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Best New York City pass for 2025: Find the perfect fit for your trip
Looking for the best way to explore NYC’s iconic attractions? Our guide compares top city passes to help you save money, skip lines, and make the most of your trip!
Planning a trip to New York City? With iconic attractions like the Empire State Building, the Natural History Museum, and Central Park, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the must-see sights.
Add ticket prices, long lines, and juggling an itinerary into the mix, and your dream trip can start to feel like a logistical headache.
That’s where city passes come in. They simplify the chaos by bundling access to multiple attractions, saving you money and cutting down on wait times.
Instead of stressing over tickets and schedules, you can focus on exploring NYC and making unforgettable memories.
Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. This guide will help you find the best city pass for New York to match your plans and budget. Let’s make your trip to NYC unforgettable!
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What is the best city pass for New York?
To help you find the best city pass New York offers, here’s a comparison table of the top options, highlighting prices, included attractions, and durations.
Then, we’ll dive into more detail on each pass to help you choose the perfect fit for your trip.
| Pass | Price (approx. in USD) | Number of attractions | Duration | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CityPASS | Adults: $146Children: $124 | 5 fixed attractions | 9 consecutive days | First-time visitors focusing on iconic landmarks. |
| New York Pass | Starts at $142 for 1 day | Unlimited (over 100 attractions) | 1–10 consecutive days | Travelers who want to visit as many attractions as possible in a short time. |
| Sightseeing Pass | DAY Pass: $35/dayFLEX Pass: $22/attraction | DAY Pass: 150+FLEX Pass: Choose 2–12 attractions | DAY Pass: 1–10 daysFLEX Pass: 60 days | Travelers who want flexibility, access to exclusive perks, and unique experiences. |
| Explorer Pass | Starts at $169 for 5 attractions | Choose 2, 3, 4, or 5 attractions | 60 days from first use | Visitors who prefer a relaxed pace and fewer attractions over an extended period. |
CityPASS
CityPASS is ideal for first-time visitors looking to hit all the major highlights. There are three different options designed for different types of visitors:
CityPASS is well-suited for first-time visitors to New York City who want to see many major attractions. It includes admission to 5 popular sites and is valid for 9 consecutive days, allowing visitors to explore at a more relaxed pace.
The C3 Tickets are a good option for shorter stays or those who want to focus on just a few key experiences. This pass allows visitors to choose 3 attractions from a list of 11 options, including Edge at Hudson Yards, MoMA, and the Intrepid Museum.
For those who want to see it all, the C-All Tickets provide access to all 10 attractions, such as the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Guggenheim Museum, and Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. At $229 for adults and $169 for children, it’s a great value if you don’t want to miss a thing.
- Price: $146 for adults (18+), $124 for children (ages 6–17), plus a $2 processing fee per ticket.
- Included attractions: Access to five attractions, including the Empire State Building, the American Museum of Natural History, and your choice of three additional sites like the Statue of Liberty or Top of the Rock.
- Validity: Nine consecutive days from first use and can be activated anytime within one year of purchase.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Convenient for accessing multiple attractions with one purchase | ❌According to some Reddit users you’d need to exchange the pass for tickets to attractions |
| ✅Refunds available for unused passes within 365 days | ❌Visitors may feel rushed trying to maximize the pass value |
| ✅The My CityPASS app makes it easy to manage reservations and access maps |
| 💡Tip: Reliable internet is essential for downloading city pass apps, booking tickets, and navigating maps. With a Holafly eSIM New York, you’ll stay connected with unlimited data, no roaming fees, and simple activation — ready before you arrive. |
New York Pass
The New York Pass makes it easy to explore NYC without the hassle of buying individual tickets for every attraction. With access to over 100 sites and things to do in New York, you can visit as many as you like as long as your pass is valid.
You can use the Go City® app to organize your itinerary. You can download your pass to your phone for easy scanning at attractions.
You’ll need an internet connection to purchase and access your pass, as well as to manage bookings and reservations on the go. That’s where a Holafly travel eSIM can help. With unlimited data and no roaming fees, you’ll stay connected from the moment you land in New York.
Additional perks include exclusive discounts and a price guarantee if you find a better deal. Plans changed? You can cancel any unused pass within 365 days for a full refund.
Whether you want to tick off all of NYC’s major landmarks or take it slow, the New York Pass gives you the flexibility to do it your way.
- Price: Starting at $164 for a 1-day pass for adults, $569 for a 10-day pass. Plus a $2 processing fee for each purchase.
- Included attractions: Access to over 100 attractions, including the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, the Statue of Liberty Ferry, Ellis Island, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and the American Museum of Natural History.
- Validity: Valid for consecutive days from activation (e.g., a 3-day pass is valid for three consecutive days). Each ‘day’ ends at midnight, regardless of when you first use the pass.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Reddit users report significant savings, such as $740 worth of attractions for a $260 pass | ❌Trying to maximize value by visiting 4–5 attractions daily can be exhausting |
| ✅Ideal if you plan to visit many top attractions in a short time | ❌The pass may not be worth it for travelers who prefer a slower pace or fewer attractions |
| ✅You can choose attractions as you go, making it adaptable to changing plans | ❌Prioritizing included attractions might mean missing unique, non-touristy spots |
| ✅Non-activated passes are refundable within 365 days of purchase |
Sightseeing Pass
The Sightseeing Pass is a flexible way to explore New York City while saving money on top attractions. It comes in two formats: the DAY Pass, and the FLEX Pass.
Exclusive attractions include the Gray Line NY Night Tour and Go Airlink one-way share-ride transfers to Manhattan hotels.
Family-friendly options like the Central Park Zoo, Bronx Zoo, and New York Aquarium make it a great option for all ages.
For something unique, you can enjoy experiences like the $60 Helicopter Tour or The Cauldron NYC’s potion-making class.
The pass also covers entry to iconic observation decks, including the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, One World Observatory, and Edge.
Other highlights include popular attractions like the American Museum of Natural History, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, Circle Line Cruises, and Madame Tussauds.
For guided experiences, the pass offers unique tours like the Gossip Girl Sites Tour, TV and Movie Tour, and The Ride interactive bus tour.
- Price: The DAY Pass starts at $35 per day, and the FLEX Pass starts at $22 per attraction.
- Included attractions: Top sites include the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, Top of the Rock, Edge, Big Bus tours, Central Park Zoo, Bronx Zoo, and more.
- Validity: The DAY Pass is valid for the selected number of consecutive days, while the FLEX Pass is valid for 60 days from first use.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅Offers two formats suiting both short and long trips | ❌The sheer number of attractions may make it hard to decide where to start |
| ✅Combines iconic landmarks with niche experiences, catering to diverse interests | ❌Larger venues or tours can take hours, limiting how much you can see in a day |
| ✅Valid for up to 24 months if unactivated, offering flexibility for future travel plans | ❌Some popular spots, like the 9/11 Museum, are no longer included |
Go City Explorer Pass
With access to over 110 attractions, this pass lets you choose 2, 3, 4, or 5 sites to visit — without needing to decide in advance.
Fully digital and accessible through the Go City app, you can manage your itinerary and show your pass for entry at each attraction. You only need an internet connection while in NYC to purchase your pass.
It also offers significant savings — up to 42% compared to buying individual tickets. For example, a 5-choice pass costing $169 could include an itinerary with the Empire State Building, Edge, and a Central Park Bike Rental, saving you $121.37 off regular prices.
Additional perks include a free cancellation policy for non-activated passes within 90 days of purchase, a 5% discount for signing up for the newsletter, and exclusive savings at select attractions.
- Price: Varies depending on the number of attractions chosen: 2, 3, 4, or 5. For example, a 5-choice pass costs $169.
- Included attractions: 110+ attractions including the Empire State Building, Edge Observation Deck, Top of the Rock Observatory, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Statue of Liberty Ferry.
- Validity: Valid for 60 days from first use.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅The pass is valid for 60 days, allowing you to explore at your own pace. | ❌Some attractions need reservations, limiting spontaneity |
| ✅Most attractions accept a simple QR code scan for entry, making it hassle-free | ❌May not offer value if you’re visiting fewer attractions or on a relaxed itinerary |
| ✅Families can save money with multi-day passes |
How to choose the best New York City pass
Picking the best city pass for New York depends on your travel plans, budget, and personal preferences. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the right choice.
1. Decide how long you’ll stay
For short visits, such as one to three days, passes like the New York Pass or CityPASS are ideal. These passes allow you to visit multiple attractions, including the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, within consecutive days, maximizing your time.
For longer trips, the Explorer Pass or Sightseeing FLEX Pass is a better fit. With a 60-day validity, these passes let you space out your visits without feeling rushed.
2. Set your budget
The Explorer Pass or FLEX Pass gives you precise control over your expenses, as you only pay for the number of attractions you want to visit.
For example, a three-attraction Explorer Pass starts at $94, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
If you want unlimited access to attractions for one or more days, the New York Pass, starting at $142, offers excellent value for visiting multiple sites each day.
Keep in mind any additional costs, such as reservation fees or tour upgrades, when planning your budget.
| 💡Tip: Remember to tip! Just like in the rest of the USA, the tipping culture is strong. While you’ll be able to add a tip to your bill when paying by card, it is advisable to exchange some money in New York and have some cash on you for easier tipping. |
3. Pick your favorite attractions
Planning to visit iconic landmarks like One World Observatory, the Edge, or the American Museum of Natural History? You’ll find them included in most passes.
For unique experiences, such as The Ride, Gossip Girl Tours, or The Cauldron NYC, the Sightseeing Pass is a top pick.
Before purchasing, check the list of included attractions for each pass to ensure your must-visit spots are covered.
4. Plan for flexibility
If you are on a solo trip to NYC, you can move faster and afford a packed itinerary with multiple attractions each day, the New York Pass or Sightseeing DAY Pass will suit your structured schedule.
These passes offer unlimited access to attractions for consecutive days, helping you make the most of your time.
For a slower pace or mix of sightseeing and leisure, the Explorer Pass or FLEX Pass, valid for 60 days, gives you freedom to spread out your visits and avoid burnout.
5. Look for extra perks
Some options, like the Sightseeing Pass, include unique benefits such as discounted helicopter tours, free transfers to Manhattan hotels, and night bus tours.
Meanwhile, the Explorer Pass offers savings at gift shops and restaurants, and the CityPASS simplifies things with skip-the-line privileges at select attractions. If these added features align with your plans, they can enhance your experience and add more value.
Compare and choose
Once you’ve considered all these factors, compare the passes side by side to find the best city pass New York. Calculate potential savings by adding up the individual ticket prices for your must-see attractions and comparing them to the pass cost.
Choose the pass that matches your travel pace and preferences, ensuring it includes the experiences you care about most.
| 💡Before you pack, make sure you’re ready for everything New York has to offer. Don’t miss our guide on what to pack for your trip! |
Our takeaways on the best New York City pass
A New York City pass is a smart way to save money while exploring the city’s top attractions. From iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building to cultural hubs like MoMA, these passes offer flexibility and convenience, making your trip stress-free.
To get the most out of your pass, staying connected is key. Whether you’re downloading apps, booking tickets, or navigating between attractions, the eSIM New York from Holafly ensures you have unlimited data without worrying about roaming fees or searching for WiFi.
Setup takes just minutes, and with 24/7 customer support, Holafly is your trusted travel companion for your New York adventure.
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Detroit native, foothills and lakes of North Carolina raised, Barcelona-based writer and creator. Sam lives and loves by the phrase: words create worlds. An international lifestyle matched with a background in psychology, business, and creative writing has allowed Sam to create content for a range of artists, entrepreneurs, and fashion and lifestyle brands across the globe. Sam's an avid water sports athlete with a passion for fashion, well-being, and adventure.
