Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing New York City Open Bus Tour

Traveling through New York City is an adventure packed with iconic sights, bustling neighborhoods, and endless photo opportunities. One popular way to get a broad overview of the city is via the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offered by New York Iconic Cruises. But does it deliver on expectations? We’ve gathered real reviews, route details, and insider info to help you decide if this tour is a smart choice for your NYC visit.

What we like:

• The promise of unobstructed views from open-top double-decker buses, which make for excellent photo ops
• The flexibility to hop on and off at various points, letting you customize your sightseeing day
• The availability of live commentary from guides, sharing stories and insights about the neighborhoods and landmarks

One possible concern:

• Several reviews mention disorganization and delays, which could mean waiting around or missing parts of the tour unless you’re lucky with timing

This tour can be perfect if you’re seeking a cost-effective overview of NYC, and if you value the freedom to explore different neighborhoods at your own pace. However, if you’re a traveler who prefers highly structured, punctual experiences, you might want to consider other options.

Good To Know

• Flexible sightseeing: Unlimited stops and ability to hop off whenever you choose
• Guided commentary: Live guides share interesting facts and stories about NYC
• Route coverage: Includes major spots like Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, and Battery Park
• Mixed reviews on reliability: Some travelers faced delays and no-shows
• Value for the price: Around $60 for roughly 2 hours, but actual experiences vary
• Accessibility: Near public transportation, easy to reach meeting points

The Tour Experience: What to Expect

This NYC open bus tour is designed as a self-paced adventure—you board the iconic double-decker at one of the 11 designated stops, with the opportunity to hop off at any point and explore at your leisure. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, but your experience can extend or shorten depending on how many stops you make.

The itinerary covers a broad stretch of Manhattan and nearby areas, with notable stops such as:

• West 47th Street & 7th Avenue: Right in the heart of Broadway, in front of Olive Garden, this spot is perfect for snapping photos of the Theater District. Many reviews mention it as a central starting point, though some express frustration about delays here.

• West 42nd Street & Broadway: Just a block from Times Square, this stop offers prime views of the bright lights and hustle of midtown. Some travelers note that buses may not always stop here, adding to concerns about organization.

• West 33rd Street & 5th Avenue: Near the Empire State Building, this is a strategic location to explore Midtown and snap photos of the skyscraper.

• West 12th Street & 5th Avenue: A quieter spot that offers a different perspective of the city’s architecture.

• Broadway & Spring Street: Moving into the trendy SoHo neighborhood, this stop is ideal for exploring boutique shops and galleries.

• Lafayette Street & Walker Street: Closer to Little Italy, offering a chance to experience vibrant local culture.

• Trinity Church and Battery Park: Essential stops for history buffs and those wanting views of the Statue of Liberty.

• West 15th Street & 11th Avenue & 12th Avenue & West 29th Street: These stops take you through Chelsea and the High Line area, known for art galleries and scenic walks.

• West 56th Street & 7th Avenue: Near Central Park and Columbus Circle, ideal for a relaxing stroll or photo session.

How the Guided Commentary Works

One of the highlights, according to some, is the live commentary from guides who share stories about NYC’s neighborhoods and landmarks. However, several reviews indicate that this aspect isn’t always consistent. Some mention that the audio system is more like background music rather than informative narration, especially when the driver had to move the bus.

The Views and Photo Opportunities

Traveling on the open-top double-decker allows you to enjoy unobstructed views of skyline giants like the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park. Many reviews praise the views, especially when the weather is clear. When it’s cold or windy, you may prefer to stay downstairs, which some travelers noted as a plus.

Reliability and Organization: A Mixed Bag

One of the most common complaints from reviews relates to bus punctuality and organization. Numerous travelers mention waiting up to two hours at pick-up points, with buses either arriving late or not at all. A few reviews specifically say that buses didn’t show up, forcing guests to buy alternative tickets or miss the tour altogether.

For example, Amy_H arrived at 8:50 am expecting the bus at 9:00 am but waited 45 minutes without success. Similarly, Cindy_M reported waiting from 11:00 am until 12:30 pm without any bus arriving. These delays are significant, especially considering the tour’s roughly 2-hour duration, and can lead to frustration.

Guides and staff are described as “helpful and friendly” by some, but others mention rude staff or a lack of assistance when things go wrong. The support service seems to be inconsistent, with some travelers unable to reach the company for refunds or information.

Value for Money

At $60 per ticket, the tour is not the cheapest option available. Considering the short duration and the potential for logistical issues, some may find it steep for what is essentially a narrated ride with the flexibility to hop off. On the other hand, if everything runs smoothly, it offers a convenient overview of NYC’s highlights with good photo opportunities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour might work well for first-time visitors who want a quick, flexible way to get a sense of the city’s layout and main sights. It’s suitable if you’re comfortable with some uncertainty regarding punctuality and prefer a budget-friendly option. Families, solo travelers, or groups wanting to explore at their own pace could find it appealing.

Conversely, if you value reliability and punctuality above all, or prefer a guided experience with guaranteed stops and commentary, you may want to explore other options or look for tours with higher ratings.

Final Thoughts

The Hop-On Hop-Off NYC Bus Tour from New York Iconic Cruises offers a classic way to see Manhattan’s key sights, especially if you love open-top buses and photo opportunities. However, the inconsistent reviews regarding timeliness and organization are a significant consideration. If you’re prepared for some unpredictability, this tour can give you a flexible, scenic overview of the city.

Its value depends heavily on your expectations—you might get a fantastic, unhurried day with friendly guides, or experience frustrating delays that cut into your sightseeing time. For the best results, plan to arrive early, and consider alternative options if punctuality is crucial to you.

The Sum Up

This tour is best suited for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize flexibility over rigid schedules. If you’re open to a bit of uncertainty and enjoy the concept of a hop-on, hop-off system, you’ll likely appreciate the views and the chance to customize your trip through Manhattan.

On the flip side, those seeking a highly organized, dependable experience might find the reviews warning of delays and bus shortages a deterrent. It could serve as a secondary or backup option if other tours are fully booked or if you’re just looking to get a quick snapshot of NYC without spending a fortune.

Overall, weigh the benefits of unlimited stops and panoramic views against the potential for delays, and plan accordingly. Be prepared for the possibility that your experience might be hit or miss, but with patience, you could still enjoy a memorable ride through the city that never sleeps.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, as it is designed to be accessible and flexible. However, due to reports of delays, it’s best for those who can be patient with potential waiting times.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes a mobile pass, unlimited stops, and an ear piece for the commentary. Lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat beforehand.

How long does the tour last?
The official duration is approximately 2 hours, but actual experience might vary depending on how many stops you make and potential delays.

Can I hop off at any stop?
Yes, you can hop on and off at any of the designated stops along the route, allowing you to explore different neighborhoods.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Some reviews mention friendly and helpful staff, but the quality of commentary and organization varies. At times, the audio system is more like background music than an informative narration.

What stops are included?
The stops cover key areas such as Times Square, Empire State Building, Little Italy, Battery Park, and more. Exact locations include West 47th & 7th Ave, Broadway & Spring Street, and West 56th & 7th Ave.

Is the bus comfortable?
Travelers enjoy the open-top design for the views, but in colder weather, many prefer to stay downstairs, which some find less enjoyable.

How reliable is this tour?
Based on reviews, reliability is inconsistent. Some travelers faced long waits or no-shows, so it’s wise to arrive early or have backup plans.

How do I cancel this tour?
Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Would you recommend this tour?
If you’re flexible, patient, and looking for an affordable way to see NYC with the freedom to explore, it might be worth trying. For those who value punctuality and guided narration, exploring other options may be better.