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

Traveling to the Big Apple is exciting, but planning your days to hit all the must-see spots can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare—and a wallet drainer. That’s where the New York CityPASS® comes in. This ticket bundle claims to offer up to 41% savings on five top attractions, giving visitors a more relaxed and cost-effective way to enjoy NYC’s iconic landmarks. While I haven’t personally tested it, the reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture of what to expect.

What I love about this pass? First, the flexibility it offers with a 9-day validity period after first activation. Second, the easy mobile access, which means no printing and less hassle at the entrance. Lastly, the wide variety of attractions included, from towering skyscrapers to world-class museums. The potential drawback? Some attractions require reservations or timed entry, so booking early is a smart move. This pass seems best suited for travelers who want a stress-free sightseeing experience without sacrificing depth or variety.

Key Points

• Cost Savings: Save up to 41% compared to buying individual tickets.
• Flexible Use: 9 days to explore your selected attractions at your pace.
• Convenient Access: Mobile tickets mean quick, contactless entry.
• Wide Range of Sights: Includes major landmarks like the Empire State Building and natural history wonders.
• Extra Benefits: Bonus same-night Empire State visit and optional add-ons.
• User-Friendly: Easy to use app for reservations, viewing details, and making changes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and How It Works

The NYC CityPASS is designed to streamline your sightseeing and cut down on ticket queues. For $154 per person, you get entry to five major attractions, with the flexibility to choose three additional experiences from a list of popular sites. The main highlights include:

• Empire State Building Observatory (including bonus same-night entry)
• American Museum of Natural History, with access to over 40 galleries and a choice of one special exhibition
• Your choice of three attractions from options such as Top of The Rock, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, Circle Line Cruises, Intrepid Museum, or the Guggenheim Museum

With 9 days to use the tickets, you have ample time to schedule visits around your plans. This flexibility was highlighted in reviews—users appreciated being able to pre-book some attractions or shift reservations if weather or mood changed.

Delivery and Reservations

The tickets are delivered instantly via mobile, making last-minute planning straightforward. The app also allows reservation bookings, which is especially useful for attractions like the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty, where timed entries are common.

How It Fits Into Your NYC Adventure

From towering skyscrapers to world-famous museums, the attractions included in the pass cover the essentials for any first-time visitor—or even seasoned travelers who want to revisit highlights without the hassle of buying individual tickets.

Attractions like the Empire State Building and Top of The Rock offer panoramic views that are just a must-see, giving you a chance to see the city from different perspectives. The American Museum of Natural History is a hit for families and lovers of science, with over 40 galleries, a giant-screen film, and the Hayden Planetarium.

For those interested in history and patriotism, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum provides a sobering but essential experience. Meanwhile, the Statue City Cruises ferry offers a scenic ride to Liberty Island—perfect for photo ops and understanding NYC’s maritime history. The Guggenheim Museum adds an artistic touch, with its unique architecture and extensive collection.

What Do Reviewers Say?

Multiple reviews praise how easy the whole process is. Travelers mention the app’s user-friendliness, from booking to rescheduling, and highlight how tickets scan swiftly at each venue. One reviewer, Mahendra, lauded the well-worth-it experience, saying it saved the hassle of individual ticket purchases. Claire noted that the natural history museum could be entered free of charge, which slightly reduces the value of the pass but doesn’t detract from overall savings.

Another reviewer, Paul, shared that having all attraction tickets in one place makes planning much easier. The ability to reserve times and modify bookings on the app** is a recurring theme in reviews, emphasizing how this pass supports flexible itineraries.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Expect at Each Major Attraction

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is a highlight for most visitors. With included entrance to the 86th Floor Observatory and an optional bonus visit during the same day or night, you’ll get breathtaking views of Manhattan from one of its most iconic skyscrapers. Reviewers mention the smooth entry process and the spectacular cityscape, especially at sunset or after dark. Keep in mind, some reviews noted that same-night visits are a bonus, but availability can vary, so booking early is recommended.

American Museum of Natural History

The museum’s expansive galleries are a magnet for all ages. From dinosaur skeletons to the giant-screen films, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. The admission includes access to the main exhibits plus one paid special exhibit, if you choose. Reviewers fondly recall the friendly staff and the vastness of the collection. One traveler mentioned it’s possible to enter for free if you don’t opt for a ticketed exhibit, offering good flexibility on busy days.

Top of The Rock Observation Deck

The Top of The Rock provides stunning views across the city, including a clear shot of the Empire State Building itself. Visit during the day or in the evening for different perspectives. Many reviewers found the lines to be manageable, especially with a pre-booked ticket, and enjoyed the panoramic skyline.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

This site is a powerful reminder of recent history. The general admission lets you explore the memorial pools and the museum exhibits. Reviewers pointed out the emotional impact and the importance of allocating enough time for reflection. Some found it worth the visit to understand the significance of the site, though it’s a more somber experience.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

The ferry ride with Statue City Cruises is a highlight for many. The audio guides and access to the Statue of Liberty Museum add depth to the experience. Be aware that crown and pedestal access are not included in the pass, so if you want those, you’ll need to book separately. Travelers like Sarah appreciated the well-organized tour and the knowledgeable guides like David, who made the trip both informative and enjoyable.

Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim stands out thanks to Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece. The general admission includes access to the permanent collection and temporary exhibits, along with a free architecture tour that many reviewers found very informative. The digital guide available via mobile enhances the experience, especially for art lovers.

Additional Attractions and Personalization

You can choose three additional experiences from options like the Circle Line Cruises, Intrepid Museum, or 9/11 Memorial & Museum, tailoring your trip to your interests.

• The Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises offer a variety of themed tours, including landmarks and sunset cruises. One reviewer called it “well worth the money,” especially on a sunny day.
• The Intrepid Museum features the Space Shuttle Pavilion and a submarine, perfect for military and space enthusiasts. Reviewers love the interactive exhibits and accessible layout.
• The Guggenheim provides an artistic escape with its vibrant collection and iconic architecture, with many praising the audio guides.

Practical Tips for Your NYC CityPASS Journey

• Download the My CityPASS app to access, reserve, and modify your tickets with ease.
• Book attractions early, especially for time-sensitive entries like Empire State and Statue of Liberty, to ensure availability.
• Remember, tickets are valid for 9 consecutive days, so plan your days accordingly to avoid rush.
• Pack comfortable shoes—many attractions involve a lot of walking—and bring water and snacks.
• Be aware that some attractions may require reservations or timed entry, so check the details ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

The New York CityPASS® offers a smart way to see the city’s highlights without breaking the bank or losing your mind trying to buy individual tickets on the spot. Its easy-to-use digital format, combined with the flexible 9-day window, makes it ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace. The included attractions cover a broad spectrum—from towering skyscrapers to cultural institutions—ensuring a well-rounded NYC experience.

If you’re looking for value, convenience, and a straightforward way to get the most out of your trip, this pass is worth serious consideration. It’s especially helpful for first-timers or those eager to tick off major sights without the stress of logistics.

For travelers who prefer a relaxed, organized approach to sightseeing, and who value access to top attractions at a discount, the NYC CityPASS is a fantastic choice. The positive reviews, and the detailed inclusions, show it works well for most visitors who want a smooth, memorable NYC adventure.

FAQs

Does the CityPASS include transportation?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own transport for getting between attractions.

Can I buy additional tickets if I want to visit more attractions?
Yes, the pass covers five attractions plus three choices, but you can purchase extra tickets separately if desired.

Is the CityPASS valid at all times of day?
Most attractions offer flexible hours, but some may require reservations or specific time slots, so plan accordingly.

How long do I have to use the tickets?
The tickets are valid for 9 days from the first activation, giving you plenty of time to spread out your visits.

Can I cancel or modify my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the app allows changing reservations where needed.

Is it easy to access the tickets?
Absolutely, the tickets are delivered instantly via mobile, and scanning at venues is quick and contactless.

Are there any discounts for children or infants?
Children under a certain age can use INFANT FREE TICKETS if a child ticket isn’t purchased, but some attractions may require separate child tickets based on age.

Is the pass wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the CityPASS is wheelchair friendly, accommodating most mobility needs.

In the end, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, the CityPASS offers a practical, budget-friendly way to see the city’s highlights without the typical stress. It’s a tool that transforms sightseeing from a chore into a fun, manageable adventure—perfect for making memories in the city that never sleeps.

You can check availability for your dates here: