New York CityPASS Guide: Explore NYC Attractions with Ease

I recently had an out-of-town family member staying with me and was eager to showcase some of the iconic Manhattan sights without breaking the bank. Instead of meticulously planning an itinerary, I decided to try out a couple of New York CityPASSes. These discount attraction ticket booklets are typically designed for tourists; however, they can be highly beneficial for locals hosting visiting guests or even New Yorkers looking to enjoy a mini NYC “staycation.” Priced at $109 for adults and $82 for kids, the CityPASS offers substantial savings (up to 40 percent off compared to purchasing individual tickets separately), along with added convenience. Below is the essential information about the CityPASS:

How Does the New York CityPASS Work?

The CityPASS booklet allows for discounted admissions to a selection of NYC attractions. Pass holders can visit six featured attractions in any order. Each booklet includes:

• One-time admission vouchers (remember, do not remove them beforehand, or they become invalid!),
• Information on attractions (opening times, locations, directions),
• Coupons for additional attractions and shops,
• A map highlighting the featured attractions.

The CityPASS must be fully redeemed within nine days from the first day of use. Moreover, users can save time by skipping the long lines typically associated with purchasing tickets, by accessing special lines designated for CityPASS holders. However, there’s an exception for the Statue of Liberty; I highly recommend booking an advance timed ticket directly through Statue Cruises. This will help you avoid long wait times that can last up to two hours, even on less crowded days.

What Can I See with CityPASS?

CityPASS holders can enter six featured attractions, visiting them in whatever order they prefer, such as:

• Empire State Building Observatory
• American Museum of Natural History
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
• Top of the Rock or Guggenheim Museum
• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island or Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise

It’s important to note that there are “option tickets” within this deal, requiring users to choose between two options. CityPASS users have the choice of visiting either Top of the Rock or the Guggenheim Museum, and they can also select between the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island or a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise.

How Much Does CityPASS Cost?

The New York CityPASS is priced at $109 for adults and $82 for youth (ages 6 to 17). This pricing reflects savings of approximately 40 percent off the combined cost of full-price individual tickets, allowing savings of up to $74 per adult and $58 per child. Importantly, children under 6 often do not require ticketed admission at many attractions, making it essential to assess whether the CityPASS is suitable based on their age. For younger children, venues that require admission include the American Museum of Natural History (free, ages 1 and under; $16, ages 2 to 12), Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (free, ages 3 and under; $9, ages 4 to 12), and Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise (free, ages 2 and under; $13, ages 3 to 12).

Where Can I Buy a CityPASS?

The CityPASS booklets can be purchased in advance online and delivered by either postal mail or email voucher. Additionally, they can be acquired at the ticket windows of any featured attractions, at the same pricing.