New York Pass®: 100+ Attractions including Edge NYC

Traveling to New York City? With so many sights vying for your attention, choosing the right pass can feel overwhelming. The New York Pass®, offering entry to over 100 attractions, promises to streamline your sightseeing and save you money. But does it deliver on those promises? We’ve looked into this popular option to help you decide whether it’s worth your investment.

What we love about the New York Pass is its all-in-one convenience—no need to buy individual tickets at each stop—and the ability to visit unlimited attractions during your chosen time frame. The Edge NYC Observation Deck is a big draw, offering stunning 360-degree views from the 100th floor of Hudson Yards. Another highlight is the flexible duration, from 1 to 10 days, fitting various trip lengths.

However, potential travelers should consider that some attractions require reservations, and the busy times can mean lines, even with a pass. Also, for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair needs, some attractions may have limited access. This pass tends to suit first-time visitors eager to see many highlights without the hassle of individual ticketing, and those who like the flexibility of choosing what to visit each day.

Key Points

• Great Value for Money: Save up to 50% compared to individual ticket prices, especially if you plan to visit multiple sites.
• Flexibility in Duration: Choose from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, or 10 days to suit your itinerary.
• Unlimited Visits: While the pass is valid for a set number of days, you can visit as many attractions as you like within that period.
• Mobile Convenience: Use your pass on your phone; no need to carry physical tickets, which speeds things up.
• Must-Book Popular Attractions Early: Many top sites, like the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty, require advance reservations.
• Rich Choice of Attractions: From iconic skyscraper observation decks to museums, cruises, and walking tours, there’s plenty to choose from.
• Crowd and Timing Considerations: Expect busy lines at popular spots; starting early helps maximize your days.
• Authentic and Well-Reviewed: The majority of travelers find the pass offers good value and easy access to NYC’s top sights.
• Not Suitable for All: Wheelchair users might need to verify accessibility at specific attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Benefits

When you purchase the New York Pass, you’re essentially getting a fast-track ticket to over 100 attractions, all for a single price. This can be a game-changer in a city where lines are often long and tickets are sold separately. For example, the Empire State Building’s 86th Floor Observation Deck, the One World Observatory, and Edge NYC at Hudson Yards are included, giving you some of the best panoramic views in the city.

The pass covers iconic sites such as Top of the Rock with its 70th-floor observatory offering 360-degree city views, as well as world-class museums like the American Museum of Natural History and the Guggenheim. For a more interactive experience, there’s the Madame Tussauds, and for something different, the Museum of Sex or the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.

Beyond sightseeing, the pass also includes tours and cruises—such as the Circle Line Best of NYC Cruise and the Harbor Lights Cruise—adding a scenic element to your visit. For the active traveler, options like Central Park Bike Rentals and Walking Tours are part of the package, offering a chance to explore neighborhoods intimately.

What Does the Itinerary Look Like?

The beauty of the New York Pass is its flexibility. You activate it at your first attraction, and then it lasts for the number of days you’ve purchased—whether that’s just one or up to ten. Many travelers appreciate the instant mobile delivery, making it easy to start exploring immediately.

You might begin your day with the Edge NYC at Hudson Yards, where you’ll enjoy stunning skyline views. Next, perhaps a walk through Central Park or a visit to Madame Tussauds; then, an afternoon ferry to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. With the pass, you can jump on a hop-on hop-off bus tour—a great way to cover more ground quickly—without worrying about individual tickets.

For museum lovers, the American Museum of Natural History and the Guggenheim are included, giving you a chance to explore art and science without extra cost. If you’re visiting with kids, LEGOLAND® Discovery Center or Staten Island Zoo are also on the roster.

Many reviews mention that booking some attractions in advance is crucial—“most popular activities require reservations”, and doing so early helps avoid missing out. For instance, the Empire State Building and some guided tours stipulate reservations, even when you have the pass.

What’s the Experience Like?

Travelers repeatedly mention how easy and straightforward it is to use the pass. Reviews like, “Super easy to use the Pass. Great experience, will repeat some day again,” reflect its convenience. When you arrive at each attraction, all you need to do is present your mobile pass—no printing tickets or waiting in long lines—saving valuable time.

The app with maps and attraction info is especially praised. One traveler said, “I could plan my trip and see attractions on a map, very useful.” This feature helps you organize your route efficiently, which is critical in a city with so many choices.

A common concern is that some popular attractions, like the 9/11 Memorial & Museum or MoMA, require reservations—so planning ahead is wise. Our research indicates that early booking increases the chances of a smooth visit, especially during peak seasons.

The value of the pass is often highlighted in reviews. For example, “Without the pass, it would have been at least double the cost,” says one traveler. Many note that visiting about eight attractions over three days already makes the pass a cost-effective choice. Others mention how it allowed for spontaneous visits, which might otherwise be missed due to ticketing or long lines.

The Value of the Pass

The $169 price for a one-day pass might seem steep initially, but when you tally up individual tickets for top sites—like the observation decks, museums, and cruises—the savings quickly add up. For those planning to visit multiple major sights, it’s a wise investment.

Reviewers like “Very much worth it considering the available options,” and “we visited eight attractions over three days; without the pass, it would have been at least double,” underscore its cost-efficiency. The pass essentially acts as a ticket bundle that rewards those who plan to see many attractions in a short period.

It’s also noted that the pass offers VIP access at some sites—saving time and reducing the frustration of long queues. However, bus tours can fill up quickly, so if you’re keen on the hop-on hop-off tours, booking early is advisable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Accessibility and Considerations

While most reviews emphasize the convenience and value, some mention that wheelchair access may be limited at certain attractions. It’s worth verifying accessibility if that’s a concern.

Another point is that the pass is valid for 1 year from purchase but only becomes active after the first use—so plan to activate it close to your trip start date for maximum flexibility.

For visitors who prefer flexibility or are only in town for a day, the 1-day pass offers a full experience. For longer stays, the 7 or 10-day options allow for a more relaxed pace, visiting different neighborhoods and hidden gems.

Final Thoughts

The New York Pass® is a powerful tool for making the most of your time in New York City. It’s especially beneficial for first-time visitors eager to see the biggest sights without paying individually at each stop. The wide selection of attractions, from observation decks to museums and scenic cruises, ensures there’s something for diverse interests.

Overall, you’ll love the convenience of digital access and the potential savings—particularly if you plan a packed itinerary. The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning views as key strengths, making it easier to get a genuine feel for the city’s iconic sights.

That said, remember that reservations are essential for the most popular attractions, and some lines may still be busy. Planning ahead and starting early each day helps you maximize your days.

For travelers who thrive on flexibility, variety, and value, the New York Pass can turn a hectic city trip into a smoother, more enjoyable experience. Whether it’s your first visit or a return journey, this pass offers a comprehensive gateway to New York’s best.

FAQ

Do I need to print my pass or can I use it on my phone?
You can present your digital pass on your mobile—no need to print. Just show it at each attraction for quick entry.

How long is the pass valid once I activate it?
Your pass is valid for the number of consecutive days purchased, starting from your first visit. It can be used anytime within that period.

Are there attractions that require reservations even with the pass?
Yes, some popular sites—like the Empire State Building and 9/11 Museum—require advance reservations. It’s best to book early to avoid disappointment.

Can I visit as many attractions as I want during my pass?
Yes, you can visit unlimited attractions within the valid days, making it ideal for a busy sightseeing schedule.

Is the pass suitable for families?
Many attractions are family-friendly, like LEGOLAND and Staten Island Zoo. Just check each site’s access needs beforehand.

What if I only stay in NYC for one day?
A 1-day pass offers the best value for a single-day visit, allowing you to hit multiple top sites efficiently.

Will I save money with this pass?
Most reviewers agree that if you plan to visit multiple major attractions, the pass saves a significant amount of money compared to buying individual tickets.

What are the main attractions included?
Highlights include Edge NYC, One World Observatory, Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, museums like MoMA and the Guggenheim, plus cruises and walking tours.

Is this pass accessible for wheelchair users?
Accessibility varies by attraction. It’s advisable to check each site if you need wheelchair access, as some may have limitations.

This comprehensive pass offers an authentic, flexible way to experience New York—perfect for those eager to see a lot without the hassle of separate tickets or long lines. Just plan ahead, reserve popular attractions, and enjoy your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: