New York Pass: Empire State Building and 100+ Things To Do

The New York Pass: Empire State Building and 100+ Things To Do offers a convenient way to explore New York City. Priced at $164 per person, this digital pass opens access to more than 100 attractions, spanning 1 to 5 days of unlimited use. The tour’s standout feature is the ability to visit iconic sights like the Empire State Building, the 9/11 Memorial, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art without the hassle of buying tickets separately.

While reviews highlight the value for money and the ease of planning using the Go City app, some users report challenges with reservations and line waits. This tour suits travelers who want a flexible, cost-effective way to see many top sights, but it requires some pre-trip planning to maximize benefits. The self-guided nature allows for pacing, but booking slots for certain attractions can be a sticking point for some.

Key Points

• Access to 100+ NYC attractions with a single pass
• Flexible durations from 1 to 5 days
• Includes major sites like Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and 9/11 Museum
• Designed for easy planning via the Go City app, though reservations are necessary for some stops
• Potential line waits at popular attractions, so early planning is recommended
• Not including food, drinks, or transportation, but offering significant cost savings

The Empire State Building Experience in the NYC Pass

The Empire State Building forms the centerpiece of this tour. For $164, you gain admission to the observation deck, where, on a clear day, views extend up to 80 miles covering Central Park, Manhattan, New Jersey, Connecticut, and beyond. Reservations are required, and the digital guide or Go City app provides details on operating hours and booking.

Visitors are advised to visit after sunset for breathtaking city views at night since reservations during sunset hours aren’t possible with the pass. The 3-hour visit allows ample time to soak in the scenery and take photos of the iconic skyline from one of the world’s most famous skyscrapers.

Visiting One World Observatory in Lower Manhattan

Included in the pass is access to One World Observatory. Located 102 stories above ground, it offers a state-of-the-art viewing platform. Guests take the SkyPod Elevator to the top in 47 seconds, then explore with interactive displays and talks led by Tour Ambassadors.

Guests need to queue for a time slot, and the 2-hour visit makes for a quick yet impressive overview of NYC’s history and architecture. The view of the city skyline from this vantage point is often praised as spectacular.

Exploring the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are also included, with the ferry ride covered by the pass. It’s important to note that entry to the pedestal or crown levels requires additional tickets. The 4-hour activity involves ferry rides and exploring the immigrant processing station on Ellis Island, where over 12 million immigrants arrived.

Reservations are necessary in advance, and the interactive exhibits at Ellis Island provide insightful stories about the immigration history of the United States. The experience offers a powerful glimpse into America’s past and the symbolic significance of Lady Liberty.

Panoramic Views from Top of the Rock and Edge NYC

The Top of the Rock provides clear panoramic views of Manhattan, including an unbeatable sightline of the Empire State Building. Visitors can wait in line for a time slot, and the 2-hour visit offers spectacular day and night vistas. The view of the city skyline from the observation deck is often praised for its breathtaking perspective.

For a more thrilling experience, the Edge NYC in Hudson Yards presents a glass platform 100 stories high. Visitors can reserve a slot at kiosks outside the attraction; a 2-hour stay here offers remarkable views and a chance to experience New York from above on the world’s highest outdoor sky deck.

Reflecting at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a poignant stop, offering a thoughtful tribute through artifacts, testimonies, and interactive exhibits. The reflecting pools mark the original towers’ footprints, creating a serene atmosphere.

The 2-hour visit involves waiting in line for entry, but the exhibits provide a respectful and educational experience. This site holds special significance for many visitors, serving as a powerful reminder of resilience and loss.

Art and Culture at MoMA and the Guggenheim

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) boasts a collection of contemporary masterpieces and rotating exhibitions. Presenting iconic works by artists like Jackson Pollock and Georgia O’Keeffe, it’s ideal for art enthusiasts.

The Guggenheim Museum impresses with its architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and its notable modern art collection. The spiral interior is as much a reason to visit as the artworks housed inside. Both museums are accessible via the pass, but timing may require presenting your pass at the ticket desk.

Unique Attractions: Museum of Sex and the Intrepid

The Museum of Sex offers an adults-only exploration into human sexuality, with over 22,000 square feet of artifacts, exhibits, and a Night Fever Bar. The 1.5-hour visit is interactive and provocative.

The Intrepid Museum features the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, space shuttle Enterprise, and a British Airways Concorde. Visitors can explore historic aircraft and submarines in an educational environment that celebrates American innovation. Advanced reservations are required.

New York’s Neighborhoods and Tours

The pass includes guided walking tours of neighborhoods like Little Italy, Harlem, Chinatown, and DUMBO. These tours provide insights into local history, culture, and architecture. For instance, the DUMBO walk highlights the Brooklyn Bridge and city skyline views, while the Little Italy tour explores the neighborhood’s filmmaking and immigrant history.

The Brooklyn Bridge itself is accessible via a walking tour that offers photogenic views from multiple angles. Meanwhile, the Harlem bike tour explores historic and cultural hotspots, providing a full picture of this vibrant neighborhood.

Other Key Stops and Experiences

The pass also includes visits to museums like the Museum of the City of New York, Staten Island Museum, and Museum of Arts and Design. These locations are perfect for those interested in local history and design.

For outdoor lovers, the Central Park Bike Rentals and Tours give two hours to explore famous sites like Shakespeare Garden and Cherry Hill Fountain or self-guided cycling. The High Line tour combines a walk through the elevated park with a visit to the Hudson Yards Vessel.

Practical Considerations and Booking Tips

Many attractions require reservations, which can be done via the Go City app. Some reviews mention difficulties with booking or line waits, especially during peak times. Early reservation planning is essential to avoid disappointment, particularly at popular sites like Yankee Stadium or Yankee Stadium.

The pass is valid for one year, and activation occurs at the first attraction visited. After activation, the consecutive days are counted, so planning a day-by-day itinerary helps maximize its value.

Final Thoughts on the New York Pass

The New York Pass provides access to a broad range of attractions, making it ideal for intrepid explorers who want to see many sites without the hassle of individual tickets. The cost savings are significant, especially when visiting multiple landmarks like Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, museums, and neighborhood tours.

However, the reservation system can pose challenges, and some attractions may have long lines, so early planning and booking are crucial. The app-based system simplifies the process but requires attention to booking details.

This tour suits visitors seeking a flexible, all-in-one sightseeing solution. It is best for those willing to pre-arrange reservations and who appreciate diverse activities packed into a convenient digital pass.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the pass include access to the Empire State Building observation deck?
Yes, the pass includes admission to the Empire State Building’s observation deck, with reservation required.

Can I visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with the pass?
Yes, the ferry ride and general entry are included, but entry to the pedestal or crown levels requires additional tickets purchased separately.

How do I reserve times for attractions like Top of the Rock or Edge NYC?
Reservations are made via the Go City app, often by waiting in line at kiosks outside the attraction.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the pass does not cover food or drinks unless specified, nor does it include transportation.

How long can I use the pass once activated?
The pass is valid for consecutive calendar days based on your purchase (1-5 days), starting from the first attraction visit.

Is there a limit to the number of attractions I can visit?
You can visit as many attractions as you like within the valid days, but each attraction can only be visited once.

What should I do if I encounter booking issues?
Most reviews recommend contacting customer support via chat or email from the Go City app or website for assistance.

Are there any age restrictions?
Some attractions, like the Museum of Sex, are adults-only, and others may have age-specific guidelines.

Can I cancel or get a refund?
No, the experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once purchased.

How do I access my pass?
Your pass is delivered immediately upon purchase, and you can sync it with the Go City app for easy access during your trip.