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

Planning a trip to the Big Apple can feel overwhelming—dozens of attractions, long lines, and tricky ticketing options. That’s where the New York CityPASS® steps in to make your life easier. Based on thousands of reviews and traveler feedback, this pass offers a straightforward way to see some of NYC’s most famous sights, all while saving a significant chunk of change—up to 41% compared to buying tickets individually.

We love that it’s flexible—giving you 9 days to use your tickets—so you don’t have to cram into a single day. Plus, the mobile ticket system means no printing or waiting in line at will call. But, as with any pass, there are a few considerations, like the need to pre-book some attractions and be aware of what’s included versus what’s not. This pass is ideal for first-time visitors eager to hit the highlights without stress, or seasoned travelers wanting value and convenience.

Key Points

• Flexible Schedule: Use your tickets within 9 days, giving you room to relax and explore at your own pace.
• Great Savings: Save up to 41% on five major attractions, making it a budget-friendly way to experience NYC’s highlights.
• Easy Access: Mobile tickets are delivered instantly, with scan-and-go entry at most sites.
• Includes Major Icons: Access to the Empire State Building, American Museum of Natural History, and a ferry ride to Statue of Liberty among others.
• Reservation Benefits: Some attractions, like the Empire State Building, offer night-time visits or bonus entries.
• Traveler Friendly: Many reviews mention the ease of booking and the ability to change times, which is handy for unpredictable travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the NYC CityPASS® Experience

What’s Included and How It Works

The New York CityPASS® grants entry to five major attractions with flexibility, convenience, and savings in mind. You purchase the pass once, and you’re set for nine days, giving you ample time to visit each site comfortably. The pass covers:

• The Empire State Building (including the 86th Floor Observatory and a bonus same-night visit)
• The American Museum of Natural History (with options for special exhibits or films)
• Three out of six additional options, including Top of The Rock, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Statue of Liberty ferry, Circle Line Cruises, Intrepid Museum, and Guggenheim Museum

This set-up allows you to tailor your itinerary while still benefiting from discounted entry and skipping the hassle of buying individual tickets.

The Attractions: What You’ll Experience

Empire State Building

This iconic skyscraper offers breathtaking views of Manhattan from the 86th-floor observatory. The AM/PM experience is a highlight, especially if you can time a visit for sunset or night—many reviews mention the bonus nighttime visit as a real perk. Expect some lines, but the priority access with your pass should streamline the process. It’s a must for first-time visitors who want a classic New York photo opportunity.

American Museum of Natural History

A favorite for all ages, this museum boasts over 40 galleries, including dinosaur skeletons, gemstone displays, and the famous Hayden Planetarium. Many reviews praise its vast collection and engaging exhibits. You also get a choice of a ticketed exhibition or a film, which adds a layer of flexibility to your visit.

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Offering panoramic views over Central Park and across Manhattan, the Top of the Rock is often praised for its clear sightlines and less crowded atmosphere than some other observatories. Many reviewers appreciated the ability to change your time, making it easier to avoid crowds or catch sunset views.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

This somber site is a vital stop, offering respectful remembrance and insight into that pivotal moment in recent history. While some reviews note the wait to convert passes into museum tickets, the overall sentiment is that it’s worth the effort.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

The ferry ride provides a close-up view of the Statue and an opportunity to explore America’s immigration history. However, note that crown and pedestal access are not included—something to keep in mind if you’re craving a more in-depth experience of the statue itself.

Additional Options

Other attractions like the Guggenheim Museum and Circle Line Cruises offer distinctive perspectives: one with its unique architecture and modern art collection, and the other with harbor views and a chance to see NYC from the water.

Booking and Using Your Pass

Many reviews highlight how easy it is to use the CityPASS® app—you can download tickets, make reservations, and adjust times as needed. Several travelers appreciated the ability to reschedule on the fly, especially when weather or other factors affected plans.

