New York Pass®: 105+ Attractions including Edge NYC

Planning a trip to New York City can feel overwhelming — so many iconic sights, museums, and neighborhoods. That’s where the New York Pass® steps in, promising to streamline the experience and help you see more in less time. While I haven’t personally tested this pass, a review of over 2,100 travelers’ feedback, combined with detailed tour info, paints a clear picture of what you can expect.

What immediately stands out? Travelers love the significant savings—up to 50%—compared to buying individual tickets. The convenience of a single mobile pass that activates with your first visit is a game-changer, especially for those who want to maximize their sightseeing. Plus, the variety of attractions, from skyscraper observatories to cultural museums, makes it suitable for all interests. However, a potential drawback is that some tours require reservations well in advance, which demands planning.

This pass is perfect for travelers eager to tick off major highlights without breaking the bank or wasting precious time on ticket lines. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a full week, if you love exploring at your own pace and want flexibility, the New York Pass could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Cost-effective: Save up to 50% versus individual ticket prices
• Flexible durations: Choose from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, or 10 days
• All-inclusive access: Over 105 attractions included in one mobile ticket
• Easy to use: Activate at your first attraction, then go sightseeing hassle-free
• Wide range of attractions: From skyscraper decks to world-class museums
• Reservations required: Book popular tours early to secure your spot

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the New York Pass®? An Overview

The New York Pass® offers unlimited admission to over 105 attractions across NYC within the validity period you select—anywhere from 1 to 10 days. It’s designed to help travelers avoid the hassle of buying individual tickets while securing discounted rates. The pass is delivered instantly as a mobile ticket, so you can start planning your adventures immediately after purchase.

Because it covers so many popular sights—like the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, and the Edge NYC—the pass allows you to explore the city’s highlights at your own pace. It’s a great way for first-timers to get a broad overview or for repeat visitors eager to experience new attractions without added costs.

How Does It Work?

Once you purchase your pass online, it’s ready for instant download. Activation occurs at your first attraction; after this, the pass remains valid for the designated number of consecutive days. This makes it easy to plan a busy itinerary, especially if you start early in the morning.

The included app provides maps, attraction info, and up-to-date opening hours, which is incredibly helpful for logistical planning. Keep in mind that some popular tours and attractions, like the museums or the Edge NYC, require reservations to guarantee entry, so booking these in advance is wise.

The Attractions: What You Can Expect

The attraction list reads like a Manhattan bucket list. We’ll break down some of the highlights to help you visualize what’s included and what might require a bit of planning.

Iconic Observatories and Decks

• Empire State Building: The 86th-floor deck is a staple, but reviews note that you might need to pay extra for the 102nd-floor access, even with the pass. Still, the views from the 86th are breathtaking, especially at sunset or during the evening lights.
• One World Observatory: Located on the 102nd floor of the One World Trade Center, this offers sweeping views of the city skyline and beyond. Many reviews mention the VIP-style entry, which can save time, especially during peak hours.
• Edge NYC: Known for its stunning 100th-floor glass observation deck, Edge offers unique perspectives of Manhattan and the Hudson River. Travelers love the modern design and the thrill of standing on a glass floor.
• Top of the Rock: From the 70th floor of Rockefeller Center, you get a 360-degree panorama of NYC. Many find this less crowded than the others, with equally spectacular views.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cultural and Museum Experiences

The pass grants free entry to some of the world’s best museums, including:

• American Museum of Natural History: One of the most expansive natural history museums globally, perfect for families and science buffs.
• MoMA (Museum of Modern Art): Home to iconic works by Picasso, Warhol, and Van Gogh, offering a deep dive into modern art.
• Guggenheim Museum: Its architecture alone is worth visiting, not to mention the impressive collection inside.
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum: A moving tribute, with reviews emphasizing the importance of booking ahead to avoid long lines.

Unique Tours and Cruises

• Statue of Liberty Ferry & Ellis Island: The pass includes a ferry ride, with reviews noting it makes visiting these landmarks straightforward rather than dealing with ticket lines.
• Circle Line Cruises: Options like harbor lights or city sightseeing cruises are available. Some reviews mention that the bus tours fill quickly, so reserving early is recommended.
• Walking Tours: From Chinatown to Brooklyn Bridge, these guided walks add context and local flavor, making your sightseeing richer.

Family and Hidden Gem Activities

• Staten Island Zoo and Children’s Museum: Great for families wanting kid-friendly outings.
• Hidden gems like the New York Botanical Garden or ARTECHOUSE offer off-the-beaten-path experiences.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Booking

The pass includes access to hop-on-hop-off bus tours, like the Big Bus Downtown & Uptown Tour, which are convenient for covering many sights in a day. Travelers, however, frequently mention that bus tours can get delayed due to NYC traffic, so flexibility is key.

Most attractions are open year-round, but it’s wise to check for holiday hours or special closures. The app’s real-time info helps, but planning ahead—especially for popular spots—ensures smoother experiences.

On top of that, some reviews highlight the importance of early starts, as attractions get busy and lines can be long. The pass is valid for 1 year from purchase but only activates upon your first visit, so you can buy in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

How Does It Save You Money?

The main appeal is the significant discount—up to half off—compared to individual admissions. For travelers planning to visit many sites, the savings can be hundreds of dollars. One review mentioned saving around $150 by using the pass, which is quite substantial for a trip that includes multiple museums, observation decks, and tours.

Beyond savings, the convenience of presenting a mobile ticket at each attraction speeds up entry, reducing wait times and making the most of your limited time in the city.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the ease of use, with many noting how the pass simplified their planning. For example, one traveler said, “no hassles. just show the pass and go,” which is exactly what you want when exploring a bustling city.

Another mentioned the value for money, saying, “getting the pass for more than one day is highly recommended,” since there’s just so much to see and do. Guides and staff at attractions are generally very accommodating, with some even noting that the app’s maps and itinerary features helped them organize their days efficiently.

However, a few reviews pointed out that some attractions require reservations well in advance, so don’t wait until the last minute to secure your spot. Also, bus tours can be crowded and delayed, especially during peak hours, so patience and flexibility are essential.

Final Thoughts: Is the New York Pass® Worth It?

For travelers eager to maximize their sightseeing while keeping costs manageable, this pass offers serious value. The wide attraction list means you can tailor your trip to your interests — whether it’s breathtaking city views, museum hopping, or cruising the harbor.

If you’re a first-time visitor wanting to see the highlights without the hassle of individual tickets, the convenience factor is a major plus. The reviews underscore that the pass often saves visitors hundreds of dollars and much stress.

On the flip side, those who prefer unstructured, spontaneous exploration might find the need for reservations and pre-planning a slight obstacle. Also, if you’re only visiting for a day or two, you might find it more economical to focus on just a handful of key sites.

The New York Pass® is best suited for active, organized travelers who want to see as much as possible and appreciate the convenience of an all-in-one ticket. It’s a ticket that rewards those who plan ahead and are ready to hit the ground running.

FAQs About the New York Pass®

What attractions are included?
Over 105 popular NYC attractions, including skyscraper decks, museums, tours, and cruises, are part of the pass.

Can I buy the pass online?
Yes, you can purchase and download it instantly. It’s delivered as a digital mobile ticket.

How do I activate the pass?
Activation occurs at your first attraction, after which it remains valid for the number of consecutive days purchased.

Is the pass valid for the whole year?
Yes, it is valid for 1 year from the purchase date, but it only activates upon your first visit.

Are reservations needed?
Some attractions and tours do require advance reservations, so booking early is advised.

What if I want to visit just one or two attractions?
If your plans are limited, purchasing individual tickets might be more economical.

Can I use the pass for the hop-on-hop-off bus tours?
Yes, the pass includes access to bus tours, but they can fill up quickly, so early boarding is recommended.

Does the pass include the Empire State Building?
Yes, it covers the 86th-floor observation deck, but note that it may not include the 102nd floor unless you pay extra.

Is the pass suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially with kid-friendly options like the Staten Island Zoo and Children’s Museum.

In all, the New York Pass® offers a practical, money-saving way to see a broad swath of New York City’s iconic sights. Ideal for organized travelers, museum enthusiasts, and anyone eager to squeeze the most out of their trip, it’s a ticket that balances convenience, value, and a dash of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: