With a CityPASS in hand, the vast United States is instantly condensed into a single QR code. Ready to explore the Land of the Free while saving up to 50% on costs?
If you are planning a cross-state trip across the US, the issue of “sightseeing ticket costs” has likely given you a headache more than once. With individual admission tickets to renowned museums or iconic observation decks in cities like Chicago or New York often ranging from $40 to $60, travel budgets can quickly run dry without a smart spending strategy.
That is why I am here today to provide a detailed review of the US CityPASS—a “powerful pass” that anyone looking to optimize costs should own. It offers more than just discounts; it is a way to enjoy your trip at a leisurely, professional pace.
What Is CityPASS and Why Is It Essential?
Simply put, CityPASS is a prepaid sightseeing package that grants admission to select famous attractions in a specific city at a lower price than purchasing individual tickets separately.
How CityPASS Works
When you purchase a CityPASS, you receive an electronic ticket to use at the attractions included in the package. At many locations, you simply show the ticket on your phone for staff to scan the code, though some venues require you to book a specific date or time slot in advance.
For most CityPASS programs, the pass is valid for nine consecutive days, starting from the day you visit your first attraction or the date of your first reservation—whichever comes first. This allows you to enjoy the experience at a relaxed pace rather than rushing to cram everything into just one or two days. The structure of each CityPASS varies: some cities allow for complete freedom in choosing attractions, while others combine fixed attractions with optional choices.
Why Choose CityPASS Over Individual Tickets?
Cost savings: This is the biggest advantage. Actual savings depend on the city and the attractions you choose, but some packages advertise maximum savings of around 45% to 51%.
Easy itinerary management: Tickets, attraction details, maps, and reservations (if required) can all be managed via My CityPASS.
Reduced hassle of buying individual tickets: You do not need to make a separate transaction for each location. However, CityPASS does not guarantee skipping every line; priority entry applies only to specific attractions and depends on the ticket type.
Detailed Review of New York CityPASS: Conquering the City That Never Sleeps
New York is an expensive city, and admission prices for many famous attractions are high. Therefore, the New York CityPASS is a worthwhile option if you plan to visit multiple iconic landmarks during a single trip.
Notably, the New York CityPASS structure was updated in September 2026. Instead of the previous format of two fixed attractions and three optional ones, the pass now allows travelers to choose any five out of ten available attractions.
Attractions Included in the New York CityPASS
Currently, the New York CityPASS allows you to choose five of the following ten attractions:
Empire State Building: The standard CityPASS package includes the “AM/PM Experience,” granting access to the 86th-floor observation deck and the 2nd-floor museum, plus a bonus general admission visit on the same evening. This is one of the standout benefits of the New York CityPASS.
American Museum of Natural History (AMNH): Includes admission to over 40 exhibition halls plus one ticketed experience—subject to availability—such as the Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium, the Hayden Planetarium Space Show, or a special exhibition.
Top of the Rock Observation Deck: A renowned spot for panoramic views of Manhattan and a distant view of the Empire State Building.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Ticket includes the official ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, a self-guided audio tour, and admission to the Statue of Liberty Museum and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. Access to the Pedestal or Crown is not included.
9/11 Memorial & Museum: General admission includes access to the museum’s exhibitions and galleries.
Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises: Includes one eligible cruise from the Circle Line schedule. Options vary by season and CityPASS type.
Intrepid Museum: Admission includes the Space Shuttle Pavilion, the submarine *Growler*, the Kamikaze experience, and currently open temporary exhibitions.
60 Minute Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Cruise in New York
Guggenheim Museum: Includes access to the collection and ongoing special exhibitions, plus additional perks such as architecture tours on select days.
Edge Observation Deck & Immersive Experience: Includes admission to Edge during eligible time slots, featuring indoor immersive spaces and an outdoor observation deck overlooking Manhattan.
Whitney Museum of American Art: Includes access to permanent and special exhibitions, outdoor terraces, and associated visitor amenities.
Analyzing the Value of New York CityPASS
New York Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
According to CityPASS, current prices are:
- Adults: $149 (approximately 3.87 million VND)
- Children (ages 6–17): $129 (approximately 3.35 million VND)
- Maximum retail value of the 5 most expensive adult options: approximately $307 (7.96 million VND)
- Maximum savings: approximately $158 (4.1 million VND), or about 51%
Actual savings depend on the 5 attractions you choose, as individual ticket prices vary. You will get the best value from CityPASS by strategically selecting higher-priced attractions and visiting all five.
Prices on Klook may be lower than the list price depending on current promotions, so be sure to check the product page directly before purchasing.
