CitySightseing NYC vs. Big Bus New York

It can be tricky to know where to start when navigating New York, so why not get a great overview with one of these open-top bus sightseeing tours? This way, you can hop off wherever you'd like to explore at your convenience. Read on for our rundown on two main bus operators.

By Casey Makovich
Published: May 16, 2024
New York open top bus

What's the best Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour in New York City? Depends on what you're looking for. There are several tour bus companies in NYC - we've compared the two most popular hop-on hop-off bus tours to highlight the differences and help you choose the one that's right for you.

We'll tell you about the major differences between Big Bus New York vs. City Sightseeing, so you can choose one that is right for your New York trip, depending on what you want to see and do - and a few other factors.

The basics and what's included with your ticket

Big Bus New York

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  • Ranked #1 on TripAdvisor! Big Bus consistently ranks highest for customer satisfaction.
  • Live narration: Big Bus is the only New York hop-on hop-off bus tour company with live, licensed tour guides on every bus who provide an interactive tour experience and point out all of the sights along the way, making sure you don't miss a thing.
  • Languages available: All buses offer pre-recorded commentary in 10 languages.
  • Trip-planning tools: All Big Bus hop-on hop-off tours come with access to a free mobile app that includes customizable maps, bus timetables, and information about the city's top sights.
  • Ticket duration: Bus tour tickets are valid for one calendar day unless activated after 3:00 pm, in which case they would be valid for a 24-hour period.
  • Tour routes: Big Bus tours feature 3 routes with their standard tickets (Uptown, Downtown, and Midtown) with the opportunity to add the Brooklyn Tour or Night Tour at highly discounted rates.
  • WiFi: Each bus features FREE WiFi onboard.
  • Hours of operation: Buses run from 8:00 am - 6:00 pm every day.

City Sightseeing Tickets:
 

  • Languages available: All buses offer pre-recorded commentary in 12 languages.
  • Ticket duration: Standard City Sightseeing tickets are valid for 48 hours.
  • Tour routes: Standard City Sightseeing tours feature 2 routes with their standard tickets (Uptown and Downtown).
  • Extras: Each ticket includes a free 90-minute night tour on the bus, access to a 4-stop hop-on hop-off ferry tour, and a ticket to your choice of either the NYC Museum or the New York Historic Society.
  • Hours of operation: Buses run from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm every day.

New York bus route comparison

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Big Bus:

A Big Bus New York ticket gets you access to 2 routes

  • Uptown: includes stops at Theater District, Columbus Circle, American Museum of Natural History, Lincoln Center Plaza, Guggenheim, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Central Park, The Frick Museum, and more.
  • Downtown: includes stops at Times Square, Fifth Avenue, Empire State Building, Flat Iron District, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Chinatown, Little Italy, Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall, Lower East Side, United Nations, Rockefeller Plaza, Central Park, Battery Park (where you can get a ferry to the Statue of Liberty), and more.

City Sightseeing:

A City Sightseeing ticket gets you access to 2 routes (+ a nighttime tour):

  • Uptown: includes stops at Hell's Kitchen, Theater District, Columbus Circle, American Museum of Natural History, Upper West Side, Guggenheim, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Central Park, and more.
  • Downtown: includes stops at Times Square, Empire State Building, Flat Iron District, Greenwich Village, SoHo, Chinatown/Little Italy, Battery Park, Lower East Side, Rockefeller Plaza, Central Park, and more.
  • Night Tour: the night tour is not a hop-on hop-off tour but a way to see the sights at night.

Let's recap our NYC bus tour comparison:

Bus tour of New York

Overview: Both New York City hop-on hop-off bus tours provide an easy and convenient way to get a feel for the city, see some of the top sights, and learn a bit about the city's important history and culture. You'll get a comprehensive overview of the city and get a feel for the city layout.

Both run on fairly frequent intervals, so hopping on or off is easy. 

Routes included: Big Bus includes a Midtown route, which covers Midtown Manhattan to the western side of the Manhattan peninsula, which City Sightseeing bus routes do not, while City Sightseeing bus routes include a route through Brooklyn, which Big Bus does not (though a Brooklyn route is available as an add-on at a significant discount for ticket holders).

Hours of operation: City Sightseeing standard tickets allow you to hop on and off for 48 hours while Big Bus standard tickets are 1 calendar day (unless you redeem your ticket after 3:00 pm, in which case it will be valid for 24 hours), but Big Bus' hours of operation are significantly longer than those of City Sightseeing's bus. 

Customer preference: Big Bus is the #1 ranked bus tour on both Viator and TripAdvisor. 

Ways to save on New York bus tour tickets: 

Both Big Bus and City Sightseeing New York bus tours are available attraction choices on New York sightseeing passes.

Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour tickets are available on:

City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Tour tickets are available on:

  • New York City Sightseeing Pass: an all-inclusive pass that includes tickets to the City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tour and admission to other local attractions.

See how you can save up to 50% on New York attractions

Discover our full line-up of New York attractions including The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock Observatory, the Statue of Liberty, and more.  

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

Casey Makovich
Go City Travel Expert

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Edge vs Empire State Building
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Edge vs Empire State Building - Compare Observation Decks

Batman Vs. Superman. Freddie Vs. Jason. Kramer Vs. Kramer. It seems that, as a species, we have a fascination with face-offs. We even have a classic 1997 action thriller named after them! So, clearly, humans love a good head-to-head. In the spirit of healthy competition, let's pit two of New York's best attractions against one another and see which comes out top. The Edge Vs. the Empire State Building. Young blood versus the old guard. Youth Vs. Experience. Who will win? Does visiting both make you the real winner? Let's explore. Round 1. Fight! Edge Vs. Empire State Building: Backstories The Empire State Building likely needs no introduction. Once the proud owner of 'the world's tallest building' moniker, it has since been beaten by some ungodly tall creations in the past 50 years. Still, it's arguably one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet. At nearly 1,500ft tall, it towers over the rest of Manhattan like a beacon of capitalist excess. Around 4 million people ascend its many floors to look out over the city every year. So it's probably going to win the popularity contest. Image courtesy of Mike Van Moonlight/Shutterstock The Edge, on the other hand, is the guitarist of U2. Wait, that's not right. Just going to check our notes. No, this Edge is, in fact, a massive observation platform found in the gentrified redevelopment of Hudson Yards. Surrounded by new builds and moderno architecture, its tower of sights is unmissable. As it's so new, there isn't much backstory to mention here. But, given the comparisons between its name and a certain stadium-rock guitarist, one could only imagine there is some crossover there. Just to be clear, there isn't. We had to say that for legal reasons. But one can imagine. Edge Vs. Empire State Building: Cinema stylings Image courtesy of Drop of Light/Shutterstock The Empire State Building has a rather storied history on celluloid. Who could forget King Kong climbing the tower's summit with damsel in hand while planes pepper them with gunfire? But that's just one of many. In fact, it's likely one of the most photographed landmarks in cinematic history. How does Edge measure up? Well, given its relative infancy, not so well. In fact, no matter how hard we looked, we couldn't find a single film that featured it. However, while it may not be in any movies, you can actually watch movies up there. Yes, the Edge has its own outdoor cinema thanks to a partnership with NY's Museum of Modern Art. Beat that, Empire State Building! What can you do at Edge When you arrive, you'll likely want to see the view from the top and discover what all the fuss is about. So, head inside and ride the elevator a might 100 stories up. Then, step out onto the open-air viewing platform and see for yourself. Oh, did we mention that platform has a glass floor? No? Well, if you're already up there, you'll learn the hard way. Once you're braving it, dare to sip some champagne and look out on the city's skyline in wonder. Take some snaps too, because a chance like this should not go begging. Then, when you're done soaking up the views, head down into Hudson Yards. You'll find plenty of places to eat, drink, and even shop in this new development, so go ham. What can you do at the Empire State Building While it may be tempting to head straight to the top of the Empire State Building, settle down. Take it slow and soak it all in. Start at the bottom, where you'll be greeted by the recently-restored Art Deco lobby, which boasts 24-karat gold and aluminum leaf ceiling murals. Enough opulence! Time to move on. Next, immerse yourself in the Empire State's interactive museum, which features a dozen galleries that explore the history of the building, from its conception and creation through to today. Selfies ahoy with the large King Kong statue on display. Then, head up to the 80th floor and wander the art exhibits that are all dedicated the icon of the NY skyline. Now, yes, it's finally time to make your way to the summit and experience the best views in the city. You'll get a 360-degree view of the city that is as Grammable as any other skyline. Come rain, shine, or freezing temperatures, your time in the summit will be aided by state-of-the-art heaters that will keep you warm and toasty during New York's most arctic months. How to get to Edge For starters, head towards Hudson Yards. You can get there on the subway by taking the Number 7 through Times Square to Penn Station. Bus-wise, the M34-SBS, M12, and M11 bus lines stop within a few minutes walk of the tower. You could even hop on two wheels and bike there. Cycle to the Hudson River Park along the West Side Highway and follow the trail down the Hudson Yards. Easy, peasy, and good for the ol' heart! How to get to Empire State Building If you're in New York City, you're halfway there. However, there's no need to live on a prayer, because it's pretty easy to see it with the eye test. Just look up from most places in the city, because you'll be able to orient yourself with no problem! If you're heading in from further outside the city center, the nearest metro stations are Herald Square and Penn Station. Or, if you're getting the train, disembark at Grand Central, and it's a short 10-minute walk from the station. We've even got a blog dedicated to the best times to visit the Empire State Building. So, if you're not sure when to head there, have a look and see what we suggest! Save on New York Activities and Attractions The battle is over. But who won? That's up to you to decide. No matter who reigns victorious in the Edge Vs. Empire State Building face-off, you should definitely check out both when you visit New York. And, when you're in the city that never sleeps, make sure your itinerary is loaded up for a full 24 hours with Go City. Thanks to our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see Edge, the Empire State Building, and New York's best of the rest at one low price!
Dom Bewley
Blog

Things to do in Flushing   

New York, New York. A city with such strong cultural prowess and popularity, it was named twice – and with absolutely no explanation needed. Though people tend to fall in love with the city, they stay for everything that the state has to offer. Whilst the surrounding areas might receive less attention, they present a wide array of interesting things to see and do. Known for its fascinating history and diversity in culture, Flushing is one of our favorite places to visit outside of the city. Whether you’re looking to view the oldest house of worship in the country, try out some of the best Chinese cuisine in Flushing, or see an installation of the whole of New York, you’ll find many reasons to love the area. We’ve spent a lot of time in Flushing and are sharing some of our favorite attractions and points of exploration here. So, grab a notebook and get ready to jot some things down! Whatever you choose to do, we promise that you won’t leave disappointed. And when you're done discovering why Flushing should be next on your NYC bucketlist, discover how Go City can help you discover the best of NYC and help you to save on your sightseeing! Explore the Area Without a doubt, New York is widely recognized for its cosmopolitan nature and the great history, culture, and of course, food that comes along with it. In an area as sprawling and diverse as New York, many Chinatowns exist, but trust us – Flushing’s is the real deal! Standing out as the largest Chinese enclave in the state, this place has great shopping, spas, and an endless array of exciting restaurants to choose from. But the best part? The food here is beyond affordable. Dig into a generous plating of chow mein, try all-you-can eat dim sum, and after all is said and done, have a mooncake – the choice is yours! Another one of our favorite things to do in Flushing is visiting the Lewis Latimer House Museum. A modest Victorian house with sweet brick red accents, this place once served as a home to the African-American inventor until his time of death. Today, you can visit to learn about Latimer’s life and greatest achievements, as well as other black scientists. Walking around the museum is a great privilege, and you can feel the history living well within the walls of this humble home, where some of the great influential discoveries and inventions of humanity were made. As fascinating as it is enjoyable, the museum provides a great educational experience for those of all ages. Get Cultured There’s nothing quite like catching a play with friends or family after a long day of exploring. Luckily, Flushing presents no shortage of great performance spaces to satisfy all of your artsy needs! Adapted from the New York State Pavillion, the Queens Theatre has been recognized as the area’s primary playhouse for quite some time. Here, you’ll be able to see everything from classical plays and famous stand-ups to musical and dance performances all under the same roof. For lovers of the performed arts, this place is sure to deliver on all counts. New York is known for its fantastic cultural institutions, with Flushing being no exemption to the rule. Founded in 1972, the Queens Museum is home to a great collection of global contemporary art across a wide variety of styles. Upon entrance, you'll be immediately drawn in by artworks ranging from the ultra-modern and avant-garde right through to the totally bizarre. Still, the institution’s main draw is the Panorama of New York City, a room-size installation of the entirety of NYC in miniature, which is continuously updated. Other highlights include a massive map of the city's water supply system, a collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass, and memorabilia from the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs. Breaking away from the typical art gallery experience, the institute offers something a little quirkier and more fun for all of its visitors. Check Out Some of the Landmarks Those drawn to Flushing for history and culture will be in luck. Standing out for its fascinating background and undeniable beauty, the Hindu Temple Society is a total must-see for history lovers and architecture buffs alike. Built in the 1970s, this traditional house of worship is known as one of the first establishments of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors will no doubt be wowed by its impressive granite façade - but of course, that’s not all there is to see. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to view intricately carved stone columns and religious shrines. Whilst you’re there, we strongly recommend grabbing a bite at the canteen basement, which is known for serving up some of the finest Indian cuisine in the area. If you’re planning to make the visit, we recommend wearing modest dress as a mark of respect. If you’re looking to explore the history of the area – don't worry, we’ve got you covered! Established way back in the 1600s, Flushing is home to many beautiful venerable structures. Still, one of our favorite cultural treasures to visit in the area is the Old Quaker Meeting House for its unique background and the fascinating story that it tells. Built in 1694, the building is known as the oldest establishment of its kind in New York, and remains a house of worship right up to this very day. Inside, you’ll notice that the handcrafted floorboards and dark wooden benches reflect the modest nature of Quaker culture. Though it might seem simple and unassuming, we love this place for the wonderful history that it speaks. Explore further with Go City®. Ready to explore Flushing and New York's other vibrant neighborhoods? Discover the best bits with Go City. Our passes give sightseers the freedom to do what they want, when they want, whilst making incredible savings. Our passes include top attractions, as well as New Yorks hidden gems, all handpicked by our local experts.
Sarah Harris
Blog

Things to do Alone in New York

In many ways, New York is the perfect destination for the solo traveler. Aside from its undeniable beauty, the city presents no shortage of fun and interesting things to do. Whether you’re looking to learn about the history of America, view some world-class art, or walk the High Line, you’ll find countless reasons to love the Big Apple. In a city presenting so many opportunities for adventure, you’ll never be bored. If you aren't sure where to start, have a read through our guide of the best things to do in the area. With Go City, you can see more, for less. See the Sites Travelling alone provides great opportunity for sightseeing and discovery. Gifted to America by the French in 1884, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States. To marvel at this historic landmark up close, take the ferry over to Liberty Island. Bearing a torch in her right hand above her crowned head, this neoclassical sculpture stands out as a true emblem of freedom and possibility. Whilst you’re there, you should take time to visit Ellis Island, since these two attractions come hand in hand. Once the United States' main immigration point of entry, the area now presents many interesting activities for those looking to learn more about the development of the United States. Check out the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum, delve deeper in American history with a Hard Hat Tour, or take a boat trip around the area. Presenting such an interesting background that’s still relevant to this day, this site is a moving experience for many visitors. Some things are perhaps best enjoyed on your own – like the spectacular architecture of the city, for instance. Standing out against the towering skyscrapers and modern structures, the Brooklyn Bridge is a mainstay of NYC culture with its own claim to fame. Built in the late 19th century, it was the first roadway to connect Manhattan with Brooklyn and is recognizable today for its stunning gothic arches. Set aside an hour or so to walk the bridge and check out the spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. Don’t forget to bring your phone to capture the magic! Get Cultured If you’re looking for art and culture, New York City is the place to be! A well-recognized hub of innovation and creative thought, the city boasts some of the best galleries in the world. Located along the Museum Mile, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a total must-see for all artsy types. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, the museum exhibits over 5000 years of art across all disciplines. Highlights include Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Monet’s Water Lillies, and Pablo Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d'Avignon. Another one of our favorite things to do alone in the city is visit the Morgan Library. Formerly the private collection of financier J. Pierpont Morgan, this place is recognized as one of the largest on-paper repositories in the world. Indeed, situated in a striking palatial building on Madison Avenue, you can view an expansive collection of art across a wide variety of disciplines, including drawings, prints, and musical works spanning from 4000 B.C. right through to the 21st century. Highlights include Charles Dickens’s manuscript of A Christmas Carol, the only manuscript of Milton's Paradise Lost, and letters written by Jane Austen. Going to see a play of your own choosing can be pretty liberating. Luckily, New York is brimming with options for theater lovers - no matter what your style may be! If you’re a musical fan, Broadway should be right up your alley. Attracting millions of visitors each year, this iconic playhouse is recognized for shaping the landscape of popular theater as we know it today. Still, if you’re looking to see something a little different, you’ll have plenty of places to choose from. Located in Greenwich Village, the Cherry Lane Theatre is known for being the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City. Here, you’ll find everything from total classics and tragedies to side-splitting comedies and political works all under one roof. Whether you’re an actor, a drama student, or a dedicated fan of the performed arts, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Relax! New York, we love you, but you can be a little tiring sometimes! For those looking for a refuge among the mayhem, don’t worry – we've got you covered. Running from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District right through to Hudson Yards, the High Line offers visitors a great chance to soak up the city without too much of a fuss. There are flowers, benches, and public art installations to be enjoyed. Go for a casual stroll, have a picnic, or sit back and enjoy the sunset over the skyline – the world’s your oyster! Visiting a market is a fantastic solo travel activity and New York has some of the best. Drawing together artisans and tastemakers from all over the city, Chelsea Market offers a rewarding experience for any visitor. Its main draw is its vibrant food hall, which has over 30 vendors selling dishes and ingredients from around the world. The market also has many interesting shops and kiosks to explore. Browse the book stores, check out the jewelry, pick up a jar of raw wildflower honey, or watch an interactive art installation at Artechouse. Hey, what’s not to love? Forever interesting and bustling with life, New York is the perfect destination for the solo traveler. Whether you love art, history, or just simply want to admire the cityscape, the Big Apple is where you want to be. Looking to learn more about the background of the city? Head over to Ellis Island for a trip back in time. Are you fostering a deep love of the performed arts? Make a trip to Broadway for some of the best live entertainment in the country. Harnessing a sweet tooth? Check out Chelsea Market for some delicious eats. Wherever your interests may lie, New York has plenty of things to do, and even more to see. Explore the city to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris

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