TourPass NYC

Introducing Our Review of the TourPass NYC

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and want to see some of the top sights without breaking the bank, the TourPass NYC might catch your eye. This pass offers access to four of the city’s standout attractions—most notably the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and a scenic sightseeing cruise—all for a single, upfront price.

What we really like about this pass is how it simplifies planning: you pay once, and most major sights are covered, saving you both time and money. Plus, the priority ferry boarding for the Statue of Liberty is a huge plus for avoiding long lines, especially during peak tourist season. Another highlight is the skip-the-line access to the 9/11 Museum, which can be a real time-saver.

However, there’s a consideration worth noting: the cost of $129 per person might seem a bit steep if you’re only interested in one or two of these attractions or if you’re traveling solo and want flexibility. Also, the tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan your arrival at the redemption point. This pass is probably best suited for travelers who want a streamlined experience of some of NYC’s most iconic sites and are happy to stick to the schedule.

If you’re comfortable with a bit of planning and want a straightforward way to see key sights without the hassle of booking separate tickets, this tour pass could be a good fit. It particularly appeals to those who value organized tours and quick access, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone short on time.

Key Points

• Cost-effective bundle for four popular attractions in NYC
• Priority ferry boarding and skip-the-line entries save valuable time
• Includes a scenic sightseeing cruise, giving you a different perspective of the city
• Flexible duration from 1 to 7 days, depending on your schedule
• Meeting point at 24 State Street makes logistics straightforward
• No hotel pickup—so you’ll need to plan your arrival

What You Can Expect from the TourPass NYC

The TourPass NYC offers a solid way to tick off some of the city’s most visited landmarks. At $129 per person, it packs quite a bit into a single purchase. The pass includes ferry access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, entry to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and a 60-minute sightseeing cruise around the harbor. Plus, there’s a helpful 30-minute orientation tour of the Statue of Liberty in English.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Starting your adventure, you’ll meet at a designated point in Lower Manhattan—24 State Street. Here, you’ll reserve your spot for the ferry and enjoy priority boarding, which is a game-changer during busy seasons. The ferry departs from Castle Clinton in Battery Park, and this ensures you won’t spend hours stuck in line. Once on Liberty Island, you’ll get to explore the grounds and visit the Pedestal Museum, gaining insight into the monument’s history and symbolism. The included orientation tour enhances this experience, making it more meaningful.

Ellis Island
After soaking in the Statue of Liberty, the ferry takes you to Ellis Island. Here, you’ll have access to the grounds and the Ellis Island Museum, where exhibits detail the immigrant experience. The time allocated is around an hour—enough to wander around and absorb the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Next, you’ll head to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a poignant site that many find deeply moving. The skip-the-line entry allows you to bypass long waits—particularly helpful during busy times. You can explore the outdoor memorial pools and spend around an hour and a half inside the museum, which offers a thoughtful, immersive experience about those tragic events.

Sightseeing Cruise
Finally, the tour includes a 60-minute boat cruise from Pier 15, giving you a fresh vantage point of the skyline, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge. You can hop on a cruise several times daily, which provides flexibility.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer, Lynn_F, called the tour “an awesome experience,” highlighting the knowledgeable guide and feeling welcomed and included—an important aspect when tour groups are involved. Others appreciate how the fast access to the Statue of Liberty saves hours of waiting, especially for those who might be on a tight schedule or visiting during peak seasons.

The Practical Side: Value and Logistics

At $129, this pass bundles quite a few must-see sights, making it a good deal for first-time visitors or those who want a streamlined experience. When you compare the cost of individual tickets for each attraction, the savings can be significant, especially considering the included ferry rides, skip-the-line entries, and cruise.

The meeting point at 24 State Street is centrally located near public transportation, with subway options like South Ferry Station, White Hall Street Station, and Bowling Green. This makes it convenient to start your day without fuss. However, keep in mind there’s no hotel pickup—so you’ll need to arrive prepared and on time.

The duration varies from 1 to 7 days, giving you some flexibility—perfect if you want to spread out the sights or do everything in a single day. The ferry tickets are specific to the departure time, so arriving early and being punctual is helpful. Also, infants under 2 can join for free as a lap child, which is a nice perk for families.

What’s Not Included

It’s worth noting that this tour doesn’t include access inside the Statue of Liberty, such as the crown or pedestal. Currently, access to the crown isn’t available, so if that’s a priority, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Also, hotel pickup isn’t part of the package, so plan to meet at the designated spot.

In-Depth Look at Each Attraction

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

The highlight for many is the statue itself—an enduring symbol of freedom. The fast-track ferry access means you skip the long lines, which can be hours during summer weekends or holidays. Once on Liberty Island, you’ll get a decent amount of time to explore, take photos, and visit the Pedestal Museum. The included orientation tour helps contextualize the monument’s significance, which adds depth to the experience.

Though access to the crown is currently unavailable, you’ll still get a good view from the pedestal level, making this visit worthwhile. The ferry ride itself offers scenic views of the harbor, and the boats are generally well-maintained, with restrooms and snack bars onboard.

Ellis Island

A visit here is more about the atmosphere and history. It’s a quick stop but one that many find moving. The Ellis Island Museum provides insights into the immigrant experience, with exhibits and photographs. It’s a sobering but inspiring reminder of the city’s diverse roots.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

This site is undoubtedly emotional. The skip-the-line tickets are crucial here because the museum can get crowded, especially during peak hours. The outdoor memorial pools are a serene space, and inside, the museum offers detailed exhibits about 9/11 and its aftermath. Many visitors comment on how the experience is both heartbreaking and educational, offering closure and reflection.

Sightseeing Cruise

The cruise allows you to see the Harbor and skyline from the water, a perspective you can’t get from land. It’s a relaxing way to end the day and provides excellent photo opportunities. Several departures daily mean you can pick a time that suits your schedule.

Who This Tour Pass Is Perfect For

This tour pass is most suitable for first-time visitors to NYC who want to see a handful of iconic sights without the hassle of booking each ticket separately. It’s also great for travelers who appreciate organized, guided experiences with the convenience of skip-the-line access. If you’re on a tight schedule, the included ferry rides and cruise help maximize your sightseeing time.

It’s worth noting that those interested in inside access to the Statue of Liberty’s crown or pedestal will need additional tickets, as this tour doesn’t include that. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or have specific mobility needs, be aware that some walking and boat travel are involved, but most of the sites are accessible.

Final Thoughts

The TourPass NYC provides a straightforward way to cover some of the city’s most visited attractions in one go. With priority access and multiple included experiences, it offers good value for those wanting to avoid long lines and streamline their sightseeing. The combination of a ferry ride, museum visits, and a harbor cruise makes for a varied and memorable day—especially if you’re new to New York City.

While it might not be perfect for travelers seeking in-depth, private-guided tours or access to all areas of the Statue of Liberty, it strikes a practical balance of convenience and affordability. If you’re comfortable sticking to the schedule and want an efficient way to see several highlights, this pass will serve you well.

For those who want a relaxed, well-organized day with plenty of iconic sights, this tour pass is worth considering. Just remember to arrive on time, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a busy day of exploration.

FAQ

Where do we meet to redeem the NYC TourPass?
You’ll want to head to 24 State Street in Lower Manhattan to collect your tickets. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to get organized.

How can I get to the meeting location?
The closest subway stations are South Ferry Station (1), White Hall Street Station (N, R, W), and Bowling Green (4, 5), making this spot quite accessible.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, the nearest parking is around Pearl Street, but rates vary. Most travelers find public transportation or ride-sharing services more convenient.

What time does the Statue of Liberty ferry depart?
Ferries depart from Castle Clinton in Battery Park, and your tickets are specific to the time printed on your voucher. Be sure to arrive early to avoid missing your scheduled departure.

Can I bring an infant?
Yes, infants 2 years and younger can travel for free as a lap child. Just note the child’s age when booking.

Are food and drinks allowed on the ferry?
You can bring sealed food and beverages aboard, but food and drinks aren’t permitted in the screening facilities on Liberty Island, especially for Pedestal Reserve ticket holders.

Can I access inside the Statue of Liberty?
Access inside the statue isn’t included, and the crown isn’t currently open. You’ll be able to visit the pedestal and enjoy audio-guides.

Is the 9/11 Museum included?
No, but skip-the-line tickets are provided, making entry faster. The museum itself is a separate ticketed experience.

In the end, the TourPass NYC offers a practical, money-saving way to experience some of the most famous NYC sites with ease. It’s best suited for travelers who value convenience, timing, and a guided element. If those fit your style, this could be just the ticket for your trip.