Tips for Maximizing Your New York Experience
The Metropolitan Museum of Art Tour
Make the most of the Empire State Building ticket: The standard New York CityPASS grants access to the 86th-floor observatory and the 2nd-floor museum, plus a return visit on the same evening. Check the applicable time slots in “My CityPASS” before you go.
Book early: Many New York attractions require reservations. Once your itinerary is set, book your preferred time slots as soon as possible, especially during peak travel seasons.
If you have limited time or prefer to visit fewer attractions, consider the New York C3 pass. This option allows you to choose 3 attractions from a list of 11. Conversely, the New York C-All pass covers all 11 attractions, making it ideal for those who want to explore the full range of sites included in the CityPASS program.
In-Depth Review of Chicago CityPASS: Exploring Architecture and Science
Go City – New York Explorer Pass
Chicago, the “Windy City,” is renowned for its world-class museums and skyscrapers reflected in the waters of Lake Michigan. For those looking to optimize both cost and time while exploring the city, the Chicago CityPASS is a great option to consider.
Unlike the current New York version, the Chicago CityPASS retains a structure of two fixed attractions and three optional choices, totaling five attractions. The official price is currently $144 for adults, offering savings of up to 50% compared to the combined cost of individual tickets.
Attractions Included in Chicago CityPASS
The pass covers five attractions:
Two fixed attractions: Shedd Aquarium and Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower.
Three optional choices: Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour, Field Museum, 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck, Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Art Institute of Chicago, or Adler Planetarium.
Key Highlights of Chicago CityPASS
Shedd Aquarium: The pass includes admission to exhibits and a 4-D experience, subject to availability and operational status.
Skydeck Chicago: The pass includes “Expedited Entry,” granting access to the express elevator line, the 103rd-floor observation deck, and “The Ledge” glass balcony. While this is a specific perk for Skydeck, please note that the CityPASS does not allow you to skip every line at every attraction.
Shoreline Sightseeing: If you appreciate Chicago’s architecture, you can choose the Architecture River Tour, which features live narration on board. The tour typically lasts about 75 minutes, though the schedule may be shortened during certain winter periods.
San Francisco CityPASS Detailed Review: Steep Streets and Bay Views
Unlike the glitz of New York, San Francisco exudes a romantic, classic charm defined by its signature steep streets. The CityPASS here is designed with considerable flexibility.
Under the current official program, the San Francisco CityPASS allows you to choose 4 out of 8 attractions, with no mandatory fixed stops. The official price is $89.95 for adults, offering potential savings of up to 45%.
Attractions Included in the San Francisco CityPASS
You can choose 4 of the following experiences:
California Academy of Sciences: A complex featuring an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum all under one roof.
Blue & Gold Fleet Cruise: A San Francisco Bay Cruise lasting approximately 60 minutes, passing under the Golden Gate Bridge and by Alcatraz Island.
Exploratorium: A renowned interactive science museum suitable for both adults and families with children.
Aquarium of the Bay: Includes access to galleries, daily programs, and interactive marine life areas.
San Francisco Zoo & Gardens: A zoo and botanical garden housing over 2,000 animals across more than 250 species, including many rare, endangered, or rescued animals.
LEGOLAND California Resort Ticket with SEA LIFE Aquarium Admission
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA): A space for modern and contemporary art featuring collections of painting, sculpture, photography, architecture, design, and media art.
The Walt Disney Family Museum: Located in the Presidio, this museum chronicles the life, career, and legacy of Walt Disney.
de Young Museum + Legion of Honor: The ticket includes general admission to both the de Young Museum and the Legion of Honor on the same day.
Note on Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island with Various Tour Options
The standard San Francisco CityPASS does not include a tour of Alcatraz Island.
However, there is a specific package available called “San Francisco CityPASS + Alcatraz.” This package includes:
- Alcatraz City Cruises Day Tour.
- Official ferry service to Alcatraz Island.
- Access to the historic Cellhouse.
- Self-guided Cellhouse Audio Tour.
- Admission to 3 additional attractions of your choice from the San Francisco CityPASS list.
The CityPASS + Alcatraz package is currently priced at $114.95 for adults and $84.95 for children aged 5–11, offering maximum savings of approximately 37%. Since Alcatraz tickets are limited by time slot, you should make a reservation as soon as possible if this is a must-see on your itinerary.
Comparing CityPASS with Other Passes (Go City, C3, C-All)
When researching, you might feel overwhelmed by the variety of names, such as Go City or different CityPASS variations. Let me break them down for you:
1. Traditional CityPASS vs. CityPASS C3/C-All
Standard CityPASS: The number of attractions and selection method vary by city. New York currently allows you to choose 5 out of 10 attractions; Chicago includes 2 fixed attractions plus 3 choices; and San Francisco allows you to choose 4 out of 8 attractions.
C3 Pass: Suitable for shorter itineraries, as you only need to select 3 attractions from the city’s list. Specific lists and benefits vary between New York, Chicago, and San Francisco.
C-All Pass (New York): Designed for those who want to visit as many places as possible. The package currently includes 11 attractions, rather than the 10 mentioned in some older information.
2. CityPASS vs. Go City
Go City – Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass
CityPASS: The list of attractions is usually more curated and focuses on a select group of famous sites. The way attractions are counted and the benefits offered are tailored to each specific city.
Go City: Generally offers a wider selection and a greater variety of pass types. For instance, in New York, Go City currently features over 100 experiences, offering both an Explorer Pass (based on the number of attractions visited) and an All-Inclusive Pass (based on the number of days used).
If you are visiting the U.S. for the first time and intend to see most of the iconic landmarks included in the CityPASS lineup, CityPASS is quite user-friendly. However, if you are looking for a broader range of tours, activities, and niche attractions, Go City may offer more options.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying & Using CityPASS on Klook
Go City – Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass
Klook features a Vietnamese interface and allows you to book CityPASS online before your trip. However, prices, promotions, and benefits are subject to change, so be sure to check the package details before completing your purchase.
Step 1: Book on Klook. Visit Klook and search for “CityPASS + [City Name].” Select the appropriate pass type, traveler category, and quantity.
Step 2: Receive your voucher. Once the booking is confirmed, you will receive an e-voucher along with usage instructions.
Step 3: Access My CityPASS. You can use the My CityPASS app or visit my.citypass.com to access your tickets, attraction information, and reservation details.
Step 4: Make reservations if required. Check which attractions require reservations and select a suitable date and time. Note that reservation policies vary by attraction.
Step 5: Present your ticket and visit. Arrive at the attraction, open your ticket on your phone, and follow the venue’s instructions.
Specifically for the New York CityPASS on Klook, the voucher is currently valid for 365 days from the booking confirmation date if not yet activated. Once activated, the pass remains valid for 9 consecutive days.
Crucial Tips for Maximizing Value with CityPASS
Check operating days and hours: Museums and attractions in the U.S. have varying schedules, and opening hours can change based on the day, season, or special events. Verify details directly via My CityPASS or the attraction’s official website before you go.
Understand activation timing: For most CityPASS products, the 9-day validity period begins on the day of your first attraction visit or your first reservation—whichever comes first. Keep this in mind regarding reservation dates when planning your itinerary.
Prioritize your choices: Select the attractions you definitely want to visit and calculate the total cost of individual tickets first. CityPASS only offers real savings if you visit enough attractions to justify the cost.
Considerations for traveling with young children: Age-based free admission policies vary by attraction. For instance, some places offer free entry for children under 3, while others may admit children up to age 5, 6, or older for free. Families with young children should compare individual ticket prices before purchasing a pass for the child.
Weather factors: Experiences at outdoor or high-altitude observation decks—such as Edge, Top of the Rock, or Skydeck—are heavily weather-dependent. If heavy rain or fog is forecast, check the specific reservation change policy for each attraction rather than assuming a universal 24-hour change window applies to all of them.
Go City Las Vegas Explorer Pass
Verify benefits before your trip: Lists of attractions, admission types, prices, and reservation rules may be updated periodically by CityPASS or the vendor.
CityPASS is more than just a discount ticket; it bundles multiple experiences into a single system, making your itinerary easier to manage. Whether you choose vibrant New York, artistic Chicago, or picturesque San Francisco, CityPASS can be a smart investment if the included attractions align with the places you already plan to visit.
We hope this article has helped you feel more confident about planning your upcoming trip. Don’t forget to check the latest CityPASS prices and benefits on Klook before booking, so you can choose the package that best fits your itinerary!
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to New York you can refer to
- Klook Pass New York City
- Aladdin Broadway Show Ticket in New York
- Summit One Vanderbilt Ticket
- LEGOLAND® New York Ticket
- The Lion King Broadway Show Ticket in New York
- 60 Minute Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Cruise in New York
- Empire State Building Ticket in New York
- New York Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
- The Edge Observation Deck Ticket in New York
- Top of the Rock Ticket in New York
- The Museum of Modern Art Ticket in New York
- One World Observatory Ticket in New York
- The National 9/11 Memorial Museum Ticket in New York
- Go City – New York Explorer Pass
- American Museum of Natural History Ticket in New York
- Spyscape Spy Museum Ticket in New York
Check out more US guide here.
