New York: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and 24hr Hop-on Hop-off Tour

A fun and flexible way to see New York City — that’s what this combo ticket offers. For just $99.99 per person, you get admission to Madame Tussauds in Times Square plus a 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour aboard a double-decker in the city. The tour stops at 13 conveniently located spots on the Downtown Loop, and you can hop on or off as often as you like, making it a practical way to explore the Big Apple without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets or public transportation.

We particularly appreciate how this experience combines entertainment and sightseeing in one package. The Madame Tussauds wax museum allows some lighthearted fun with life-sized celebrity figures and a Marvel 4D experience that injects some extra excitement. Meanwhile, the bus tour provides a relaxing way to learn about NYC’s neighborhoods, sights, and history with engaging commentary—perfect for those who prefer not to spend hours on their feet.

A possible drawback? The ticket is only valid for 24 hours, so you’ll want to plan your timing carefully. If you’re rushing to fit everything in, you might find it challenging to do both at a leisurely pace. Also, since hotel pick-up isn’t included, you’ll need to get yourself to the starting point in Midtown.

This tour will suit first-time visitors or anyone wanting a lighthearted overview of NYC that’s easy to customize. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with kids or a group that appreciates both visual entertainment and a simple, guided way to see the city’s highlights.

Key Points

• Flexible exploration with a 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus ticket
• Access to Madame Tussauds and the Marvel 4D experience
• Indoor and outdoor seating on the bus for all weather conditions
• Multiple language commentary via digital audio guide
• No hotel pickup included, so plan your arrival accordingly
• Ideal for those who want a mix of fun photos and scenic city views

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

What You Get for Your Money

Starting at the M&M’S World store on Broadway, you’ll activate your ticket either through the Big Bus app or at designated spots. For many, this digital approach makes it easy to track your bus in real-time and plan your stops efficiently. The admission to Madame Tussauds is included, along with access to the Marvel 4D experience, which adds a bit of superhero excitement to the visit.

The 24-hour hop-on hop-off pass grants unlimited access to the Downtown Loop, which boasts 13 stops. You can hop off at iconic locations like Times Square, Wall Street, or the Brooklyn Bridge, then hop back on when you’re ready. The double-decker buses are a highlight—they’re open-air on top, providing excellent views of the city while you listen to the commentary, which is available in multiple languages.

Madame Tussauds: A Celebrity Playground

Located at 234 W 42nd St, Madame Tussauds operates from 10 AM to 7 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore. We loved the interactive aspect—posing for selfies with wax versions of Beyoncé, The Beatles, or even political figures. The Marvel 4D experience adds an extra layer of fun, engaging both kids and adults with special effects that make the superheroes seem to jump right into your space.

One traveler shared, “It’s a perfect stop for a quick dose of playful fun, especially if you want to avoid long lines or complicated ticketing.” Because it’s centrally placed in Times Square, it’s easy to incorporate into a broader sightseeing plan.

The Bus Tour: A Comfortable and Informative Ride

The bus tour is the core of this experience. The double-decker design ensures you get panoramic views—perfect for snapping photos of famous sights like the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, or the Statue of Liberty in the distance. The indoor top deck is a welcome feature, especially in the colder months or rain.

We found the digital commentary to be clear and informative, offering insights into New York’s neighborhoods, history, and culture. The flexibility of hopping on and off means you can spend more time at attractions that pique your interest without feeling rushed.

Group Size and Practicalities

With a maximum of 99 travelers, the tour feels spacious enough for comfort, yet lively enough to keep the atmosphere vibrant. Strollers are allowed but must be folded—something to keep in mind if you’re traveling with little ones.

Getting to the starting point—M&M’S World on Broadway—is convenient because it’s near major subway lines, making the city accessible regardless of your accommodation location.

What Past Travelers Say

While this experience hasn’t garnered formal reviews yet, you can gauge its appeal from the detailed features and the feedback from similar sightseeing packages. Some appreciate the value of combining two major activities for a single price**, especially as it saves time and effort. The ability to use the ticket flexibly over 24 hours is often praised for fitting into busy itineraries.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to New York, couples on a city break, or families looking for a fun, low-key sightseeing option. It’s also a good choice if you want a break from walking but still see the city’s highlights and snap some memorable photos with celebrities.

If you prefer a personalized, in-depth tour with guided commentary, this might not be enough, but for those seeking a lighthearted overview with the convenience of combining two attractions, it hits the mark nicely.

Practical Tips

• Plan your day to make sure you visit Madame Tussauds during its hours (10 AM to 7 PM).
• Activate your ticket early to maximize your 24-hour window.
• Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be hopping on and off the bus.
• Download the Big Bus app beforehand for real-time updates and route info.
• Arrive at the meeting point early to avoid missing the start and to get your tickets activated smoothly.
• If you’re traveling with young children, remember all strollers need to be folded aboard the bus.

The Sum Up

This combination ticket offers great value for anyone wanting a flexible, fun introduction to New York City. The convenience of the hop-on hop-off bus paired with the interactive Madame Tussauds experience makes it a solid choice for first-timers or those short on time. You get easy access to top sights without the hassle of navigating public transportation or worrying about getting lost.

The 24-hour validity allows you to pace your sightseeing, whether spreading it out over a day or consolidating it into a few hours. While it’s not a comprehensive tour with in-depth commentary at each stop, it provides a good overview and a nice break among more intense sightseeing activities.

If you love the idea of self-guided exploration combined with fun photo opportunities, this tour will serve you well. It’s budget-friendly and practical, especially for families or groups who want to enjoy the city without too much fuss.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You need to get to the starting point at M&M’S World on Broadway independently.

How do I activate my ticket?
You can activate your ticket either by downloading and opening the Big Bus app and entering your booking reference or by redeeming the voucher and activating with Big Bus staff at the designated location or with a driver on the route.

What are the opening hours for Madame Tussauds?
Madame Tussauds operates from 10 AM to 7 PM. It’s located at 234 W 42nd St, making it easy to plan your visit within these hours.

Can I hop off and on the bus multiple times?
Yes, your ticket is valid for 24 hours, allowing you to hop on and off at any of the 13 stops along the Downtown Loop as many times as you wish during that period.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The wax museum’s interactive and fun environment appeals to kids, and the open-top buses provide a relaxed way to see the city without tiring out little legs.

What languages are available for the commentary?
Digital commentary is available in multiple languages, making it accessible for international travelers.

In the end, this tour offers a practical, fun, and flexible way to enjoy some of New York’s most iconic attractions. It’s ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with some whimsical fun, all while keeping the experience relaxed and effortless.