I’m gonna be real with you. Finding the best NYC night tours can be a tricky thing!
I mean, as a 30+ year local who was born and raised in the city that never sleeps, I have done my fair share of New York City night tours.
And the night tours NYC has to offer are very hit or miss. Some are beyond awesome and others will leave you feeling like, “Well that was a giant waste of money!”
So, since none of us has a money tree growing in our backyard, you’re gonna want to avoid that latter vibe at all costs.
And that’s where my handy local guide to the best NYC night tours of all time comes in mighty handy.
It’ll give you an honest review of the best night tours in NYC, complete with a mega comprehensive pros and cons list.
This way you can quickly and easily select the best tour for you.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.
My number one pick for the best NYC night tours is this Greenwich Village Ghost Tour. 👻It’s well-priced and the guides are super friendly/informative. So, locals and visitors alike will love 💗 this tour.
Table of Contents
Best NYC Night Tours of All Time
1. New York City Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (2097 Reviews) Price: $49.00 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: 83 North River Piers West 43rd Street and, 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036 Operator: Circle Line Details: Read more on Viator now!
No trip to NYC would possibly be complete without a cruise around New York Harbor. And, this experience is so much better once twilight comes to the Big Apple.
Therefore, you need this Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise in your life right now. After all, this cruise is the best of the best NYC night tours when it comes to value for money and stellar scenery.
In fact, it costs less than $50 (just $40 for kids!) and spares you the pain of having to wait in line at the box office.
And I dunno about you but the LAST thing I want to do is waste hours waiting in line when I only have 4 days in NYC.
Now, all boats are climate-controlled and feature live narration as you sail. Or, you can pop out on the deck and feel the breeze in your hair. And yes, it does get mighty breezy, so bring a coat.
“An amazing tour, Andy was very knowledgeable and gave a personal touch. It was a little hard to hear him at times and it was disappointing that some other guests didn’t abide by the etiquette rules to not stand and block the view for others. Many photo opportunities were lost due to this. Overall an amazing experience and incredible tour.”
Kelly Ann (read more reviews now)
So, the route takes you under the Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Williamsburg bridges for a unique perspective of Manhattan. Plus, you’ll be practically within touching distance of the Statue of Liberty.
However, just in case all that oohing and ahhing gives you a dry throat, there’s a full bar onboard. And while there you’ll find an assortment of hot, soft, and alcoholic drinks to choose from.
All in all, this harbor cruise is one of the best night tours in NYC for couples, families, and solo explorers.
Local Tip: Arrive early for this popular tour. This way you can choose where to sit. And while I had a great time on my cruise, the service seems to have gone down lately with overbooking customers.
So, just give the most up-to-date reviews a read so you know what to expect before booking this trip for your birthday in New York City (or any other special event).
| Pros | Cons |
| Awesome price point | Drinks and food are not included in the price |
| Suitable for all types of travelers | Recent complaints about overbooking and no refund |
| Wheelchair accessible | Problems with the PA system |
| Vessels are furnished for all weather/seasons | “Ticket” may be a voucher and you may have to wait in line for an actual ticket upon arrival |
2. NYC Luxury Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Harbor Cruise
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (476 Reviews) Price: $87.66 per person Duration: 2-3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Pier 61 Chelsea Piers Operator: City Cruises Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Of course, there’s only one way to enhance the magic of New York Harbor. And, that’s to combine those world-class views with a bite to eat.
Now, this NYC Luxury Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Harbor Cruise allows you to select from a variety of different departure times.
Although, the brunch and lunch options only sail on weekends – just as an FYI.
Whereas, the NYC dinner cruise option departs most nights. Besides, this way you can get a proper NYC by night experience.
In summary, this one includes a sumptuous 3-course dinner that comes complete with fancy smancy acoustic live music.
In fact, your soundtrack du jour is performed by a trio jamming out with a baby grand piano, upright bass, and jazz guitar. FYI, dancing is firmly encouraged.
“The experience and the crew were extraordinary-the food delicious. The servers were attentive and quick and the scenery was unparalleled. As an extra added bonus my daughter and I were invited up to the wheelhouse for a different perspective and the captain of the vessel gave us a rundown on how he operated the ship. Truly a great night. Thanks all!”
Gary (read more reviews now)
Additionally, you’ll listen to live narration about all the major sights along the NYC skyline.
Plus, these epic glass vessels give you 180-degree views of NYC thanks to cleverly curved ceilings and walls.
Note, a semi-formal dress code is required. Therefore, you’ll need to plan your NYC packing list accordingly. This also great fun after attending an NYC drag brunch in the morning.
| Pros | Cons |
| One of the most romantic night tours in NYC | Alcohol not included |
| Unlimited soft drinks served with the food | Representatives on the company assistance line not well informed |
| Vegetarian menu available (the food is also good) | Lunch tours only depart on Saturdays |
| Wheelchair accessible | Brunch tours only depart on Sundays |
3. Rooftop Bar and Lounge Night Tour in NYC
⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5.0 (52 Reviews) Price: $34.00 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Office at Via Del Colosseo 24 Operator: NiteTables Experiences Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
So, if you want to live the high life in NYC then this Rooftop Bar and Lounge Night Tour is perfect for you.
Essentially this is one of the coolest night tours in NYC if you want a local’s perspective on where to party.
Now, over the course of 3 hours, you’ll stop at three or four different epic venues where you’ll enjoy complimentary admission.
“The tour was an overall great experience. Although we were in a smallish group, Kate (the leader for the night) was still enthusiastic and extremely patient with us between bars. She shared some great historic facts about some of the places which added to the charm. Will definitely be re-booking when I’m back in NYC.”
Ron (read more reviews now)
And, to reflect the nocturnal diversity of NYC, these spots include historic bars, fun pubs, and atmospheric speakeasies.
Ultimately, you’ll wind up in a seriously chic rooftop lounge where you can choose to party like a rockstar until the early hours of the morning.
All the while, you’ll mingle with locals and feel like a real Manhattanite once last call comes around.
Now, as you probably already guessed because of the price, drinks aren’t included with this pick for one of the best night tours in NYC.
Therefore, you’ll need to show up with some Benjamins (or, seeing as it’s 2023, plastic).
FYI, there’s a fair bit of walking in between watering holes. So, while you’ll need to adhere to an upscale, casual dress code – heels are 100% not recommended.
| Pros | Cons |
| Avoids the tourist trap bars | Drinks not included |
| The tour includes skip-the-line admission | Those under 21 cannot participate (non-US folk must bring their passport) |
| Get to visit bars you probably wouldn’t find on your own | Only visit one rooftop bar |
| Epic for solo travelers as well as traveling buddies/couples |
4. Gangsters and Ghosts of New York City Night Walking Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (122 Reviews) Price: $35 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: The corner of Worth and Mulberry Streets Operator: Empire Tours NYC Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Perhaps the most fascinating of all the best NYC night tours on this list is this Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour.
After all, this 2-hour introduces you to the shadier residents of the Big Apple as you visit notable ghost and gangster locations all across Manhattan.
In essence, these include infamous mafia crime scenes in Little Italy and famous haunted houses in the West Village.
Heck, you’ll even visit the joints where gangsters used to let their hair down between deals.
Plus, your knowledgeable local guide will spill the deets on how former members of the mafia and gangs of New York built their empires.
Now, seeing as the narration fuses historical facts with supernatural tales, the tour should suit skeptical travelers and history buffs alike.
“If you’re a lover of gangster films this tour brings it all to life. Samatha our guide was so informative and interesting. The tour started at Five Points and takes you through Little Italy, China town, West Village and ended in Washington Square Park. All great locations to visit and really enjoyed by my group of adults and teenagers.”
Nicky (read more reviews now)
In fact, it leans way more toward gangster truths than phantom whispers. Therefore, it’s an offer nobody can refuse (See what I did there? LOL).
Scared of the dark? Well, if you are then not to worry because this night tour in New York City can be done during the day, too.
Actually, the day tour includes a visit inside the Basilica of St Patrick – as featured in The Godfather.
Because as Lucky Luciano said himself, “There’s just money”. So, use your cash wisely and book this tour today.
| Pros | Cons |
| Free for kids under 6 | Not recommended for those with walking issues |
| Wheelchair accessible | The night tour doesn’t include admission to the cathedral |
5. Speakeasy Drinks and NYC Prohibition History Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (195 Reviews) Price: $36 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Cravath, Swaine & Moore office building (8th Avenue between 49th Street/50th Street) Operator: NiteTables Experiences Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Shenanigans abound on this tipsy journey through the most historic watering holes in Manhattan.
Because this Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour deals with the history of smugglers, gangsters, and various other sketchy goings-on.
First, you will visit a secret bar once frequented by the city’s most notorious gangsters and infamous bootleggers. Then, you’ll dive into the role of women during the Gilded Age.
Finally, you’ll round off your evening at an uber-glam cocktail lounge and hear all about how Prohibition ceased to be.
Of course, this is one of the best night tours in NYC for immersing yourself in the rise and fall of Prohibition.
In fact, this tour is available in the afternoon or evening. Therefore, it’s a nice option if you want a dose of history before heading to the theater or hopping aboard a cruise.
“This was a really fun tour. Our guide Tessie was great. She was very animated and had lots of information to share about the history of the people and buildings. The bars we visited had interesting histories, and the atmosphere of each were very unique. I would definitely recommend this tour to someone visiting New York. Even my friend, who is a local New Yorker, enjoyed it and learned things.”
Pamela (read more reviews now)
Just be aware of the fact that drinks aren’t included in the tour price. Therefore, budget for the cost of either a beer ($10-$14 each) or a stronger libation ($18-$25).
And while you don’t need to don your fave ball gown, classy apparel that you can walk comfortably in is expected.
| Pros | Cons |
| Merges darker history with classy bar settings | Moonshine isn’t included |
| Skip-the-line entry at all bars | Those under 21 cannot partake (non-US travelers must carry their passport) |
| Guides are super fun and very knowledgable |
6. Greenwich Village Ghost Walk Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (100 Reviews) Price: $39 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: 385, 6th Avenue Operator: TopDogTours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
This Greenwich Village Ghost Tour is one of the best night tours in NYC for getting creeped out since you’ll be introduced to all of the most haunted places in the city.
Focusing on the Greenwich Village area, you’ll start your 2-hour paranormal excursion at Washington Square Park. Once there, your guide will warm you up with the chilling history of Hangman’s Elm.
“We enjoyed the sights and the history of this tour. We were hoping to meet the ghost dog, but we settled for a great walk through Greenwich, the interesting stories of haunting from our guide Liz, and the perfect eerie drizzly weather, sans paranormal encounters. Maybe next time :)”
Jennifer (read more reviews now)
Next, you’ll idle over to the Brown Building. It was the location of the devastating Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire and the souls of the victims are said to linger here to this very day.
Onwards, you’ll swing by the Church of the Ascension where the artist John Lafarge maintains a ghostly residence.
Who knows, perhaps you’ll feel a tingle down your spine at Manhattan’s most ghoul-infested house – which is home to no less than 22 spirits.
Ultimately, you’ll wrap up near Christopher Street’s infamous speakeasy, Chumley’s.
Plus, you can head inside to decompress over a tipple after enjoying one of the best night tours NYC has to offer.
| Pros | Cons |
| Broaden your mind and gain insight into the darker side of Greenwich | Not possible to book as a solo traveler |
| A personable guide will bring the tales to life | The tour runs in all weather although may be transferable/refundable in the case of extreme |
7. New York City at Night Bus Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (561 Reviews) Price: $59.00 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍Meeting Point: 770 7th Ave, New York, NY 10019, USA Details: Read more on Viator Now!
Sure, the Big Apple is the “city that never sleeps”. But, that doesn’t mean your feet don’t deserve a break.
Therefore, this New York City Bus Tour is one of the best NYC night tours for recuperating after checking everything off your NYC bucket list.
Now, the luxury tour bus departs from Seventh Avenue and takes you past all the top sights in Manhattan.
However, as a rule of thumb, you can expect to see:
- Times Square
- Little Island
- Pier 17
- Rockefeller Center
- The Empire State Building
- The New York Public Library
- Greenwich Village
- SoHo
Plus, you’ll get off for a stroll through High Line Park and to explore Grand Central.
There, your enthusiastic local guide will continue the guided narration. This way, you leave one of the best NYC night tours feeling like you’re “in the know”.
“A great tour for us even with several previous visits to NYC! This time we took our 18 year old granddaughter, her first time in the city. This was indeed one of the best tours ever! Our guide, Rachel was more than knowledgeable and even shared links and ideas to many other places she knew personally, like ‘Junior’s restaurant!’ And it was also amazing!! We were each inspired and this tour saved us 4 cab rides or more to have covered the ground we did in perfect timing! We have learned over time tours like this create very special memories! Thanks Rachel for making several pictures of us to enjoy for a lifetime!”
Ronald (read more reviews now)
And, you can elect to add-on tickets for the Top of The Rock Observation Deck for just $35 per person (a very reasonable price and you should 100% do it).
Now, the regular bus is just fine but you can fork over a little extra cash for a glass-top/open-top vehicle.
Note, you’ll only have the option for an open-top bus from mid-March to mid-October. Because, brrr. Christmas in NYC can be hella cold.
| Pros | Cons |
| Different types of bus available | Not wheelchair accessible |
| Option to visit the Top of the Rock | Due to the timeframe – you might get hungry so plan an early dinner |
| Family-friendly (and strollers are permitted) |
8. Big Apple Helicopter Tour at Night
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (296 Reviews) Price: $274.00 per person Duration: 30 minutes flight time 📍Meeting Point: Linden Airport (LDJ), 1101 W Edgar Rd, Linden, NJ 07036 Details: Read more on Viator Now!
Taking to the sky is one of the most outlandish night tours in NYC that you’ll never forget.
In fact, this City Lights Skyline Experience New York Helicopter Tour is one of the few NYC helicopter tours at night.
Departing from Linden Airport, you’ll travel to NYC and hover over the illuminated city.
So, it’ll be super easy to pick out sites like the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty.
Even better, you’ll see the bright lights of Times Square and Yankee Stadium. Plus, the shadowy shape of Central Park – a giant black hole once the city is engulfed by the dark.
“This was my teenage son’s dream, and as a teacher I worked extra hours to make it happen. He had an experience of a lifetime. Nathan was able to sit up front with the pilot. The ride was smooth, the view stunning, and the pilot’s commentary interesting. I was able to take a picture of Nathan in his seat after we landed. His smile said it all. My heart is full. Thank you for making my child’s dream come true!”
Carrie (read more reviews now)
Now, the activity is shared with other travelers. But, if you are a group of 6 – it’ll default to private. Provided you all book under one reservation.
Local Tip: While the scenery is beyond surreal, it’s impossible to get perfect photos. Therefore, put the camera down and surrender yourself to this once-in-a-lifetime activity.
| Pros | Cons |
| Bucketlist activity made all the better with an NYC backdrop | Have to travel all the way to Jersey to get to the meeting point |
| Multiple time slots | Have to share the helicopter with other travelers |
| Wheelchair accessible | Flight only 25 minutes |
| Friendly pilots will share commentary on the city | Expensive (but worth every cent) |
9. Brooklyn Nightlife Bar Crawl
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (25 Reviews) Price: $34.00 per person Duration: 3.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: 174 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211 Operator: Crawl Brooklyn Details: Read more on Viator now!
Any born and raised New Yorker will tell you that it’s not enough to bar-hop in Manhattan. Therefore, you need to haul butt over to Brooklyn and book this amazing bar crawl night tour in NYC.
See this Brooklyn Nightlife Bar Crawl in Williamsburg is the best of the best when it comes to pub crawls.
So, after rendezvousing with your local guide, you’ll clink brews and cocktails at four of the hippest lounges in Brooklyn.
Essentially, these carefully chosen haunts include a mix of gastropubs, wine bars, cocktail lounges, and clubs.
Plus, the locations change to keep this NYC night tour feeling fresh and fun. In fact, you could book it twice and experience two totally different nightlife experiences.
Note, drinks are generally at an additional cost. But, you’ll score some sweet deals that only apply when you book this bar crawl.
“Great tour – perfectly organised, entertaining, good value for money. Our tour guide Sarah was amazing!!! End up in 4 bars in Brooklyn. My favourite was Velvet.”
Jessenia (read more reviews now)
Another bonus: you won’t have to pay any cover charges. Plus, this tour is totally inclusive of solo travelers, couples, and traveling pals alike.
So, get out there and see what Brooklyn has to offer during one of the best NYC night tours.
| Pros | Cons |
| One of the best night tours in NYC for making new friends | Groups might be as large as 30 people |
| Wheelchair accessible | Tour may be canceled if they don’t receive enough bookings |
| Drinks are not included but exclusive discounts will apply | The minimum age is 21 (passport required for foreigners) |
10. After-Dark NYC Photography Tour
⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (14 Reviews) Price: $150.00 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Bryant Park or Josephine Shaw Lowell Memorial Fountain Details: Read more on Viator Now!
We all know the challenges of night photography. That’s why you’d be crazy not to sign up for this NYC After-Dark Photography Tour.
See, this exclusive small-group tour is held alternatively on Friday or Saturday nights.
It’s also led by a professional photographer, who will take you to the busiest places in NYC that spring to life after dark. You know, iconic spots like Times Square and Bryant Park.
Plus, your guru behind the camera will teach you how to use your flash the right way. You’ll also get tips on other advanced features you might not know about.
This way, you can take amazing photos long after one of the best NYC night tours is over.
Therefore, this is one of the best night tours in New York City for bloggers and influencers, and anyone who just wants really good photos.
“I really enjoyed this tour and got some great night shots of New York. We started with the Empire State Building as the moon was right next to it making a perfect ‘canvas’. Our instructor Vim was very knowledgeable and knew her way around the variety of cameras in our tour group. She also had well organised ideas for photo content and the best places to set up tripods. I learnt a lot more about good use of my camera’s inbuilt flash.”
Kaylene (read more reviews now)
Now, obviously, anyone who wants to have gorgeous photos as an NYC souvenir should book this tour now.
Because it doesn’t matter whether you are a newbie to photography or already know your stuff. In fact, your expert guide will modify the tour to suit your personal needs.
Of course, it’d be awesome if you had a DSLR or something similar. But, it’s fine to come along with your smartphone. Oh, a tripod is recommended if you have one.
| Pros | Cons |
| Guided by a pro photographer | Rental cameras are not provided |
| Wheelchair accessible | The tour only runs once a week |
| Tour groups are capped at 4 participants |
11. Private and Personalized NYC Nightlife Tour with a Local
⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (3 Reviews) Price: $142.68 per person Duration: 2-3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Sephora, 21-27 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014 Details: Read more on Viator Now!
So, it’s obviously a rad idea to join a guided bar crawl in NYC. But, the only way to upgrade the experience is by booking one of the private bar crawl night tours in NYC.
And that’s why I’m introducing you to your very own Private and Personalized NYC Nightlife Tour!
Under the guidance of a local, you’ll roam the Meatpacking District – one of Manhattan’s trendiest neighborhoods.
However, before you embark, you’ll complete a questionnaire about your tastes and interests.
This way, the operator can devise a custom itinerary and assign a host who your gang is guaranteed to love.
“We spent the evening with Harry, who took us to some of his favourite placed. Lucky us! We had an awesome time and will visit these locations next time we’re in NY.”
Iver (read more reviews now)
Ultimately, you’ll drink at warehouses-turned-nightclubs and sip craft cocktails at locally loved bars.
To further sweeten the deal, two drinks are included with the price of your tour. HOORAY!
Then, at the end of the outing, your guide will bid you farewell and leave you with further recommendations for where to eat, drink, and party in this epic neighborhood.
| Pros | Cons |
| A custom itinerary you’ll love | Nada – other than the risk of a hangover |
| Earn a new BFF in NYC with a matchmade tour guide service | |
| Flexible meeting spot and an option to request hotel pick-up | |
| Multiple start times | |
| Two drinks are included | |
| Wheelchair accessible | |
| Private tour for only your party |
12. Magical Evening Horse-Drawn Carriage through NYC
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (19 Reviews) Price: $230.00 per person Duration: 55 minutes📍Meeting Point: 7th Ave &, Central Park S, New York, NY 10019 Details: Read more on Viator Now!
One of the most enchanting night tours in NYC for a romantic experience or family outing is a carriage ride through the city.
Now, this 55-minute Magical Evening Horse-Drawn Carriage through NYC takes you to all the iconic Manhattan landmarks.
Which, are made all the more charming at night when seated in a fairytale carriage.
See, a typical itinerary will incorporate a ride down Fifth Avenue past Tiffany’s, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, and Radio City Music Hall.
“I would like to thank my beautiful daughter Nyece Nyece for the beautiful gift (Magical Evening Horse and carriage through New York City at Drawn). It was very beautiful and people congrats us as we passing by Central Park, Fifth Ave, Tiffany and Company, Rockefeller Center , Radio city and more. Our Tour guide was so amazing she was very knowledgeable about New York City. Our horse name was Lydia and she did a great job.”
Taronda (read more reviews now)
From there, your trusty steed will carry you through an illuminated Central Park. Plus, your guide will share anecdotes about the history and significance of the sights you’ve just seen.
You are also welcome to get off for photos when it is deemed safe to do so.
Of course, it can get chilly at night in NYC. Therefore, thick snuggly blankets are provided to keep you extra warm.
Just be aware that the price stays the same whether you travel alone or with three additional guests.
In that case, this is geared more toward couples not on a budget as well as small groups or families.
| Pros | Cons |
| Wheelchair accessible | Carriages accommodate a maximum of four |
| Multiple start times as late as midnight | Not available in the winter months |
| Can be pricey one person/couple |
My number one pick for the best NYC night tours is this Greenwich Village Ghost Tour. 👻It’s well-priced and the guides are super friendly/informative. So, locals and visitors alike will love 💗 this tour.
Best NYC Night Tours FAQs
What Time is the Night Tour at Top View NYC?
Buses run every 30 minutes between 6:00 pm and 10:00 pm daily.
What is a Night Tour?
A night tour is a tour that starts once the sun goes down. Typically, NYC night tours center around cruises, helicopter rides, nightlife, and more!
How long is the Top View Night Tour?
The Top View Night Tour takes around an hour and 45 minutes to complete (depending on traffic) if you do the entire loop.
Can you Tour NYC in a Day?
While you can’t see all of NYC in a day, you can definitely enjoy a number of top Manhattan attractions if you plan well and create an efficient itinerary.
Additional NYC Resources You’ll Love
There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best NYC night tours of them all.
Tell me, did your picks for the best night tours in New York City make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.
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