The difference between the New York CityPASS and the New York Pass

here’s a range of New York discount passes that you can purchase before your travel. Amongst the passes are the New York CityPASS and the New York Pass. In this New York discount pass comparison, I will tell you more about the differences between these passes and whether getting one is worth it. With both, you can visit many top attractions of New York, but which pass is right for you?
Eric's Index
New York CityPASS vs. New York Pass
First, it’s important to notice how long you can use both discount passes. The New York CityPASS is valid for nine days from the first moment you use the pass.
The New York Pass, on the other hand, is available for one, two, three, four, five, seven or ten consecutive days from the time of its first use. The validity depends on what you choose. If you are staying in New York for three days, you can go with the three-day pass, etc.
In addition, with both New York CityPASS and the New York Pass, there are no extra costs involved at any of the attractions. You just buy the discount pass, and you are good to go. With both passes, you can visit each attraction once.
Visit Top Attractions
Both New York sightseeing passes are much cheaper than buying individual tickets for each attraction. This saves you money on visiting New York attractions.
The main difference between these passes is that with the New York CityPASS, you can visit exactly 5 attractions. The New York Pass gives you access to 105+ attractions. You can visit as many as you want in the time your pass is valid for.
The New York CityPASS gives you admission to:
- The Empire State Building
- The American Museum of Natural History
Besides those two, you can choose 3 of the following attractions:
- Top of the Rock
- The Guggenheim Museum
- The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
- One of the Circle Line Cruises
- 9/11 Museum
- Intrepid Museum
The New York Pass also includes all of the attractions above, as well as many others, such as the Hop on Hop off bus, the Edge and MoMA. Moreover, the discount pass offers entrance to some of the lesser-known attractions. You can visit the Street Seaport Museum, Fraunces Tavern or Mercer Labs, for example.
Hop on Hop off Bus Ticket
If you’re planning on taking a Hop on Hop off bus tour whilst in New York, you should consider the New York Pass. The pass includes a 2-day Hop on Hop off bus ticket for Big Bus. This ticket allows you to tour the Uptown and Downtown loops for two whole days. A great way to familiarise yourself with the city in a short time.
Which is the best pass for New York?
The New York CityPASS and the New York Pass both include entrance to many famous sights and attractions. If you’re only in New York for a day or two, the New York CityPASS is best for you. The New York Pass, on the other hand, is only profitable if you are in New York for over three days. Also, if you are planning on seeing a lot, you can visit 105+ attractions, so you are guaranteed to have a busy schedule!
In summary:
New York CityPASS | New York Pass |
Valid for 9 days | Valid for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 or 10 days |
A$240 | $164 – $373 with my discount code! |
5 attractions | 105+ attractions |
Mobile QR code, directly via email | Mobile QR code, directly via email |
Digital guide with info about attractions | Digital guide with info about attractions |
Buy the New York CityPASS here
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