NYC Bundle: Empire State, Big Bus Tour, & Circle Line Cruise

NYC Bundle: Empire State, Big Bus Tour, & Circle Line Cruise

Imagine seeing New York City from top and water in just two days—sounds like a whirlwind, but this package makes it surprisingly doable. Priced at $99 per person, this combo offers access to the iconic Empire State Building, a 48-hour hop-on-hop-off bus tour, and a Circle Line cruise along the Hudson River. It’s a smart way to cover lots of ground without feeling rushed, especially since you can customize your schedule.

What we love about this experience is how flexible it is. You’re free to hop on and off the bus as many times as you want, giving you the freedom to explore neighborhoods like Times Square, Central Park, and SoHo at your own pace. Plus, the view from the Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observation deck really is breathtaking, giving you a sweeping panorama of Manhattan and beyond. The cruise is equally impressive, offering a relaxed way to see the Statue of Liberty and iconic bridges from the water.

A possible consideration is that ticket activation for the bus can sometimes be a little tricky, as mentioned by some travelers. Also, seats on the cruise are first-come, first-serve, so arriving early is advised. That said, if you’re organized about your schedule, these issues shouldn’t detract much from an overall enjoyable experience.

This bundle is best suited for first-time visitors who want a broad overview of NYC’s highlights without the hassle of planning individually. It’s also great for travelers who appreciate value, since combining these top attractions at a discount maximizes your sightseeing dollar. If you love a mix of land, sky, and water views, this package is hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexibility: 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour with digital live tracking allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Iconic Views: The Empire State Building offers 360° skyline panoramas from the 86th floor.
• Water Experience: The Circle Line cruise provides close-up views of the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.
• Convenience: All tickets are bundled at over 40% off retail, saving money and simplifying planning.
• Accessibility: All experiences are wheelchair accessible; buses include audio commentary in multiple languages.
• Timing: Tickets for each activity can be activated on separate days for maximum flexibility.

Detailed Review: Making the Most of Your NYC Adventure

The Empire State Building: A Classic but Must-See

Starting with the Empire State Building sets a high note—literally. For $99 bundled with the other experiences, you’ll gain access to the 86th-floor observation deck—a highlight for anyone wanting a panoramic view of Manhattan’s skyline. The observation deck offers ample outdoor space, so you can take photos without the glass barrier in the way. We liked how the art deco architecture of the building adds to the experience, making it more than just a view.

You’ll want to arrive early or plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds, especially since some reviews mention issues with ticketing problems, including having to buy replacements. Still, the view from up high—seeing Central Park, the Statue of Liberty in the distance, and the sprawling cityscape—is worth the wait. Weather conditions play a role—clear days give the best visibility, so check the forecast.

The Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: Discover NYC at Your Own Pace

The 48-hour bus ticket is perhaps the most practical part of this bundle. With live bus tracking via app, you’ll always know when your next bus is arriving, which is a huge help in planning your day. The tour covers both downtown and uptown loops, so you’ll see landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and SoHo.

What makes this so valuable is the ability to hop off and explore the neighborhoods on foot. For example, you can hop off at Central Park for a picnic or a quick walk, then reboard the bus to head uptown or downtown again. The digital commentary offers insightful info about each landmark, enriching your visit without added cost.

Some travelers mentioned that not all bus drivers are familiar with the online ticket system, leading to some inconvenience. To avoid this, make sure to activate your ticket using the Big Bus app or at designated spots. The app is your best friend here, providing route info, bus locations, and timing updates.

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The Circle Line Cruise: Water Views and Iconic Landmarks

The Circle Line cruise provides a relaxing way to see New York from the water. You can choose between the 60-minute Liberty Midtown Cruise or the 90-minute Landmarks Cruise—both offer incredible views, but the longer cruise allows for more detailed sightseeing.

The boats are well-equipped with indoor seating, outdoor decks, restrooms, and a full bar—perfect for enjoying a drink as you glide past the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and other waterfront highlights. The live guide on board adds context, making the sights more meaningful.

