New York: Madame Tussauds and Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour

If you’re planning a day in the Big Apple and want a mix of celebrity glamour with city exploration, this combo tour might just be your perfect ticket. While I haven’t personally taken this exact package, the general setup offers a compelling blend of attractions and sightseeing that many find worthwhile.

What caught our eye? First, the chance to rub elbows with wax figures of music icons and movie stars at Madame Tussauds—perfect for those Instagram moments. Second, the unlimited hop-on hop-off bus gives the freedom to explore New York’s landmarks at your own pace, from Times Square to the Statue of Liberty. Lastly, the combination offers great value with a 10% discount when bundling activities, making it budget-friendly for a full day of fun.

A potential consideration is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan how to reach the meeting points. For travelers new to NYC or those short on time, this is a flexible way to see a lot without the hassle of planning individual tickets. Overall, it’s well-suited for first-time visitors, pop culture fans, or anyone wanting a taste of both iconic sights and local flavor.

Good To Know

• Flexibility: Hop-on hop-off buses allow you to tailor your day around your interests and pace.
• Value: Bundling Madame Tussauds with the bus tour saves you money and time.
• Authentic Fun: The wax figures and interactive exhibits at Madame Tussauds offer countless photo opportunities.
• City Insights: The digital commentary in multiple languages makes navigating NYC educational and easy.
• Convenience: The 24-hour ticket covers all the major neighborhoods and landmarks for a full day of exploration.
• Accessibility: The bus and Madame Tussauds are wheelchair accessible, broadening the experience for more travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Madame Tussauds in Times Square

Located centrally in the heart of Times Square, Madame Tussauds is a standout stop for anyone interested in pop culture and celebrity history. The 85,000 square feet of wax figures feature over 5 floors of stars, sports legends, and political figures.

You’ll find lifelike figures of Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston, Audrey Hepburn, and even the Kardashians, allowing fans to pose and snap photos right alongside their idols. One of the most praised aspects is the interactive experiences—like walking the catwalk during New York Fashion Week or stepping into the Marvel Universe for a 4D superhero adventure. Reviewers often mention how the figures are so detailed that it’s easy to forget they’re wax, and many appreciate the variety, from music icons to world leaders.

The Marvel Superheroes 4D Experience is a hit, adding a fun, immersive element to the visit. The experience is perfect for both families and pop culture enthusiasts. Some reviewers note that lines can get lengthy, but the ticket’s skip-the-line feature helps avoid frustration.

Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour

The second highlight is the open-top double-decker bus, which provides panoramic views of the city. The downtown loop lasts around 90 minutes and covers key neighborhoods like SoHo, Chinatown, Little Italy, Battery Park, and the Financial District. Buses run every 10-15 minutes, so you’re never waiting long.

The commentary—available in multiple languages—adds context, making the sightseeing richer. We loved the way the bus routes take you past iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Charging Bull. For those interested in history or architecture, this narration is a bonus, offering tidbits that make the sights more meaningful.

The hop-on hop-off system means you can spend as much or as little time at each stop as you like. It’s ideal for a day when you want flexibility, whether stopping for photos, exploring neighborhoods, or grabbing a quick bite.

Combining the Experiences

One of the biggest advantages of this package is the seamless integration. You can visit Madame Tussauds during a dedicated time slot, then hop on the bus to see more of the city. While you need to activate your tickets at specific points (either via the app or at the 7th Ave & W 48th St location), the process is straightforward, and many reviews mention the convenience of the digital commentary and real-time bus tracking.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Additional Highlights and Tips

• Statue of Liberty, Empire State, 9/11 Memorial: These are among the key landmarks you can see from the bus route, or visit later if you have additional time.
• No hotel pickup: You’ll need to plan how to get to the start points, but most central locations are easily accessible via public transit.
• Duration & Timing: With a single day, you’ll need to plan your schedule carefully. Madame Tussauds is roughly 1-2 hours, and the bus loop can be completed in around 1.5 hours without stops. The flexibility allows you to spread out your sightseeing.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers appreciate the value and convenience, especially with the bundle discount. One review highlights the ease of using the Big Bus app, which helps track buses and plan your route, saving valuable time. Others mention that the wax museum is a must-see for pop culture fans, with the “most detailed wax figures” they’ve encountered.

Some note that lines at Madame Tussauds can be long, but the skip-the-line tickets are a big help. On the bus side, travelers praise the friendly drivers and well-maintained buses, though some suggest arriving early to avoid crowded spots during peak times.

Why This Tour Works Well

This package suits travelers who want a flexible and economical way to see many of NYC’s top sights without the need for multiple tickets or complicated planning. It’s especially good for first-timers eager to get a broad overview while enjoying some fun, Instagrammable moments.

If you love pop culture, the wax museum provides all the star power you need, while the open-top bus tour offers incredible views and insights into the city’s neighborhoods. The combination makes for a well-rounded day, blending entertainment with sightseeing.

However, if your time is very limited or you prefer guided tours with a dedicated guide rather than self-guided exploration, this might feel a bit too freeform. But for those who enjoy independence and spontaneous stops, this experience is a winner.

The Sum Up

The New York: Madame Tussauds and Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour offers a compelling way to pack a day with fun, iconic sights, and star-studded moments. For around $100, you get the chance to interact with wax figures, explore neighborhoods at your own pace, and capture plenty of memorable photos—all without breaking the bank.

It’s a particularly good choice for first-time visitors, pop culture fans, and travelers who value flexibility. The combination of attractions, the convenience of the hop-on hop-off system, and the option to bundle for savings make it a practical and enjoyable option for a busy day in NYC.

If you’re looking for an easy, self-paced way to explore the city and indulge in some celebrity fun, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to plan your start point ahead of time, as hotel pickups aren’t included, and be prepared for a full day of sightseeing that balances the energetic buzz of Times Square with the iconic skyline.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your transport to the meeting point. Most central locations are accessible via public transit or walking.

How do I activate my tickets?
You can activate your tickets through the Big Bus app by entering your booking reference or by redeeming your voucher with Big Bus staff at 7th Ave & W 48th St or with a driver at any stop.

Are the buses wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the hop-on hop-off buses are wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs to explore.

What landmarks can I see from the bus?
From the bus, you’ll see major sights including Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and the 9/11 Memorial, among others.

How long is the Downtown Loop?
The Downtown Loop lasts approximately 90 minutes, covering neighborhoods like SoHo, Little Italy, Chinatown, and the Financial District, with buses arriving every 10-15 minutes.

Is there a guided tour or commentary?
Yes, digital commentary in multiple languages is available, providing insights into the city’s history, neighborhoods, and landmarks during the bus ride.

In summary, this combination tour provides a balanced, fun-packed day in New York for those who like to explore at their own pace, with a dash of celebrity glamour thrown in. Perfect for making the most of a single day in the city!

You can check if your dates are available here: