New York Explorer Pass: Top Attractions including Edge

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, chances are you’ll want to make the most of your time and budget. The New York Explorer Pass from Go City promises to do just that—giving you the freedom to visit 2 to 10 top attractions in NYC at a significant discount. From panoramic views at the Edge to the poignant 9/11 Memorial & Museum, this pass offers a flexible, cost-effective way to see the city’s highlights without the hassle of individual tickets.

What makes this pass appealing? First, you get access to over 90 attractions, which means you can tailor your visit to your interests. Second, the digital format makes it easy to plan and use on the go, and third, it can save you up to 50% compared to buying tickets separately. The only thing to watch out for? Some popular activities require advance reservations, so planning ahead is essential if you want to ensure you don’t miss out on the must-do experiences.

This type of pass is ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick off major sights, or city veterans looking to maximize their experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’re into museums, sightseeing tours, or unique NYC experiences like biking or Broadway tours, the Explorer Pass might just be your best travel companion.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Choose 2 to 10 attractions from over 90 options, with no need to decide upfront.
• Value: Save up to 50% compared to individual ticket prices.
• Validity: The pass lasts 30 days from your first use, giving you ample time to explore.
• Convenience: Instant delivery of mobile tickets and an easy-to-use app streamline the entire process.
• Variety: Options include museums, observation decks, bike rentals, and guided tours.
• Extras: Perks like gift shop discounts and free audio guides enhance your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the New York Explorer Pass

The Explorer Pass is designed with traveler flexibility in mind. After purchase, you’ll receive a digital pass compatible with your phone, along with a guide packed with attraction info, reservation instructions, and tips. To activate it, simply scan your pass at your first chosen attraction—be it the Empire State Building or a museum—and then you have 30 days to visit your remaining selected attractions.

One of the main benefits is the ability to pick attractions as you go. This means you’re not locked into a rigid itinerary, which is perfect in a city where plans often change due to weather or new discoveries. For example, you might decide to visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum early in your trip, then leave the Edge for a clear, sunny day later in your stay.

How the Pass Works

• Activation: Scanning your pass at any included attraction activates it.
• Duration: You have 30 days to use any remaining attractions after activation.
• Reservations: Some popular sites, like the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock, require pre-booking, so plan ahead if these are on your must-do list.
• Use: Just show your mobile pass at the entrance—no need for paper tickets.

Inclusions and Perks

The pass grants entry to a wide range of attractions including the American Museum of Natural History, MoMA, and the Guggenheim, as well as experiences like bike rentals in Central Park, harbor cruises, and guided walking tours. Plus, you’ll get perks such as gift shop discounts or complimentary audio guides at certain venues, adding extra value.

The Attractions: What You Can Choose

This pass shines because of its extensive selection. Some highlights include:

• Observation Decks: The Edge, Top of the Rock, and One World Observatory offer breathtaking city views, each with its own unique perspective. The Edge, with its glass triangle floor, is a recent addition and a favorite for thrill-seekers, although some reviewers mention that bad weather can limit the experience—”The Edge ticket was wasted as couldn’t see anything,” one reviewer noted.

• Museums & Cultural Spots: Whether you’re into American Museum of Natural History, MoMA, the Guggenheim, or the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, there’s a diverse lineup that caters to various interests. Many reviews praise the easy reservation system and the knowledgeable guides available during guided tours, which enhance your understanding of the sites.

• Tours & Cruises: Options like the Circle Line Cruises, Harbor Lights Cruise, and guided Walking Tours of Brooklyn, Chinatown, or Greenwich Village allow you to explore neighborhoods at your own pace. The Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off is a flexible way to cover a lot of ground, though some mention that bus tours can fill up quickly, so early reservations are wise.

• Experiences: From bike rentals in Central Park or Brooklyn, to Broadway & Times Square walking tours and Yankees games, the variety means you can craft a truly personalized NYC experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Experiences from Real Travelers

Many users comment on how the pass streamlines their trip, saving frustration and money. For instance, one reviewer shared, “The pass was very easy to use, and it saved us a lot of money, especially on attractions like the Empire State and Top of the Rock.” Others appreciated the itinerary planner feature that groups nearby attractions, helping avoid long commutes and wasted time.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

The Explorer Pass costs $89 per person for a 2-attraction choice, making it a sensible option if you’re planning to visit just a few key sites. For those choosing more attractions, the overall savings can be quite substantial—up to 50% compared to buying individual tickets.

Reviewers consistently point out that the value is excellent, especially considering the convenience of having everything in one digital pass. One person remarked, “We saved over £300 with this pass, and it was so easy to use.” Another said, “The pass is great, saves a lot of money, and has an amazing variety of attractions.”

However, the popularity of certain sites, like the Edge or the Empire State Building, means early reservations are often necessary. Some reviews highlight that the bus tours fill up fast, so planning ahead is key to maximizing your experience.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The pass works best if you download the Go City app, which syncs your pass and provides up-to-date info on opening hours, reservation procedures, and attraction instructions. Most attractions are straightforward to access—just show your pass on your phone, and you’re in.

What to bring? A charged smartphone is essential, as your tickets are digital. note that non-folding wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs are not allowed, so travelers with mobility aids should check specific accessibility options.

A practical tip from reviews: reserve popular attractions early, especially during busy holiday seasons or weekends, to avoid disappointment. Also, while some attractions don’t require pre-booking, others like the Empire State or One World Observatory definitely do.

Authentic Reviews & Tips from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight how easy it was to use the pass. For example, one noted, “Reserving attractions was simple, and every place knew about the pass,” emphasizing that staff are familiar with the system. Several users mentioned that weather can impact certain experiences, like the Edge‘s visibility, so plan accordingly.

A standout comment was, “The itinerary planner helped us save time and avoid long lines,” which shows how tools integrated into the pass can enhance your visit. Plus, some travelers appreciated the flexibility—being able to switch options if weather or mood dictated a change in plans.

Who Will Love the Explorer Pass?

This pass is perfect for first-timers eager to see the major sights without paying for each separately. It’s also a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers, offering substantial savings while providing access to an extensive list of attractions.

Plus, those who enjoy a customized, flexible itinerary will find the pass ideal, especially with its no need to pre-select attractions (apart from some popular sites). If you’re comfortable planning your visit around reservations and want to maximize your time, this pass can be a real game-changer.

On the downside, bus tours and some popular sites fill up quickly, so early reservations and strategic planning are recommended. The limited accessibility for wheelchairs might also be a concern for some travelers with mobility aids.

The Sum Up: Is the New York Explorer Pass Worth It?

Absolutely, if you want a flexible, value-packed way to explore NYC. Its vast selection of attractions means you can craft a personalized itinerary, mixing iconic landmarks with hidden gems. The easy digital format and extra perks like discounts and audio guides add to its appeal.

If you’re a first-time visitor or simply aiming to hit the highlights efficiently, this pass offers a stress-free experience—saving money and time. It’s also well-suited for spontaneous plans, thanks to its validity over 30 days and the ability to choose attractions on the go.

However, early reservations for popular sites are essential, and travelers with certain mobility needs should verify accessibility options beforehand. The Explorer Pass is a smart investment for those wanting to see the best of New York without the hassle of individual tickets.

FAQs

How do I activate the pass?
You activate your pass by scanning it at your first chosen attraction, like the Empire State Building or a museum. After that, it’s valid for 30 days to visit remaining sites.

Can I choose my attractions after purchasing?
Yes, you can browse the list of over 90 options and select your preferred attractions within the 30-day window after activation.

Are reservations required?
Some popular attractions, including the Empire State Building, require advance reservations, so plan those early. Others can be visited without pre-booking.

How long is the pass valid?
Once activated, the pass remains valid for 30 days to visit the remaining attractions you’ve chosen.

Is the pass suitable for all ages?
Most attractions are suitable for a wide range of ages, but check specific site restrictions, especially for tours or experiences with height or age limitations.

Can I buy a pass with more than 2 attractions?
Yes, options include 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 10 attraction choices, allowing you to customize based on your plans and budget.

What is included besides entry tickets?
Perks include gift shop discounts at certain attractions and sometimes free audio guides, enhancing your visit.

Is the pass mobile-only?
Yes, the pass is delivered instantly to your phone via the app, making it easy to use without physical tickets.

Are bus tours included?
Yes, the pass covers the Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour and other guided tours; however, these can fill up quickly so early booking is recommended.

What should I bring on the day?
A charged smartphone to show your digital pass and any reservation confirmations. It’s best to have the app ready for smooth access at each site.

Exploring New York with the Explorer Pass offers a balanced mix of flexibility, savings, and variety. Whether you’re seeking iconic views, museum masterpieces, or neighborhood adventures, this pass helps you see more of the city with less stress—and for less money.

You can check availability for your dates here: