See Manhattan’s holiday lights from the top deck of an open-top bus—two hours of Times Square neon, Saks windows, and the Rockefeller Center tree with a live guide. This easy, accessible night tour is ideal for first-time visitors and locals who want a stress-free view of the season’s best displays.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The bus rounds 7th Avenue and the city exhales—neon and LED panels throw color across faces, and cold air nips at your ears as you ride on the exposed upper deck. From this angle, Times Square blazes like a moving skyline and the Saks Fifth Avenue façade performs its own slow choreography; the Rockefeller Center tree stands framed between buildings, demanding a long look.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing briefly when boarding and stepping onto the bus
Wildlife
History
Rockefeller Center’s tree-lighting began in 1933 and quickly became a national holiday ritual; department-store window displays evolved from early 20th-century retail theater into seasonal art shows.
Conservation
Open-top bus tours are motorized—consider offsetting your footprint by supporting operators with low-emission fleets and avoid leaving waste; respect holiday displays and private property when taking photos.
Reserve your spot on the Big Bus NYC: Guided Holiday Lights Night Tour by Open-top Bus today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress for wind and cold
Upper-deck seating exposes you to wind chill—bring a warm, windproof jacket and gloves even on milder nights.
Arrive early to secure a good seat
Boarding is first-come; arrive 15–20 minutes early for upper-deck seats with unobstructed views.
Use a fast lens or higher ISO
Low-light scenes and moving buses need faster camera settings to avoid blur—smartphone night mode or a camera with good low-light performance helps.
Plan for crowds at stops
The tour avoids walking-heavy navigation, but key photo stops (Rockefeller, Times Square) remain crowded—keep valuables secure and wallet-sized ID accessible.
Windproof jacket
Blocks wind on the open upper deck and keeps you warm during cold nights.
winter
Compact camera or smartphone with night mode
Captures low-light scenes and city lights more reliably than an unprepared device.
Warm hat and gloves
Small items that significantly increase comfort on exposed seats during cool evenings.
fall
Small backpack or secure crossbody bag
Keeps tickets, ID, and valuables close while allowing hands-free viewing.