New York Explorer Pass: Top Attractions including Edge

Travelers looking to squeeze as much as possible into a trip to the Big Apple often turn to city passes. The New York Explorer Pass, offered by Go City, stands out as a flexible, cost-effective way to explore over 100 top attractions, including iconic sights like Edge, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty. For around $89 per person, you can choose from a range of options—anywhere from 2 to 10 attractions—making it a perfect fit for all kinds of itineraries.

What we love about this pass is how it streamlines your sightseeing, removing the hassle of buying individual tickets at each stop. The digital delivery makes it easy to plan ahead, and the 30-day validity after activation gives you plenty of time to see the city at your own pace. One thing to keep in mind: some popular activities require reservations, so a little planning in advance can make your experience smoother. This pass is particularly well-suited for travelers who want a flexible, budget-friendly way to see the highlights of New York without the stress of ticket lines or extra costs.

While the pass offers excellent value, it’s worth noting that not all attractions are walk-in; some need pre-booking, especially during busy seasons. Also, the bus tours can fill up quickly, so booking early on the Go City app is advisable. If you’re someone who prefers to chart your own course, enjoy stunning city views, and value flexibility, then this is a fantastic option—especially for first-timers eager to hit the must-see spots without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Choose 2-10 attractions on the spot, no need to decide upfront.
• Validity: Pass remains active over 30 days, giving ample time for exploration.
• Convenience: Download the digital pass, plan your itinerary via the app, and skip long lines.
• Savings: Up to 50% savings compared to buying individual tickets, especially for popular sites.
• Variety: Over 100 attractions including museums, tours, rides, and shows.
• Reservations: Some activities, like Top of the Rock, require booking in advance—plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Core Attractions

The New York Explorer Pass provides a well-rounded experience packed with the city’s highlights. Whether you’re interested in sky-high views, profound history, or cultural treasures, this pass covers it all.

Iconic Skyline Views: Edge, Empire State, Top of the Rock, One World Observatory

One of the biggest draws of visiting NYC is its eye-popping skyline. With the Explorer Pass, you can access Edge, the newest observation deck with its glass floor and stunning 360-degree views. According to reviews, your ticket includes sunset viewing, which is a rare treat if you plan ahead and book at least ten days in advance.

The Empire State Building remains a classic—offering breathtaking vistas from its 86th and 102nd floors. Travelers report that booking in advance helps avoid the long lines, and the views at sunset are particularly memorable. Similarly, Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center offers a different perspective, with some reviews mentioning the advantage of viewing the sunset from this spot—a must-do for many visitors.

The One World Observatory is also part of the package, giving visitors a chance to reflect at the 9/11 Memorial nearby, another highly recommended site. The reviews highlight how easy it was to access these observatories with the pass, especially since some require reservations.

Cultural and Historical Attractions: 9/11 Memorial, Statue of Liberty, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a moving experience, and the pass makes entry straightforward. Many reviews mention the value of pre-booking the Liberty Island ferry and the museum, which helps avoid disappointment during busy periods.

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tour, accessible via a ferry included in the pass, offers an iconic photo opportunity and a chance to learn about America’s immigration history. Travelers frequently mention how this tour was a highlight, especially when combined with a walk around Battery Park.

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) provides a deep dive into contemporary art. Visitors note that the entry process was smooth, and the museum itself is full of fascinating works that appeal to art enthusiasts.

Must-See Tours and Cruises: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, Circle Line, and more

The Big Bus 2-Day Downtown & Uptown Tour is a favorite among reviewers, providing a flexible way to see neighborhoods and landmarks without the stress of navigating public transit. The hop-on-hop-off feature means you can explore at your own pace and jump off at sites like Times Square, Central Park, or Harlem.

The Liberty Cruise: Circle Line Sightseeing offers a relaxing water journey with terrific views of Manhattan’s skyline and Statue of Liberty. Reviewers appreciate the easy access and the chance to combine water views with land-based sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Aspects and What to Expect

The Go City app is central to maximizing the Explorer Pass. Once you purchase your pass, you can browse attractions, make reservations, and prepare your itinerary. Many reviewers mention how easy it was to organize their trip, with some even using the app to generate custom schedules that group nearby sites.

Your mobile tickets are sent instantly, allowing you to skip lines at many attractions. However, for some of the most popular spots like Top of the Rock, booking up to ten days in advance is recommended to secure your preferred time slot.

Most attractions in the pass don’t need you to book ahead—just show your digital pass and go. That said, some, like the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock, do require reservations, so reading your confirmation instructions carefully is important.

Many users praise the value for money — especially if you plan to visit several attractions. For example, the reviews frequently mention how the pass saved them over $300, making it a smart choice financially.

Accessibility and Limitations

While the pass is broadly accessible, it’s worth noting that wheelchair users are not officially supported, and some attractions may have limited facilities for electric or non-folding wheelchairs. Also, seats on bus tours can fill up quickly, so early booking is advisable.

Who Should Consider This Pass?

This pass works best for first-time visitors who want to hit the major sights without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets. If you prefer a flexible itinerary that allows you to choose attractions on the go, the Explorer Pass’s validity over 30 days is a big plus.

It’s also suitable if you’re traveling with family or friends and want to maximize your time and budget. The reviews reveal many travelers who managed to save hundreds of dollars while enjoying a variety of experiences—from museums and observation decks to cruises and walking tours.

However, if your schedule is tight or you’re only interested in a couple of specific attractions, a more selective approach might be better. Also, travelers with mobility issues should check each attraction’s accessibility details beforehand.

Final Thoughts: Is the New York Explorer Pass Worth It?

For travelers seeking a flexible, money-saving way to see New York’s top sights, the Explorer Pass delivers on its promise. Its broad selection of attractions, combined with the convenience of digital tickets and the ability to plan your own itinerary, makes it a popular choice.

The value comes into focus if you plan to visit at least three or four major sites—the savings can easily add up. The option to spread visits over 30 days suits those who want a relaxed pace, avoiding the stress of cramming everything into one day.

The main advantage is the peace of mind: no surprises, no hidden fees, just show your pass, enjoy the views, and move on. Meanwhile, the inclusion of popular attractions like Edge and Top of the Rock means you’ll get those memorable skyline vistas that define NYC.

In summary, if you love the idea of customizing your own adventure, value convenience, and appreciate good savings, the New York Explorer Pass is a smart way to get the most out of your visit. It’s particularly suited for first-timers eager to see the essentials and experienced travelers wanting to streamline their sightseeing.

FAQ

How many attractions can I choose with this pass?
You can select from 2 up to 10 attractions or tours, depending on your chosen pass type.

How long is the pass valid?
Your pass is valid for 30 days from your first attraction, giving you plenty of flexibility.

Do I need to pick my attractions before buying?
No, you can browse and decide on attractions after purchase via the Go City app.

Can I visit all attractions in one day?
While possible, many reviews suggest spreading out visits over multiple days to avoid exhaustion and make the most of each experience.

Are there any attractions that require reservations?
Yes, some top spots like Top of the Rock and Empire State Building require advance reservations, so plan early.

Is the pass easy to use?
Absolutely. Many travelers praise how simple and straightforward it is—just show your digital pass at each site.

Are there any restrictions for wheelchair users?
The pass is not officially suitable for wheelchair users, and some attractions may have limited accessibility for electric or non-folding wheelchairs.

Can I cancel my pass?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this pass good value for money?
Most reviews confirm that, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions, the pass saves a significant amount of money compared to individual tickets.

You can check availability for your dates here: