New York · SKIP THE LINE
20 reviewed
Below are the 15 best skip the line tours in New York right now: what each one costs, how long it runs, and which kind of visitor it suits. Start at number one, it earned the spot.
Skip-the-line access to One World Observatory for 360-degree NYC views, the fast SkyPod ride, and downtown skyline moments, timed right for sunset.
“Excellent! Great place to visit with superb views, friendly staff, and a great store.”
1-hour Circle Line harbor cruise for close Statue of Liberty photos, Ellis Island stories, and skyline views from Pier 83 with live guide.
“Really enjoyed it weather wasn't great but still really enjoyed. Guide was very interesting”
A 90-minute sunset cruise from South Street Seaport for close Statue of Liberty views, big skyline panoramas, and music-filled comfort.
“It was such a great experience. the weather was perfect, so we got to see sunset on the boat as well.”
Express Empire State Building Observatory tickets with red-carpet entry, fast elevator access, and 86th or 102nd floor NYC views.
“Skip the line Express was so worth it, incredible!”
Walk the 9/11 Memorial with a guide, then use a reserved skip-the-line museum ticket. Stops include St. Peter’s, St. Paul’s Chapel, and more.
“Our group was at the designated meeting spot early and tour operator never showed. We tried to contact via message with no response. We tried to call phone number listed—no response. We did not receive the tour and we’re not given a refund. Viator refused the refund. Very disappointed and DO NOT RECOMMEND!”
Skip-the-line all-day One World Observatory ticket with priority security, elevator access, One World Explorer iPad, and $15 credit.
“Nice view! The video pad with "helicopter" up close detail was fun. Our ticket included a drink which we enjoyed. I liked the flexible entry time slot... it took us much longer in the museum than expected (which was fascinating as well). The late afternoon sun was bright in our eyes and I could not see the video pad screen well on about half of the attempts.”
A 2-hour Met highlights tour with skip-the-line entry, expert guidance through Dendur and European masters, plus seasonal roof garden views.
“Beautiful museum, my favorite in New York. First time doing it with a guide and that really changed the experience. Amazing tour!”
Skip-the-line access to One World Observatory for 360° NYC skyline views, priority lanes, SkyPod elevator, and a $5 voucher for food or retail.
“The views were amazing. Getting to the 102nd floor was Ha ha moment. I feel there were little instructions on what to expect. I would do this again during the sunset and at night.”
Skip-the-line guided tour of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt with mirror installations, skyline views, and a digital photo package for $162.
“hice la reserva y cuando llegue me dijeron que la empresa no hizo la reserva, la cancelo y aun asi me la cobraron”
Skip the lines at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt with a 90-minute guided tour, interactive exhibits, Manhattan views, and a free digital photo package.
“Phenomenal experience! No waiting in that awful line with 100’s of people. The young lady giving the tour was super sweet and knowledgeable 💙 I will DEFINITELY book this again”
A 2-hour Met highlights tour with skip-the-line entry, an expert English guide, and smart stops from the Temple of Dendur to Modern art.
“We loved our guide Jeffrey. He organized our tour with knowledge and perfect pace, kept it interesting and engaging.”
Skip-the-line dueling pianos in NYC with singalongs, games, and table-side service in Chelsea for about 3 hours. Drinks cost extra.
“It was fun... a lot of good songs.. but one of the singers was much better than the other.. and the prices for songs got real high. They started late too...”
A 45-minute Central Park moonlight carriage ride from Central Park South, with a warm blanket, horse carrot feeding, and a photo stop.
“Our driver was FANTASTIC!! VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE! We all enjoyed and would do again! Ages 8-71 - we all had a great time!”
VIP 50-minute Central Park horse carriage tour with photo stops, blankets, and carrot-feeding. Private group up to 4.
“A truly lovely way to spend an hour in comfort and peace. I wouldn't normally do this sort of trip but Viator have always done things well and this was no exception. A lovely carriage, a seemingly well kept horse and a friendly knowledgeable driver. Central Park is huge and even this only scratches the surface but you'll see more in this genteel hour than any other way.”
Boozy dueling pianos brunch in Midtown with skip-the-line entry, a guaranteed table, table-side service, and song requests for about 3 hours.
“We brought my mom to the Dueling Pianos brunch show, and the guys went out of their way to show her a GREAT time! We sang, ate, drank, sang some more, and laughed like we were at a comedy show. (The mimosas helped too!) These guys can play anything! They even brought her up to the pianos for a special birthday shout-out, and the rest was history. I HIGHLY recommend this for special occasions. From the greeting at the door to the service from the staff to the excellent entertainment, everything was just right. Thanks again guy!”
