How to Take the Red Tour Bus around Manhattan

If you plan to vacation in New York City, no matter what time of year, the double-deck Greyline Red Tour Buses will be there to chauffeur you around the city on a guided tour. Trust me, if you are not from New York or have never been there, you will find that a bus tour definitely beats walking in the crowds, trying to maneuver the subway or paying for cabs to get from one tourist attraction to the next. These buses allow you to hop on or hop off at over 50 stops. This article will tell you where to catch it and what to expect.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• The Grey Line Bus Tour Web address
• At least 3 hours to spare

1. Go to the website and choose the tour that is right for you. There is the NYC Heritage tour, the Uptown Loop Tour, the Downtown Loop Tour, the Brooklyn Loop Tour, the Night Tour and the Holiday Lights Tour to name a few. Each differs in showing diverse landmarks and attractions throughout various areas of the city. Read the description for each tour and decide which one best fits your interests.

2. Once you have decided on a tour or tour package, you then have the option of purchasing your ticket online or waiting to buy it in person. You get a discount of about $5.00 to $7.00 when you purchase your ticket online. However, if you prefer to buy it in person, you will need to go to 777 8th Avenue between 47th and 48th Streets. The Visitor Center is a red building with the word "Greyline" written on it. The hours are Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm and Friday and Saturday from 7:30 am to 7:30 pm.

3. Most of the buses run on a revolving schedule, leaving Times Square and other starting points every thirty minutes. Check with the Visitor Center to verify your bus schedule. Call them at [phone] or [phone].

4. Know where to go to start the fun. You can catch the bus at the Empire State Building, Battery Park or in Times Square.

Tips & Warnings

• Take a blanket during the winter months if you plan to sit outside on top of the bus. It can get pretty cold.
• You can also stop and get a coffee or hot chocolate to take with you on the bus.