Comparison of the NYC Passes
New York City is one of the most sought after travel destinations in the world. It’s no wonder there are multiple New York passes available to help you see the city’s top attractions while saving money.
But with numerous world famous attractions including museums, observation decks, harbor cruises, and helicopter rides, where do you even begin?
In this NYC pass comparison guide, our main goal is to help you decide if a New York pass is what you need for your visit to the big apple.
We will cover everything you need to know about each New York pass including:
- What makes us NYC pass experts
- Why you should consider a New York pass
- An explanation on how NYC passes work
- The different types of passes available
- Attractions available on each pass
- A thorough explanation of each New York pass
Now, let’s find the best New York City pass for your visit to New York!
*Please note this post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the free content we provide! Read more in our disclosure policy.*
Disclosure: We received New York Sightseeing Pass and New York CityPASS tickets in order to share our opinion about these products but this is not a sponsored post.
What Makes Us New York City Pass Experts?
Not only have we lived in New York City but we have used both the New York CityPASS, C3 Pass and the NY Sightseeing Pass in the city ourselves.
We have also used the Go City explorer pass in Rome so we are extremely familiar with how the pass works and why it is beneficial when checking off bucket list attractions.
But not all New York City passes are created equal and they are not one size fits all. Each type of pass benefits different type of tourists, age groups and travel styles.
In this New York City pass comparison, we will be brutally honest because at the end of the day, we want you to have the best time in the city whether you are a first time visitor or a returning visitor.
Updates For 2022
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) has left all third party programs as of March 1, 2022. This applies to all types of New York attractions passes.
With that said, we strongly encourage you to visit The Met because it is one of the best museums in the world and it would be a shame to miss it on your visit to NYC.
Remember, NYS residents as well as students based in NY, NJ or CT can enter The Met with a valid ID and the amount you pay for admission is up to you.
Check the official website for The Met if you want more information.
Why Buy A New York City Attractions Pass?
Buying a New York City attractions pass will give you instant access to the most iconic New York museums, landmarks and observation decks at a discounted price. The more attractions you visit, the more discount you get and the more money you save.
Buying a pass in New York can be good for both first time and returning visitors. So before we go over prices, it is important you understand the difference between each NYC pass.
You can’t look at price alone because each New York pass offers a different number of attractions or day-based options. Certain passes also give you extended validity or exclusive tickets.
Remember, not all New York City passes are created equal.
How Do New York City Passes Work?
Each New York Pass works in a very similar way. After you purchase the pass online, you will then have 24 months (or 2 years) to activate the pass.
A New York Pass is considered to be ‘activate’ once the pass has been scanned at your first attraction. Keep in mind, you will only be able to visit each attraction once when using a New York pass.
The one exception to this rule is the New York CityPASS, which gives you access to the Empire State Building twice in one day. This means you can visit during the day and at night. What a bonus!
After you purchase your New York pass online, the pass will be emailed directly to you. In our experience, the easiest way to access your NY pass is to download the pass straight from this email to your phone.
Next, you will just present your New York pass at your selected attractions. Then your pass will be scanned via the QR-code giving you instant access.
But if reservations are required at the specific attraction, you will also have to show your reservation when presenting your pass. Most of these reservations will work on a timed entry system.
You also have the option of printing out your pass if you do not want to download it to your phone. This printed pass will work exactly the same way.
What About Fast Track Or Skip The Line On NYC Passes?
In all of our experience using these New York passes, we never had to wait in line. Not once.
Since many of the New York passes require a reservation for the popular attractions, fast track or skip the line services are a moot point. As long as you make your reservations, you will not need a fast track or a skip the line option.
Something to consider is that some of the attractions require recommendations while some attractions only recommend reservations. For the best experience in NYC, we would recommend you always make reservations when possible.
With a reservation, you will be guaranteed a spot for the popular attractions on your NYC bucket list. It is always best to book your reservations as soon as possible.
Types Of New York City Passes
Day based passes and attractions based passes are the two types of New York City pass you can buy. Each pass has pros and cons.
Let’s take a quick look at both versions:
Day Based Passes
A day based New York pass is purchased based on the number of full days you wish to explore the best of NYC. Day passes are best for visitors who want to see and do as much as possible in a short period.
There is no limit to the amount of attractions you can visit with a day pass. You are only limited by time. How many NYC attractions do you think you could visit in one day or two days?
Pros: Unlimited attractions, more value for money if you are quick, more suited to a short visit to NYC.
Cons: Feel obliged to rush around New York ticking off attractions to get your moneys worth.
Attractions Based Passes
Just when you thought the types of passes were clear and easy to follow, we’re going to throw a wrench in the works. There are 2 different types of attractions pass in NYC:
- An attractions pass based on the exact number of attractions you want to visit with the price going up incrementally each time you add another attraction.
- An attractions pass with a set number of attractions at a set price point.
You are limited to the set number of attractions you purchase but you typically have plenty of time to visit each attraction. Do you prefer to select exactly which attractions you want to see?
Pros: Control over exactly what you want to see, more value for money if you want to take things slow, more suited to a longer visit to NYC.
Cons: Limited number of attractions.
7 Best New York City Passes Compared
There are 4 main New York City pass companies:
But 3 of these companies offer multiples passes with various day or attraction options, so this is how we got to a comparison of 7 different NYC passes.
New York’s attraction passes are very similar and the names can be confusing. But once you take a deeper look at each option, you will notice subtle differences.
Below is a graph with a quick high-level overview of each New York pass.
New York Pass Attractions
You probably know what observations decks or museums you already want to visit in New York, but if you don’t that is okay. We hope to show you some new attractions you never considered so you will have the best time possible when visiting the city.
When it comes to the most popular New York City attractions, most of the attractions listed below are included on each New York City Pass.
Popular NYC Attractions:
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- American Museum of Natural History
- Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
- Edge Hudson Yards
- Empire State Building
- Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty + Ellis Island
- Guggenheim Museum
- Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
- Modern Museum of Art (MoMA)
- One World Observatory
- Top of the Rock
Below is a graph with a quick high-level overview of each attraction included one each pass.
Further Reading: Complete guide to the best museums in New York City
All New York City Passes Listed
In this next section, we will go over each New York pass in detail explaining what to expect with each one and special bonuses to consider.
All New York passes will require reservations for the popular attractions. You can determine what attractions require a reservation on that specific New York pass website.
In our opinion, each New York pass is extremely clear about what attractions require reservations. We will include links to the reservation pages below each New York pass as well.
We recommend you make reservations as soon as possible because attractions can sell out. If you don’t make reservations, you may also have to wait for the next available entry which might mess up your New York City itinerary.
New York CityPASS (Attraction-based)
Let’s take a look at the 2 passes by CityPASS which offer an attractions-based option. CityPASS have attractions passes in several of the major US cities.
The New York CityPASS is a very popular pass for first time visitors to NYC because it includes the major tourist attractions at a competitive price point.
We’ve written a full New York CityPASS and C3 Pass review that you might want to read next.
What Attractions Are Included On The New York CityPASS?
Here’s what you need to know:
- 5 major NYC attractions included
- 2 attractions are already included and non-negotiable
- You then choose 3 out of a possible 6 further options for a total of 5 attractions
- The 5 attraction pass is bought at a set price
New York CityPASS attractions (choose 5):
- Empire State Building
- American Museum of Natural History
- Top of the Rock OR Guggenheim Museum
- Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island OR Circle Line Cruises
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum OR Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Note: MoMA, Hornblower Cruises and Edge are not included with the New York CityPASS. But these attractions are included on the C3 pass.
See CityPASS reservation information here.
Exclusive New York CityPASS Bonus
With CityPASS you will receive a bonus same day visit to the Empire State Building 86th floor observation deck. This means you can visit both during the day and at night. But keep in mind, this exclusive offer this is not included with C3 pass.
Another bonus of the New York CityPASS is at the American Museum of Natural History where you will have entry to all permanent and special exhibits.
A New York CityPASS will also give you access to deals on popular Broadway musicals and plays. Go to the official website to find deals on Broadway shows.
Is Transportation Included On The New York CityPASS OR C3 Pass?
Transportation is not included on the New York CityPASS or C3 pass. However, you can use the subway to easily access each top attraction. We used the subway to visit each attraction on this pass.
You also have the choice between the ferry access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island or the Circle Line Cruise which is a boat tour. This is a good way to see the city from a different perspective on the Hudson River.
How Much Does The New York CityPASS Cost?
The New York CityPASS with 5 attractions is $129 for adults and $109 for children.
Is The New York CityPASS Worth It?
Yes, the New York CityPASS is worth it. This pass is perfect for first time visitors to New York City who want to see all of the top attractions.
We like the New York CityPASS because this pass is often the most competitively priced option for the top attractions in the city.
Keep in mind the New York CityPASS is valid for 9 consecutive days. While most people don’t visit New York for this many days, you will still have plenty of time to space out each individual attraction.
If you are a NYC local, the CityPASS could be a great option for you. We used this pass when we were living the NYC. We visited one attraction each day so we were able to slow down and really take our time at each location.
New York C3 Pass
CityPASS has a “light” version of their New York pass called the New York C3 Pass. This allows you to choose any 3 of the 11 attractions available.
What Attractions Are Included On The New York C3 Pass?
Here’s what you need to know:
- 3 major NYC attractions included
- Choose 3 out of a possible 11 options
- The 3 attraction pass is bought at a set price
New York CityPASS attractions (choose 3):
- Empire State Building
- Top of the Rock
- Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- American Museum of Natural History
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
- Circle Line Cruises
- Guggenheim Museum
- Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
- City Cruises
- Edge at Hudson Yards
How Much Does The New York C3 Cost?
The New York C3 Pass with 3 attractions is $92 for adults and $72 for children.
Is The New York C3 Pass Worth It?
Yes, the New York C3 pass is worth it. This pass is perfect for first time visitors to New York City who want to see some of the top attractions, but are short on time.
Besides a smaller numbers of attractions, the main difference between the New York CityPASS and the C3 pass is availability of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Edge at Hudson Yards and City Cruises.
Buy the New York C3 Pass here.
New York Sightseeing Pass (Day and Attraction-based)
Let’s take a look at the 2 options for the New York Sightseeing Pass because these are much different compared to the passes we just discussed.
The main difference between the Sightseeing Pass and the New York CityPASS is the amount of attractions available to choose from.
Sightseeing Pass has a day based pass called the “DAY” pass and an attractions based pass called the “FLEX” pass.
While the CityPASS is great for first time visitors to NYC, the New York Sightseeing Pass and the remaining passes on this list are better suited for returning visitors, locals, families with children or those who want to see as many attractions as possible.
Here are your two options with the New York Sightseeing Pass:
- Choose a FLEX or DAY pass
- Over 100+ attractions to choose from
- Prices based on day or number of attractions
DAY Pass
- 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 day validity
- Visit as many attractions as you want
FLEX Pass
- Visit any 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10 or 12 attractions
- 60 days validity
We’ve written a full New York City Sightseeing Pass review that you might want to read next.
What Attractions Are Included With NY Sightseeing Pass?
Now you know the different types of pass you can buy, let’s take a look at the most popular attractions you can visit after buying a New York Sightseeing Pass.
There are over 100 diverse attractions in total including exclusive NY Sightseeing Pass options.
Popular New York Sightseeing Pass Attractions:
- Empire State Building
- Top of the Rock
- Circle Line Landmarks Cruise
- One World Observatory
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- Edge Hudson Yards
- American Museum of Natural History
- Guggenheim
- Big Bus NY Classic Tour
It is worth mentioning this is a great pass if you want to visit 4 of the 5 observation decks in New York. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is currently the only observation deck not on a New York Pass.
Exclusive New York Sightseeing Pass Attractions
- Bronx and Central Park Zoos
- New York Aquarium
- St. Patricks Cathedral Tour
- LoL Comedy Lounge and Comedy Lounge Magic
- National Lighthouse Museum
- Free Prix-Fixe Menu at Buffalo Wild Wings
- Go Airlink airport shuttle
- Special offers on The New Yorker Helicopter Tour
Click here to see the full list of attractions available and reservation information on the official NY Sightseeing Pass website.
Is Transportation Included On The New York Sightseeing Pass?
Yes, some transportation is included on the NY Sightseeing Pass. The Big Bus Classic Tour ticket is valid for 1 Day and includes the Manhattan Uptown and Downtown loops. These loops will stop at various point of interests all through the city.
The Go Airlink airport shuttle is also included with the NY Sightseeing Pass. This shuttle will provide transfers to and from New York airports. To make a reservation for the shuttle, you must call 212-812-9000.
It is worth mentioning, with the New York Sightseeing FLEX Pass you will also get CitySightseeing Uptown and Downtown Hop-on Hop-off bus tours. This is different to the Big Bus Classic Tour and is valid for 72 hours. Just scan your NY Sightseeing pass to start the tour.
New York Sightseeing Pass – Day Pass (DAY Pass)
Before you purchase the New York Sightseeing Pass, you will need to decide how many days you want on your pass. Your options include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 days.
During these days, you will be able to visit any of the attractions on the New York Sightseeing Pass list as you want. But keep in mind, some attractions require reservations so you can’t just show up expecting to get the next entry.
How Much Does The New York Sightseeing DAY Pass Cost?
The New York Sightseeing DAY Pass prices begins at $144 for the 1-day adult pass and $116 for the 1-day child pass. The day passes then increase in increments to $359 for the 10-day adult pass and $199 for the 10-day child pass.
The idea is simple… the more days you buy, the more attractions you will visit and the more money you will save.
Click here to see a full price list on the official NY Sightseeing Pass website.
Is The New York Sightseeing DAY Pass Worth It?
Yes, the NY Sightseeing DAY Pass is worth it. This pass is better suited to return visitors to New York who have already seen the top attractions or families with children.
The great part about this pass is the large amount of attractions available. There are some obscure and unique attractions you may have missed from your first visit.
The exclusive options on this pass include the Bronx and Central Park Zoos as well as the New York Aquarium. These attractions are often booked by families with children.
We used a 3-day pass and tried to check off as many attractions as possible. It was exhausting, but we were able to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time.
We found we were able to average about 3 attractions a day so use this number to plan your itinerary.
Buy a New York Sightseeing DAY Pass here.
New York Sightseeing Pass – Attractions Pass (FLEX Pass)
Before you purchase the NY Sightseeing Pass, you will need to decide how many attractions you want on your pass. Your options include 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10 or 12 attractions.
No matter how many attractions you purchase, you will then have 60 days to visit all of them once your pass is activated.
As a NY Sightseeing FLEX Pass holder you will also have access to additional bus tours including:
- CitySightseeing Uptown and Downtown Hop-on Hop-off bus tour
- Brooklyn Hop-on Hop-off Tour
- Best of Manhattan escorted Double Decker Tour
- New York at Night escorted Double Decker Tour
How Much Does The New York Sightseeing FLEX Pass Cost?
The New York Sightseeing FLEX Pass prices begins at $74 for the 2-attractions adult pass and $51.20 for the 2-attractions child pass. The attractions passes then increase in increments to $284 for the 12-attractions adult pass and $209.60 for the 12-attractions child pass.
The idea is the more attractions you buy, the more money you will save.
Click here to see a full price list on the official NY Sightseeing Pass website.
Is The New York Sightseeing FLEX Pass Worth It?
Yes, the New York Sightseeing Flex Pass can be worth it if you are a local or a returning visitor looking to cover many attractions over many days (60 days total).
Buy a NY Sightseeing FLEX pass here.
Although the NY Sightseeing Pass FLEX Pass is good value, we would suggest looking at the Go City New York Explorer Pass as a slightly cheaper alternative for the same deal at the time of writing.
But prices do fluctuate so always compare prices before you buy.
Go City New York Pass
Go City have both day and attractions passes in several major cities around the world.
The Go City New York Pass is set up almost identically to New York Sightseeing Pass. Go City has a day based pass called the “All-Inclusive Pass” and an attractions based pass called the “Explorer Pass”.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Choose either an attractions or day based pass
- Cost of passes is similar to Sightseeing Pass
- Prices go up incrementally the more attractions or days you add
- Use either pass in the same way as New York Sightseeing Pass
What Attractions Are Included On The Go City New York Pass
There are over 80 diverse attractions on the Go City New York pass. This pass includes alternative museums, bike rentals and walking tours which can be a good option if you have already seen New York’s top attractions.
Popular Go City New York Attractions:
- 9/11 Memorial and Museum
- American Museum of Natural History
- Circle Line Sightseeing
- Central Park Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking
- Edge Hudson Yards
- Empire State Building
- Ferry Access to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
- Guggenheim Museum
- Harlem Jazz Series
- Intrepid
- Madame Tussauds
- Modern Museum of Art
- Top of the Rock
Exclusive Go City New York Attractions
- SPYSCAPE
- Secrets of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Walking Tour
- The Beast Speedboat Ride
- Perfect Picnic
- Woodbury Common Bus Tour
Click here to see a full attractions list and reservation information on the official Go City New York Pass website.
Is Transportation Included On The Go City New York Pass?
Yes, transportation is included on the Go City New York pass. You will have access to the Big Bus Hop On Hop Off 1-Day Classic Tour with your Go City New York Pass.
The Big Bus tour will help you travel through the Manhattan’s Uptown and Downtown loops. Additional transportation options include bike rentals, boat tours and walking tours.
Go City New York Explorer Pass (Attractions)
Before you purchase the Go City New York Explorer pass, you will need to decide how many attractions you want on your pass. Your options include 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 attractions.
Once your Go City New York Explorer Pass is activated at the first attraction, you will then have 60 days to visit all the attractions on your pass.
How Much Does The Go City New York Explorer Pass Cost?
The Go City New York Explorer Pass begins at $69 for the adult 2-attraction pass and $54 for the child 2-attraction pass. The price increases in increments until $224 for the adult 10-attraction pass and $184 for the child 10-attraction pass.
Click here to see a full price list on the official Go City New York website.
Is The Go City New York Explorer Pass Worth It?
Yes, the Go City New York Explorer Pass can be worth it for returning visitors or locals who want to visit certain attractions over a longer period of time.
The Go City New York Explorer Pass is very similar to the New York Sightseeing Flex Pass. Be sure to compare prices and attractions before purchasing your pass.
Buy a Go City New York Explorer Pass here.
Go City New York All-Inclusive Pass (Days)
Before you purchase the Go City New York All-Inclusive Pass, you will need to decide how many days you want on your pass. Your options include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 or 10 days.
During these days, you will be able to visit any of the attractions on the Go City New York All-Inclusive Pass list as you want. But keep in mind, some attractions require reservations so you can’t just show up expecting to get the next entry.
How Much Does The Go City New York All-Inclusive Pass Cost?
The Go City New York All-Inclusive Pass costs $134 for the adult 1-day pass and $102 for the child 1-day pass. The price increases in increments until $332 for the adult 10-day pass and $189 for the child 10-day pass.
Is The Go City New York All-Inclusive Pass Worth It?
Yes, the Go City New York All-Inclusive Pass can be worth it for returning visitors who want to visit as much as possible in a short time period.
Buy a Go City New York All-Inclusive Pass here.
The New York Pass
The New York Pass is owned by Go City and it is essentially the exact same as Go City’s day pass version. Prices and attractions are very similar to the Go City day pass, and there are no attractions based passes available.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Choose how many days you want to have unlimited access to attractions
- Prices go up incrementally the more days you add
See attractions, reservation information and buy The New York Pass by Go City here.
Which NYC Pass Is Best For You?
Now you know the New York passes are very similar yet offer subtle differences. But why would you choose to buy a NY Sightseeing Pass over a CityPass, Go City Pass or New York Pass?
Well, we think NY Sightseeing Pass offers an easy to use pass with flexibility and big savings. You have total control over exactly what you see and when you see it.
CityPASS is cheaper per attraction compared to the NY Sightseeing or Go City New York Pass but you will be limited to small number of attractions.
You’ll pay slightly more for 5 attractions with NY Sightseeing Pass or Go City New York but you can choose 5 attractions from a very large list.
The C3 PASS is perfect for those who want to see only a few attractions, but The New York Pass is good for those wanting to visit a lot of attractions.
Like we mentioned earlier in this post, it’s not about the price but what you want out of your New York Pass that counts.
Conclusion For New York City Passes
If you are still struggling to make a decision about which New York Pass you should buy, here is everything you need to know in just a few words.
New York CityPASS – First time visitors to NYC who want to see all of the top attractions at a competitive price point.
C3 Pass – First time visitors to NYC who want to see a few of the top attractions, but are short on time.
New York Sightseeing DAY Pass – Returning visitors to NYC who have already seen some of the top attractions or families with children visiting over a few days (compare prices with the Go City All-Inclusive and The New York Pass).
New York Sightseeing FLEX Pass – Returning visitors or locals looking to visit many NYC attractions over a longer period of time (compare prices with the Go City Explorer Pass).
Go City New York Explorer Pass – Returning visitors or locals who want to visit certain NYC attractions in a longer time period (compare prices with the NY Sightseeing FLEX Pass).
Go City New York All-Inclusive Pass – Returning visitors who want to visit as much as possible in a short time period (compare prices with the NY Sightseeing DAY Pass and The New York Pass).
The New York Pass by Go City – Returning visitors who want to visit as much as possible in a short period of time (compare prices with the NY Sightseeing DAY Pass and Go City All-Inclusive Pass).
FAQs For New York City Passes
Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions regarding New York City passes.
Do New York City Passes Include Transportation?
Most of the New York Passes include some sort of transportation such as boat tours, bike rentals and bus rides. However, New York City passes do not include subway tickets, taxi credits or transfers (except the NY Sightseeing Pass with the Go Airlink airport shuttle).
Are New York City Passes Worth It?
Yes, New York City Passes are worth it. You can save both money and time if you purchase a New York City pass. However, not all New York Passes are created equal. You need to do your research about each pass so you use the passes to their full potential.
Is CityPASS New York Legit?
Yes, New York CityPASS, New York Sightseeing Pass, Go City New York and The New York Pass are all legit because we have personally worked with every company.
However, we would recommend you always purchase each New York City Pass through their official website to ensure you are buying the real deal.
How Much Will You Save If You Have A New York City Pass?
Generally, you can save anywhere from 20-40% on New York City Passes, but the prices for each pass fluctuates. Be sure to shop around to find the pass which better suits your needs as not all New York passes are created equal.
How To Buy A New York City Pass?
You should always buy your New York City Pass online. We have included links to each official website in this guide where you can directly purchase your pass.
Once you have purchased your New York City Pass, you will instantly receive an email with your passes. Then just download, save to your phone and you are ready to explore New York City!
Where Can You Go With A New York Pass?
You can visit all of the top attractions with a New York City Pass along with exclusive bonuses. Depending on your pass, you will have access to different museums, observation decks, tours and so much more.
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We hope this detailed comparison of the various New York City Passes helps plan your trip to NYC!
Please let us know if you have any questions about the any of the New York Passes or New York City in the comments below.
Happy Travels,
Mark and Kristen
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