One of NYC’s most acclaimed and popular sightseeing attractions is back on the streets after the long pandemic hiatus with its special seasonal version of THE RIDE NYC: Holiday Edition. Self-described as “a traveling theater,” the one-of-a-kind award-winning bus tour not only takes riders on a 4.2-mile journey past the famous sights and winter-time decorations of Midtown Manhattan and the Times Square area, but also offers live entertainment and fascinating facts all along the way.
The multi-million-dollar comfortably heated motor coach, which has been seen on the animated television series The Simpsons, features floor-to-ceiling glass windows, side-facing stadium-style seating, surround sound, 3,000 LED lights, and 40 LCD TV screens to create the best possible visual and audio experience. And each tour is enhanced with original holiday music, fun-filled interactions with two talented comedic hosts trained in improv, and a final singalong of a New York favorite, resulting in thousands of 5-star reviews from happy past participants of this unique event-on-wheels.
Five to seven outdoor “random” street performances per trip are viewed and heard from inside the bus. You never know when, what to expect, or who you’ll see on the route, from a break-dancer to a ballerina, a sax player and singer, to a fabulous hip-hop artist doing an extended original rap referencing the people on the tour. The hosts create the mood of an intimate comedy club, with constant clever comments and repartee with the riders, while also relaying interesting information about the history of NYC and its iconic landmarks.
With the largest vehicles permitted on the NYC streets, THE RIDE, officially celebrating its tenth anniversary on Saturday, November 27, can accommodate up to 49 passengers. Because seats are limited and tickets are expected to sell out, Richard Humphrey (CEO/CCO, Author, and Director) and Director of Operations Alexis Qualls made the decision to add an extra 30 shows to the Holiday Edition schedule. So if you’re looking for a participatory event that provides an entertaining look at the city and shines a spotlight on a variety of its talented inhabitants, be sure to get your tickets now. This is not your average bus tour!
Running Time: Approximately 80 minutes, without intermission.
The Ride NYC: Holiday Edition runs through Sunday, January 2, 2022, boarding in front of Patrick’s Restaurant, 42nd Street and 8th Avenue, NYC. Advance reservation is required. For tickets (priced at $79-99), call (212) 221-0853, or go online. Due to the NYC Vaccine Mandate, everyone age 12 and over must be vaccinated and show proof before boarding. In addition, everyone must wear a mask at all times on the bus.