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

Traveling to the Big Apple offers no shortage of iconic sights and bustling neighborhoods. But with so much to see and do, planning your perfect day (or days) can feel overwhelming. Enter the NYC Bundle, a package designed to streamline your experience while offering fantastic value. For around $99 per person, you gain access to three of New York’s most beloved attractions: the Empire State Building, the Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour, and the Circle Line sightseeing cruise. Based on reviews and detailed descriptions, this combo appeals to travelers eager to maximize their time and see the city from different perspectives — from sky-high vistas to city streets and river views.

Our review highlights two aspects we particularly like: the convenience of bundling these popular experiences at a significant discount and the flexibility of the hop-on hop-off bus, which allows you to explore at your own pace. However, one consideration is that the cruise and Empire State Building visits are booked separately, so they might take place on different days. This could be a minor inconvenience if you prefer everything in one go, but it also provides flexibility for different schedules or weather considerations. This tour set is especially well-suited for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a rundown of NYC’s most famous sights without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Great value for a bundled experience covering top NYC attractions.
• Flexible exploration with a 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus, allowing you to design your own itinerary.
• Stunning views from the Empire State and Circle Line cruises that capture NYC’s skyline and landmarks.
• Multiple languages available for audio guides, making it accessible for international visitors.
• Separate bookings for the Empire State and cruise mean scheduling flexibility but not necessarily everything in one day.
• Free cancellation provides peace of mind for changing plans.

A Practical Overview of the Tour Components

The Empire State Building Experience

Starting with the Empire State Building, you get express entry to the 86th-floor observation deck. This is a highlight for many visitors because it offers panoramic 360° views of Manhattan’s skyline. From here, you can gaze across Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and beyond. The building itself is an art deco masterpiece, and the experience of ascending quickly without long lines adds to the appeal.

A review from a previous traveler notes, “We loved the way the Empire State Building made us feel like we’d stepped into a classic New York movie scene.” The views are particularly stunning at sunset or at night when the city lights sparkle.

The Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

The 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus is where you get the most flexibility. With two routes, you can tailor your sightseeing around your interests—whether that’s Times Square, Wall Street, or the MET. Riding on the top deck offers open-air views that make photo opportunities plentiful and memorable.

The bus features audio commentary in multiple languages, so international travelers can learn about each site as they pass. The real-time tracking via the Big Bus app means you’ll know exactly when the next bus arrives, reducing wait times.

Many reviews highlight the value here: “It was a great way to see the city at our own pace and hop off whenever something caught our eye.” The convenience of being able to jump off at landmarks like Chinatown or Brooklyn Bridge and then hop back on makes this a smart choice for those new to NYC or those who want to avoid the hustle of navigating subway lines.

The Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise

Rounding out the experience, the Circle Line cruise offers a different perspective of the city—on the water. You can choose between a 60-minute Liberty Midtown Cruise or a 90-minute Landmarks Cruise. Both options glide past key sights like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and One World Trade Center.

The cruise features outdoor decks, a café and bar, plus indoor seating with large windows—perfect for those who want to stay comfortable while taking in the views. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s a relaxing way to see the city’s skyline and some of its most famous landmarks without the crowds.” The cruise operates daily from Pier 83, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Stops and Highlights

The tour includes stops at notable spots like Times Square, the Flatiron District, Chinatown, Brooklyn Bridge, and Wall Street. The sequence of stops is designed to give a comprehensive tour of Manhattan, from Midtown to Downtown, and beyond.

Starting at the M&M’S World near 7th Ave & W 48th St, the route then moves to Times Square, a must-see for any first-time visitor. Standing amidst neon lights and billboards, you’ll understand why Times Square epitomizes NYC’s vibrant energy.

Next, the Empire State Building stop is conveniently located on 5th Ave & W 32nd St. This proximity allows for quick access to the building’s observation deck, making it easy to visit after your bus tour.

The Flatiron District stop near 5th Ave & W 23rd St offers a chance to admire the iconic, triangular Flatiron Building and explore nearby eateries. Moving on to SoHo and Chinatown, the stops highlight NYC’s diverse neighborhoods, perfect for a quick walk or snack.

The Brooklyn Bridge stop at Park Row & Beekman St provides a great photo op and walking opportunity across the historic bridge, offering breathtaking views of Manhattan’s skyline.

Downtown, stops at Wall Street, Statue of Liberty (via Trinity Church), and World Trade Center give a sense of NYC’s financial district and memorials. The Pier 57 stop opens up possibilities for waterfront strolls, and Hudson Yards at 20th St showcases modern architecture.

The Cruise Experience

The Circle Line cruise enhances the tour by allowing you to see these landmarks from the water—a perspective that reveals the city’s impressive skyline and bridges in a way that land-based tours can’t match.

The 90-minute Landmarks Cruise is especially popular among travelers who want a relaxed yet rundown. The cruise features amenities like an onboard café, restrooms, and outdoor decks, which keep the experience comfortable.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Tips

A reviewer highlights, “The cruise was a peaceful way to see the city’s highlights from a different angle,” echoing what many find valuable. The audio guides available in multiple languages** ensure that international visitors gain context, making the experience both fun and educational.

The flexibility of the bus tour and the separate booking for the Empire State and cruise is a plus, allowing you to customize your days. For example, some travelers prefer to do the Empire State visit early in their trip for panoramic photos, then take the cruise later or vice versa.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Timing: The bus tour lasts 48 hours, so plan your sightseeing accordingly. The Empire State ticket and cruise are separate bookings, so be aware of possible scheduling gaps.
• Weather: Since some components are outdoors (top deck on the bus, outdoor decks on the cruise), check the weather forecast.
• Booking: You can activate tickets via the Big Bus app or at designated stops, which streamlines the process.
• Group Size: The bus and cruise typically operate in groups, but the open-air bus and outdoor decks mean plenty of space.
• Cost: At $99, this bundle offers excellent value for seeing NYC from multiple angles—sky, street, and river.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This combo package is ideal for travelers who want an efficient and cost-effective way to experience New York City’s highlights. First-timers will appreciate the rundown and the flexibility to hop on and off at major landmarks. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy stunning views, whether from high above or on the water.

People who value convenience without sacrificing depth will find this bundle worthwhile. The separate bookings might be a minor inconvenience but also offer the option to spread out the experiences across different days, making it suitable for those with flexible itineraries or limited time.

The knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and good value for money are consistent themes in reviews, emphasizing that this package delivers a solid introduction to the Big Apple.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit the Empire State Building and the cruise on the same day?
Yes, but since they are booked separately, you would need to plan your schedule accordingly. You can select your preferred times at redemption or manage bookings online.

Is the Big Bus tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the open-air top deck makes it engaging for families and groups. Just remember, some stops might involve walking or standing.

Does the tour include audio guides?
Yes, both Big Bus and Circle Line cruises offer audio commentary in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Mandarin, Korean, and Japanese.

How long is the Circle Line cruise?
You can choose between a 60-minute Midtown Liberty Cruise or a 90-minute Landmarks Cruise, both providing scenic views of NYC’s waterways.

Are these experiences suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The hop-on hop-off bus and cruise are flexible and social, making them great options whether you’re traveling alone or with companions.

Where do the cruise and bus tours start?
The Circle Line cruise departs from Pier 83 on 42nd Street, and the Big Bus Stop #12 is at 12th Ave & W 40th St, across from Pier 81.

Can I cancel this tour package?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the experience. Refunds are processed accordingly.

What’s the best time to use the sightseeing cruise?
Most travelers enjoy the cruise during daylight or sunset hours for the best photo opportunities and views.

Is it worth purchasing this bundle over individual tickets?
Yes, the package offers over 40% savings compared to buying each experience separately, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers.

This NYC Bundle combines practicality, stunning views, and a taste of New York’s vibrant neighborhoods—all at a price that makes it hard to beat. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler wanting a well-rounded overview, this package helps you see the city’s best in a straightforward and enjoyable way.