need to pre-book your visit via the provided booking portal or with staff at the bus stops. This ensures a specific time slot to manage crowds and maximize your experience.

How often does a bus arrive at each stop?
Buses arrive approximately every hour on both the Downtown and Uptown routes, so you barely wait between rides.

Can I redeem my tickets at any stop?
Yes, your tickets can be redeemed at any of the listed bus stops, making it flexible to start your tour from a location that suits your plans.

How long does a full ride take without hopping off?
About 90 minutes for each loop—so roughly 3 hours total if you ride both loops without stopping.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible with lifts, accommodating up to 650 pounds.

What about pets or luggage?
Pet policy restricts pets to service animals only. Luggage is not permitted onboard, and food or drinks (except screw-top bottles) are not allowed.

This tour offers a smart way to get a big-picture view of New York while allowing you to dig deeper into specific neighborhoods on your own. With a little planning and patience, you’ll come away with lasting memories and a good sense of the city’s energy and diversity.