Go City: Boston Explorer Pass – Choose 2, 3, 4 or 5 Attractions

Rating: 3.5/5 (from 47 reviews)
Location: Boston, USA
Price: $49.00 per person
Supplier: Go City
Contact: +1 800 887 9103 / [email protected]

Introducing the Boston Explorer Pass: A Flexible Way to See the City

Thinking about exploring Boston without the hassle of buying individual tickets for each attraction? The Go City Boston Explorer Pass offers just that — a flexible, budget-friendly way to visit multiple sights that suit your interests. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or family on vacation, you can pick 2, 3, 4, or 5 attractions from over 19 options, and enjoy the freedom to go at your own pace.

What we love about this pass is its simplicity of use and the digital format. No paper vouchers or printed tickets are necessary — just scan your mobile pass at each attraction. Plus, the included digital guide makes planning your itinerary straightforward.

A potential consideration is the QR code issues reported by some travelers — a reminder that tech hiccups can happen, so it’s wise to double-check how to use your pass before visiting popular sites. This pass is ideal for those who prefer a customized, self-guided experience, and for travelers wanting to maximize their Boston visit without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Flexible attraction choices allow tailoring your trip based on interests and schedule.
• The digital pass eliminates the need for paper tickets and streamlines entry.
• Over 19 attractions available, covering everything from museums to harbor cruises.
• Validity of 60 days from first use gives ample time to plan your visits.
• Reservations are required for some activities; check the digital guide for details.
• Mixed reviews highlight excellent experiences at some attractions and technical issues at others.

What You Can Expect from the Boston Explorer Pass

The get-go with the Boston Explorer Pass is straightforward: choose how many attractions you want to visit (2, 3, 4, or 5). Once purchased, your pass is instantly available on your mobile device, ready for you to activate at your preferred sites. The validity period is 60 days from the first use—affording plenty of opportunity to spread out your visits.

How It Works

Your pass grants you direct entry at participating attractions. There’s no need to redeem vouchers—simply show your digital pass on your phone and go. The included digital guide is your best friend for planning, listing all the attractions, opening times, reservation requirements, and tips to maximize your visit.

How to Use Your Pass

Prepare by checking if any attractions require advanced reservations; some, like the Museum of Science and Salem Witch Museum, do. This is a common theme from reviews—we found that most attractions are straightforward, but some visitors struggled with QR code scanning or reservations, especially during peak times. Be sure to check the instructions in your digital guide well ahead of your visit.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The beauty of this pass lies in its customization. Here’s a snapshot of some top attractions and what they bring to your trip:

Museum of Science

A must-visit for science lovers, this museum offers over 700 interactive exhibits. You can see chicks hatch, witness lightning strikes in live shows, and get up close with a space capsule. The reviews highlight the hands-on nature and the family-friendly vibe of this spot.

Note: Reservations are necessary, and the museum’s interactive exhibits seem to be a hit. Travelers like Soey_O found it worthwhile, citing it as a top attraction.

Boston Observation Deck

Perched on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower, the Boston Observation Deck offers panoramic city views. It’s a quick stop but one that provides a different perspective of Boston’s skyline. Reviewers mention it’s an easy, scenic highlight of the trip.

Boston Children’s Museum

Designed specifically for families, this museum emphasizes learning through play. Kids can enjoy exhibits focused on science, culture, arts, and the environment. Visitors like Virginia B appreciated the interactive displays and the fact that the pass could be used seamlessly.

Boston Harbor City Cruises

A relaxing cruise through Boston Harbor, lasting about 90 minutes. Guides share tales from the Revolutionary War and local legends, adding a layer of storytelling to the sights. Reviewers found this a highlight, especially with stunning views of the skyline and historic landmarks.

Trolley and Bus Tours

The CityView Trolley Tour gives a rundown, with open-air views and narration about Boston’s history. The hop-on-hop-off style offers flexibility, especially for those who want to explore at their own pace.

Art and Culture

• Museum of Fine Arts: Home to a vast collection of international masterpieces, including American art, artifacts, and textiles. Visitors often mention the Art of the Americas wing as a standout.
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: Known for its unique Venetian-style architecture and extraordinary art collection, this museum is a favorite for culture lovers.

Unique Experiences

• Salem Witch Museum: A dramatic, theatrical experience that explores Salem’s witch trials. Reviewers mention the stage sets and narration as engaging, but reservations are required.
• Peabody Essex Museum: Offers a collection of over a million works, including an 18th-century Chinese merchant’s house. It’s a great stop for culture and history buffs.

