New York CityPASS Guide: Save Money on NYC’s Top 5 Attractions

Planning a trip to New York City? Want to hit all the big sights without spending a fortune? The New York CityPASS® is one of the smartest ways to save money and skip ticket lines at the top attractions.

This guide breaks everything down in simple words — what’s included, how to use it, common tourist mistakes, and tips to get the most out of it.

What Exactly Is CityPASS?

CityPASS is a ticket bundle that gives you entry to 5 popular NYC attractions for one flat price. You don’t need to buy separate tickets. Just show your phone and walk in.

✅ You get:

Access to 5 attractions
Mobile tickets (no printing needed)
Big savings — up to 41% off
Use it over 9 days from your first visit

Perfect if you’re visiting New York for 3 to 7 days and want to see all the iconic spots without the hassle.

✅ What’s Included in CityPASS?

You’ll visit 5 attractions total — 2 are automatic, and 3 are your choice.

Always Included:

Empire State Building
- Go up to the 86th-floor observatory during the day
- Bonus: return the same night after 7pm for a second visit
American Museum of Natural History
- General admission
- Plus one extra ticket (like a space show or special exhibit)

Choose 3 More From This List:

Top of the Rock® (amazing Central Park views)
9/11 Memorial & Museum
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island ferry (includes both islands)
Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Guggenheim Museum

📝 Tip: Once you pick your 3, that’s it — no switching after.

How Much Does It Cost?

Adults (ages 18+): $154 + $2 processing fee
Children (ages 6–17): $129 + $2 processing fee

Compared to buying separate tickets (around $260), this saves you around $100 or more — seriously worth it.

How Long Is It Good For?

Once activated (your first visit), it’s valid for 9 consecutive days
You have 12 months from purchase to use it

Plenty of time to plan and visit at your own pace.

How to Use It – Step by Step

Buy the pass from CityPASS.com or GetYourGuide
Check your email – you’ll get a mobile ticket (QR code)
Make reservations for attractions that need it
Show your phone at the entrance and walk in
Done! Explore and enjoy

🛑 Do NOT wait to reserve time slots — popular times fill up fast.

📌 Attractions That Require Reservations

These need advance booking:

Empire State Building
Statue of Liberty ferry
9/11 Museum
Circle Line Cruise
Intrepid Museum

Optional but smart to reserve:

Top of the Rock
Guggenheim Museum

Use the My CityPASS app or visit citypass.com to book.

❓ FAQs – Quick Tourist Questions

Can I visit Empire State twice on different days?
Nope. You get two visits on the same day only — once during the day, then again after 7pm.

Is the pass good for kids under 6?
Most places let kids in for free or at a discount. But check each attraction’s policy.

Can I cancel the pass?
Yes, if unused. GetYourGuide offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before use.

Do I need to print anything?
Nope. Mobile ticket is fine.

What if I forget to reserve?
You might not get in. Always reserve ASAP after buying the pass.

Pro Tourist Tips

🕒 Start your day early — especially for Empire State and museums
📍 Group places by area (Statue ferry + 9/11 Museum = same day)
🧥 It gets windy on the ferry/cruise — bring a jacket
🌅 Do the Circle Line Cruise near sunset for great photos
📱 Keep your phone charged — you’ll need it for tickets and maps

Final Thoughts – Is It Worth It?

✅ YES — if you want to see NYC’s most famous sights
✅ YES — if you’re staying at least 3–4 days
✅ YES — if you like saving money and skipping ticket lines

The New York CityPASS is an easy win for first-timers or anyone doing a classic NYC sightseeing trip.