How to Plan a Group Trip to New York City

Whether you want to spend a day sightseeing around the busy streets or take a few days to soak in the excitement of the big city, preparation is key to having a fun, memorable and stress-free New York City outing. Before you hit the road, here are some things you need to plan in advance and factors to consider before finalizing any details. 

We’ve created a sample itinerary for inspiration and curated some tips to make your trip as smooth as possible. Read on and get ready for your next adventure. 

Planning Your Trip

We know how exciting planning can be, especially when it’s for one of the liveliest cities in the United States. But let’s be honest — it can also get a little overwhelming. Take some time to discuss transportation, hotels and planned activities with your group as soon as possible to work out the necessities first. All your preparations allow you and your friends or family to relax and enjoy the trip without the added stress of having to figure out details on the day of the trip.  

Remember, the minor details you put into motion now can help the rest of your trip go smoothly once you arrive in NYC. So, do your research diligently and make plans ahead of time.

Transportation Around New York City

While New York City is home to exciting attractions and beautiful sights, getting to these landmarks can be a bit of a hassle. Busy roads and jammed traffic can be a challenge when you have plans in mind that you want to fulfill. To make your trip go as smoothly as possible, you can rent a bus to transport your large group around the city.

Bus rentals are the best transportation option for groups larger than 10 who want to travel around the Big Apple. You and your group can bring along any essentials during the trip and stretch out while on the move to the next fun activity. This option also allows your group to travel together rather than having to find enough taxis for every member of your party.

Finding bus rentals for NYC is convenient and affordable and can create fun memories.

Places to Stay in NYC

Your hotel in New York City can offer breathtaking views of the city and its most renowned landmarks. While the sights outside your window might be one of the most vital parts of your stay, you also want to find a hotel with a relaxing ambience to unwind after a long day of visiting must-see attractions in the big city. 

Here are a few top-rated hotels that you can book for your group trip to NYC:

• The Draper, Ascend Hotel Collection: In the heart of Manhattan, you can find this comfortable hotel with a gorgeous view of the Empire State Building. The contemporary style of each room gives you a taste of living in the Big Apple and conveniently places you within walking distance of several must-see attractions.
• Margaritaville Resort Times Square: This charming hotel resort puts you right in the streets of Times Square. You can enjoy visiting the on-site bar or taking a dip in the pool while overlooking one of the most famous landmarks in the city.
• Motto by Hilton New York City Chelsea: This impressive 42-floor hotel gives you a breathtaking view of the city, including Madison Square Garden and the Flatiron Building. The quiet and comfortable atmosphere of Motto lets you unwind before walking around nearby attractions, such as Times Square, Greenwich Village and Chelsea Market.

Places to Eat in NYC

There is no shortage of delicious restaurants and hidden gems around every corner of New York City. You can satisfy your taste buds with thousands of cafes, diners, bars and high-end restaurants. 

As you walk the streets of NYC, stop at any of the following restaurants for a taste of city life: 

• Union Square Cafe: Fine dining and a beautiful atmosphere make Union Square Cafe a favorite restaurant choice for locals and tourists. You can enjoy sitting down with your group to try the unique pasta, salad, seafood and dessert recipes that will leave you satisfied before making your way around the city.
• Breads Bakery: A trip to NYC can go by quickly when you have so many fun activities planned. If you want a sweet or savory treat to bring with you on your next landmark visit, make a stop at Breads Bakery. You can select delicious cakes, cookies, bread, pastries and burekas from this East 16th Street location that are perfect for snacking on throughout the day. 
• The Penny Farthing: End a night of sightseeing and fun activities with drinks and snacks at the Penny Farthing. This rustic, old-timey bar is a great way to celebrate the adventures you and your group went on during the day. Toast with a large selection of tap beers and martinis or order a delicious dinner of pastas, salads and sandwiches.

Group Travel Tips for NYC

As iconic as it can be, traveling to NYC can be challenging without preparation. Make the most out of your adventure in the city that never sleeps. Here are some of the best New York City group travel tips for an unforgettable adventure:

• Be mindful of the people around you: In NYC, time is gold. You’d see people walking quickly, so avoid stopping in the middle of the sidewalk and keep up the pace. 
• Embrace the vibrant energy: From the crowd to the attractions to the city lights, NYC’s energy is infectious. Be prepared for the crowd, the noise and fast-paced surroundings. 
• Leave room to relax: It’s always a good idea to have a relaxing time in between energy-filled activities. Leave some time open on your itinerary for spontaneous activities — after all, NYC is full of surprises.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Secure your belongings at all times, whether you’re out in the street or exploring a top-rated attraction. 
• Know your group interests: Are you more interested in arts and culture? Food or bar hopping? Create an itinerary that includes something that makes everyone happy. 
• Make a realistic budget: Prices in NYC can be steep, so you need to plan your budget in advance to avoid overspending. 
• Stay together: The city’s busy streets and vibrant energy can be overwhelming, especially for first-timers. Share the group itinerary to keep everyone on the same page.
• Go beyond the touristy spots: There’s so much more to explore in NYC than typical touristy spots. Add boroughs like Queens and Staten Island for a more fulfilling trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Group Trips to New York City

Got some questions? We’ve covered the basics for your quick reference. Explore our FAQ section so you can save time and get started with planning:

What Is the Best Way to Get Around NYC With a Large Group?

Explore New York City in style and comfort. Renting a charter bus or minibus is the most convenient and cost-effective option for group travel in NYC. This type of transportation offers a stress-free solution for your family and friends, ensuring everyone stays together without compromising safety and comfort. Surprisingly, it’s a more economical choice than multiple car rentals.

How Far in Advance Should I Book Transportation and Hotels for a Group Trip to NYC?

New York City is a famous tourist destination — a city where everything moves fast and fills up even faster. For the best rates and availability, book at least 3-6 months in advance. Waiting until the last minute can be stressful, as most bookings are already full and pricey. The earlier you book, the more choices you’ll have and more time to plan the fun stuff. 

Why Is NYC Ideal for Group Trips?

From iconic landmarks to impressive art scenes to flavorful culinary experiences, NYC is bursting with things to do, eat and explore. Experience its diversity, accessibility and vibrant energy with the entire crew. 

What Are the Best Places to Visit in NYC With a Group?

Other than those listed on our sample itinerary, here are some of the recommended spots to visit when traveling with a group:

• Central Park
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
• Liberty Island
• Greenwich Village
• The Bronx
• The High Line

Sample NYC Itinerary for Large Groups

Whether it’s your first time visiting the Big Apple or you’re returning for more, numerous famous landmarks are worth a stop during your trip to New York City. You can spend the day sightseeing at some of the city’s must-see attractions within 20 minutes of each other. 

If you need inspiration for sightseeing during your trip, you can follow this New York City itinerary:

Morning at the Brooklyn Bridge

Start your day with an early trip to the Brooklyn Bridge. If you are staying at a hotel in beautiful Brooklyn, New York, visiting this bridge first is perfect for making your way over to Manhattan for the other must-see landmarks. The walk across the Brooklyn Bridge takes anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour, allowing you to catch the sunrise and the hustle and bustle of New York life.

Afternoon at the Empire State Building

After stepping off the Brooklyn Bridge, you and your group can have a delicious breakfast at one of the restaurants above before making your way to the Empire State Building. This landmark is known as one of the most famous buildings in the city. You can take pictures of the impressive exterior architecture or go up to the 86th-floor observation deck for a breathtaking view of the city.

Stop at the Chrysler Building

A 15-minute walk from the Empire State Building leads to the beautiful Chrysler Building on Lexington Avenue. This landmark is known for its impressive architecture, height and Art Deco, which you can explore from the exterior and lobby. You can see this 77-floor building from the observation deck of the Empire State Building.

Spend the Evening in Times Square

After stopping for a bite to eat at one of the countless restaurants in Manhattan, you can explore the lively atmosphere of Times Square to end the day. The nightlife of Times Square is an extraordinary experience with numerous street performers, theaters, nightclubs and countless other memorable sights. After sunset, you can see the streets come to life with the glow of the LED screens advertising music and Broadway shows. This stop is the perfect way to end your day in NYC.

BusRates — Your Trusted Charter Bus Rental in NYC

BusRates is the trusted choice when it comes to NYC bus rentals for groups. Our platform gathers a list of reputable local operators in the city so you can connect with them directly for your group trip. Get custom quotes straight from the company and discuss your itinerary for the best group tour ever.

Rent a Charter Bus for Your NYC Trip Today

Make your trip as memorable as possible with affordable and fun rides found on BusRates. We offer an updated directory to help you find the perfect transportation for your large group, from party buses to executive coaches. Getting a quote for a stylish, convenient and comfortable ride around New York City is the first step to finalizing your group trip plans.

Get started on booking your NYC trip today!