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

Planning a trip to the Big Apple can be as overwhelming as it is exciting. With so many iconic sights, choosing where to start and how to get the most value often leaves travelers unsure. That’s where the New York CityPASS® comes in—a handy ticket bundle that offers access to five of the city’s must-see attractions, saving up to 41%.

We haven’t personally taken this exact tour (yet), but based on reviews, official info, and the general setup, it looks like a smart, flexible way to experience New York without breaking the bank.

What we love about the CityPASS is its simplicity and flexibility. You get mobile tickets delivered instantly, so there’s no need to fuss with printed paper, and you can spread your visits over nine days—giving you plenty of time to soak up the city without feeling rushed. Plus, the savings are substantial, especially considering how quickly costs add up when booking attractions individually.

One possible drawback? Not all attractions are available for same-day booking or on-the-spot reservations, so a little planning helps. And, if you’re a foodie or want extra exclusive experiences, you’ll need to budget separately for those. But overall, this pass seems best suited for first-time visitors, families, and anyone who appreciates a straightforward, cost-effective way to tick off NYC’s highlights.

This experience made our article of 15 Top-Rated New York City Tours & Things To Do.

Key Points

• Flexible usage: Enjoy 9 days to explore five major attractions at your own pace.
• Great value: Save up to 41% compared to buying tickets separately.
• All-in-one convenience: Mobile tickets delivered instantly, with easy access and booking options.
• Wide attraction choice: Includes the Empire State Building, American Museum of Natural History, Top of the Rock, Statue of Liberty ferry, and more.
• Skip the stress: One purchase covers multiple sites, reducing planning hassle.
• Authentic experiences: Designed for travelers wanting genuine, iconic NYC sights without waiting in long lines or buying individual tickets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

The CityPASS provides entry to five selected attractions, but with nine days to use your tickets, you’re free to plan your itinerary around your own pace and interest.

Empire State Building Observatory – AM/PM Experience

This ticket includes admission to the 86th Floor Observatory, offering sweeping views of Manhattan’s skyline. Many reviews note the “amazing views” and the bonus of same-night general admission, letting you see the city in the daytime and lit-up at night. The skip-the-line feature is a big plus, especially during peak hours when queues can be lengthy. Expect a crowd, but also a truly iconic view—an essential part of any NYC trip.

American Museum of Natural History

A favorite for families and curious travelers alike, this museum features over 40 galleries covering everything from dinosaurs to space. Reviews mention the “superb collection” and the ease of access—one reviewer noted that “it’s worth the price” for the variety and quality of exhibits. You can also choose one ticketed exhibition or special feature like the Hayden Planetarium, which is often highlighted for making science accessible and fun.

Top of The Rock Observation Deck

The “best views in the city” are often attributed to Top of the Rock, with panoramic vistas that include the Empire State Building itself. The general admission ticket grants access to the deck, and many travelers appreciate the less crowded experience compared to the Empire State Building, especially if you opt for early or late times.

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Additional Options (Choose 3)

The pass allows you to select three attractions from a list, tailored to your preferences:

• 9/11 Memorial & Museum: A somber but powerful site, offering a chance to reflect on recent history.
• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Ferry access to these symbols of freedom. While crown tickets aren’t included, many reviews say the ferry ride itself is well-organized and worth the experience.
• Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises: Offers a different perspective of Manhattan’s skyline—some travelers call it “a relaxing way to see the city from the water”.
• Intrepid Museum: Military history and space exploration come alive with the Space Shuttle Pavilion and immersive exhibits, a big hit with kids and adults alike.

How It Works

You purchase your digital tickets upfront, then present your mobile QR code at each attraction. Some sites, like the American Museum of Natural History, require you to reserve a time slot and show your tickets upon entry—so early planning and reservations are advisable. The app simplifies this process, and many users appreciate how straightforward it is to adjust reservations if your plans change.

Why Travelers Love the CityPASS

Based on reviews, visitors praise the easy booking process and the ability to change reservation times. Many note that “it saves a lot of money”—especially when visiting multiple major attractions. The flexibility to spread out visits over nine days helps avoid the feeling of being rushed, which is often a concern for first-time visitors trying to cram everything in.

Several reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views as memorable highlights. One person remarked that the “trip to the Empire State Building” was “amazing”, especially with the bonus night visit, allowing a different perspective of NYC at dusk.

Authenticity and Convenience

The pass’s digital format and quick entry mean less waiting and more time enjoying the sights. Travelers also appreciate the clear instructions and helpful customer service when needing to modify reservations or clarify procedures.

The Value for Money

While $154 per person might seem like a lot initially, reviews consistently emphasize the value—many mention that they “saved a significant amount” compared to purchasing tickets individually. For families, the savings multiply quickly, making this a budget-smart choice.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your CityPASS

• Plan ahead: Make reservations for attractions like the American Museum of Natural History or the Statue of Liberty ferry, especially if you want specific times.
• Download the app: The My CityPASS® app helps you manage reservations, view attraction details, and access your tickets on the go.
• Arrive early or late: For popular sites like Top of The Rock or Empire State, early morning or late evening visits can mean fewer crowds.
• Bring comfortable shoes and water: Expect a lot of walking and standing—it’s New York, after all!
• Use the bonus features: The same-night Empire State Building visit is a treat—don’t miss it if your schedule allows.
• Consider additional expenses: Transportation, food, and souvenirs are not included, so budget extra for these.

Who Will Really Benefit from the CityPASS?

This pass is ideal for first-time visitors who want a streamlined experience with cost savings. Families with children will appreciate the ease of booking and skipping lines, especially when trying to keep everyone engaged over several days. If you’re hoping to see the major sights without stress and are okay with some planning, this is a smart choice.

Travelers who love flexibility will find the 9-day window allows for spontaneous adventures or rest days. And if you’re visiting during peak seasons, the skip-the-line benefits can be a huge time-saver.

However, if your focus is on very specific activities—like visiting the Statue of Liberty’s crown—or on niche museums not included, you’ll want to complement this pass with additional tickets or reservations.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The New York CityPASS® offers excellent value, especially for those eager to tick off five top attractions at a discounted rate. Its ease of use, digital format, and flexible nine-day window make it stand out for busy or first-time travelers. The included attractions like the Empire State Building, American Museum of Natural History, and Top of the Rock are all iconic, offering some of the best city views and cultural experiences available.

While you will need to plan and reserve some time slots, the overall convenience and savings make this a compelling choice. It’s especially suited for visitors who want a stress-free, efficient way to experience the essentials of the city without sacrificing authenticity.

If you’re someone who appreciates good value, straightforward planning, and iconic sights, then the CityPASS is a ticket worth considering for your NYC adventure.

FAQs

Does the CityPASS® include all transportation?
No, transportation costs are not included. You’ll need to budget separately for subway, bus, or other transit options.

Can I use the tickets for multiple visits to the Empire State Building?
No, the tickets are valid for one-time entry, but you can enjoy the bonus same-night visit for a different view.

Is it possible to change reservation times?
Yes, many reviewers mention that they could change their reservation times, sometimes even minutes before their scheduled visit.

Are children included?
Children under a certain age can use the Infant Free Ticket, but some attractions may require purchasing child tickets separately.

What if I want to visit more than five attractions?
The pass covers five attractions, but some travelers buy extra tickets or combine with other experiences for more variety.

Do I need to download the app?
While not mandatory, most find the My CityPASS® app helpful for managing reservations, viewing attraction details, and accessing tickets.

Is the pass suitable during peak tourist season?
Yes. The skip-the-line benefits and flexible scheduling are particularly valuable when crowds are heavy.

In the end, the CityPASS® offers a practical way to make your New York visit more manageable and memorable. With its combination of savings, convenience, and authenticity, it ranks as a smart choice for a first-time or quick-trip visitor eager to see the city’s highlights without the hassle.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby