Exploring the Big Apple? A New York Pass is your ultimate sightseeing sidekick, helping you save money while hitting all your must-see attractions
Plus, with our extensive lineup and range of pass options, you’ll discover some hidden gems along the way too!
Here’s everything you need to know about using a pass, from activation to pro tips for making the most of your visit.
How does the New York Pass® work?
First things first: what is The New York Pass? Well, there are a few different pass types, but they’re all digital sightseeing passes which give you access to 100+ attractions and experiences across the city.
Instead of buying individual tickets, you pay once and then use your pass to visit as many included experiences / choices as you like. Handy, right?
Buying & activating your pass
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Purchase online – buy your pass through our official website or app for the best price and dedicated customer service.
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Download the app and sync your pass – your pass lives in the Go City app, making it easy to scan at attractions. You’ll get a magic link in your confirmation email to add your pass to the app. The app also contains key info about each attraction, including opening hours and reservation requirements (if there are any).
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Activate your pass – your pass is activated when it gets scanned for entry at your first attraction, easy.
Using your pass on the day
Using The New York Pass is as simple as showing your phone at the entrance of an attraction and staff there scanning the pass. Then you’re in! No more scrolling through months of emails for a load of individual e-tickets!
Which attractions are included?
With over 100 attractions, The New York Pass gives you access to some of the city's most famous landmarks, exciting experiences, and local favorites.
Here are just a few highlights:
- Observation decks: enjoy breathtaking views from Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and Edge.
- Must-See icons: visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, take a Harbor Lights Cruise, or explore the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
- Museums & cultural hot-spots: discover masterpieces at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), explore history at the American Museum of Natural History, or step onboard the Intrepid Museum.
- Family-friendly fun: enjoy interactive experiences at LEGOLAND Discovery Center or the Staten Island Zoo.
- Something different: take a guided tour of Yankee Stadium, hop on the Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise, or get spooked on the Ghosts of Greenwich Village Tour.
Whether you're after stunning skyline views, world-class museums, or unique local experiences, you'll find plenty to explore and enjoy.
Plan ahead to maximize your time
NYC is big, and you don’t want to waste time stuck in the subway sweating any more than you have to. Group attractions by neighborhood to make your sightseeing more efficient.
We know, we know, not everyone has that planning gene. If that’s you, then let our free trip planning tool do the scheduling for you. Just pick what you want to see and how many days you have, and it will map out your itinerary, show you how to get everywhere and collate all your attraction details in one place. Now you’ve really got no excuse!
Tips & tricks for making the most of your pass
Want to get the most value out of your New York Pass? Here are our top insider tips to make your experience seamless.
1. Start early
Most attractions open around 9–10 AM. The earlier you start, the more you can fit into your day. Since your pass counts down in calendar days (if you have The New York Pass), activating it early means you’ll get the most sightseeing time possible.
2. Check for reservations
Some attractions (like the Empire State Building) require advance reservations. All the details on how to book are in the app, so be sure to check before heading out.
3. Mix & match attractions
Pair iconic experiences with hidden gems. Sure, you’ll want to see the Statue of Liberty, but why not also check out the Museum at Eldridge Street or St Patrick’s Cathedral? A mix of famous spots and off-the-beaten-path attractions makes for a well-rounded trip.
4. Use the app’s interactive map
The Go City app has a built-in map showing nearby attractions, making it easy to plan on the go. If you find yourself with unexpected free time, check out what’s close by and make the most of your pass.
5. Remember, it’s a numbers game!
The more you see, the more you save—it’s that simple, with a New York Pass! To get the best value, aim to visit at least 2-3 attractions per day. A single attraction ticket in NYC can cost upwards of $40, so hitting multiple stops quickly adds up to huge savings.
Reservations required? No problem!
Some of NYC’s top attractions require reservations—but don’t worry, booking is easy via the Go City app and all the information you’ll need is in there.
We’re kind of popular, but don’t just take our word for it…
Trustpilot review left on the 21st March 2025
Trustpilot review left on the 13th March 2025
The bottom line
Using The New York Pass is like having an all-access VIP pass to the city. With a little planning, an early start, and a strategic mix of attractions, you’ll get the most out of your pass and see the best of NYC.
So, charge your phone, put on your comfiest shoes, and get ready to explore the city that never sleeps—all while saving big!
Enjoyed this? Check out which travel apps will save you time and money or read our 7 days in NYC itinerary!
Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®. We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.
See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started!
