As a local, I’ll be the first one to admit that NYC is great at any time of day and at any time of year.
However, there’s something extra special about the sun setting and the city’s iconic skyline coming alive with the vibrant hue of neon lights.
So, if you want to make the most of this special time of day, then check out some of the best night tours in New York City right now.
After all, this epic city has a wide array of epic NYC night tours on offer that include everything from harbor cruises to helicopter flights and big bus tours.
Therefore, regardless of what you’re into, you’ll definitely be able to find the best NYC night tour for you.
I know I have! I mean, I’ve lived in this great city for 30+ years and always find some new New York City night tour to check out.
Personally, though, I am partial to a wicked awesome ghost tour. But, that’s just me.
Anyway, enogh chit chat. Let’s skip the small talk and swan dive into this guide to see what tours will be perfect for you.
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Best Night Tours in New York City
1. New York City: Skyline at Night Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (184 Reviews) Price: $60.00 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍Meeting Point: 370 or 790 Seventh Avenue Operator: Royal City Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Have your camera at the ready because this is one of the best night tours in NYC that will give you picture-perfect views of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
In fact, this NYC Skyline at Night Tour will bring you to epic stops like Liberty State Park, the Empty Sky (9/11) Memorial, and Carlo’s Bakery (where the show “Cake Boss” was filmed).
You’ll also take in sweeping panoramas from one of the best hidden gems in NYC, the New Jersey waterfront.
So, as the sun sinks beneath the horizon, watch as millions of lights illuminate the city, creating a magical glow that is the idyllic backdrop for your unforgettable NYC night tour.
“I normally don’t trust these kinds of things. But this tour was SO good and worth the money. Our tour guide Millie was AMAZING! She was so knowledgeable about the history behind everything she talked about. I learned so much today, and got to see way better views than the big bus tour I got approached to do on the streets of NYC. She stopped at like 6 places and gave us plenty of time to take photos. The big bus tour I did never stopped to let us take pictures. I TOTALLY recommend this tour, and Millie! Such a friendly and kind tour guide!”
Collette (read more reviews now)
Next, pay your respects at the Empty Sky Memorial, a poignant tribute to the victims of the 9/11 tragedy.
The view from this memorial, with the Manhattan skyline in the background, is sure to leave you speechless, a fitting testament to the resilience of this incredible city.
So, take great photos, enjoy unbelievable views, and create memories that will last a lifetime during one of the best New York City night tours of all time.
| Pros | Cons |
| Get to stop in six different places | Traffic can be an issue when traveling from one spot to the next |
| Get ample time to take photos at every place you stop | Only visit the side of Manhattan that sits on the Hudson River |
| The night views are absolutely stunning | |
| This is a stress-free way to explore the city and enjoy epic views of the NYC skyline |
2. From New Jersey: City Lights or Skyline Helicopter Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (174 Reviews) Price: $274 per person Duration: 25 minutes 📍Meeting Point: Linden Airport in New Jersey Operator: Helicopter Flight Services Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, where you get to enjoy spectacular aerial views of NYC in the evening, try this City Lights or Skyline Helicopter Tour.
It’s one of the best night tours in New York City that departs from an airport in Linden, New Jersey.
Don’t worry though because this is one of the best helicopter tours in NYC that is easily reachable from Penn Station via New Jersey Transit.
Now, when you finally take to the skies, fly directly over Newark International Airport as you make your way toward Manhattan.
“The flight over Manhattan at night was simply breathtaking and beautiful. Can only recommend to everyone.”
Ryszard (read more reviews now)
The excitement builds as you approach New York Harbor, where the majestic Statue of Liberty awaits.
Your flight path will then take you past the towering skyscrapers of the Financial District and the bustling New York Stock Exchange.
Next, venture north along the Hudson River for a bird’s eye view of the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, Hudson Yards, the 9/11 Memorial, and One World Trade Center.
Finally, fly north past Central Park and catch a glimpse of Yankee Stadium, before soaring over the George Washington Bridge and taking in spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline.
Yup, this is a great NYC evening tour since you’ll get to see the city all lit up in the evening. The only downside is that the lack of light makes it difficult to take photos.
| Pros | Cons |
| This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you will see NYC like never before | Have to travel all the way to New Jersey to catch your flight |
| The pilot provides excellent narration and points out all of the top sites in the city | It can be difficult to take photos in low-light conditions |
| The pilot is great at pointing things out ahead of time so you can take photos | The company can sometimes cancel last minute due to bad weather |
| Get to wear noise-canceling Bose headsets to hear the pilot and dull the noise from the plane |
3. New York City: Harlem Jazz Crawl Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (49 Reviews) Price: $139.00 per person Duration: 4.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Silvana Cafe Operator: Big Apple Jazz Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
During one of the best NYC night tours of them all, immerse yourself in the pulsating rhythm of Harlem’s vibrant jazz scene.
In fact, start your Jazz Crawl Tour at a convenient spot in Harlem that is readily accessible via subway.
Next, explore Harlem’s historic jazz district and visit two local hotspots, each of which has its own unique style and atmosphere.
“This was a fantastic tour and one of the highlights from our whole trip. Gordon was knowledgeable, friendly and fun. We got to see two clubs on the trip, one was old school jazz and another was a newer club with a couple different groups playing. We got to experience Harlem in a way you could never do on your own. Do not hesitate to book this tour, its well worth an evening of your trip.”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
What, looking for delish local cuisine? No worries because the expert guides leading this tour will arrrange excellent soul food for you as dinner/appetizers at your very first stop.
Drinks are alao available as you listen to the music and learn all about the Harlem jazz scene.
Plus, if you’re a musician or a singer, you’ll have an opportunity to take the stage and jam with the band at one of these epic clubs!
After all, there’s nothing more thrilling than showcasing your talents in front of a live audience.
Otherwise, just kick back, relax, and enjoy vibrant rhythms that are sure to captivate you during this iconic tour.
| Pros | Cons |
| Small group tour of no more than 10 people | Food and drinks not included |
| Hear at least two sets of live music (get to perform if the situation allows for it) | |
| Cover charge for clubs is included | |
| Get to enjoy both newer jazz and classic jazz |
4. NYC: Luxury Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (567 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!
See the world-famous NYC skyline from a unique perspective during this Luxury Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Harbor Cruise.
You’ll begin your adventure cruising along the East and Hudson Rivers inside an all-glass boat. It comes with curved ceilings and walls that create stunning, 180-degree views.
As you sail through the water, the Manhattan skyline unfolds before your eyes, with iconic structures like the Freedom Tower and the Empire State Building making a guest appearance.
This exciting cruise also offers up-close views of Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty.
Next, enjoy exceptional service during brunch, lunch, or dinner – a meal that is prepared for you by an expert chef.
A talented pianist also fills the air with live jazz, blues, and Broadway tunes that add to the beauty of this immersive experience.
“Beautiful evening on the water with my daughter. Wonderful soft jazz musicians and a live singer, delightful food, and the most amazing views of Manhattan. Photographer on board, cocktail menu and memories to treasure forever. Dress code was not strictly enforced, many females had open toe shoes/sandals and we’re allowed to board. One family with a toddler turned away for adult cruise but refunded. Tables were ore allocated so arrive early if you want to ask to be moved to a window seat as only a few opportunities may exist. One couple got engaged on the cruise and that was lovely. Many couples had roses and champagne on tables as they boarded. Adding together what we spent before boarding and whilst onboard, if was an expensive evening but I would highly recommend it. We got to see the lasers where WTC used to stand, Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges, Empire State, Statue of Liberty, and it was really relaxing. Food from standard menu wax lovely too. Enjoy.”
Catherine (read more reviews now)
However, if you opt for the dinner cruise then you’ll listen to an acoustic trio featuring a baby grand piano, upright bass, and jazz guitar – making this night tour in NYC even more memorable.
FYI, I personally did this brunch cruise. I enjoyed UNLIMITED Mimosas that were paired with yogurt parfait and Brioche French Toast with Nutella Cream (so good).
All in all, it was a great experience and I would happily go back in the evening to enjoy one of the best night tours in New York City.
| Pros | Cons |
| Have a pro photographer onboard to take photos | Children may be turned away |
| Comfortable tables | Tables can be reserved in advance to get there EARLY for a seat by the window |
| Delicious food (great French toast) | Always ask if something is included because many things cost extra |
| The live music adds to the ambiance |
5. NYC: Night Out Prohibition History Bar and Speakeasy Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (57 Reviews) Price: $36 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: 8th Avenue between 49th/50th Street Operator: NiteTables Experiences Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Don your fanciest flapper dress, channel your inner Gatsby, and get ready to hear about Prohibition in NYC during this Night Out Prohibition History Bar and Speakeasy Tour.
Throughout this incredible 3-hour experience, you’ll visit three secret speakeasies and historic bars in Midtown. As a bonus, you’ll also enjoy free/skip-the-line entry into all of these epic spots.
“This was a awesome tour! Being from Florida and not knowing which bar is better from the other in the big city, this tour brought us to some of the coolest bars I’ve ever been too! And our tour guide was on point with all the history and took care of everything with our food and drink orders! Highly recommended for people from out of town who like to eat and drink!”
Curtis (read more reviews now)
As you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city in between bars, your local guide will talk about the city’s immigrant past and share intriguing stories about the Prohibition Era.
You’ll even get the chance to mingle with people from all over the world as one of the best night tours in New York City walks you past some of the most iconic landmarks in NYC.
| Pros | Cons |
| The guide takes care of food/drink orders to make the experience super relaxed | Drinks can be expensive and cost $20.00 each |
| Get to visit some of the coolest bars in NYC | Bars you visit can be loud |
| Great history of speakeasies and prohibition | Experience can be less enjoyable if the weather is bad |
| Get VIP access to these bars and don’t need to worry about waiting in line |
6. New York City: Gangsters and Ghosts 2-Hour Walking Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (175 Reviews) Price: $35 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: 21 Mulberry Street Operator: Empire Tours NYC Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Grab a trench coat, make ’em an offer they can’t refuse, and get ready to learn anything and everything related to gangland in NYC.
Yeah, this Gangsters and Ghosts 2-hour walking tour is clearly one of my fave New York City Night Tours.
It not only takes you to some of the best spots in NYC but shares all the dirty deets about organized crime in NYC.
So, you’ll learn about the five crime families of NYC and get a detailed explanation of how they ran their empires from a seasoned historian, aka your guide.
You’ll even see infamous haunted houses in the West Village (where mob victims still float around ) and walk past Little Italy restaurants where mafia hits were carried out.
“The tour was brilliant! We really enjoyed it! Our tour guide, Pierre, was fun, interesting and knowlegeable. Due to the San Genaron Street Fest, Little Italy was a bit crowded when walking, but we were still able to hear what he was telling us and see what he was talking about. A lovely way to walk around Chinatown, Little Italy and Greenwich Village at night! Very recommendable!”
Eileen (read more reviews now)
So, get ready to roam the streets where gangsters like John Gotti and Lucky Luciano once made deals, and delivered threats.
Heck, you’ll even visit the Basilica of St. Patrick, which was featured in The Godfather.
But, never fear because this epic tour includes intriguing tales and frequent stops that make this an easy pick for the best night tour in New York City,
| Pros | Cons |
| Great ghost stories and learn a lot about the history of NYC | Ghost information can sometimes be lacking |
| Get to explore the interior of Entry to Basilica of St Patrick (during the day only) | The guide can sometimes be hard to hear due to the noise |
| Kids under 6 can do this tour for free | |
| Multiple departure times at 11:00 am, 3:00 pm, and 8:00 pm |
7. NYC: Brooklyn Nightlife Pub Crawl
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (19 Reviews) Price: $34 per person Duration: 3.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: You’ll get this info the day of the tour Operator: Blondie’s Crawls Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Locals, myself included, have long known that Brooklyn is THE place to be when it comes to enjoying epic nightlife in NYC.
Yeah, I used to go to Williamsburg EVERY weekend back in the day to party like a rockstar (or a wannabe anyway). So, why not live like the locals and book this Brooklyn Nightlife Pub Crawl?
After all, it’s one of the best night tours in New York City that will take you, with an expert local as your guide, to a well-curated selection of the most epic spots in Williamsburg.
In fact, you’ll start your evening at an upscale bar renowned for its divine wine selection and craft cocktails.
Next, head to a welcoming pub that has an impressive array of house-brewed craft beers.
As the night progresses, you’ll visit a lively bar where delectable burritos compliment the awesome beats served up by talented local DJs.
“The guide was amazing. Some of our group were there solo and they immediately made you feel welcome, and got some chat flowing. Great selection of locations (my local friends told me the day after they were good choices to get a good feel of the Brooklyn bay scene).”
Anonymous (read more reviews now)
However, the grand finale is a trip to an underground dance club, famed for its electrifying house music and a line-up of international DJs.
Plus, you’ll love that this night tour includes entry fees and offers amazing savings on drinks.
So, get ready for a night to remember…unless you drink WAY too much during this tour.
| Pros | Cons |
| The tour guide is great at facilitating conversations between attendees | Have to pay for food and drinks |
| Visit places that you would never go to on your own | Tour can operate in bad weather |
| Get free cover and bonus drinks so end up saving money | |
| Get to enjoy skip-the-line entry |
8. NYC: Circle Line Harbor Lights Cruise Skip-The-Box-Office
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (2070 Reviews) Price: $49.00 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises Operator: Circle Line Sightseeing Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
As the sun sets and New York Harbor comes alive with the vibrant hue of golden hour, you’ll embark on an awesome evening cruise that is one of the best night tours in NYC.
In fact, this incredible journey aboard a special, climate-controlled boat takes you within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty.
So, grab a drink from a bar full of hot and cold drinks (alcoholic/non-alcoholic) and get ready to see One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, Pier 54 (Titanic Pier), Battery Park, and more.
“This was a really good after dark cruise round the Hudson. You get to see all the iconic landmarks of Manhattan from the water including an up close visit to Liberty. The ferry does provide great views from either side as it follows the same route back swapping the side you had on the trip out, it also turns at Liberty to provide views all round. This was a super cold evening so this time of year wrap up warm, it’s cold out there! Or you can sit inside but the views not so good. Worth noting get there an hour early they begin to board around 6pm and the seats fill quickly, but it wasn’t over crowded. The drinks prices are pretty expensive but worth it for the experience.”
Damien (read more reviews now)
You’ll even enjoy live narration from fabulous guides as the ship glides beneath Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, and Williamsburg Bridge.
Plus, from this totally unique vantage point, you’ll be able to see all of these epic spots in a brand-new light.
You’ll just need to have that camera fully charged and at the ready since you’ll be taking a massive amount of photos.
Local Tip: Dress warmly, even in summer, since the wind whipping off the water can make you feel really chilly.
| Pros | Cons |
| The skyline views are amazing | You have to get there early since the best seats fill up quickly |
| Awesome narration with lots of great info about NYC | Drinks served onboard are a bit expensive |
| The boat is very comfortable | Boat can be very crowded |
| Get to see a ton of awesome landmarks in a short amount of time |
9. Greenwich Village Ghost Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (122 Reviews) Price: $39.00 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: 385 6th Avenue Operator: TopDogTours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Anyone who wants to learn more about the ghoulishly gruesome side of NYC should sign up for this Greenwich Village Ghost Tour.
After all, this is one of the best NYC night tours that introduces you to spooky things like the infamous hanging tree, which once sat near the magnificent stone arch in Washington Square Park.
Afterward, make your way to the haunting site of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire at the Brown Building.
Feel the lingering presence of the victims that are rumored to still haunt this university building before walking along 5th Avenue to the Church of the Ascension.
This is where the spirit of artist John Lafarge is said to roam and is a great place to stop before visiting one of the most notorious haunted houses in Manhattan.
“Rory was very knowledgeable and charming! His storytelling was engaging and historically accurate (I’m a history nerd), a rarity on tours of this kind. He guided us skillfully and professionally through several odd encounters with the usual NYC late-night populace, and even when his shoes spontaneously fell apart he stayed calm and on-schedule. I only wish I’d had a hot drink to keep me company – it was a dark and stormy night!”
Natalie (read more reviews now)
It sits at 14 West 10th Street and is said to be home to 22 spirits who were the victims of several chilling murders.
Then, as you venture deeper into the West Village, pass by the residence of poet Emma Lazarus and marvel at one of NYC’s most beautiful libraries.
You’ll also (hopefully) feel the spectral presence of a former mayor at 12 Gay Street, and learn all about the historical Stonewall Inn, the birthplace of the gay rights movement.
Finally, complete your ghostly journey on Christopher Street by visiting Chumley’s, a notorious speakeasy steeped in history and a whole lot of ghoulish mystery.
| Pros | Cons |
| Guides are excellent storytellers and immerse you in a world of mystery | Tour operates in all weather so come prepared |
| Great way to enjoy the beauty of Greenwich | Streets can be so dark that you can almost lose your guide |
| The tour can be tailored to younger audiences if you want to bring your kids | Can’t go inside some of the locations on the tour |
| Get to see parts of the city you wouldn’t otherwise see |
10. NYC: Bar, Lounge, and Rooftop Nightlife Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (103 Reviews) Price: $36.00 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: 8th Avenue Entrance to Cravath, Swaine & Moore Operator: NiteTables Experiences Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
If you’re looking for one of the best night tours in New York City that allows you to hit the town with a local insider then this NYC Bar, Lounge, and Rooftop Nightlife Tour will be PERF for you.
See, throughout this incredible, 3-hour tour you’ll explore the vibrant nightlife scene of Hell’s Kitchen and Midtown.
Enjoy an eclectic mix of four awesome venues that include historic pubs, charming bars, secret speakeasies, and majestic rooftop lounges that are home to some of the best views in NYC.
But, the best part of this night tour in NYC? You’ll enjoy complimentary admission and expedited, skip-the-line entry at each venue, ensuring a fantastic, stress-free experience.
“Anna was a great tour guide. she was really interested in the group and had a conversation with everyone. She also gave a lot of history about the bars in NYC. its a super nice tour to follow to find the good hotspots!”
Teun (read more reviews now)
Additionally, this tour is a safe and exciting way to party in New York, as you connect with fellow travelers and experience the city that never sleeps in a unique way.
So, avoid the common NYC tourist traps, and use this expert guided tour to immerse yourself in the local scene.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget your passport since you’ll need it to enter some of the venues on this tour.
| Pros | Cons |
| Visit a nice variety of different locations | Dress code of upscale/business casual |
| Great way to meet other travelers from around the world | Can be hard to walk with a guide who walks very fast |
| Guides share a lot of history about the history of bars in NYC | The tour moves quickly and it can feel like you don’t have time to finish your drink |
| Get to enjoy nice hotspots |
11. New York City: Guided Bus Tour at Night
⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5.0 (106 Reviews) Price: $59.00 per person Duration: 4 – 4.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: 7th Avenue (between 50th/51st Street) Operator: USA Guided Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Short on time and only have 24 hours in NYC? If so then this NYC Guided Bus Tour at Night could be PERF for you.
I mean, it’s one of the best night tours in New York City that quickly and easily takes you to a BUNCH of NYC landmarks.
So, get ready for a 4.5-hour, guided bus tour that departs at 5:30 pm from Times Square.
Once on the bus, make your way to the world-famous High Line and enjoy a 15-minute walk along this incredible, elevated, linear park that was once a railway line.
Take in the views, marvel at the urban artwork, and enjoy the lush greenery before heading to Little Island on the Hudson River.
It’s New York City’s newest outdoor space and is a great spot from which to marvel at the architectural awesomeness of this 2.4-acre public park.
“This night time bus tour was the highlight of our trip to NYC! “Postcard Tim” was so insightful and we learned so much from him that we otherwise wouldn’t have! Thank you Tim and Juan for an amazing experience. -Lisa, April, and Chapel (The NC girls 💙)”
Chapel (read more reviews now)
From there, you’ll visit Pier 17 at South Street Seaport. Enjoy sweeping views of Downtown Brooklyn in the evening and see the iconic, Brooklyn Bridge.
You’ll then quickly head inside Grand Central Terminal before admiring the unique architecture of the Chrysler Building and New York City’s newest skyscraper, One Vanderbilt.
You’ll then conclude your journey right back where you started at 10:00 pm in Times Square, making this one of the best night tours in NYC if you want a quick overview of the city.
Local Tip: I know this is a bus tour but there is a decent amount of walking. So, be prepared for that.
| Pros | Cons |
| Top of the Rock entry is included if you select that option | The open-top buses become glass-top buses between October 15th and March 15th |
| Get to explore places like Grand Central and the Brooklyn Bridge | The tour becomes a holiday lights tour between December 1st and January 7th |
| Great for first-time visitors who want to quickly/easily see top attractions in NYC | Not great for people who have already been to NYC and have seen all the big-name sites |
| Postcard Tim is epic and shares lots of stellar info | Don’t get a ton of time at each spot |
Best Night Tours in New York City FAQs
How Long is the NYC Night Tour?
The NYC night tour is a 4,5-hour bus tour that takes you to epic spots like Grand Central, Little Island, the High Line, Times Square, and more!
Where Can I Walk Around at Night in NYC?
At night in NYC you can walk around places like Williamsburg, Greenwich Village, Brooklyn Heights, Midtown, and the Upper East Side.
What is the Best Way to See New York Attractions?
If you’re short on time then the best way to see as many New York attractions as possible is with a bus tour.
Otherwise, you could sign up for an NYC walking tour through Midtown or just use the subway to make your way around the city.
What is the Best View in New York?
The best view in New York can be found in places like:
- The Highline
- The Empire State Building
- The Brooklyn Bridge
- Top of the Rock
- One World Observatory
- Staten Island Ferry
- The Edge
- Gantry Plaza State Park
- Summit One Vanderbilt
That wraps up this epic local’s guide to the best night tours in New York City.
Did your fave NYC night tours make the list? If not then let me know.
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