New York CityPASS®: Save up to 41% at 5 Top Attractions

Travelers often dream of ticking off iconic New York City landmarks with ease and savings. The New York CityPASS® promises just that—access to five major attractions at a significant discount, plus the flexibility of a 9-day window to enjoy everything at your own pace. From soaring skyscraper views to world-class museums, this pass aims to make your NYC adventure smoother and more budget-friendly.

What we love most about the CityPASS® is how it simplifies planning. No more frantic ticket lines or last-minute purchases at each site. Instead, you get instant mobile tickets, which means you’re ready to go from the moment you land. However, a potential downside is that some of the attractions, like the Natural History Museum, offer free entry if you prefer to explore independently, slightly diminishing the perceived savings. This pass appeals most to travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing while controlling costs and who appreciate the convenience of pre-booked reservations.

If your trip focuses on iconic sights like the Empire State Building or Statue of Liberty, and you want a stress-free experience, the CityPASS® can be a game-changer. It caters well to first-timers and seasoned visitors alike, especially those who value flexibility, as you have nine days to explore the included attractions.

Key Points

• Significant savings: Up to 41% compared to buying individual tickets.
• Flexibility: 9 days to use your tickets, allowing for a relaxed pace.
• Convenience: Mobile tickets and app-based reservations make entry seamless.
• Variety of attractions: Includes top sights like Empire State Building, Natural History Museum, and Statue of Liberty.
• Pre-booking advantage: Easy to reserve time slots, reducing wait times.
• Authentic and trusted: Thousands of reviews rate it highly for value and ease of use.

The Attractions Breakdown

Empire State Building Observatory

One of NYC’s most recognizable landmarks, the Empire State Building offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The CityPASS® includes the AM/PM Experience with entry to the 86th Floor Observatory and access to the 2nd Floor Museum. You also get a bonus same-night general admission, which is a real treat if you want to see the city lights after sunset. Travelers mentioned that visiting during the day offers incredible vistas, but the night visit adds a magical glow, as one review highlighted, “getting a bonus entry in the evening was a perfect way to see the city at different times.”

American Museum of Natural History

A favorite among families and science buffs, the Natural History Museum is more than just dinosaur skeletons. It boasts over 40 galleries, dioramas, and the stunning Hayden Planetarium. The CityPASS® grants full access to the permanent halls and one ticketed special exhibit, along with options like the Butterfly Vivarium or IMAX films, based on availability. Many reviewers found it a “well worth it” stop, although some noted that admission is free if you just want to explore, so the savings may depend on whether you choose the included extras. The museum’s family-friendly atmosphere and engaging displays make it a great choice for visitors of all ages.

Top of The Rock Observation Deck

Offering spectacular views of Manhattan, the Top of The Rock often earns praise for its less crowded, more accessible vantage point compared to the Empire State Building. The general admission ticket is included, and you can enjoy a 360-degree view of NYC — from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park. Reviewers loved the eye-level views of the Empire State Building, and some appreciated the flexibility of booking and rescheduling as weather conditions change.

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The ferry ride included in the CityPASS® takes you to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, giving a profound sense of American history. The tickets include audio guides and access to the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island Museum. While crown tickets and pedestal access are not included**, the experience is no less powerful. Several reviews mention the ease of using the Statue City Cruises ferry, and the guided audio tour helps bring the history alive.

Additional Options (Choose 3)

You can choose among:
– 9/11 Memorial & Museum: A sobering and beautifully designed tribute, with skip-the-line access.
– Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises: Offers different sightseeing cruises, like the Landmarks Cruise or Sunset Cruise, giving unique perspectives of the city skyline and harbor.
– Intrepid Museum: Ideal for military history enthusiasts, with the Space Shuttle Pavilion and submarine tours.
– Guggenheim Museum: Famous for its unique spiral architecture and impressive modern art collection.

Many travelers appreciated the customizable nature of these choices, which allowed them to tailor their experience based on interests and energy levels. Reviews frequently mention how easy it was to book reservations via the My CityPASS® app, making last-minute adjustments straightforward.

Practical Aspects and Tips

Ease of Use

The mobile tickets are a huge plus—no need to carry paper documents, and they can be easily scanned at each attraction. Several reviewers found the app “very easy to navigate” and praised how reservations could be adjusted or booked on the fly. One remarked, “Getting tickets all in one place along with reservations made our trip so much smoother.”

Flexibility & Duration

With 9 days to activate and use your pass, you can spread out your visits, avoiding the rush common with single-day tickets. This is especially valuable if you prefer exploring at a relaxed pace or want to fit in some spontaneous stops. Some reviews noted that the extra days made a difference, especially when weather was unpredictable or they wanted to revisit favorite sites.

Cost-Effectiveness

At $154 per person, the pass offers up to 41% savings versus individual ticket prices. While some attractions like the Natural History Museum are free if you explore on your own, others—like the Empire State Building or Statue of Liberty—are significantly more expensive without a pass. The value lies in the convenience of skip-the-line access and pre-planned reservations, saving time and reducing stress.

What’s Not Included

Transportation, food, and drinks aren’t part of the package, so plan accordingly. Some reviews suggest packing a packed lunch or snacks, especially if visiting larger sites where queues can be long. Also, note that certain attractions may require specific time slot reservations, which the app makes easy but requires some planning.

Who Should Consider This Pass?

This CityPASS® is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see major sights without the hassle of buying tickets separately. It’s also ideal for repeat visitors wanting to maximize their time and savings. Those who appreciate flexible days to explore and skip-the-line benefits will find it particularly valuable.

Families will benefit from the ease of reservations and the variety of attractions included. Budget-conscious travelers who want good value for money will appreciate the significant savings, especially if they plan to visit multiple sites. But if you’re only interested in a couple of attractions or prefer independent sightseeing, you might find paying à la carte more suitable.

Final Thoughts

The New York CityPASS® offers a comprehensive, convenient way to see some of the city’s most famous landmarks while saving money and avoiding long lines. Its 9-day validity provides flexibility for travelers who want to explore at a comfortable pace, and the digital tickets mean a hassle-free experience from start to finish.

Many reviewers highlight how easy it is to manage reservations and how the pass helps maximize time and value during a busy city trip. It’s especially well-suited for those who love a well-organized itinerary but want the freedom to change plans on the fly.

While it’s important to weigh which attractions are most appealing for your trip, the overall blend of iconic sights, ease of use, and savings makes this pass a compelling choice for many visitors to New York City.

FAQ: Your Quick Guide to the New York CityPASS®

Can I use the tickets for multiple attractions on the same day?
Yes, you can use your CityPASS® tickets over the 9 days, and some attractions may allow multiple visits or evening entries, like the Empire State Building’s bonus night visit.

Do I need to make reservations for attractions?
Most attractions included require reservations, which can be easily booked via the My CityPASS® app. This helps avoid long lines and ensures you get your preferred time slots.

Are the tickets valid for one-time entry only?
Yes, each ticket is valid for one-time entry per attraction unless otherwise specified. It’s best to plan your schedule accordingly.

Can I cancel my booking?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is the CityPASS® suitable for visitors with limited mobility?
Yes, the pass is wheelchair accessible, and most attractions accommodate visitors with mobility needs. It’s wise to check specific sites for detailed accessibility info.

What should I bring on the day?
Comfortable shoes, water, and a packed lunch are recommended, especially if you plan to spend several hours at larger sites. Download the My CityPASS® app for easy management of your tickets and reservations.

To sum it up, the New York CityPASS® is a smart, hassle-free way to explore New York City’s most iconic attractions with great savings. It’s designed for travelers who want to see a lot without the stress, making it a top pick for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike. Whether you’re marveling at the skyline from Top of The Rock or diving into the exhibits at the Natural History Museum, this pass helps you make the most of your NYC adventure—efficiently and affordably.