However, some reviews point out seats are first-come, first-serve, so arriving at least 30 minutes early is advisable. The cruise runs daily from Pier 83, close to the city’s major attractions. The water tour offers a perspective you simply can’t get on land, and it’s a calmer, more relaxed way to take in some of NYC’s most celebrated landmarks.

Combining the Experiences for Maximum Value

What makes this bundle particularly appealing is the option to experience each activity on different days. You might visit the Empire State Building on your first day, then hop on the bus and cruise on subsequent days, fitting your schedule around weather and crowd levels.

The discounted price—saving over 40%—adds to the appeal. When you consider the costs of individual tickets for these attractions, the bundle offers significant savings. Plus, the flexibility of canceling up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially if your plans change.

Authentic Traveler Insights and Tips

One reviewer, Pia from Germany, noted an unfortunate issue where some bus drivers weren’t familiar with the online ticket system, leading to extra hassle. Meanwhile, Marta from Norway praised the easy ticketing process and the app’s live tracking, saying it made the trip “a breeze.”

Others mentioned that ticket activation and checking cruise departure points can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the process, so read the instructions carefully. Arriving early for the cruise is advised, and you might want to confirm your tour times in advance, especially for the Empire State visit.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This NYC Bundle is perfect for first-timers who want a comprehensive overview of the city’s highlights without the stress of planning each detail. It’s especially suited for families, first-time visitors, or those wanting to maximize their sightseeing dollar. If you enjoy land, sky, and water vistas, this package ticks all those boxes.

Travelers who prefer flexibility and love the idea of customizing their day will appreciate the hop-on hop-off bus. Meanwhile, water lovers and those craving a more relaxed experience will find the Circle Line cruise a perfect addition. If you’re curious about one of the world’s most iconic skylines and want a taste of everything, this is a well-rounded, value-packed choice.

Final Thoughts

This bundle offers a well-balanced exposure to New York City’s best sights—sky-high views, neighborhood exploration, and waterfront panoramas—all at a reasonable price. The combination of flexibility, value, and authentic experiences makes it appealing for a wide range of travelers.

While there are some logistical hiccups—like ticket activation and seat availability—the overall experience is straightforward and rewarding. The amazing vistas from the Empire State Building and the up-close water views are unforgettable. Plus, the digital tools help keep you on track in this bustling city.

If your goal is a broad, flexible introduction to NYC that lets you see many highlights without feeling rushed, this package stands out. It’s especially ideal if you value saving money and customizing your sightseeing to your interests.

FAQs

Can I visit the Empire State Building and the Circle Line cruise on the same day?
Yes, you can do both on the same day or separate days—your tickets are valid for 2 days after activation, giving you flexibility.

How do I activate my bus ticket?
You can activate the Big Bus ticket via the app by entering your booking reference, then pressing “Activate” on the day of travel. Alternatively, you can activate it with staff at a designated stop.

Are the experiences accessible for people in wheelchairs?
Yes, all the experiences—Empire State, bus tours, and cruises—are wheelchair accessible.

What if I encounter issues with my tickets?
Some reviews mention problems, so it’s best to activate your tickets early and use the app for live updates. If issues arise, contact customer service or staff at the redemption points.

Can I choose specific times for the Empire State visit and cruise?
Yes, you can select your tour times at redemption or in advance using provided links, giving you control over your schedule.

How early should I arrive for the cruise?
Arrive at least 30 minutes early as seats are first-come, first-serve, and the cruise departs on time regardless of weather.

Is there a guided audio commentary on the bus and cruise?
Yes, audio commentary is provided in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, and more.

Can I cancel this experience if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans shift.

What’s the best way to get the most out of this bundle?
Plan your visits so you can spread activities over two days, arriving early for the cruise, and use the app to stay informed and organized.

This NYC Bundle offers a balanced, practical way to see the very best of New York City. Its combination of views, neighborhoods, and water—all at a great price—makes it a smart choice for those seeking a well-rounded introduction to the Big Apple.

You can check availability for your dates here: