Go City: New York Explorer Pass: 90+ Things to Do Including Edge

Thinking of visiting New York City and trying to make the most of your time and budget? The Go City New York Explorer Pass promises the flexibility to see many of the city’s top sights without breaking the bank. This pass offers entry to over 90 attractions, including iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and breathtaking views from Edge NYC. It’s designed for travelers who want a self-paced experience, with the ability to pick and choose what interests them most.

What we like about this pass is how it cuts down the stress of ticket purchases and lines—plus, it’s valid for up to 30 days, giving you plenty of time to explore. Two features stand out: the flexibility to visit attractions at your own pace and the cost-saving aspect that makes a bucket-list trip more accessible. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that some popular attractions require advance reservations, which can be an extra step to plan for.

This pass is best suited for adventurous travelers who want to see many sights without sticking to strict schedules. If you enjoy making your own itinerary and don’t mind a little advance planning, it’s a smart way to experience New York on your terms. However, if you’re a last-minute planner or prefer guided tours, you might find this approach a bit overwhelming.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Use your pass over 30 days, exploring at your own speed.
• Cost savings: Access to 2-6 attractions at a fraction of their individual prices.
• Convenience: Digital tickets and app support make planning easier.
• Reservations needed: Some attractions require advance booking, so plan ahead.
• Variety of options: From skyscraper views to museums, cruise tours, and neighborhoods.
• Mixed reviews: Some users rave about the value, others face booking challenges or disappointment due to weather or miscommunications.

What to Expect from the Pass

The Go City Explorer Pass is essentially a flexible ticket that opens the door to a huge selection of New York attractions. Once you purchase, you get a digital pass you can use to entry at your chosen spots. You can select between 2 and 6 attractions from a list of more than 90 options, and your pass will be valid for 30 days from the first use—so you don’t need to cram everything into one day.

The process is straightforward: after booking, you’ll receive instructions to download the Go City app or use the PDF guide included with your ticket. This digital support is a game-changer, helping you plan your itinerary, check reservation requirements, and redeem your pass with just a tap on your phone.

How It Works

• Activate your pass by visiting your first attraction.
• Reserve spots at attractions that require booking (not all do).
• Show your mobile pass at entry—no paper tickets needed.
• Visit attractions at your own pace within 30 days.

Breakdown of the Major Stops

Empire State Building

One of NYC’s most recognizable landmarks, the Empire State offers panoramic views from its open-air promenade and climate-controlled galleries. Visitors love the experience of seeing five states from the observation decks, but it’s crucial to reserve a time slot—reservations are required. The reviews mention that visiting after sunset is ideal for seeing the city lights, though you can’t pick sunset hours with your pass.

A common theme from reviews: some visitors were disappointed by weather or long lines, and reservations are essential to avoid missing out. The lobby’s art-deco beauty is a bonus that adds to the experience.

Edge NYC

Set high above the Hudson Yards, Edge is New York’s newest and most exciting observational platform. You’ll ascend in an elevator 100 stories, then step out onto a vast outdoor viewing platform with unmatched skyline views. Many reviews highlight how stunning the views are, especially when the weather’s clear.

Since you need to reserve your time slot outside the attraction, plan ahead to avoid disappointment. The experience of standing outside with the city sprawling beneath you is truly memorable, especially if it’s your first time seeing NYC from above.

Top of the Rock

Another classic, Top of the Rock, offers indoor and outdoor decks with wide vistas of Manhattan, Central Park, and beyond. The elevator ride itself is a highlight, and the outdoor decks provide ample photo opportunities.

You’ll need to wait in line for a time slot, which can add some waiting time. Some reviews mention that this is a favorite for its expansive views and the chance to see iconic sights like Central Park from above. Just remember, the time slot reservation can be a little unpredictable, so plan accordingly.

Big Bus Tours

The hop-on hop-off bus is a great way to cover major neighborhoods without the hassle of navigating public transportation. The classic panoramic route includes uptown and downtown, providing useful commentary along the way. The audio guides are available in ten languages, making it accessible for international visitors.

For many, this is a practical choice—especially if walking isn’t preferred. The one-day ticket allows you to explore at your own pace, hopping off to take photos or explore neighborhoods more deeply. The buses run on a schedule, so plan your day to maximize the experience.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

A sobering but powerful experience, the Memorial and Museum are must-sees for many visitors. The Twin Pools sit where the towers once stood, and the museum offers extensive exhibits and stories about the events of September 11, 2001.

Reservations are needed, and lines can form, but the impact of visiting this site often leaves an indelible impression. Reviews mention the museum as being very informative and moving.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

The ferry ride to Liberty Island offers a close-up view of Lady Liberty, with beautiful vistas of downtown Manhattan. You can explore the grounds and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, which is great for learning about America’s immigrant history.

Access to the Pedestal and Crown of the statue is not included** in your pass, and reservations for those require separate tickets. Be aware that reservations fill up quickly, so plan well in advance if you want full access.

Central Park

A visit to NYC isn’t complete without a stroll or bike ride through Central Park. The bike rental from Unlimited Biking offers a whistle-stop tour of the park’s highlights, from Strawberry Fields to the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir.

Many visitors find this to be a relaxing way to see a lot in a short time. The bike tour allows you to cover more ground than walking and get a feel for this green oasis in the middle of Manhattan.

One World Observatory

From the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, you get a 360-degree view of the city and beyond. The impressive height combined with the panoramic windows makes it a favorite for many travelers.

Reservations are necessary, and lines can be long, but the experience of seeing NYC from above—especially on a clear day—is unforgettable.

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

This is a classic NYC activity—view Manhattan’s skyline from the water. The cruise options are plentiful, offering views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and other landmarks. Many reviews highlight how the views are spectacular, and the commentary adds to the enjoyment.

Allow at least 45 minutes for ticketing and boarding. Many visitors say it’s a highlight of their trip, perfect for photos and a different perspective on the city.

The Realities of the Experience

While the attractions themselves are incredible, the booking process can sometimes be tricky. Several reviews mention the importance of making reservations early—especially for popular sites like the Empire State Building or Statue of Liberty. Some travelers appreciated the support from the app and found it easy to use, while others ran into issues with codes or lines.

Weather can be a factor; a few reviews shared disappointment when poor weather limited views or caused attractions to close temporarily. One traveler noted that some attractions required advanced reservations, which added planning time but ultimately helped avoid disappointment if done early.

The value for money is generally praised, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions. For around $89, you can access a handful of big sights rather than paying full price for each one separately. Several users mention how much they saved and how smoothly their experience was, especially when booking in advance through the app.

However, some reviews highlight negative experiences—like difficulty with customer service or issues with the pass expiring prematurely. These seem to be exceptions rather than the rule, but it’s worth remembering that you need to stay organized and plan ahead.

Who Is This Pass Best Suited For?

This Explorer Pass is ideal for independent travelers who love creating their own itinerary and are comfortable with a bit of planning. If you’re visiting NYC for several days and want the flexibility to explore at your own pace, you’ll appreciate how you can hop between landmarks without rushing.

It’s also perfect if you’re on a budget—since the pass significantly reduces entry costs—and if you want to experience the diversity of NYC. Whether you’re into skyscraper views, museums, cruises, or neighborhoods, this pass packs a lot into one package.

That said, if you prefer guided tours or have limited time, you might find the need for reservations and scheduling a bit cumbersome. Also, for those who are not comfortable planning and reserving activities in advance, some attractions might be tricky to access, and last-minute availability isn’t guaranteed.

Final Thoughts

The Go City New York Explorer Pass offers a convenient, cost-effective way to see many of the city’s most iconic sights. It’s best suited for travelers who value flexibility and want to customize their visit without the stress of buying individual tickets. The variety of attractions—ranging from towering skyscrapers to historic sites and scenic cruises—means you can craft an itinerary that fits your interests.

While some attractions require reservations and planning, most reviews highlight the great value for money and ease of use. Just keep in mind that weather and availability can influence your experience, so a little flexibility and early planning are key.

Overall, if you’re eager to explore NYC on your own terms and want to make your budget go further, this pass is worth considering. It’s a practical choice that can turn a big city visit into a manageable, enjoyable adventure.

FAQs

Does the pass include all attractions I want to visit?
The pass gives access to over 90 attractions, but some, like the Pedestal and Crown of the Statue of Liberty or certain museums, require separate reservations or tickets.

Can I visit attractions multiple times?
No, each attraction can only be visited once with the pass. It is valid for 30 days after first use, but each site can only be used once.

Are the tickets mobile?
Yes, the pass is a mobile ticket, so you just show it on your phone at each attraction.

How do I reserve spots for attractions that require it?
You’ll need to check the Go City app or digital guide for specific reservation instructions. Some attractions outside of the ones you select initially require advance booking.

What if weather or other issues prevent me from visiting?
Weather can impact some outdoor attractions. Some reviews mention that visiting after sunset is better for views, but weather-related closures aren’t covered by the pass. It’s helpful to stay flexible.

What’s the best way to maximize this pass?
Plan your days, book key attractions early, and use the app to keep track of reservations and remaining visits. Combining bus tours, cruises, and multiple landmarks makes the most of your pass.

If you’re heading to NYC and want the freedom to explore deeply without the hassle and high costs, the Go City Explorer Pass is a step in the right direction. Just stay organized, plan ahead for reservations, and enjoy everything the city has to offer.