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

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

Planning a trip to New York City can feel overwhelming with so many iconic sights vying for your attention. That’s where the NYC CityPASS steps in, offering a smart way to experience some of the most celebrated attractions while saving a significant amount of money. We’ve reviewed this popular pass, and it looks like a practical choice for travelers eager to tick off major sights without the hassle of buying individual tickets or waiting in long lines.

Two things we love about the CityPASS are its flexibility—you have 9 days to use your tickets, giving you plenty of time to explore at a comfortable pace—and its convenience of mobile tickets, making entry smooth and contactless. One possible drawback is that some attractions, like museums, might require reservations or line-waiting, which could slightly diminish the seamless experience expected. This pass suits first-time visitors, families, and anyone wanting a stress-free way to see the essentials of New York.

If you’re looking for a value-packed, easy-to-use pass that grants access to major landmarks, the CityPASS is well worth considering. Its combination of flexibility, savings, and the ability to skip some lines makes it one of the most popular options for a memorable NYC adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Significant Savings: Save up to 41% compared to separate ticket purchases.
• Flexible Usage: 9 days to explore your chosen attractions at your own pace.
• Mobile Tickets: Instant delivery simplifies entry and planning.
• Must-See Sights: Includes iconic spots like Empire State Building, American Museum of Natural History, and Top of the Rock.
• Customizable: Pick 3 additional attractions from a list, tailoring your experience.
• Booking Ease: Reservations are available via the app, and some attractions offer flexible scheduling.

What Is the New York CityPASS?

The CityPASS is a carefully curated ticket bundle designed for travelers who want to maximize their experience without worrying about ticket lines or multiple purchases. For $154 per person, you gain entry to five major attractions with the option to visit additional sights based on your interests.

The pass is especially handy because it’s valid for 9 days, giving you ample time to visit at your leisure. You won’t feel rushed, which is essential when navigating a city as bustling as New York. Plus, the instant mobile ticket delivery means no printing is necessary—simply show your QR code at each site.

Breakdown of Included Attractions

Empire State Building Observatory – AM/PM Experience

This is a flagship feature, offering entry to the 86th Floor Observatory and a bonus opportunity for a same-night visit. The views from this iconic skyscraper are legendary, especially at sunset or after dark, when the city lights up. One reviewer noted that the same-day, night visit was a highlight, allowing a stunning cityscape experience both during the day and at night.

However, some travelers mentioned that the Empire State Building’s bonus night visit can be a bit tricky to coordinate, as timing and crowding might affect your plans. Still, it’s a quality experience if you plan well.

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American Museum of Natural History

A favorite for many, this sprawling museum features over 40 galleries covering everything from dinosaurs to celestial phenomena. The pass includes general admission to the permanent exhibits and a choice of one ticketed feature, like the Hayden Planetarium or a giant-screen film.

One traveler pointed out that you might need to wait in line to convert your pass into a museum ticket, which could be inconvenient during busy times. Still, the diverse exhibits and interactive displays make this a worthwhile stop for families and curious minds alike.

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Offering panoramic views of the city, the observation deck atop Rockefeller Center is praised for its clear sightlines and less crowded feel compared to the Empire State Building. Visitors can enjoy “stunning views of Central Park and the Empire State,” and the access is included in the pass.

Reviews frequently mention the ease of entry and the breathtaking scenes, especially at sunset or during twilight. The flexibility to change your times adds to its appeal.

Choose 3 Attractions from the List

The pass allows you to pick three additional attractions, such as:

• 9/11 Memorial & Museum: A sobering, respectful experience that honors those lost, with general admission included.
• Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Experience the famous ferry ride, with access to the Statue of Liberty Museum and Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Note that Crown and Pedestal access are not included.
• Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises: Offers different themed cruises—perfect for viewing landmarks from the water.
• Intrepid Museum: Features the Space Shuttle Pavilion, a submarine, and immersive exhibits, appealing to history buffs and families alike.
• Guggenheim Museum: Known for its unique architecture and impressive collection, with free guided tours available.

Based on reviews, travelers appreciated the variety of options, and the ability to customize their experience based on time constraints or personal interests.

What We Loved About the Experience

The most praised aspect is the value for money — saving up to 41% on some of NYC’s most iconic sites. Many reviewers highlighted how the pass simplified planning and avoided long lines, especially at popular spots like the Empire State Building and the American Museum of Natural History.

The flexibility was another frequent compliment. Travelers could reschedule or change times, even last minute, which proved useful when weather or other circumstances shifted plans. Several reviews mentioned that reservation management via the app makes this process straightforward.

