Just Vibe Houston

10 Exhilarating Bus Tours To Experience In Houston

Bus Tours are common in this modern era because of their availability and package holiday. Houston is a fascinating city with excellent tourist attractions including museums, beaches, restaurants, historic sites, and abundant live entertainment venues. To travel around the city, you will require reliable means. Bus tours save you the hustle of exploring without being afraid of missing your destination. In this article, we have researched and compiled the best Houston Bus tours to experience the city for a fun-filled moment.

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1. Galveston Island Tour

Houston Bus Tours To Experience The City

Galveston is a popular spot in Houston thanks to its major tourist attractions. Visiting this place is fun and requires comfortable means of transport. Galveston Island Tour is a private Houston bus tour offered to experience the island. The vehicle is air-conditioned and during your experience, you will visit The Strand, The Seawall, and Port of Galveston.

As one of the best Houston bus tours to experience the city, the Galveston Island Tour is unique with price starting from $121.74.

The tours take about 1-2 hours travelling as a group. In case of a refund, you will cancel your tour at least 24 hours in advance.

Book your bus tour: https://www.getyourguide.com/

2. Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern Guided History Tour

houston bus tour

Discover one of the best attractions in the city by booking this bus tour. Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern History Tour gives travelers with an opportunity to learn about the architecture of this unique space. The tour is informative and entertaining with an expert tour of the underground cistern and subterranean architectural wonderland. Also, you will learn the history behind one of the country’s largest cisterns.

3. Astroville Best of Houston City

houston bus tour

Experience the best Houston bus tours that are comfortable and worth your cash. Astroville Best of Houston City is a luxurious bus tour with efficient orientation for first-timers. You will experience the beautiful view of Houston’s historical landmarks , green spaces, lavish river oaks mansions, Houston’s downtown skyline, and the graffiti park .

Astroville Houston bus tours allow a maximum of ten people for 2 hours 30 minutes charging $45 per adult. In addition, transport is by conditioned Mercedes Benz sprinter van with a professional driver. They also offer a professional tour guide, bottled water, and photography .

Book your bus tour: https://www.tripadvisor.com/

4. Houston City Tours

Houston Bus Tours To Experience The City

Houston City Tours offers historical highlights and cultural insights about the city. It is one of the best Houston bus tours, offering guides to places such as the Downtown Aquarium , historic city Hall, Graffiti Park, and Market Square.

With tour guides available on weekends, this bus tour charges an admission fee of $39.95. For mapping and orientation, you will book as a group of 50 people and enjoy the tour for one hour.

5. Food Walking Tour in Houston Montrose

houston bus tour

Houston Bus Tours has something for every one of your passions and professions. Whether you are a chef or passionate about cooking, you will enjoy the tours. Food Walking Tour in Houston Montrose is a fascinating tour to satisfy your culinary experience .

This bus tour, walks you to four tasty restaurants to experience diverse food flavors in the Montrose neighborhood . You will enjoy favorites of Mexican dishes, and southern foods and finish with crafted cocktails wines , or ice creams . The tour charges $95 per person in a group of 15 people for three hours. Savory snacks, local handpicked food, and refreshments are offered during the tour.

6. Houston City Lights Tour

Houston Bus Tours To Experience The City

For one hour, hop into an incredible double-decker bus in Houston and be ready to experience the city. Houston City Lights Tour is a thrilling bus tour offering travels through Allen Parkway, the downtown Historic District , Buffalo Bayou, and River Oaks District.

As you enjoy your ride, the tour guide provides informative information about this place while sipping your complimentary hot chocolate . In addition, lap blankets are available for warmth.

7. Kemah Waterfront Day Trip

Houston Bus Tours To Experience The City

Discover the incredible scenery of Kemah Boardwalk by booking the best Houston Bus Tour in the city. Kemah Waterfront Day Trip is one of Houstonians’ favorite bus tours offering doorstep pickup from your hotel.

For $475 you will spend five hours enjoying various games , restaurants, games, and stunning destinations. During your trip, the bus tours offer bottled water, air-conditioned chauffeured luxury vehicles, refreshments, and wheelchair accessibility.

8. Houston CityPass

houston bus tour

Enjoy the best Houston bus tours that are affordable and luxurious. Houston CityPass is a popular bus tour that offers an opportunity for groups to explore the top five attractions in the city. With an admission fee of $69, you will explore the Museum of Fine Arts, Downtown Aquarium, Houston Zoo, Children’s Museum of Houston , and Houston Museum of Natural Science .

Houston CityPass Bus tour lasts nine days and has a mobile ticket for reservations. In addition, they offer Kemah Boardwalk all-day pass for admissions to special events or exhibitions. Don’t forget to bring your drinks and refreshments during the tour.

9. Houston Sightseeing Tour

Houston Bus Tours To Experience The City

Explore the city with the best Houston Bus Tours that are easily accessible. Houston Sightseeing Tour is of a kind bus tour. It offers you the opportunity to experience the Lone Star States, the modern and historic sides of the city, and Galveston on the Gulf of Mexico.

This tour allows families and individuals to admire and explore downtown Houston by double-decker bus. Their services are modern rated from $139.95 per adult. Houston Sightseeing Tour has air-conditioned vehicles to relieve you from the city’s heat and the tour takes about two hours.

10. Private Houston Brewery Tour

There are a lot of beautiful things to experience in Houston. If you are passionate about wines, cocktails , or beers, this bus tour is perfect for you. Private Houston Brewery is an incredible tour offering thriving brewery scenes . During your bus tour, a local guide is available to take you through personalized bar crawl, cozy pubs, and craft breweries.

Private Houston bus tours have an eco-friendly electric cart to enjoy the colorful murals on your way. Places you will visit include Downtown Historic District Market Square at a charge fee of $57 per adult. Remember the bus tour does not offer alcoholic beverages . The experience lasts for 2 hours with service animals included .

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houston bus tour

Houston City Double Decker Bus Tours

Category: Tours

1302 Dallas St Houston, TX 77002 832-388-8434

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houston bus tour

Houston City Tours  is a double-decker bus from London that tours around the streets of Houston at 6 key spots. This hop on-hop off bus is perfect for anyone who like to tour at their own pace. 

Pick-up Locations

  • GRB Convention Center
  • Market Square Park
  • City Hall Visitor Center
  • Downtown Aquarium
  • Hermann Park
  • Museum District

All-Day Pass:

$29.95  Children 1-11 years old

34.95  Adult 12-64 years old

$29.95  Senior or Military

$99.95  Family Pack, two adults, up to three children.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Texas (TX) » 15 Best Houston Tours

15 Best Houston Tours

With a population of slightly more than 2.3 million at the time of the last census, Houston is Texas’ most populous city and the fourth-largest in the country.

It’s also always been a place where fortunes were made and lost, mostly in the oil and gas industries that tend to experience booms and busts pretty regularly.

Houston is a big aerospace center too. It’s also full of historic sites, trendy restaurants, shopping districts, and abundant live entertainment venues, so finding fun and educational ways to occupy your time while in the area shouldn’t be a problem.

1. NASA Space Center Tour

Space Center Houston

Though it’s technically outside Houston city limits, the NASA-Johnson Space Center is the area’s biggest tourist draw.

Often referred to as Space City USA, this full-day tour is a great way to experience it in all its splendor.

Tour participants spend about six hours on-site, which means they get behind-the-scenes access and fascinating insights into the program’s history.

The tour includes a stop at the visitor center and museum, and a narrated tram excursion that’s a real blast for adults and kids alike.

There are a number of interactive exhibits along the way that tend to keep little ones engaged and entertained.

2. Culinary Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access

Culinary Food Tour of Downtown Houston

Houston boasts a variety of cultural and ethnic influences, and it draws tourists and business travelers from around the world.

Not surprisingly, the city is home to a hip food scene that’s definitely worth exploring, especially for foodies and amateur chefs.

This culinary tour of the downtown area is a great fit for travelers who want to experience many sides of the city at once.

Guests will visit a number of local restaurants and sample dishes from Latin and South America, Asia, and Europe. They’ll learn about the city’s unique history along the way.

They’ll also explore the country’s most extensive tunnel system—if they’re not squeamish and claustrophobic.

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3. Mural Tour by Electric Cart

Houston Mural

For a city with such a long history in the oil sector, there sure are a lot of tours that use electric vehicles.

Much like its variety of culinary influences, Houston boasts a vibrant art community, and the city is full of colorful murals that are worth checking out.

This electric cart mural tour is an excellent way for art lovers to get their fix without being stuck in a stuffy museum or gallery, and it’s a fun way to learn about the local culture as well.

The tour lasts about 1 ½ hours and visits dozens of murals in a number of neighborhoods.

4. Historic Downtown Pub Crawl

Pub Crawl

Pub crawls are fun events for the over 21 crowd, and merry revelers often meet like-minded travelers from all over the country and world.

This 3-hour downtown pub tour includes stops at four bars. Along the way, guests will learn about the neighborhoods they’re visiting and the city’s history as well.

It’s a great opportunity to rub elbows with locals, so don’t be shy about asking them for suggestions for unique things to see and do while in town.

Pool, pinball, and darts go great with adult beverages, and many guests head out to explore together after the tour is officially over.

5. Downtown Underground Tunnel Tour

Downtown Houston Tunnel System

The ground below Houston’s streets is a dizzying web of interconnected tunnels that run for nearly 10 miles.

Fascinating places to explore with an experienced guide, many of them are directly under Fortune 500 companies that reside in some of the city’s towering skyscrapers.

Stops also include a historic courthouse, the state capital, and some of the city’s swankiest hotels.

The tour lasts about two hours. Though its centerpieces are the tunnels, there’s ample time spent above ground as well. It’s a great way to see the city from a unique perspective and discover things to explore on your own later.

6. City Sightseeing Tour by Electric Cart

Houston, Texas

Electric carts are fun ways to explore a new city, and when matched with a knowledgeable and enthusiastic local guide, all the better.

This sightseeing tour lasts 1 ½ hours and includes stops at several historic sites, urban parks, colorful murals, and the now-shuttered Astrodome.

With a fleet of carts and available guides, tours can range from just a few to nearly 50 guests. They’re great for large families, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and corporate events.

Participants will have time to stop for photographs, and learn about Houston’s theater district, and where to eat and drink later on.

7. Hop-on-Hop-off Houston City Tour

Hop-on Houston City Tour

For travelers who’d rather see some of Houston’s most popular sites without wasting time on things that don’t interest them, this hop-on-hop-off city tour is probably just the ticket.

Depending on which option you choose, the tour pass is good for either one or two days.

The tour bus is reminiscent of the double-decker variety found in London. Stops include City Hall, the Downtown Aquarium, Theater District, Market Square, and the Fine Arts Museum – to name just a few.

Guests can choose what they want to explore and how much time they want to spend at each site.

8. Haunted Houston Ghost Walking Tour

Haunted Houston Walking Tour

Rumor has it that Houston’s got a vibrant ghost community, and many of its most active characters are readily seen after dark.

For the easily frightened, that’s bad news – but for lovers of the eerie and macabre, guided ghost tours are great ways to get a cheap thrill.

Covering about 1 ½ miles, this walking tour leads guests through a number of neighborhoods, each with its own dark and disturbing past.

Compared to some, this two-hour tour is relatively tame and is even appropriate for those traveling with little ones.

Food and drinks are available, but the cost isn’t included in the tour.

9. Apollo 13 Escape Room

Apollo 13 Escape Room

In recent years, escape rooms have become popular vacation activities, and compared to many tourist attractions, they’re very reasonably priced.

First-timers consistently rank them as great value, and they’re surprisingly exhilarating too.

The Apollo 13 Escape room is located in the midtown area and allows groups to test their teamwork and problem-solving skills in a NASA and space-themed environment.

The activity lasts an hour and includes non-alcoholic drinks, as well as ample time to take photos decked out in space gear in a lifelike control room.

Groups of between 6 and 12 are okay, but each participant must be at least ten-years-old.

10. Downtown Houston Bites & Sites Food Tour

Downtown Houston Bites & Sites Food Tour

For those with limited time, it may seem a bit overwhelming deciding what to see and do while in Houston.

Luckily, there are plenty of combo tours that allow visitors to make the most of their trip.

Houston is jam-packed with historical, cultural attractions, and restaurants of all stripes.

On this 3-hour tour, guests will experience all of the above under the guidance of a local food and history expert.

The tour provider’s restaurant partners offer a variety of vibrant cuisines, most of which are paired with vintage-style cocktails, beer, and wine, so plan on showing up with an empty stomach.

11. Houston Museum of Natural Science General Admission

Houston Museum of Natural Science

The weather in Houston in the summer can be notoriously hot and humid.

The city is full of outdoor attractions that are definitely worth checking out, but indoor ones like the Houston Museum of Natural Science are great alternatives.

The museum is home to the largest dinosaur display in the country. It includes tons of interactive exhibits that touch on Egyptology, local wildlife and environments, and entomology.

It’s an especially big hit with little ones, and general admission tickets allow guests to see things at their own pace. The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible and features a lovely on-site café as well.

12. Best 2-Hour City Tour

Minute Maid Park, Houston

You may be asking yourself if it’s possible to experience Houston in two hours.

Sounds pretty unlikely, but for those with just a few hours to spare, there’s really no better way to do just that than with this small group vehicle tour.

Guests will enjoy stops at some of the city’s premier attractions, like Market Square, Minute Maid Park, Buffalo Bayou, and the Astrodome.

Each tour includes the services of a friendly and knowledgeable local guide, who’ll describe the things you see and their significance.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 11 travelers and includes pickup and drop-off from area hotels.

13. Houston Sightseeing Tour and Galveston Day Trip

The Pleasure Pier, Galveston, Texas

Houston is an impressive city with more than two million residents. It’s also close enough to the Gulf of Mexico to make day trips to coastal towns like Galveston fun options for those who need a break from the chaotic urban setting.

This six-hour tour begins with a 90-minute tour of Houston’s hotspots by bus, after which guests will head to Galveston.

Galveston is full of historic charm, impressive Victorian Mansions on quiet streets, and tons of galleries, bars, and eateries.

Guests will have free time to explore on their own and may opt for a dolphin viewing boat tour or just relax under an umbrella by the water with a cool drink.

14. Houston Historic District Craft Cocktail Tour

Houston Historic District Craft Cocktail Tour

Much like the craft beer and small winery renaissances that have been taking place across the country in recent years, craft cocktails are making big comebacks as well.

Back in the prohibition days, Houston was full of shady speakeasies, where the music was loud and the bathtub gin flowed like water.

Those days are long gone, but for adult beverage aficionados, there’s a way to experience a bit of the past without breaking any laws.

This historic district craft cocktail tour includes stops at several downtown bars and restaurants featuring world-class drinks and food.

Each tour lasts about 2 ½ hours and includes a complimentary coffee at the end.

15. iFLY Houston Memorial Indoor Skydiving

IFLY Houston Memorial Indoor Skydiving

Indoor skydiving has significant advantages over the outdoor kind.

Primarily, it’s cheaper, more convenient, and never results in guests hitting the ground at 300 miles-per-hour because their chute failed to open.

Though you won’t technically need a guide to experience skydiving at iFLY, you’ll get all the gear and training you’ll need from their experienced staff before taking the plunge into the wind tunnel.

Prepaid tickets give you the option of visiting when you want, which will come in handy if you prefer to visit on days that are typically less crowded.

Each participant gets one-minute of free-fall time and a personalized certificate to take home.

15 Best Houston Tours:

  • NASA Space Center Tour
  • Culinary Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access
  • Mural Tour by Electric Cart
  • Historic Downtown Pub Crawl
  • Downtown Underground Tunnel Tour
  • City Sightseeing Tour by Electric Cart
  • Hop-on-Hop-off Houston City Tour
  • Haunted Houston Ghost Walking Tour
  • Apollo 13 Escape Room
  • Downtown Houston Bites & Sites Food Tour
  • Houston Museum of Natural Science General Admission
  • Best 2-Hour City Tour
  • Houston Sightseeing Tour and Galveston Day Trip
  • Houston Historic District Craft Cocktail Tour
  • iFLY Houston Memorial Indoor Skydiving

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BLACK HOUSTON TOURS

Our local bus tours offer a fun and convenient way to explore Black Houston. Local bus tours are offered one day a month, with a different theme each month. These include our Black Art, Black History, Black Culture, Black Business, Third Ward, and Juneteenth tours. On these tours you get to experience Houston like a true local, going to some of this city’s most important sites, eating delicious food, and meeting new people!

  • Sat, Nov 16 Location is TBD Black Houston Bus Tour Nov 16, 2024, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST Location is TBD In partnership with AFROTECH™ Conference 2024 Buy Tickets
  • Wed, Dec 18 John F. Kennedy International Airport Senegal Adventure: 10-Day Cultural and Scenic Tour Dec 18, 2024, 12:00 PM – Dec 28, 2024, 12:00 PM John F. Kennedy International Airport, Queens, NY 11430, USA Buy Tickets

houston bus tour

Bus from Houston, TX to Dallas, TX

More travel options, enjoy free onboard entertainment, reserve a seat, need to make a change, on this page, bus stations and stops in houston, tx, houston bus station (greyhound).

View this address on Google Maps

To view more info about this station, visit our page Houston Bus Station (Greyhound)

Downtown Houston (Gray St.)

To view more info about this station, visit our page Downtown Houston (Gray St.)

Houston Uptown/Upper Kirby

To view more info about this station, visit our page Houston Uptown/Upper Kirby

The Woodlands

To view more info about this station, visit our page The Woodlands

Houston (Agencia Autobuses)

To view more info about this station, visit our page Houston (Agencia Autobuses)

North Houston

To view more info about this station, visit our page North Houston

Baytown (Thompson & I-10 Service Rd)

To view more info about this station, visit our page Baytown (Thompson & I-10 Service Rd)

Bus stations and stops in Dallas, TX

Dallas bus station.

To view more info about this station, visit our page Dallas Bus Station

Downtown Dallas / Deep Ellum

To view more info about this station, visit our page Downtown Dallas / Deep Ellum

Dallas Market Center

To view more info about this station, visit our page Dallas Market Center

To view more info about this station, visit our page Richardson

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

To view more info about this station, visit our page Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

Discover all the places you can go

Choose from almost 2,300 destinations with Greyhound, FlixBus and our connecting partners!

Frequently asked questions

The bus trip from Houston to Dallas is about 239 miles long. The quickest trip with Greyhound takes 4 hours 10 minutes and you can expect only one stop.

Yes, night trip options are available from Houston to Dallas. Check out the route's schedule and choose the best option to suit your plans!

The Houston to Dallas bus starts from $26.49. Booking in advance, whether on the app or website, is the best way to get the most affordable bus travel. If you book online, you can choose to pay with a debit card or credit card on the Greyhound app or website. If you prefer, you can also pay in person with cash.

You can track the status of your Houston to Dallas bus using Greyhound's bus tracker . With this tool, you can see the real-time location of your bus and get updates on its departure and arrival times.

When traveling on the bus from Houston to Dallas with Greyhound, you can bring one carry-on bag with you (maximum 25 lbs, 16x12x7 inches). You can store one bag under the bus for free, and if you have a Flexible fare, the second bag stored under the bus is also free. You can also carry additional or bulky baggage for a supplementary charge. You can reserve extra baggage while booking your ticket on our website or app. Alternatively, you can add bulky items later through the 'Manage My Booking' section. If your departure is from a location with Greyhound personnel, you can book and pay for your extra luggage there. For more information, please refer to our baggage policy page here .

The last Greyhound bus to Dallas from Houston leaves at 7:00 pm.

Traveling by bus from Houston to Dallas with Greyhound is a convenient and environmentally responsible choice, as bus travel reduces traffic and emissions compared to traveling by car.

Onboard services available on Greyhound buses from Houston to Dallas include free Wi-Fi for all passengers, personal power outlets near every seat, reclining leather seats with footrests, extra legroom, overhead storage, and an on-board restroom.

Yes, on this website you can book both Greyhound and FlixBus tickets from Houston to Dallas. You can check both the Greyhound and FlixBus ride schedules once you select your departure city, destination city, and desired trip date.

Greyhound runs up to 9 rides per day from Houston to Dallas. You can search for your preferred departure date and check the schedule using the search bar above.

Greyhound buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts to assist passengers using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Each bus has space for two passengers with these devices. It's recommended to book your bus from Houston to Dallas in advance to ensure a spot. If you'd like to transfer to a regular seat, our drivers will stow your device for you. Service animals are also welcome on board our buses. For further details on accessibility and service animal policies, please check this link .

You can easily find the bus stops in Houston and in Dallas on this page: check the address and their location on the map!

The first Greyhound bus to Dallas from Houston leaves at 2:10 am.

Yes, weekend trip options are available from Houston to Dallas. Check out the route's schedule and chose the best option to suit your plans!

