Frequently Asked Questions and Tour Policies

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the husband and wife team that began running tours with a van back in 1991?

You found us! Stephen and Christina Duer started Marvelous Manhattan tours nearly 20 years ago with a single van, and have been thrilling their customers ever since. Since then they’ve had three children, and Christina no longer leads tours but helps behind the scenes together with the fantastic Jo Ellen. Marvelous Manhattan has added a whole “court” of fabulous tour guides, new vehicles, and many more stories about New York to entertain you on the tour.

At which hotels do you pick up and drop off guests?

We are able to pick up and drop off guests at the following Midtown Manhattan hotels:

8:30 AM - Waldorf Astoria
8:40 AM - NY Hilton (Avenue of the Americas)
9:00 AM - Marriott Marquis

Is this tour handicapped-accessible and/or wheelchair-accessible?

We often are able to accommodate handicapped passengers and passengers in wheelchairs. If you are attending with anyone who has special needs, please contact us ahead of time to describe your needs to us so we can confirm whether or not we will be able to accommodate you BEFORE you purchase your tickets. Unless we coordinate with you ahead of time, we can not guarantee that we will be able to accommodate you on the specific tour date you desire.

Do I have to buy a ticket to take my young child on this tour?

Because New York State law requires that young children travel in car seats on moving vehicles for their own safety, and because the car seat takes up a seat on the bus, you will need to buy a ticket for your child, regardless of age. Please note there is a reduced price ticket for children ages 12 and under. However, also note that if your child is young enough to need a car seat, you will need to bring one on the tour.

Can a minor (under age 18) attend the tour without a parent or guardian?

No, due to New York law, all minors (under age 18) must be accompanied by a parent or an adult guardian on our tour.

Does the tour occur rain or shine?

Yes, the tour runs regardless of weather. We spend most of our time in the tour vehicle, but do make several stops. Please dress appropriately for the weather so you are comfortable when we stop.

Do we go to the top of the Empire State Building or take a ferry (boat) out to visit the Statute of Liberty?

On our tours, you will learn about both of these New York landmarks and view them from the street, but we will not go inside them. You will easily be able to return on your own, as both attractions are very visitor friendly and have their own standard tours. (Note: there are often long lines at both the Empire State Building and the ferry to the Statue of Liberty, so if you decide to return, you should go early to maximize your visiting time!)

Can I bring wine, beer or other alcoholic beverages on the tour?

No. It is against New York State law to consume alcohol on a tour vehicle.

Are cameras allowed on the tour?

Yes. We recommend you bring a camera (or video camera) and plenty of film and batteries so you can capture the sights of New York City.

Are the tours conducted in English only?

Yes. Our tours are conducted in English only at this time. So much of the tour experience is visual, however, that it can be enjoyed by visitors with limited English.

Is there assigned seating on the tour?

No. There is no assigned seating - it’s first come, first served. If you have a group who wants to sit together, please arrive together so you are less likely to have to split up your group.

Is there a bathroom on the tour vehicle?

There is no bathroom on the tour vehicle, but we make several stops where bathrooms are available.

Can I book a private tour?

Yes, private tours are available. Most groups, however, decide to attend the public tour for two reasons. First, it is usually significantly less expensive. Second, part of the fun of the tour is interacting with all the other New York visitors who take the public tour, and enjoying the group dynamic with your guide. We are specialists in providing customized private tours for corporate groups, wedding parties, and other special events. Pre-arrangement is required. To book a private tour, please Contact Us.

If the tour is sold out, is there a waiting list?

No, Marvelous Manhattan Tours does not keep a waiting list for our tours. Tours usually sell out, and often well in advance, so please make sure to purchase your tickets far in advance, especially if you have limited time availability.

Is this a good general New York City sightseeing tour?

Yes! This tour is designed to give you a great introduction to New York City. You will see well-known and lesser-known sights of Upper, Middle, and Lower Manhattan, making the tour an excellent way to get your bearings. Unlike big, impersonal bus tours, this small group tour is conducted by native New York characters that will enliven your experience and understanding of New York while showing you the sights.

Does Steve Duer lead all of the tours? Can I make sure to reserve a tour that he is leading?

Steve and his highly-talented, entertaining group of tour guides lead the tours. We are unable to specify who will lead each tour, as sometimes tour leaders change at the last minute. Don‘t worry - you won‘t be disappointed no matter which guide you get! All of the guides are native New York characters who will add a lot of color and flair to your understanding of New York.

Policies

Tour Bookings and Cancellations

Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.

What’s Included

Our price includes hotel pick-up and/or drop-off, a comfortable tour bus with licensed driver, detailed explanations, and personalized service. The price does not include the cost of lunch or any incidentals you purchase during the tour.

Marvelous Manhattan Tours respects your privacy. We do not distribute your personal information (including address, phone number, email, or payment information) to any third parties. We may contact you to solicit your feedback about our services or to inform you about upcoming tours. If you do not wish to be contacted, please let us know and we will immediately remove you from our mailing list.

A Final Note

We love this city and we know you will too. But just to be safe, we want to tell you what we’re not responsible for. We assume no liability for traffic conditions or street closures. We are not responsible for injuries or lost personal property. Unfortunately, we can not control the acts of people on the street or fix potholes.