Seeing New York City for the first time is thrilling—but also a little overwhelming. Between the skyscrapers, bustling crowds, and endless neighborhoods, figuring out how to explore the city’s best sights efficiently can feel like a puzzle. That’s where hop-on hop-off bus tours come in.
These open-top double-decker buses offer a flexible, scenic way to experience the city’s top landmarks without the hassle of navigating the subway or hailing cabs. If you’re wondering what the best hop-on hop-off in New York is for your trip, we’ve got you covered.
Why Choose a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour?
- Freedom to explore at your pace
- Pre-set routes covering major NYC attractions
- Live or audio commentary to learn as you go
- Great views from the top deck
- Perfect for first-time visitors or short stays
Hop-on hop-off tours are ideal for leisure travelers who want a mix of structure and spontaneity—see what you want, skip what you don’t, and take in panoramic views in between.
Best Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours in NYC
1. Big Bus Tours NYC – Best Overall Experience
Big Bus consistently ranks as the top-rated hop-on hop-off in New York, and for good reason. It offers well-organized routes, frequent departures, and live or pre-recorded commentary in multiple languages.
Big Bus consistently ranks as the top-rated hop-on hop-off in New York, and for good reason. It offers well-organized routes, frequent departures, and live or pre-recorded commentary in multiple languages.
Highlights:
- Downtown and Uptown loops
- 25+ stops near major attractions (Times Square, Central Park, Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty ferry terminal)
- Optional night tour and 1-hour Statue of Liberty cruise
- Live guides on select buses
Ticket price: From ~$60 (1-day pass)
Website: Big Bus NYC Official
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, and families wanting a comfortable, comprehensive experience.
2. TopView Sightseeing – Best for Budget Travelers
TopView offers similar routes to Big Bus but at a more affordable price point. It includes downtown, uptown, Brooklyn, and even a Bronx loop with certain ticket packages.
Highlights:
- Real-time bus tracking via mobile app
- Optional add-ons: bike rentals, museum tickets, and Statue of Liberty cruise
- Audio guides in 11 languages
Ticket price: From ~$49
Website: TopView Sightseeing NYC
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers and those looking for bundle deals.
3. Gray Line CitySightseeing – Best for Expanded Coverage
Gray Line offers classic NYC hop-on hop-off tours, covering major loops and outer boroughs.
Highlights:
- Multiple routes: Downtown, Uptown, Brooklyn, and Night Tour
- Can be bundled with CityPASS for added value
- Frequent departures
Ticket price: ~$59–$89 depending on pass length
Website: CitySightseeing NYC
Best for: Travelers with a longer stay who want to go beyond Manhattan.
What to Expect on Your Ride
- Buses arrive every 15–30 minutes, depending on the route and time of day
- Many tours include a mobile app with maps and stop info
- Most loops take 90–120 minutes if you stay on board
- Bring headphones, sunscreen, and a light jacket for the open top deck
Top Attractions You Can Visit
- Times Square
- Central Park
- Empire State Building
- Statue of Liberty Ferry Terminal
- Wall Street & Charging Bull
- Brooklyn Bridge
- Museum Mile
- Harlem & Apollo Theater
- Rockefeller Center
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the best hop-on hop-off in New York? If you’re looking for reliability, comfort, and great coverage, Big Bus Tours stands out as the top choice. For budget-friendly alternatives or extended routes, TopView and Gray Line also deliver excellent experiences.
Whichever you choose, a hop-on hop-off tour is a smart way to see the best of NYC—especially if you’re short on time or just want to sit back, relax, and take it all in.