The Big Bus LA Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour provides a convenient way for visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks at their own pace. With flexible ticket options and multilingual audio commentary, the tour allows travelers to customize their sightseeing experience. While customers generally find the tour accessible and enjoyable, potential wait times and bus comfort issues may impact the overall experience. As an affordable and efficient option, the Big Bus LA tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the diverse attractions of Los Angeles.
Key Points
- The Big Bus LA Tour offers 1-day and 2-day ticket options, with the 2-day package including additional experiences like Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle tour.
- The tour features flexible hop-on hop-off format, informative audio commentary in 3 languages, and covers major attractions in Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach.
- While many travelers enjoyed the tour, common issues include unclear bus stop directions, long wait times, and bus comfort problems like ineffective air conditioning.
- The Live Tracking feature on the app can help with better route planning, and it’s recommended to dress appropriately and be aware of longer wait times during peak hours.
- The ticket options include 1-day and 2-day packages, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Overview of the Big Bus LA Tour
The Big Bus LA: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus is a popular way for visitors to explore the sights of Los Angeles.
The tour offers 1-day or 2-day ticket options, with the 2-day package including additional experiences like the Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle tour or TCL Chinese Theatre walking tour. Priced from $51 per person, the tour features audio commentary in 3 languages and covers Hollywood attractions, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach.
Customers can explore at their own pace through the hop-on hop-off format, although some report issues with unclear bus stop directions and long wait times between buses.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Los Angeles.
Tour Features and Experience
The Big Bus LA tour offers sightseeing flexibility, allowing passengers to explore at their own pace through the hop-on hop-off format.
Informative audio commentary is available in three languages, guiding visitors through the tour’s highlights. The routes cover major attractions in Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach, offering a rundown of the city.
The tour is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller accommodations, as well as permission for service animals.
Passengers can choose between a one-day or two-day ticket, with the latter including additional tours like the Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle or TCL Chinese Theatre walking tour.
Customer Feedback and Common Issues
Many travelers enjoyed the informative commentary, flexibility, and scenic views provided by the Big Bus LA tour, with some highlighting it as a great way to see the city without dealing with traffic.
However, the tour also faced some common issues. Customers reported unclear bus stop directions, long wait times between buses, and problems with bus comfort, such as ineffective air conditioning.
Some even encountered rude bus drivers, confusion at stops, and breakdowns leading to extended waits.
While the tour offered a convenient way to explore LA, these negatives impacted the overall experience for many customers.
Recommendations for Future Travelers
Travelers preparing for the Big Bus LA tour would do well to use the Live Tracking feature on the app to better plan their route. Dressing appropriately for the weather and considering bringing water and fans during hot days can enhance the experience. The following table outlines key recommendations for future travelers:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Use the Live Tracking feature, dress for weather, and bring water/fans. |
| Time Management | Be aware of longer wait times, especially during peak hours, and plan accordingly. |
| Exploration | Time the Santa Monica loop to maximize sightseeing opportunities. |
| Customer Support | Reach out via live chat or email for any issues or feedback. |
| Voucher Redemption | Redeem vouchers at 6763 Hollywood Boulevard or any Big Bus Stop. |
Ticket Options and Pricing
Ticket options for the Big Bus LA tour range from 1-day to 2-day packages, allowing travelers to choose the duration that best suits their sightseeing needs.
The 1-day ticket provides access to the hop-on hop-off service, while the 2-day package includes a bonus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle tour or TCL Chinese Theatre walking tour.
Prices start from $51.00 per person, making the tour an affordable way to explore the city.
The tour also offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for travelers’ plans.
Cancellation Policy
The Big Bus LA tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing customers to receive a full refund if they cancel their tickets up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This policy provides peace of mind for travelers who may need to adjust their plans.
| Cancellation Period | Refund |
|---|---|
| Up to 24 hours before | Full Refund |
| Less than 24 hours before | No Refund |
| No-Show | No Refund |
This straightforward policy enables customers to book with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their plans change. The Big Bus LA team give you a hassle-free experience, starting from the booking process.
Accessibility and Accommodations
The Big Bus LA tour aims to accommodate a wide range of travelers. The buses are wheelchair accessible, and arrangements can be made by calling 24 hours in advance.
Strollers are welcome on board, and service animals are permitted. The tour provides audio commentary in three languages, catering to diverse linguistic needs.
However, travelers should be aware that some issues, such as unclear bus stop directions and extended wait times, have been reported.
Contact and Support
How can customers reach out for assistance with the Big Bus LA tour?
For any issues or feedback, customers are encouraged to contact the Big Bus LA customer service team through live chat or email.
The live chat feature on the company’s website allows customers to speak with a representative in real-time to resolve any concerns.
Alternatively, customers can send an email to the customer service department, who’ll respond promptly.
Vouchers for the tour can be redeemed at the pickup location of 6763 Hollywood Boulevard or any of the designated Big Bus stops throughout the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Do the Buses Run?
The buses typically run every 15-30 minutes, although wait times can be longer during peak hours. The frequency can vary depending on factors like time of day and traffic conditions.
Can I Ride the Bus All Day Long?
Yes, you can ride the buses all day long. The hop-on hop-off tickets allow you to use the service repeatedly throughout the day, enabling you to explore at your own pace and revisit attractions as needed.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
Yes, there are discounts available for children and seniors on the Big Bus LA tour. Children under 5 ride for free, while discounted tickets are offered for children 5-15 and seniors 65+. These discounted rates can provide significant savings.
Do the Buses Have Restrooms on Board?
The buses do not have restrooms on board. Passengers will need to plan their tour accordingly and use restrooms at the various hop-on hop-off stops along the route. It’s recommended to plan breaks for restroom use during the tour.
Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Bus?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring food and drinks on the bus, though it’s advised to avoid consuming messy items that could spill or leave crumbs. The company may have specific policies, so it’s best to check before boarding.
Sum Up
The Big Bus LA Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour offers a convenient way to explore the city’s top attractions. While it’s a popular choice, travelers should expect potential wait times and variable bus comfort. The flexible ticket options and additional experiences in the 2-day package make it a worthwhile option, though visitors should consider their needs and plan accordingly.
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