Family & Nature

• Franklin Park Zoo: Famous for its indoor gorilla exhibit, visitors love the close encounters with Western lowland gorillas. It’s a perfect option for families.
• Harvard Museum of Natural History: Houses dinosaurs, meteorites, minerals, and more—an ideal stop for curious minds (though currently unavailable due to Covid-19).

Active & Sports Enthusiasts

• Urban AdvenTours: Renting bikes for a day can be a fun, eco-friendly way to explore neighborhoods.
• TD Garden Tour & The Sports Museum: For sports fans, these tours are insightful and behind-the-scenes, with knowledgeable guides.

Real Traveler Insights & Tips

Based on reviews, here are some important takeaways:

• Most attractions are easy to access with the digital pass, but some travelers faced QR code issues, like not being able to scan at the aquarium or museum. It’s wise to test your QR codes early and keep a backup on your phone.
• Reservations are a must for activities like the Salem Witch Museum or Museum of Science, so plan ahead.
• The pass is valid for 60 days from first use, giving flexibility—but some reviewers mention that it can be confusing if you’re unaware of the expiration date.
• Several travelers highlighted that using the pass saved both time and money, especially at popular spots like the Boston Aquarium and the zoo.
• Some attractions received mixed reviews; for instance, one reviewer felt that one tour was “pretty weak,” while others found the Harvard Museum and the Boston Museum of Fine Arts to be worthwhile.
• The digital guide is quite helpful, but a few reviewers wished there was more clear instructions on how to redeem the pass at each site.

Is the Boston Explorer Pass Worth It?

This pass offers excellent value if you plan to visit multiple attractions and can handle some reservations in advance. The flexibility of choosing your attractions and the ability to spread visits over 60 days make it appealing for different travel styles.

It’s especially suited for families, culture seekers, and those eager to explore at their own pace without the hassle of buying individual tickets. However, if you’re only interested in one or two spots, or prefer guided tours without reservations, you might find better value elsewhere.

The mixed reviews about QR code issues suggest that travelers need to be prepared with patience and check instructions beforehand. The most beloved attractions—like the zoo, aquarium, and museums—are highlights worth planning around.

The Sum Up

The Go City Boston Explorer Pass combines cost savings, flexibility, and access to top attractions, making it an attractive option for a self-guided city adventure. Its success heavily depends on how well you plan ahead—particularly with reservations and understanding the pass’s expiration.

If you’re someone who loves customizing your itinerary, values easy entry, and wants to avoid the hassle of individual ticketing, this pass is likely to serve you well. The experiences available span from educational museums and scenic cruises to lively tours and family-friendly exhibits, catering to a broad spectrum of interests.

While tech glitches and some unclear instructions have been noted, these are manageable with a bit of prep. For travelers determined to make the most of Boston, especially those who enjoy mixing sightseeing with cultural and educational stops, the Explorer Pass offers a convenient, cost-effective way to see a lot in one trip.

FAQ

Can I use the pass at all attractions on the same day?
You can use the pass at multiple attractions, but it’s important to note that the pass is valid for 60 days from first use. Some reviews indicate confusion over whether all visits must be completed in one day; it’s best to check reservation requirements and plan accordingly.

Do I need to print my pass or can I use it on my phone?
The pass is a mobile ticket, so you can show it on your smartphone for direct entry—no printing required, making it convenient.

Are reservations necessary for all attractions?
No, not all, but some attractions like the Museum of Science and Salem Witch Museum do require advanced reservations. Check the digital guide for specific instructions.

What if I encounter QR code or scanning issues?
Some travelers have faced problems with QR codes not working correctly. It’s advisable to test your QR code early and keep a backup, like a screenshot, in case of technical difficulties.

How long is the pass valid after the first use?
The pass is valid for 60 days from the date you first use it at an attraction, providing flexibility for planning your visits.

Is transportation included?
No, the pass covers admission only. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation around the city.

What are the main attractions I can visit?
Popular options include the Museum of Science, Boston Observation Deck, Boston Children’s Museum, and harbor cruises. For art lovers, the Museum of Fine Arts and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum are highlights.

In essence, the Boston Explorer Pass offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to experience many of Boston’s best sights. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want to explore independently with the freedom to customize their trip, provided they’re comfortable with reservations and tech reliance. Happy exploring!