Chicago CityPASS®: Save up to 49% at 5 Top Attractions

Planning a trip to Chicago? If you want to see the city’s highlights without breaking the bank or stressing over ticket lines, the Chicago CityPASS® might just be your best friend. We’ve looked into it, read through hundreds of reviews, and here’s the scoop—this pass offers a convenient way to explore some of Chicago’s most beloved spots with significant savings and flexible timing.

What we really like is how it simplifies planning—buy once, visit multiple attractions at your own pace over nine days. Plus, the value for the price is impressive, especially if you’re planning to hit all the highlights. That said, a few considerations could impact your decision, like some attractions requiring reservations or extra fees for certain experiences. This pass suits travelers who want a well-rounded Chicago experience without fuss, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor.

Key Points

• Great value: Save up to 49% compared to buying individual tickets.
• Flexible use: Valid for nine days from first use, giving you plenty of time to explore.
• Convenience: Mobile tickets and skip-the-line benefits make your visit smoother.
• Variety of attractions: Includes top sights like Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck, and the Art Institute.
• Additional options: You can customize your experience by choosing three from five extra attractions.
• Mixed experiences: Some attractions may be crowded or require reservations, so plan ahead.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Chicago CityPASS®?

This is a popular ticket bundle designed for visitors wanting to maximize their sightseeing while controlling costs. For $142 per person, you gain access to five major Chicago attractions at a discounted rate—up to nearly half off regular prices. The pass provides all-access admission to some of the city’s most iconic spots, like the Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck Chicago, and the Field Museum, among others.

One of the biggest perks is how simple it is: once you purchase, you get instant digital tickets that you can show on your phone. No need to worry about printing or waiting in lengthy lines—although, at busy times, expedited entry helps a lot. Most attractions are wheelchair accessible, and you have 9 days from your first use to make the most of your pass.

How Does It Work?

The process is straightforward. You purchase the CityPASS online, then receive your mobile tickets. When you’re ready, just proceed directly to each attraction, skip the ticket lines, and enjoy. You don’t need to make reservations for most attractions—just check if any require booking ahead, which is often the case at popular spots.

Your 9-day window begins with your first entry, giving plenty of flexibility. This is especially handy if you want to spread out your sightseeing or take a day off between visits. Remember, the tickets are for one-time admission per attraction, so plan your days to avoid backtracking or missing out.

What’s Included?

Here’s a list of the main attractions the pass covers:

• Shedd Aquarium: All exhibits, seasonal Stingray Touch, Animal Spotlights, plus a 4-D Experience (subject to availability). This is a big hit for all ages, especially those who like aquatic life.
• Skydeck Chicago: Fast Pass Entry to the famous Willis Tower observatory. The views from 1,353 feet are stunning, and skipping the lines is a real time-saver.
• Choose 3 from the following:
  • Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour: An excellent way to see the city’s iconic skyline from the water.
  • Field Museum: Complete access to all permanent exhibits, including Sue the Dinosaur and special exhibits.
  • 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck: Offers panoramic views, with an optional tilt attraction (which may require an extra fee).
  • Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: Includes entry to exhibits like Science Storms and a 4-D theater experience.
  • Art Institute of Chicago: Fast Pass to the permanent collection and non-ticketed exhibitions.
  • Adler Planetarium: Full access plus two Sky Shows, perfect if space and stars fascinate you.

This selection covers a broad range of interests—science, art, history, and panoramic views—so most travelers will find plenty to love.

The Real-World Advantages

Many reviewers emphasize how easy and stress-free the CityPASS® makes trip planning. One traveler shared, “It was very organized, and it made exploring so much easier,” while another appreciated the skip-the-line benefits, especially during busy seasons. The flexibility to visit over nine days allows for a relaxed pace, avoiding the pressure of fitting everything into one or two days.

The value for money is frequently praised. Several reviews mention how the savings add up, especially when combining multiple attractions. A family from the U.S. noted, “We loved the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Skydeck, all with less hassle and more fun.”

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience at Each Attraction

Shedd Aquarium

This spot is a favorite among visitors and one of the highlights. The all-access pass means you can enjoy every exhibit, from colorful fish to the penguin encounters. Children especially enjoy touching stingrays and seeing the diverse marine life. A review from a family highlighted that they paid extra for a Penguin Encounter, which was their trip’s standout moment.

Skydeck Chicago

The fast pass entry makes this a breeze—no long lines on crowded days. The views are breathtaking, especially at sunset or at night when the city lights sparkle. Some reviews suggest planning your visit around sunset to get the best photos and ambiance. The observation deck offers a unique perspective of the city’s skyline, and the optional tilt experience adds a bit of thrill—though it might require an extra fee.

Architecture River Tour

This is a standout for architecture buffs and first-time visitors alike. The boat glides smoothly along the Chicago River, giving you close-up views of historic buildings and modern skyscrapers. Many reviewers have called this a “must-do,” with one saying, “It’s a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective.”

The Field Museum

Home to Sue the Dinosaur, the museum appeals to all ages. It’s expansive, so plan your time wisely. Visitors love that it’s included in the pass, and some mention they explored all the exhibits with ease. However, during busy times, it can get crowded, so arrive early or plan for off-peak hours.

Additional Choices

The other options—Science and Industry Museum, Art Institute, and Adler Planetarium—offer diverse experiences. The Science Museum’s giant dome theater and interactive exhibits are especially engaging for kids and science lovers. The Art Institute provides a world-class collection, great for art enthusiasts, and the Planetarium offers immersive sky shows that captivate visitors of all ages.

Who Is This Pass Best For?

This pass is perfect if you’re someone who wants to see a broad range of highlights without stress. It suits first-time visitors, families, and even seasoned Chicago travelers who want to maximize their visit. The flexibility of nine days means you can take your time, revisit favorites, or skip some attractions if your schedule changes.

However, keep in mind that some attractions might be crowded or require reservations for certain experiences. For example, the Tilt at 360 CHICAGO is optional and may be sold out, as some reviews point out. It’s wise to check each attraction’s details beforehand, especially during peak seasons or holidays.

Practical Tips

• Plan ahead: Although reservations aren’t needed for most attractions, some might require booking ahead—check each spot’s website.
• Arrive early: Especially at popular places like Skydeck and Shedd Aquarium, to avoid long lines and make the most of your day.
• Use the mobile tickets: No need to print—simply show your phone at each venue.
• Be aware of extra fees: Some experiences, like the tilt at 360 CHICAGO, might cost extra if you want to try them.
• Take advantage of skip-the-line benefits: They can save valuable time, especially during busy seasons.

FAQ

Can I use the CityPASS® over multiple days?
Yes, your pass is valid for nine consecutive days starting from your first use, giving you plenty of time to spread out your visits.

Do I need reservations for the attractions?
Most attractions don’t require reservations, but some, like the Art Institute or certain exhibits, might, so check ahead.

Is the pass wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the attractions included in the pass are wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for visitors with mobility needs.

What if some attractions are crowded?
Using the Fast Pass or skip-the-line options helps, but during peak times, expect some wait times. Arriving early can also help.

Can I buy the pass onsite?
It’s best to purchase online for instant delivery and to take advantage of the full benefits. Onsite buying may not offer the same flexibility.

Are there any attractions I must pay extra for?
Some optional experiences like the tilt might cost extra, so plan accordingly if you want to include them.

How do I get my tickets?
Your tickets are delivered instantly as a mobile version—just show them on your phone at each attraction.

What happens if I go to an attraction outside the nine days?
The pass is only valid within the nine-day window after your first use. Outside that time, it won’t work.

Final Thoughts

The Chicago CityPASS® offers a practical way to see the city’s biggest sights while saving money and avoiding the hassle of buying individual tickets. Its flexible nine-day window means you can explore at your own pace, which is perfect if you like a relaxed trip or want to spread out your adventures. With reviews highlighting how easy it was to use and how much value they got, it’s clear this pass can enhance your Chicago visit.

If you’re someone who appreciates convenience, wants to hit multiple landmarks, and values good deals, this pass is a solid choice. Just remember to check each attraction’s requirements, arrive prepared, and enjoy all that Chicago has to offer.

Feel free to reach out if you want tips on how to structure your days or other insider info. Happy planning!

You can check availability for your dates here: