NY: Statue of Liberty, Empire State, and Hop-on Hop-off Tour

If you’re planning a trip to New York City, this combo package offers a great way to get a broad overview of the Big Apple’s most iconic sights. The package includes two days of hop-on hop-off bus rides, a ticket to the Empire State Building’s observation deck, and a ferry trip to Liberty and Ellis Islands.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the flexibility it offers—you can hop off at major landmarks and explore at your own pace—and the stunning views from the Empire State and Statue of Liberty, which provide perfect photo opportunities and memorable moments.

One consideration is that the ferry to Liberty Island operates only from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, so scheduling your visit carefully is essential if you want to avoid missing out on these highlights.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free exploring, especially those new to NYC or visitors looking for a convenient way to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets separately.

Key Points

• Flexible exploration: Unlimited hop-on hop-off access for 48 hours lets you customize your itinerary.
• Iconic landmarks: Visit Empire State, Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island with ease.
• Panoramic views: Expect breathtaking cityscapes from the Empire State and Liberty Island.
• Included tickets: Entry to the Empire State Building and ferry rides are included (though Statue of Liberty monument entry is not).
• Multiple routes: Downtown and Uptown routes ensure comprehensive coverage of NYC’s neighborhoods.
• Helpful extras: Digital commentary, souvenir earbuds, and an app for real-time tracking enhance your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Tour

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This package offers a well-rounded view of New York City, combining transport, iconic landmarks, and scenic views. You’ll start by activating your hop-on, hop-off bus ticket, which grants you 48 hours of unlimited travel on two different routes — the Downtown and Uptown routes. These routes cover key neighborhoods and sights, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

The Hop-on Hop-off Bus is a central feature. Its open-top design is perfect for sightseeing, providing unobstructed views of landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Times Square. You can hop off to visit specific attractions or simply stay on to enjoy the narrated commentary. One reviewer mentioned, “the hop-on hop-off bus made our holiday easy — there is always a guide around,” highlighting how this feature simplifies navigating the city.

Visiting the Empire State Building

Your ticket includes entry to the Empire State Building, a must-see for first-timers wanting a sweeping view of Manhattan. You’re asked to pre-book a time slot before your visit, which helps avoid long lines — a thoughtful touch considering how busy the tower can be. From the top, you’re treated to panoramic views that stretch across the city and beyond. Expect to see sprawling skylines, the Hudson River, and, if clear, distant vistas of New Jersey.

Despite the extra cost of the ticket, many travelers agree it’s worth it. We loved the way the observation deck offers a perspective you just can’t get from street level. As one reviewer puts it, “marvel at the sprawling cityscape and capture unforgettable photos.”

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The ferry ride to Liberty Island is the highlight for many visitors. The round-trip ferry is included in your package, giving you a chance to get up close with Lady Liberty — her green copper hue shining in the sun. It’s an experience filled with history and symbolism, and the views of Manhattan from the water are fantastic.

The ferry operates from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and you can visit Liberty Island and Ellis Island at your own pace. You can explore the grounds, learn about the monument’s significance, and enjoy sweeping views of the skyline. Be aware that the ticket does not include entry to the statue’s interior, but the grounds themselves are well worth a visit.

A review mentions, “learning about the history of the Statue of Liberty while enjoying stunning views of Manhattan was unforgettable,” underscoring the combination of scenic beauty and educational value.

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Creating Your Own Experience

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the ability to create your own schedule. You can hop off at famous sights like Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square, or the Empire State, then get back on the bus when you’re ready. This flexibility means you can avoid rushing through attractions and take your time soaking in the city’s energy and details.

The Practical Aspects: Transport, Timing, and Accessibility

The buses are equipped with digital commentary in several languages, and a mobile app provides real-time tracking, which helps plan your day. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Activation can be done through the app or in person at a designated stop, usually outside M&Ms World on 7th Ave & 48th St. The ferry operates only during daylight hours, from 9 AM to 3 PM, so plan your Liberty Island visit accordingly.

Pricing at $135 per person offers what many would consider good value, especially since it bundles multiple attractions into one package. The tour also includes a discount on bike rentals, adding another activity option if you want to explore further.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Reviews give us a glimpse into what real travelers think. A visitor from Romania called it “excellent,” while someone from the UK described the tour as “brilliant,” especially praising the hop-on hop-off bus for making their trip easy.

On the flip side, a Hungarian traveler noted a negative experience with the ferry transfer, where the driver provided a different transfer location. This highlights the importance of paying attention to instructions and confirming details on the day.

The majority of reviews are positive, especially about the views from the Empire State and Liberty Island, which many travelers find truly breathtaking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This package suits first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Manhattan’s highlights without the hassle of organizing separate tickets. It’s especially good for those who prefer a flexible, self-paced experience.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy iconic landmarks and panoramic views, this tour offers a straightforward way to see the essentials. It also works well for visitors with limited time, as it packs the main sights into a manageable two-day itinerary.

However, if you’re eager to explore interiors or dive deeply into specific neighborhoods, you might want to supplement this tour with other experiences. Also, those looking for an exclusive, less crowded visit might find the open-top bus and ferry teeming with fellow travelers.

Final Thoughts

This combo tour from Big Bus Tours offers a practical and enjoyable way to see New York’s key sights. The unlimited hop-on hop-off feature provides flexibility, and the included tickets to the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty ferry add significant value.

While not the most exclusive or in-depth experience, it delivers a balanced mix of transportation, scenic views, and landmark visits — perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting an overview with minimal fuss. The views from the Empire State and Statue of Liberty are often highlighted as standouts, making it well worth the price for many travelers.

The tour’s success depends on timing and expectations. Get your tickets booked early, especially for the Empire State, and plan your Liberty Island visit within the ferry hours. With helpful extras like an audio guide and real-time tracking, this experience aims to make your NYC exploration smooth and memorable.

FAQ

Is the hop-on hop-off tour valid for two days?
Yes, your ticket is valid for 48 hours from the first activation, offering plenty of time to explore the city at your own pace.

Do I need to pre-book my Empire State Building visit?
Yes, you must pre-book a specific time and date through the provided link or with staff, ensuring smoother entry and avoiding long waits.

Does the ferry ticket include entry to the Statue of Liberty monument?
No, the ferry ticket covers the ride to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, but does not include inside access to the monument itself.

Can I activate my ticket at any stop?
Yes, you can activate through the app or in person at designated stops, typically outside M&Ms World on 7th Ave & 48th St.

What are the operating hours for the Statue of Liberty ferry?
From 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, daily, so plan your Liberty Island visit accordingly.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What makes this tour a good value?
Bundling the hop-on hop-off bus, Empire State entry, and ferry ride for $135 provides convenience and savings, especially compared to buying each separately.

This tour is a solid option for those who want to see the essentials of New York City without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. With stunning views, flexible exploring, and the chance to enjoy iconic landmarks at your own pace, it offers a practical solution for a memorable NYC visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby