Introduction

New York City is a vibrant metropolis filled with world-renowned landmarks, rich history, and a unique culture that draws millions of visitors each year. For travelers looking to explore the city’s top attractions while saving time and money, the New York CityPASS® is an invaluable resource. Offering discounted entry to a carefully curated selection of the city’s most popular sites, the CityPASS® allows you to experience the best of New York without the hassle of waiting in long lines or purchasing individual tickets for each attraction.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of the New York CityPASS®, covering its features, how to use it, and why it’s a must-have for anyone visiting the Big Apple.

What is the New York CityPASS®?

The New York CityPASS® is a discounted admission booklet that grants access to some of the most iconic and sought-after attractions in New York City. It allows visitors to see the city’s highlights at a significantly reduced cost compared to buying tickets separately at each location. The pass is valid for nine consecutive days, giving travelers the flexibility to explore New York’s landmarks at their own pace.

Key Features of the New York CityPASS®:

• Up to 40% savings on ticket prices for New York’s most famous attractions.
• Skip-the-line entry at many locations, saving valuable time.
• Flexible use with a 9-day validity period.
• Access to multiple attractions, including several must-see landmarks.

Top Attractions Included in the New York CityPASS®

The New York CityPASS® offers entry to a total of six attractions. Some are fixed, while others give you the flexibility to choose between two options. Below is a breakdown of the attractions available with the pass:

1. Empire State BuildingOne of the most iconic skyscrapers in the world, the Empire State Building offers breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City from its observation deck on the 86th floor. Visitors with the CityPASS® can enjoy access to the main deck and return later in the evening for a second visit, allowing them to experience the beauty of the skyline during both the day and night.
2. American Museum of Natural HistoryThe American Museum of Natural History is a world-class institution featuring fascinating exhibits on the natural world, including the famous fossil halls, the massive blue whale model, and an extensive collection of gems and minerals. CityPASS® holders can explore this museum at their leisure and even gain access to special exhibits (based on availability).
3. The Metropolitan Museum of ArtKnown simply as “The Met,” The Metropolitan Museum of Art houses an expansive collection of art and artifacts spanning over 5,000 years. With the CityPASS®, you gain admission to the museum’s main building on Fifth Avenue, as well as same-day entry to its two sister locations: The Met Cloisters and The Met Breuer.
4. Top of the Rock Observation DeckorGuggenheim Museum
   • Top of the Rock: Experience unparalleled views of Central Park and the city skyline from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center. The observation deck offers a unique perspective with both indoor and outdoor viewing areas.
   • Guggenheim Museum: If you’re more inclined toward modern and contemporary art, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is a fantastic alternative. Housed in a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed masterpiece, the Guggenheim is home to a wide range of 20th-century art.
5. Statue of Liberty and Ellis IslandorCircle Line Sightseeing Cruises
   • Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: No trip to New York is complete without visiting the Statue of Liberty. The CityPASS® includes round-trip ferry service to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, where visitors can explore the Statue of Liberty Museum and learn about America’s immigration history at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.
   • Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises: For those looking to see New York from a different vantage point, the Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises offer a variety of boat tours around Manhattan. Choose from options such as the Best of NYC Cruise, Harbor Lights Cruise, or the Liberty Cruise, each providing stunning views of the city’s waterfront landmarks.
6. 9/11 Memorial & MuseumorIntrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
   • 9/11 Memorial & Museum: The 9/11 Memorial & Museum offers a powerful and moving tribute to the victims of the September 11th attacks, along with exhibits that document the events of that day and its aftermath.
   • Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Explore the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, located aboard the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid. The museum features exhibits on American military and maritime history, as well as displays of iconic aircraft, a submarine, and the space shuttle Enterprise.

How the New York CityPASS® Works

1. Purchase the Pass: You can buy the New York CityPASS® online through the official CityPASS® website or authorized retailers. Upon purchase, you’ll receive either a booklet or a mobile voucher.
2. Plan Your Visits: The pass is valid for nine consecutive days, starting from the first day you use it. This gives you the flexibility to spread your visits over several days.
3. Present the Pass at the Attractions: Show your CityPASS® booklet or mobile pass at the entrance to each attraction for easy admission. Many locations also allow you to skip the ticket line, saving you time.

Tips for Using the New York CityPASS®

1. Start Early in the Day: Some of the attractions, especially the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, can get crowded. Arriving early helps you avoid long lines and make the most of your day.
2. Plan Your Route: New York City is vast, so plan your itinerary carefully to minimize travel time between attractions. For example, visit the Empire State Building and the nearby American Museum of Natural History on the same day.
3. Check for Special Exhibits: Some museums and attractions offer rotating exhibits or seasonal events. Check the schedule ahead of time to see if there are any must-see displays during your visit.
4. Take Advantage of Flexibility: With options like the Top of the Rock or the Guggenheim, you can choose which attractions interest you most, tailoring your experience to your preferences.
5. Use Public Transportation: New York’s subway system is one of the most efficient ways to get around. The CityPASS® attractions are all accessible by subway, making it easy to travel between them.

Booking Your New York CityPASS®

Purchasing your New York CityPASS® is simple. The pass is available online through the official Viator platform, where you can find competitive pricing and flexible booking options.

Disclaimer

This information is provided to the best of our knowledge, but there may be updates or changes in the attractions and pricing. Please refer to the Viator booking page for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the New York CityPASS®.

Conclusion

The New York CityPASS® offers an unbeatable way to explore the city’s most iconic attractions at a fraction of the cost. With the flexibility to visit top landmarks over a 9-day period, it’s perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers looking to dive deep into the heart of the city. Whether you’re gazing at the skyline from the Empire State Building or immersing yourself in the art and history of the Met, the New York CityPASS® makes it easier than ever to experience the best that New York has to offer.