The quality of guides and staff at various attractions also received high marks. Visitors repeatedly noted how knowledgeable guides enriched their visits, turning sightseeing into more meaningful experiences.

Views and Experiences

The views from Top of the Rock and the Empire State Building are often described as “breathtaking,” with some reviewers noting that seeing the city both day and night makes for a more complete picture. The ferry ride to Liberty Island offers a chance to experience the Statue of Liberty from the water, which many found more memorable than just viewing it from afar.

Ease of Use

Using the mobile tickets was seamless for most, with many affirming that the app made reservations and entry straightforward. The ability to book and amend reservations on the fly allows for spontaneous adjustments, an advantage in a city known for its unpredictable weather and busy attractions.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

While the pass is primarily about sightseeing, many reviewers felt it enhanced their overall experience by reducing stress and allowing them more time to enjoy the city. The inclusion of museums and landmarks that often involve self-guided tours means you can take your time absorbing the atmosphere.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

A few points to keep in mind are some attractions requiring reservations. For example, the American Museum of Natural History might require waiting in line to convert your pass into a ticket. Also, not all attractions are accessible without prior planning—for instance, Crown Tickets for the Statue of Liberty are not included.

While the value is excellent, travelers should be aware that transportation costs—such as subway or bus fares—are not included. The pass covers admission only, so plan for these additional expenses.

Some visitors mentioned a slight inconvenience with lines at certain sites, but overall, skip-the-line benefits at popular hubs like Top of the Rock and Empire State Building** help mitigate this issue.

Who Will Benefit Most?

This pass is ideal for first-time visitors wanting to see key landmarks without the stress of individual ticket purchases. Families and couples who want a mix of museums, observation decks, and cruises will find it cost-effective and practical. If you’re short on time but want to hit the major sights, the CityPASS offers good flexibility and value.

It’s especially suited for those who prefer a pre-planned itinerary that minimizes queuing and maximizes sightseeing. If you love the idea of visiting iconic sites at your own pace, this pass suits your style. However, if you prefer guided tours or more niche experiences, you might want to customize your own day.

Final Thoughts

The New York CityPASS packs a lot of big-name attractions into one convenient package, making it a smart buy for most travelers aiming to see the essentials without breaking the bank. Its cost savings, flexibility, and easy access help you make the most of your limited time in the city.

Most reviews emphasize the value for money and the convenience, revealing it as a solid choice for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed, stress-free sightseeing experience. While some attractions might require reservations or lining up, the overall experience remains smooth and enjoyable.

If your goal is to maximize your time and budget while taking in the iconic sights of New York, this pass could very well be your ticket to a memorable city adventure.

FAQ

• How long is the CityPASS valid? The pass is valid for 9 consecutive days starting from your first use, giving you plenty of time to explore at a relaxed pace.

• Can I use the tickets at any time during the 9 days? Yes, once activated, you have 9 days to visit the five attractions and make your selections for the extras.

• Are the tickets delivered instantly? Yes, you receive mobile tickets instantly via the app or email, making access quick and contactless.

• Do I need to make reservations for attractions? Some attractions, like the American Museum of Natural History, may require reservations or ticket conversions. The app helps manage these easily.

• What attractions are included? The main included attractions are the Empire State Building, American Museum of Natural History, and Top of the Rock, plus three more from a list (like 9/11 Memorial, Statue of Liberty ferry, or Guggenheim).

• Are children free? There are Infant Free Tickets available, but some attractions may require additional child tickets based on age.

• Is transportation included? No, the pass covers admission only; you’ll need to budget for subway, bus, or taxi fares.

• Can I skip lines? Many attractions include skip-the-line privileges, but some, like the museum, might require waiting in line to convert your pass.

• Is the pass wheelchair accessible? Yes, the pass is wheelchair accessible where the attractions are equipped for mobility assistance.

The Sum Up

The New York CityPASS provides a cost-effective, flexible, and stress-reducing way to see some of the city’s most famous sights. Its 9-day validity allows you to pace yourself, making it particularly appealing for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The ability to skip lines at popular venues is a real plus, especially during busy seasons.

Travelers who appreciate pre-planned itineraries, the convenience of mobile tickets, and significant savings will find this pass a smart choice. The included attractions—like the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and the American Museum of Natural History—are all top-tier experiences that bring the city’s iconic landscape to life.

While some attractions require reservations or line-waiting, the overall ease of use and the positive reviews about knowledgeable staff and stunning views are encouraging signals. If you want a balanced mix of sightseeing, flexibility, and value, the CityPASS is definitely worth considering for your New York trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby