Go City: New York Explorer Pass: 90+ Things to Do Including Edge

Exploring New York City can feel a bit overwhelming—and expensive. With so many iconic sights and hidden gems, it’s easy to spend a fortune on admission fees. The Go City New York Explorer Pass aims to solve that problem by offering a flexible, cost-effective way to see the city at your own pace. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate having a variety of options and want to make the most of their visit without breaking the bank.

From broad city views at the One World Observatory and Edge NYC to immersive museums, historic sites, and even a harbor cruise, this pass packs in more than 90 attractions. The idea is that you pick between two and five activities, then enjoy them over a 30-day window. We love how this approach encourages a relaxed, unhurried exploration—no rushing to fit everything into a single day. On the flip side, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming, and some attractions require reservations, so planning ahead is key.

Who will benefit most? If you’re a flexible traveler eager to customize your NYC adventure, and you want the convenience of a prepaid ticket bundle, this pass is a strong contender. It also suits families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a curated experience while controlling costs. However, if your trip is very short or you’re only interested in one or two venues, a single-attraction ticket might be more straightforward.

Key Points

• Offers access to over 90 attractions, tours, and activities.
• Valid for up to 30 days after first use, perfect for flexible planning.
• Best for travelers wanting to customize their itinerary with multiple stops.
• Includes popular sights like Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Top of the Rock.
• Some attractions require reservations—plan ahead using the Go City app.
• Good value for those visiting multiple sites, with reviews praising its affordability and convenience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Its Value

Flexibility and Ease of Use

The core idea of this pass is flexibility. You can choose from dozens of attractions and spread your visits over a month, rather than rushing through everything in one day. This approach appeals to travelers who prefer a leisurely pace or want to revisit favorite sites. The pass is delivered as a digital ticket, which simplifies ongoing access. The Go City app is your planning hub, providing up-to-date info and reservation options for certain attractions.

Iconic Skyline Viewpoints

The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and One World Observatory form a trio of must-sees for skyline lovers. Each offers a different perspective: the Empire State with its art-deco charm and panoramic views, Top of the Rock with its outdoor decks and clear vistas of Central Park, and One World Observatory with the city sprawling beneath you from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

We particularly appreciate that the pass allows access to three different observation decks, each with its own unique vantage point. This means you get a well-rounded skyline experience, especially if you visit in the evening or at sunset (though note, you can’t reserve sunset times with the pass). Multiple reviews commend the views—many travelers say they are some of the best in the city.

Unique and Innovative Attractions

Edge NYC is the newest of the bunch, a sleek, glass-floored platform high above Hudson Yards. The elevator ride up is quick and smooth, and the open-air platform offers a view of Manhattan that’s hard to beat. Visitors have raved about the scenery, with many noting that the outdoor experience adds an extra thrill.

Similarly, the Circle Line Cruises provide a scenic way to see Manhattan from the water, offering photo opportunities and a fresh perspective on the city’s skyline. Expect about 1.5 hours on the boat, with a leisurely pace that leaves plenty of time for snapping pictures.

Cultural and Historic Deep Dives

The pass includes access to significant museums and memorials. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a moving tribute, with twin reflecting pools and exhibits. The Statue of Liberty tour is a highlight, offering ferry rides to Liberty Island and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Be aware that pedestal or crown access isn’t included with the pass, and those tickets often sell out months in advance.

Other museums like MoMA, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Guggenheim are part of the options. The reviews praise the ease of reserving time slots for these, though some note it’s essential to plan ahead — especially for popular spots like MoMA or the Natural History Museum.

Family-Friendly and Entertainment Features

For families or those seeking fun, options like Madame Tussauds and the LEGOLAND Discovery Center are included. These attractions are more interactive and provide a break from the more traditional sightseeing. Visitors find Madame Tussauds particularly amusing, with many noting the engaging character interactions.

Tours, Cruises, and Walking Experiences

The pass’s inclusion of Big Bus Tours and Walking Tours makes it easy to orient yourself in the city. The bus tour covers uptown and downtown routes, with pre-recorded guides in multiple languages. The Broadway Walk and neighborhoods like Greenwich Village or Harlem offer deep dives into NYC’s cultural fabric.

Offbeat and Niche Attractions

For those with eclectic tastes, options like SPYSCAPE, Museum of Sex, and Fotografiska provide unusual insights into human nature, arts, and photography. Many reviews mention these as great, less crowded alternatives that add flavor to the trip.

Considerations and Caveats

While the pass offers excellent value, there are some important details to keep in mind. Several attractions require reservations, and availability can be limited, so using the Go City app early to book your slots is essential. For example, spots like Yankee Stadium, Yankee Stadium Tour, and Yankee Game (depending on your plans) need scheduling.

Some reviews highlight frustrations with customer service or issues with digital tickets being marked as already redeemed. While these are isolated cases, they serve as a reminder to keep your confirmation details handy and to plan for possible hiccups.

Timing can also be a factor. At popular sites like the Empire State Building and One World, you might need to wait in line for a time slot. The pass doesn’t include priority access, so arriving early or late in the day can improve your experience.

Value for Money and Practicality

This pass truly shines when you plan to visit several of the included attractions. Many reviews describe it as “great value,” especially when compared to buying individual tickets. If you are a go-getter who wants to see a lot without multiple transactions, it simplifies the process—just scan your digital pass at each site.

The price point—$89 for a 2-6 attraction package—can seem steep, but considering the cost of individual tickets to big sights like the Empire State or Statue of Liberty, this pass often pays for itself with a few visits. Plus, the flexibility allows for spontaneous choices, which can be a real asset in a city that’s constantly changing.

Who Should Consider the Go City Explorer Pass?

This pass is best suited for travelers who want a customizable NYC experience and plan to visit multiple major sights. It’s ideal for those who enjoy planning ahead and are comfortable using an app to make reservations. Budget-conscious visitors will appreciate the savings, especially if they want to see at least three or four attractions.

However, if your trip is very short—say, just a day or two—and you’re only interested in one or two spots, a single ticket might be simpler. Also, if you prefer priority access or don’t want to plan reservations, check if separate tickets or guided tours might suit your style better.

Summary of Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Fantastic flexibility over 30 days
– Significant savings when visiting multiple sites
– Easy digital access and planning via the Go City app
– Wide variety of iconic and offbeat attractions

Cons:
– Some attractions require reservations; planning is necessary
– Not all sites offer priority or skip-the-line access
– Potential for technical issues with tickets (though rare)
– The sheer number of options can be overwhelming for first-time visitors

Final Thoughts

The Go City New York Explorer Pass offers a practical, economical way to explore the Big Apple. Its strength lies in giving travelers the freedom to craft their own adventures, from towering skyscraper views to world-class museums and fun family attractions. Many reviewers praise its ease of use and value, especially for those who love having a variety of options at their fingertips.

For those who enjoy planning, are eager to see a broad swath of the city, or want the flexibility to change plans on the fly, this pass can make your trip smoother and more affordable. Just remember to reserve your spots early and be ready for a busy, bustling, and unforgettable New York City adventure.

FAQ

Can I visit the attractions at any time within 30 days?
Yes, your pass is valid for 30 days once you scan it at your first attraction. You can visit your chosen sites at your convenience within that window.

Do I need to make reservations for all attractions?
Most attractions require reservations, which you can make via the Go City app or digital guide. Some, like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty, are especially popular and need planning early.

Does the pass include priority or skip-the-line access?
No, the pass does not offer priority entry. You might need to wait in line for some of the popular sites, so plan accordingly.

Can I visit more than five attractions?
While the pass is valid for 2-6 attractions (depending on your purchase), you can always purchase additional passes or tickets if you wish to expand your itinerary.

Are transportation and food included?
No, the pass covers entry fees only. Transportation between attractions and food are your responsibility.

How do I use the pass?
The pass is digital—simply show your QR code on your smartphone at each attraction to gain entry.

What if an attraction is closed or unavailable?
Check the Go City app for real-time updates. If an attraction is unavailable, you can substitute another attraction within your plan.

Is the pass worth it for families?
Many families find the pass offers great savings, especially when combining visits to multiple kid-friendly attractions like Madame Tussauds or the Museum of Natural History.

In summary, the Go City New York Explorer Pass is a flexible, convenient, and wallet-friendly way to see the city. It rewards those who are organized and eager to explore, offering a broad palette of experiences that capture the spirit of New York—spectacular views, cultural richness, and fun surprises along the way.