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

Exploring New York with the CityPASS®: Is It Worth Your Money?

If you’re eyeing a trip to New York City, chances are you’re overwhelmed by the sheer number of iconic sights and experiences waiting for you. The New York CityPASS® promises a way to check off five major attractions while saving a significant chunk of change—up to 41%, in fact. Having seen a lot of these passes in action, we’re here to give you a balanced look at what it offers, what works well, and where you might want to be cautious.

What we love about this pass? First, it makes planning much simpler—no stress about buying tickets on the spot or missing out. Plus, the flexibility of 9 days to use your tickets is a real bonus, especially if you prefer to take your time and soak in the city at your own pace. On the flip side, one consideration is that not all attractions offer instant entry; some require reservations or lines to convert your pass into a ticket, which can slow you down if you’re not prepared.

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves ticking off the biggest spots without the hassle of planning every detail, this pass is likely a good match. It’s especially suited if you want the convenience of prepaid tickets and are okay with some pre-planning for reservations. Family groups or solo explorers who are keen on seeing the main sights but prefer to avoid long ticket lines will find this option quite appealing.

Key Points

• Significant Savings: Up to 41% off on five top attractions means better value for a packed sightseeing schedule.
• Flexible Usage: 9 days to utilize your tickets offers plenty of time to plan your days without rushing.
• Easy Mobile Access: Instant delivery of mobile tickets makes for smooth entry without printing or waiting.
• Variety of Attractions: Includes classic highlights like the Empire State Building, Museum of Natural History, and ferry rides.
• Reservation Flexibility: Many attractions allow you to change times, making last-minute adjustments easier.
• Some Lines Still Exist: A few venues, like the American Museum of Natural History, require you to wait in line to convert your pass into a ticket.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What You Get

The Big Ticket Attractions

The Empire State Building Observatory is a highlight, with both an 86th Floor Observatory and a bonus same-night visit if you’re quick to book. We loved the way this mix of day and night visits offers different perspectives of Manhattan’s skyline—daylight views are impressive, but the city lights at night have a different kind of magic. According to reviews, this attraction is a must-see, with many noting the convenience of the Empire State Building‘s rapid entry thanks to the pass.

The American Museum of Natural History is another big draw. It’s a sprawling place with over 40 galleries, so you could easily spend hours here. The pass includes general admission plus a choice of a special exhibit or a show. Many visitors appreciate the ability to skip the ticket lines, though some mention that at peak times, you might still need to wait to convert your pass into a ticket.

The Observation Decks

Top of The Rock offers a different perspective of the city, with wide-open views from the 70th floor. Travelers love how easy it is to access and how the views look across Central Park and Midtown. Several reviews point out that booking your time slot in advance via the app simplifies the process.

The Iconic Ferry Experience

The Statue City Cruises ferry to Liberty Island is a highlight. You get access to the ferry ride, the Statue of Liberty Museum, and Ellis Island’s Immigration Museum. However, note that Crown Tickets and Pedestal Access are not included—if you want to go inside the Statue’s crown or to the pedestal, you’ll need to buy separate tickets. Some reviews mention that the ferry ride itself is nice, but not particularly long or detailed—more about the experience of being on the water and seeing the statue from a distance.

More Great Tours Nearby

Additional Options

You can also choose three attractions from options like the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the Circle Line Cruises, and the Guggenheim Museum. The flexibility is helpful if you have specific interests, whether it’s history, art, or sightseeing cruises. The Guggenheim, in particular, is praised for its architecture and collection, with some reviews noting the free architecture tour and digital guides enhance the visit.

How Does It All Work in Practice?

We’ve seen from many travelers’ reviews that the ticket process is generally smooth. Many appreciate the instant mobile tickets, which eliminate the hassle of printing or waiting in line. Booking reservations, especially for popular sights like the Empire State Building or Top of The Rock, is straightforward through the My CityPASS® app or website.

Some attractions, like the American Museum of Natural History, require you to wait in line to convert your pass into an actual ticket—a small inconvenience for many, but worth noting for those on tight schedules. Others, like the Guggenheim, allow direct entry with the pass, saving time.

Most visitors report that changing times is easy, and the ability to reschedule last-minute is a big plus. As one reviewer said, “we were in New York and had different things to do in a two and a half day, and the flexibility was appreciated.”

The Value for Money

At $154 per person for nine days, the pass offers great value if you plan to visit all five attractions. When you consider that individual tickets can be costly—especially for the Empire State Building and museums—it adds up quickly. Reviewers consistently mention how much money they saved, often saying it was money well spent for the convenience and flexibility.

However, keep in mind that transportation and meals are not included, so budget accordingly. While the pass covers your admissions, you’ll need to plan for getting around and food.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Pass

• Book early for popular attractions to secure your preferred time slots.
• Use the My CityPASS® app to keep track of reservations and tickets.
• Pack comfortable shoes, water, and snacks—wait times or lines might still happen.
• Take advantage of the bonus same-night Empire State Building visit if you’re keen on seeing the city lights.
• For attractions that require booking in person, such as the Museum of Natural History, arrive early or plan your schedule accordingly.
• Remember that some attractions, like the ferry, offer amazing views but limited inside access—manage expectations if you’re after inside visits.

Who Is This Pass Best For?

If you’re visiting New York for a short trip and want to hit the highlights without the hassle of buying individual tickets, this pass is a solid choice. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see major sights like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and museums.

Travelers who value flexibility — being able to change reservations and extend use over nine days — will find it especially convenient. It’s also a good option if you prefer organized, prepaid entry that helps keep your trip stress-free.

While some reviews mention that lines still exist for certain attractions, most agree that the overall experience is smooth and cost-effective. If you’re a solo explorer, a family, or just someone wanting to maximize your time in NYC, the CityPASS® offers a practical and economical way to experience the city’s best.

FAQs

• How do I receive my tickets?
  You get instant delivery of mobile tickets via email or the CityPASS app, so no printing needed.

• Can I use the pass over multiple days?
  Yes, your 9-day validity begins from your first use, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

• Are reservations required for attractions?
  Many attractions allow you to change times easily; some require booking in advance, like the Empire State Building and Top of The Rock.

• Does the pass include inside access to the Statue of Liberty?
  No, the ferry ride and the museums are included, but Crown Tickets and Pedestal Access are separate.

• Is the pass wheelchair accessible?
  Yes, the pass is wheelchair accessible at all included attractions.

• Can I add extra attractions?
  Yes, you can purchase additional tickets separately, but they’re not included in the CityPASS®.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, water, and a small daypack are recommended for a day of sightseeing.

• Are food and drinks included?
  No, you’ll need to budget separately for meals and snacks.

• Can I change the date or time of an attraction?
  Yes, many attractions permit rescheduling, often via the app, but some may require face-to-face adjustments.

• Is this worth it for families?
  It depends, but since no specific family discounts are mentioned, it’s best suited for travelers who want to see the highlights efficiently rather than with a focus on kid-specific activities.

Final Thoughts

The New York CityPASS® offers a practical, cost-effective way to see some of the most famous spots in the city without the hassle of buying multiple tickets. Its flexible schedule and mobile convenience suit travelers who want to make the most of their limited time, especially if they value skipping lines and pre-planned itineraries.

While it doesn’t include everything, the attractions covered are top-tier, and many reviewers highlight the value and ease of use. If your goal is to experience NYC’s key sights without the stress, this pass is likely a worthwhile investment.

This pass works best for those who plan ahead, are comfortable with some reservation planning, and want a straightforward way to explore the city’s core attractions. For dedicated museum lovers or those wanting inside access to all sights, additional tickets might be necessary, but overall, it’s a smart choice for a first-time or time-limited visit.

Happy exploring — and enjoy your trip to the Big Apple!

You can check availability for your dates here: