NYC VIP Tour: Empire State Building, The Edge and 9/11 Memorial

New York City , United States of America

NYC VIP Tour: Empire State Building, The Edge and 9/11 Memorial

Active

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

See New York City’s most famous sights in one unforgettable day on this action-packed, fully guided VIP tour. Skip the crowds with early entry to the Empire State Building, take in breathtaking views from Edge NYC, travel comfortably by bus and boat, and explore the city on foot with your expert guide. An optional upgrade includes admission to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. This immersive experience blends NYC’s modern marvels with its most iconic attractions.

Available options

Fully Guided Tour

Empire State Building, Edge NYC, bus and boat transfer, Lower Manhattan Walking Tour

Tour and 9/11 Museum Ticket

Empire State Building, Edge NYC, bus and boat transfer, Lower Manhattan Walking Tour and 9/11 Museum Ticket

What's included

Edge NYC Admission Ticket

Transportation via bus and boat

Empire State Building Admission Ticket

9/11 Memorial and Museum Ticket (if upgrade selected)

Short Walking Tour of Lower Manhattan 9/ll Memorial Pools

Fully Guided Tour with a Local Expert Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your VIP tour of New York starts bright and early, but it’ll be worth it when you gain first access to the Empire State Building for the day. Meet your guide in front of the this world-famous architectural stunner. From there, head in for a crowd-free elevator ride to the 86th floor and awe-inspiring views of Manhattan on the main deck.

When you’re done viewing the city from above, see it from ground level by joining your guide on a bus across Midtown on your way to The Edge.

Stop 3

The journey continues with one of New York City’s most impressive modern landmarks. After an engaging multimedia welcome, rise over 1,100 feet into the sky and take in sweeping views that capture the energy, scale, and beauty of the city below.

After taking in New York City from two unforgettable viewpoints—the legendary Empire State Building and the striking modern Edge—your perspective shifts once more as you head to the water. Join your guide for a scenic boat journey to Lower Manhattan and see the city from a whole new angle.

Stop 5

Finally, join your guide on a short walking tour that visits the 9/11 Memorial Pools, where powerful design and reflection honor those lost. Learn the stories behind the site and its lasting significance as you walk through this historic neighborhood.

What's not included

Return Transportation to Midtown

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Tour meets promptly outside the Empire State Building Observatory on 34th Street. The address is 20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001. Look for the tour guide holding a VIP flag.

About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information