Boston CityPASS®

Traveling to Boston? Our review of the Boston CityPASS® aims to help you decide if this discounted ticket bundle fits your sightseeing plans. It’s an attractive option for visitors who want to see Boston’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed or breaking the bank.

What we love about this pass is how it combines convenience and savings—skip the long ticket lines and enjoy up to nine days to explore the city’s best-known sights. Plus, the flexibility to pick two attractions from a curated list means you can tailor your experience to your interests. On the flip side, a potential downside is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan how to get between sites.

If you’re a traveler looking to maximize your time and money in Boston—whether for a quick visit, a family trip, or a cultural jaunt—this pass could be a smart choice. It offers a mix of urban sightseeing, engaging museums, and outdoor fun, perfect for those who want an authentic taste of Boston’s diverse attractions.

Key Points

• Save 45% on four major Boston attractions with one ticket
• Valid for 9 consecutive days from first use
• Includes skip-the-line tickets for popular venues
• Flexibility to choose two attractions from a list
• Mobile tickets are easy to use and valid for 1 year from purchase
• Transportation to attractions is not included, so plan accordingly

What’s Included in the Boston CityPASS®?

The pass provides admission to two must-see attractions—the New England Aquarium and the Museum of Science—plus the choice of two more from a selection of four exciting options. This structure allows you to customize your trip based on your interests, whether that’s outdoor adventures, history, or spectacular views.

The Core Attractions

We love how easy it is to get into these top spots without waiting in long lines. The New England Aquarium is a highlight for families and nature lovers alike, with its lively aquatic displays and engaging exhibits. The Museum of Science offers hands-on exhibits and fascinating displays that appeal to kids and adults. Expect about four hours at each site, enough time to explore without rushing.

Your Choice of Two

The flexibility to select two attractions from Boston Harbor Cruises, View Boston Observation Deck, Franklin Park Zoo, or Harvard Museum of Natural History means you can tailor your experience. For instance, the harbor cruise provides a relaxing, scenic way to see Boston’s historic waterfront, which reviews often praise for its breathtaking views. The observation deck offers panoramic cityscapes and is perfect if you love sweeping city views. The zoo is a good family option, though some travelers found it less remarkable. Harvard Museum of Natural History is highly recommended by visitors for its extensive exhibits and the Peabody Museum.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Stop 1: New England Aquarium

Expect to spend around four hours here. This aquarium is more than just tanks; it’s a lively hub of marine life, with a famous central tank that visitors describe as “beautiful” and “close to the animals.” It’s a great start for those interested in ocean life and is accessible conveniently via public transit. Many visitors mention that skipping the ticket lines saves precious time, allowing more focus on enjoying the exhibits.

Stop 2: Museum of Science

Another four-hour visit gives you enough time to take in the interactive exhibits and watch a 3D film, which many find surprisingly engaging. One reviewer noted that the Museum of Science was “more fun and engaging than we anticipated,” highlighting its appeal beyond traditional static displays. The museum’s layout and exhibits make it suitable for all ages, making it a family favorite.

Stop 3: Boston Harbor City Cruises

This 60-minute cruise offers a relaxing and scenic way to see Boston’s waterfront, with views of historic ships and skyline panoramas. Reviewers often call this the “best” part of their visit, appreciating the breathtaking vistas and the chance to relax on the water. It’s included as a free ticket, so it’s an easy addition that adds a different perspective of the city.

Stop 4: View Boston Observation Deck

This one-hour stop provides spectacular views of the city from above. Many visitors mention that the views are “unbelievable” and that it’s well worth the short visit. It’s a quick but rewarding experience, giving a perfect photo opportunity and an overview of Boston’s layout.

Stop 5: Franklin Park Zoo

Spending around four hours here, the zoo offers a chance to see animals up close. Several reviews note that the zoo’s animals are accessible and engaging, with some describing the experience as “nice but not outstanding.” Keep in mind that after-hours events are not included, and some visitors have found the zoo’s offerings less impressive than other attractions.

Stop 6: Harvard Museum of Natural History

A three-hour exploration allows for a thorough look at its exhibits, including the Peabody Museum. Reviewers have praised this museum as “a must-do for natural history lovers,” with many appreciating its extensive collections and engaging displays.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

From those who enjoyed the pass, many highlight the value and convenience. One reviewer shared, “Got to explore a lot in a short amount of time without breaking the bank,” emphasizing the cost-effectiveness. Others praised the breathtaking views from the harbor cruise and observation deck, saying they “could see the whole city” and appreciated the abundance of photo opportunities.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One traveler pointed out that the zoo was closed for a private event, which was disappointing, and another noted that Harvard Art Museums are already free, making that part of the pass less attractive. These are useful notes to consider—always check the status of attractions before your visit.

Pricing and Value Analysis

The $79 price tag might seem steep at first glance, but when you compare it to the cost of individual tickets for each attraction, the savings of approximately 45% become clear. For a family or group, this could easily cover the cost of multiple attractions, especially when factoring in the skip-the-line advantage.

Keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for getting between attractions—Boston’s public transit system is efficient and accessible. The validity for 9 days allows you some flexibility to spread out your visits or revisit favorites, which adds to the overall value.

Practical Tips for Using the Pass

• Plan ahead: Some venues, like the Museum of Science, require reservations or online booking. Check their website and instructions provided in the app.
• Use mobile tickets: They’re valid for a year and make entry quick and hassle-free.
• Time your visits: Sticking to the suggested durations helps avoid rushing and maximizes your experience.
• Consider transportation costs: Factor in transit expenses to make the most of your budget.
• Check attraction hours: Some sites may have seasonal or special closures, so verify before heading out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This CityPASS® works well for families, first-time visitors, and those wanting to see Boston’s highlights efficiently. If you’re eager to experience Boston’s waterfront, museums, and skyline without fuss, the flexibility and savings make it a smart choice. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate having a set itinerary with options to customize their day.

If you’re on a tight schedule or traveling with kids, the convenience of pre-purchased tickets and skip-the-line access can make your trip more relaxed. However, those relying heavily on public transit should plan their routes in advance, as transportation isn’t included.

Final Thoughts: Is the Boston CityPASS® Worth It?

For travelers who want a cost-effective way to explore Boston’s top sights, the CityPASS® offers solid value. It simplifies your planning, helps avoid long waits, and provides a diverse mix of experiences—from marine life and science to scenic views and wildlife.

The ability to choose two attractions from a select list adds a layer of customization, ensuring you get the most out of your visit. And with a nine-day window, it suits both quick trips and longer stays.

That said, it’s essential to consider your interests and transportation options. If you prefer a more flexible or self-guided experience, the pass might be less advantageous. Conversely, if you want a structured, budget-friendly way to hit the highlights, this pass is a smart pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the pass include transportation between attractions?
No, transportation is not included. You will need to plan your transit using Boston’s public transportation system or other means.

How long is the pass valid?
It’s valid for 9 consecutive days starting from the first day you use it, giving you plenty of flexibility.

Can I use the mobile ticket on my phone?
Yes, the tickets are valid as mobile tickets or prints, making them convenient and easy to carry.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most venues include different minimum ages for free entry; check each attraction’s policy if you’re traveling with children.

What if an attraction is closed or unavailable?
Always verify availability before your visit. One reviewer noted that the zoo was closed for a private event, so plan accordingly.

Is this pass good for repeat visits?
No, it’s designed for single entries within the validity period. You can revisit attractions during your nine days, but each ticket is for once.

Can I cancel or get a refund?
No, the pass is non-refundable and cannot be changed once purchased.

Where can I purchase or get support?
Support is available via [email protected] or by calling +12087874300.

To sum it up, the Boston CityPASS® offers a balanced mix of value, convenience, and flexibility that appeals to many visitors. It’s an excellent way to cover Boston’s prime attractions efficiently, especially for first-timers eager to get a broad sense of what the city has to offer. Just remember to plan your transportation and check attraction timings in advance, so your visit runs smoothly and leaves you with great memories—and perhaps a few new favorite spots.