However, some attractions (like the American Museum of Natural History) require ticket reservations at the entrance, which can mean standing in line to exchange your pass for a timed ticket. Still, the majority of sites allow direct scan entry once you’ve booked.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Practicalities: What to Expect

• Comfortable shoes and water are essential, as NYC involves a lot of walking and standing.
• Packed lunch or snacks can be helpful, especially on busy days when lines or timings mean you might not want to wait for food.
• Arrival times vary, but the flexibility of the pass means you can plan around weather or crowds.
• Transportation isn’t included, so be sure to have MetroCards or plan your travel between attractions.
• Group size varies, but most sites accommodate small to medium-sized groups, with some attractions potentially less crowded during off-peak hours.

What We Loved and What to Watch Out For

Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and stunning views—particularly at the Empire State Building and Top of the Rock. Many found the value to be excellent, especially given the discounts and the convenience of pre-booked tickets. The ability to change reservation times was a game-changer for several travelers, alleviating stress.

On the flip side, some noted that museum entry could require waiting to convert passes into tickets, which might be inconvenient during peak times. Also, crown access to the Statue of Liberty isn’t included, which could disappoint those looking for a more immersive experience.

Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback

One reviewer pointed out the app’s simplicity, saying, “Getting tickets in the app was straightforward, and I could book last-minute changes easily.” Another enjoyed how the pass allowed her to see all the main sights without rushing, noting, “It took a lot of stress out of planning and gave us flexibility to enjoy the city at our own pace.”

Many travelers appreciate the good value for money, with some stating they would purchase the pass again on future visits. The combination of discounts, skip-the-line access, and the ability to tailor the experience makes this pass highly appealing for those who want to maximize their time in NYC.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider the New York CityPASS®?

This pass is best for first-time visitors or those who want to hit all the major highlights without the hassle of buying individual tickets. If you prefer a relaxed pace and enjoy pre-planned visits, the flexibility of 9 days and the ability to reschedule is invaluable. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find value in the convenience, especially since many reviews praise the easy booking process and value for money.

However, go in knowing that some attractions require reservations and be aware of what’s included. If your focus is on visiting the most iconic sites—Empire State, Statue of Liberty, Museum of Natural History—this pass delivers. For those seeking more niche experiences or in-depth access (like Crown tickets), additional planning may be necessary.

In the end, the NYC CityPASS® offers a cost-effective, stress-reducing way to experience the city’s best loved sights—making it an attractive choice for value-conscious travelers who want to enjoy their trip without feeling overwhelmed.

FAQs

How long do I have to use the tickets?
You have 9 days from your first use to visit all included attractions, giving you plenty of flexibility.

Are mobile tickets accepted?
Yes, the pass provides instant mobile delivery, and you simply scan at each attraction.

Can I change reservation times?
Many travelers mention being able to reschedule or change times, which helps when plans shift or weather changes.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to plan how to travel between sights on your own.

What if I want to visit more than 5 attractions?
The pass includes five attractions, but many reviewers recommend it for additional sightseeing because it’s so convenient and cost-effective.

Are there any attractions that require extra reservations or tickets?
Some sites, like the American Museum of Natural History, require booking a time slot to enter, but the process is straightforward using the app.

Is it worth buying the pass if I only want to see a few sights?
Most reviews suggest the pass offers great savings if you plan to visit at least three or more of the included attractions.

Can children use the pass?
Yes, children can use the pass. There’s also an INFANT FREE TICKET option, but you might need to purchase child tickets separately for some attractions.

What should I bring on the sightseeing days?
Comfortable shoes, water, light snacks or packed lunch, and your mobile device for tickets and reservations.

How does the pricing compare to individual tickets?
Given the savings of up to 41%, the pass is generally much more economical than buying each attraction separately, especially if you plan to see multiple sites.

In sum, the New York CityPASS® offers a practical, money-saving way to experience the city’s highlights at your own pace. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, families, or anyone who appreciates the simplicity of pre-paid, skip-the-line access. With flexibility, affordability, and a solid selection of top attractions, it can turn a hectic trip into a memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: