Top 10 Best Tours in New York City

New York City is a captivating destination for tourists worldwide. “The Big Apple” offers diversity in its culture, sights, and endless entertainment options.

The tours in our post are highly rated by customers, and are guaranteed to give you something a bit different from the usual touristy destinations. Some of these tours are private, the majority guided, and you can choose from one a variety of possibilities.

Make sure you read the outstanding reviews by other tourists before making a purchase. Our list has something for everyone. If you enjoy exploring museums, parks, or historical institutions, or prefer open-air tours in a vehicle, you’ll find our list filled with detailed information about such tours to assist you in your decision-making.

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Key Reasons to Visit to New York City:

  • Iconic Landmarks: From the Statue of Liberty to Times Square, NYC is home to world-famous landmarks that define its character.
  • Cultural Diversity: Immerse yourself in a melting pot of cultures, reflected in neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Harlem.
  • Broadway Shows: Experience the magic of Broadway with its spectacular theatrical productions and musicals.
  • Museums and Art Galleries: Explore world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
  • Culinary Delights: Indulge in a diverse culinary scene, from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.
  • Shopping Paradise: Shopaholics rejoice with famous shopping districts like Fifth Avenue and trendy boutiques in SoHo.

For history buffs, art enthusiasts, foodies, and fashionistas, New York City has something for everyone. Plan your visit to this dynamic metropolis and create lasting memories amid its vibrant energy and endless possibilities.


Why Choose From Among Our Featured Tours?

We carefully selected these tours to ensure an unforgettable experience in the heart of New York City. Our criteria included:

  • Iconic Attractions: Each tour features must-visit landmarks like the Empire State Building, Museum of the City of New York, and more.
  • Local Expertise: Guided by knowledgeable locals, these tours offer insights into the city’s rich history, art, and culture.
  • Diverse Experiences: From daytime exploration to nighttime adventures, our tours cater to various preferences and interests.
  • Favorable Reviews: Positive feedback from fellow travelers attests to the quality and enjoyment of these curated experiences.
  • Accessibility: We prioritize tours that accommodate different needs, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.

These handpicked experiences ensure an unforgettable journey through the heart of The Big Apple. From iconic attractions to off-the-beaten-path adventures, our recommended tours offer a diverse range of experiences for every preference. Try out one of these handpicked tours and immerse yourself in the magic and vibrancy of New York City!


Tourists exploring midtown Manhattan during a tour


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Empire State Building Ticket

Marvel at the iconic Empire State Building with a visit that includes access to the 86th-floor observatory and the immersive exhibits on the 2nd floor. This combo ticket offers unobstructed 360-degree views of New York City, showcasing landmarks such as Central Park, the Hudson River, and Times Square. Dive into the building’s history through interactive displays and augmented reality viewfinders on the 80th floor. You’ll also have the option to upgrade for skip-the-line access and explore the 102nd floor for even more breathtaking views. This experience, available every day of the year, provides a quintessential New York City experience.

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The Museum of the City of New York, situated at 1220 5th Ave, is a cultural haven celebrating the vibrant tapestry of New York City. Open daily, it captures the essence of the city’s art and history through its rotating exhibits, permanent collection, and family-friendly events. With a 1930s red-brick exterior adorned with neo-Georgian detail, the museum showcases memorabilia from Broadway, historic photographs, and graffiti paintings. Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of New York City with a general admission ticket to the Museum of the City of New York. With this pre-booked ticket, you can skip the long lines and dive straight into the fascinating exhibits that showcase the city’s past, present, and future. Discover iconic artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring to life the dynamic evolution of New York City. Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, or social history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this renowned museum. Plus, with flexible scheduling, you can visit at a time that suits your itinerary. Experience the best of the Big Apple’s cultural heritage with this hassle-free admission ticket.

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New York City at Night Bus Tour

This night bus tour, operated by USA Guided Tours NYC, is priced from $59.00. The 4-hour experience includes a guided evening bus tour past illuminated landmarks such as Times Square and Rockefeller Center. Participants also enjoy short guided walks in High Line Park and Grand Central Station. The package provides expert local guides, transportation by a climate-controlled bus, and optional add-on tickets for the Top of The Rock Observation Deck at $35 per person. The meeting point is 770 7th Ave. Travelers have praised the tour for its fun, intimate group setting, recommending it as a great way to start a visit to New York City.

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Midtown Manhattan Tour with Skip the Line MoMA Entry Semi-Private

Discover the architectural and historical wonders of Midtown Manhattan with a semi-private walking tour that includes skip-the-line entry to the MoMA. Led by a professional tour guide, explore iconic landmarks like the Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park, and the New York Public Library. With a maximum group size of eight guests, enjoy a personalized experience as you learn about the rich history and architecture of this vibrant neighborhood. The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours and will run rain or shine. After the guided portion, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the MoMA at your own pace. With convenient meeting and pickup locations, this tour offers a hassle-free way to delve into the heart of New York City’s Midtown district.

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Dyker Heights Brooklyn Christmas Lights Tour

This tour provides a festive and enchanting experience during the holiday season in New York City. Priced from $60.00, the 4-hour tour takes you to the neighborhoods of Dyker Heights and Bay Ridge in Brooklyn, where Christmas decorations are exceptionally elaborate. The tour departs from 1651 Broadway, near Times Square, and concludes in the Greater Times Square area. With convenient round-trip transportation, you’ll witness stunning Christmas displays, beautifully lit homes, and festive streets. The tour also offers views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline at night. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The tour has received positive reviews, with an overall rating of 4.5 based on over 300 reviews on Viator and TripAdvisor.

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Top of the Rock Observation Deck New York City

Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of New York City with a comprehensive guided tour that covers the city’s top attractions. Departing from Midtown Manhattan, you’ll embark on a journey via a climate-controlled bus and the Staten Island Ferry, passing by iconic landmarks like the 9/11 Memorial, Central Park, and Rockefeller Center. Snap memorable photos of Lady Liberty, Ellis Island, and the city skyline from the ferry, and gain insights into the history and culture of NYC from your expert local guide. With bottled water provided, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour offers a hassle-free way to experience the best of the Big Apple in just six hours.

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New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour

Experience the best of New York City on a comprehensive guided tour, starting in Midtown Manhattan. This tour takes you to iconic landmarks such as Times Square, Central Park, and Rockefeller Center via a climate-controlled bus, with informative commentary from a local expert guide. You’ll also enjoy a luxury ferry cruise, passing by the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, with breathtaking views of the city skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. With convenient pickup, bottled water provided, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour offers a hassle-free way to explore the Big Apple’s highlights in just six hours.

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New York City One World Observatory Admission Ticket

Soar above the iconic New York City skyline with the “NYC One World Observatory Ticket.” Choose from various options, including skip-the-line entry and an optional upgrade for a comprehensive experience. Marvel at breathtaking 360-degree views from the western hemisphere’s tallest building, One World Trade Center. Learn about the skyscraper’s construction and enjoy interpretive art installations showcasing NYC’s history. Benefit from additional perks like priority lanes, an interactive iPad experience, and exclusive access to the observatory’s most captivating features. This ticket, available year-round, ensures you witness the city unfold beneath you, a spectacle that transcends time.

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The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York City

The Big Apple Helicopter Tour of New York is a thrilling aerial adventure that provides an unparalleled perspective of New York City’s iconic landmarks. This helicopter tour offers a bird’s-eye view of landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square, and the Empire State Building. With experienced pilots guiding the journey, participants can enjoy the breathtaking cityscape and capture stunning photos. The tour’s immersive narration enhances the experience, providing insights into the history and significance of each landmark. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a unique and memorable way to witness the grandeur of The Big Apple from above.

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CARRIAGE RIDE (VIP – PRIVATE) in CENTRAL PARK SINCE 1964™

The “CARRIAGE RIDE (VIP – PRIVATE) in CENTRAL PARK SINCE 1964™” offers an exclusive and private horse-drawn carriage experience through Central Park in New York City. Priced at $18.99 per group (up to 1 person), the tour allows you to enjoy the park’s highlights and famous locations featured in movies and TV shows. You can book online or call (888) 651-9785, with options for reserving now and paying later. The experience is approximately 50 minutes, and you can secure your spot while staying flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time. The meeting point is at 200 Central Park S, and the activity concludes at the same location. The tour is private, providing a personalized experience, and blankets are provided if the weather is cold. This carriage ride is a a unique way to explore Central Park.

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