With Greyhound and FlixBus, you can conveniently reach 105 destinations from Dallas, including Houston, TX, Austin, TX, San Antonio, TX.

Planning Your Greyhound Bus Trip from Houston to Dallas?

How to book your bus ticket to dallas from houston, discover more popular bus connections.

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Onboard services are subject to availability

houston bus tour

Review: The Big Bus Tour in New York City

I absolutely loved the Big Bus Tour in New York City. It’s the best way to go sightseeing in an open-top, hop-on hop-off, top-rated tour and explore the best New York attractions !

If this is your first-time visiting New York and you want to see all the top landmarks, this double-decker tour bus will take you there.

The Big Bus Tour in New York

You may be wondering if a hop-on hop-off bus is worth it. Absolutely, yes!

If you consider the time and money spent on transportation costs, waiting for buses, navigating the subway (which can be confusing for visitors), and getting from one point of interest to another, it is worth every dollar!

I had a great visit to New York City on Big Bus Tour. My goal was to show the city to some friends from Italy who were visiting the US for the first time.

Since we only had about two days to spend together, the hop-on hop-off was undoubtedly the best decision.

From our experience, we’ll answer commonly asked questions about the Hop-on Hop-off bus while visiting New York City.

Google Reviews

Why take the big bus tour in new york.

While seeing New York from the open-top deck of the double-decker bus, the city unfolded block by block with panoramic views from every angle.

As we traveled through the streets, the sights were unobstructed and new visual backdrops were revealed.

The towering skyscrapers and colorful billboards filled the air with excitement and as the cityscape continued to change, it gave a grand feeling to the experience.

I especially enjoyed being able to relax from the upper deck of the bus while taking in the energy of city scenes.

Because I also live in a large city, the rhythm felt familiar from the elevated vantage point .

Car horns were honking, crowds traversed through the streets and there was an endless hum of activity.

Best of all, the tour gave me the chance to interact with other travelers who were seeing New York while waiting for the tour to began.

We struck up conversations and exchanged stories, insights, and recommendations during our stay in New York.

How Much is the Big Bus Tour in New York

The regular price of an adult and child ticket is $60.00 and $50.00, respectively. However, you can use the link below for discounted fares.

Get discounts for the Big Bus Tour NYC  here .

How Long is the Big Bus Tour in New York

The round-trip New York City Big Bus Tour takes about two hours from start to finish.

The bus is the perfect solution for visitors worldwide because they offer pre-recorded audio narratives and translations in five languages — French, German, Spanish, Italian, and English.

Are There Toilets on the Big Bus

No. Unlike charter buses, you won’t travel long between stops. So the best thing to do is exit at a stop, find a public restroom, see an attraction, if desired, and then catch the next bus.

If you are not sure where to find one, ask a Big Bus guide on the street. The driver may also have some suggestions.

Charter buses come equipped with a bathroom because travel is expected to be for a much longer period.

How Does the Big Bus Tour Work in New York City

The tour offers three options for purchase — 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day.

When you decide the number of days of your tour and purchase your ticket, the clock starts when your ticket is scanned while boarding the bus for the first time.

The ticket is good for 24, 48, or 72 hours. So, if you have a 1-day ticket and board the bus at 11:00 AM on Monday, it can still be used until 11:00 AM on Tuesday.

We found a ton of touring options for sightseeing in New York.

Aside from the extended period, the 2 and 3-day tickets also offer discounted bike rentals.

The buses run every 20 minutes on average. However, the first stop at the M&M store can be a long wait during peak season.

You can exit or board at any of the designated stops as much as you want.

The only exclusion is the one-loop tour Night Tour which is a panoramic non-stop tour.

Where to Catch the Big Bus Tour in New York City

During the tour, the buses only stop at designated stops.

Your ticket is good for as long as the buses operate during the day and it may be used on both the red and blue routes.

When you board, make sure you get a hop-on hop-off New York bus route map!

Big Bus NYC Red Route

The red route sightseeing tour covers lower Manhattan and you’ll see many landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Wall Street, the Chrysler Building, and General Grant’s Tomb.

You can catch a tour at any one of the following bus stops and you can get your tickets in advance of boarding.

1 – M&M’s World – 7th Ave & W 48th St (Outside M&M World & Majestic Deli)

2 – Times Square East – W 42nd St & Broadway (at Knickerbocker Hotel)

3 – Empire State Building / Korea Town – 5th Ave & W 32nd St (at CVS Pharmacy)

4 – Flatiron District – 5th Ave & W 23rd St (at Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop)

5 – SoHo – Broadway and Spring Street (at Nike Store)

6 – Chinatown / Little Italy – 100 Lafayette Street (near the corner at Walker St)

7 – Brooklyn Bridge – Park Row & Beekman St (across from 33 Park Row)

8 – Wall Street / Charging Bull – Broadway & Wall St (Southwest corner near Rector St)

9 – Statue of Liberty / Battery Park – State St and Bridge St (at Subway Entrance)

10 – Circle Line Sightseeing – 12th Ave & 40th St (opposite Pier 81)

11 – Times Square North – 7th Ave & W 50th St (at Majestic Deli)

Big Bus NYC Blue Route

The blue route covers upper Manhattan, and half of the ride is mostly views of Central Park. You can switch to the blue route at red stop #2.

We recommend changing routes at stop #11 (the Majestic Deli) where you can take a break and have a nice lunch.

12 – The Metropolitan Museum of Art – 5th Ave & E 83rd St (near 83rd St)

13 – Central Park Zoo – 5th Ave & E 66th St (opposite 845 5th Ave)

14 – Columbus Circle – Central Park & Columbus Circle (SW corner of Central Park)

Tips and Things to Know Before You Go

The bus has two levels, the upper level offers panoramic views of the city but be careful of overhanging traffic lights and trees. Don’t stand while the bus is in motion.

  • After you find a seat, check the audio to confirm it is working.
  • Snacks are allowed. Bring a frozen bottle of water and protein bites to keep you energized.
  • When on the upper deck, cover up with sunscreen to protect your skin on hot sunny days.
  • If you are a family of 3 or more, take seats across from one another so you’ll have views and photos from both sides of the bus.

Tourists were lined up at stop #1 at least an hour before departure and the line extended the entire block and rounded the corner.

We decided to see other points of interest and returned around 11:00 AM.

The wait to board the bus was about 20 minutes. It was a relaxing ride and there we saw so much!

By the time we reached stop #9, we were pumped and ready to exit the bus so that we could explore the city! And you probably will be too.

Here’s the secret sauce that really made the experience memorable. Exit at stop #9 and take a FREE ferry to Staten Island.

To see the Statue of Liberty, stand on the left side of the boat. When returning, stand on the right side.

Traveling on a budget? Read my review of the Westside YMCA Hotel !

Final Thoughts About the Big Bus Tour in New York City

Overall, the tour was a pleasant way to see New York city and when you are on the upper deck, you hardly notice the traffic.

Some other advantages of seeing the city by bus include:

  • Avoiding parking hassles. I mean, who actually drives in New York?!
  • Photo opportunities. With the open-top or large windows, you have excellent photo opportunities as you pass by iconic landmarks and cityscapes.
  • Comprehensive sightseeing of major landmarks and attractions within two hours.
  • You can get local recommendations from the guides who operate the bus.

I usually opt for a hop-on hop-off bus when I am short on time or to get my bearings in the city before deciding what to do.

Either way, when you take the tour bus, it doesn’t appear impossible to take a bite out of the Big Apple.

Happy Travels!

view of new york from tour bus

Global Medical Innovation

Manufacturing Floor Tour🥼 + One-Day Trip to Volcán Irazú by public bus🌋🚌

by Jade Lee | Jul 2, 2024 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

houston bus tour

Visit to Secondary Packaging Unit *photo was approved by my manager to be shared publicly

houston bus tour

Intensa Mente 2 (Inside Out 2)

houston bus tour

mixed cheese and caramel popcorn

houston bus tour

public transportation in Costa Rica

houston bus tour

This is how foggy it was!

houston bus tour

vs. Reality

houston bus tour

Ruinas de Cartago

houston bus tour

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles – super gorgeous basilica

houston bus tour

pink latte – beet root latte from Simple Fresh Eatery

houston bus tour

torta chilena (left) & cuatro leches(right) from Dulce Chilena

Houston Public Media

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Houston area residents blast ‘disastrous’ metro decision to shelve university corridor rapid transit project.

At the monthly meeting of the METRO Board, multiple community members and municipal leaders criticized the agency’s decision to shelve a 25-mile rapid transit bus line. Board Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock pointed to concerns about low ridership.

METRO University Corridor Map

Community members, along with city and county leaders, criticized the shelving of a 25-mile bus rapid transit (BRT) line that would span from Gulfton and Sharpstown to Northeast Houston, connecting multiple universities along the way.

At the monthly board meeting on Thursday, METRO Board Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock again pointed to financial and ridership concerns as the primary reasons for holding off on the $2.28 billion project, though she said the decision could be revisited next year.

"We do plan on having a communication, engagement strategy," Brock said. "We will also communicate our ridership strategy in making sure that all of our initiatives tie to increasing ridership."

Houston Mayor John Whitmire appointed Brock and three other METRO board members. Their placements were approved by city council, and they are among six new members on the nine-seat board. The shelving of the University Corridor BRT marks the first major walkback of a key element of the METRONext plan under the new leadership.

About 50 people signed up for public comment at the Thursday meeting, and a majority spoke in favor of the University Corridor BRT. When Cherrelle Duncan, Director of Community Engagement with nonprofit advocacy group Link Houston, asked those who support the project to stand, nearly everyone in the audience stood with her.

"This project is about more than just improving transit — it’s about empowering our communities," Duncan said. "Pausing this project over short-term financial views misses out on its long-term benefits, like increased accessibility and stronger community connections."

Harris County Precinct One Commissioner Adrian Garcia was among the speakers. He called for a "real ridership enhancement strategy and campaign."

"The reality is that the project is dead," Garcia said. "One of the things I’ve heard ... was ‘Why rip up roads if the buses are empty or half-empty?' I absolutely recognize that, but that’s why I’ve been trying to encourage a real commitment to bring in not just the likely riders, but non-traditional riders to the system."

At-large Houston City Council Member Letitia Plummer told the METRO board that she was "disappointed" by the lack of engagement with city council, and she pointed out that she was on the ballot in 2019 — the same year voters approved a $3.5 billion bond for the transit agency .

RELATED: Houston, Harris County leaders condemn METRO's plan to shelve ‘transformational' university corridor line

"I’m disappointed because I feel that the ears on the ground are your council members," Plummer said. "We are the ones who talk to constituents on a daily basis. We know what their needs are, and unfortunately, we were not a part of this process."

Christina Brady, who lives in Eastwood, spoke in favor of the decision to pause the project, arguing that other improvements, like traffic signal and sidewalk improvements, can be made in the meantime.

"There is nothing safe about mass transit running right next to family homes," Brady said. "The University Corridor BRT was poorly planned, and its costs are ballooning every day."

After Brady's comments, Brock said "It's really nice to hear from actual residents."

Issac Metcalf, who said he doesn't have a driver's license, spoke in favor of the project.

"It feels like METRO can't decide whether to run as a public good or as a business," Metcalf said. "I want to say that I'm not a paid activist, and I am a resident of Houston."

Simon Kiang, a PhD student at Rice University, also spoke in favor of the project.

"I really think that having an extended east-west connection will make the city better," Kiang said.

Third Ward resident Michael Watkins praised the decision to pause the project, arguing that residents in the Washington Terrace neighborhood weren't properly consulted.

"Does it make sense to cut up a residential neighborhood?" Watkins asked. "I will not stand here and watch you cut up my neighborhood."

On Wednesday, Harris County Precinct One Commissioner Rodney Ellis described the corridor as a "backbone" of the agency's overall initiative to dramatically increase the reach of public transportation across the Houston area, known as METRONext . He criticized the decision to walk away from federal funding that would've offset the cost of the project .

"It's nice if you do any part of it," Ellis said. "But at the end of the day, if you’re going to have a bus rapid transit system, it’s about getting people to places where most people go, and that university corridor really is all of the more important, transit-oriented places where people want to go in Houston and Harris County."

In a press release, Fort Bend County Precinct Four Commissioner Dexter L. McCoy called the reversal "a short-sighted, disastrous decision that comes at a long-term cost to millions of residents in Greater Houston."

"Long-term, building bigger highways won’t cut it," McCoy said. "A prime example is I-10, which is one of the widest highways in the world, yet it still turns into a parking lot during rush hour. On the other hand, Fort Bend Transit’s new downtown commuter line alone removes over 6,000 rides a week off the Southwest Freeway."

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COMMENTS

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