The Ride

The Basics

The Ride’s 75-minute journey takes passengers on a 4.2-mile (6.8-kilometer) ride through Midtown Manhattan, highlighting key spots along the way. Sights include Radio City Music Hall, Times Square, and Bryant Park. Travelers can choose from a single experience on the Ride or opt for a combo package and pair the Ride with other attractions like a Circle Line cruise or a stop at Madame Tussauds or the Hard Rock Café.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Advanced reservations are required for the Ride, so be sure to book ahead.

• Some trips include hosts who translate the guides’ talks and jokes into Spanish.

• The Ride is not wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The Ride boards at 42nd Street and 8th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, in front of Patrick’s Restaurant. The nearest subway stop is 42 St.–Times Square, which is about a block away.

When to Get There

The Ride offers numerous departures every day throughout the year. If you’re in New York during around Christmastime, you can book the Holiday Edition of the Ride.

The Downtown Experience

Visitors looking for a new way to experience the Big Apple should try the Ride’s Downtown Experience, a 90-minute trip through a variety of Manhattan neighborhoods. Far from a typical bus tour, this experience uses virtual reality headsets to allow passengers to relive iconic moments in New York history as if they were actually there.

Ways to explore

The Ride’s 75-minute journey takes you on a 4.2-mile (6.8-kilometer) trip through Midtown Manhattan. Along the way, your comedian guides provide entertaining commentary and point out key sights, typically including the Chrysler Building, Times Square, and Columbus Circle. Though no two rides are the same, all feature interactive performances from artists who make the city their stage.

You can choose from a single experience on The Ride or opt for a combo package and pair it with other attractions, such as a Circle Line cruise, Madame Tussauds, or the Hard Rock Café. Advanced reservations are required.

Accessibility

The Ride is not wheelchair accessible, as passengers need to enter and exit the bus via six steps.

Age limits

Children under the age of 6 are not permitted. While The Ride strives to be family-friendly, some content may not be appropriate for younger kids.

What to pack

Bottled water, small bag that can fit on your lap or under your seat

What to wear

Comfortable shoes for waiting in line and boarding the bus, layers for the outdoor waiting area

Not allowed

Food and beverages (except water), smoking, pets (service animals are permitted)

Amenities

There are no restrooms or concessions on the bus.

Address

The Ride departs and returns from the intersection of 42nd Street and 8th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, just a 4-minute walk from Times Square. Note that there is no climate-controlled area to wait for the bus, so be prepared to wait outside.

Driving

Driving through the congested streets of Midtown Manhattan isn’t recommended; you’re better off taking a cab. If you must drive, look to book paid parking in nearby garages rather than street parking.

Public transportation

The best way to ensure a stress-free and on-time arrival is to take the subway. Ride to 42nd Street-Port Authority Bus Terminal (A, C, E), or Times Square–42nd Street (1, 2, 3). You can also travel by bus via routes M20, M42, and M104.

Best times to visit

Daytime tours offer better visibility and are more likely to be family friendly. Energetic evening tours can feel like a party and let you see the city sparkle after dark.

Best days to visit

Midtown Manhattan gets especially crowded on the weekends, which adds an exciting atmosphere but increases your risk of getting stuck in traffic. Aim for midweek for slightly fewer crowds.

Best months to visit

New York City is most vibrant from April to October, when mild temperatures and sunny skies beckon people outdoors. For better or worse, you’ll experience fewer crowds in the off-season from November to March.

Special events

There’s nothing like Times Square at Christmas, when buildings are decked out in holiday displays. Visit in late December for a special holiday edition of The Ride.