Boston CityPASS®

Discover Boston with the CityPASS at $79 per person

Planning a trip to Boston? The Boston CityPASS® offers a practical way to see some of the city’s most popular attractions while saving 45% on admission fees. Priced at $79.00 per person, this pass grants access to four key sites and allows up to nine days for visits, making it flexible for different schedules. The pass is delivered as a mobile ticket, which means no need for paper tickets — just show it on your device at each attraction. One notable advantage is that tickets are valid for one year from purchase, giving plenty of time to plan your trip.

While the transportation to and from attractions is not included, the flexibility of visiting attractions in any order offers convenience. The 9-day window provides ample opportunity to explore at a relaxed pace, especially for travelers who prefer to spread out their sightseeing. This pass is especially suitable for visitors who want to enjoy Boston’s highlights without spending too much on individual tickets, but it’s worth noting that some attractions like the Harvard Museum are not free and require separate admission.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: Just $79 per person for access to major attractions.
• Flexible Schedule: Valid for 9 consecutive days from first use.
• Includes top sites: Entry to New England Aquarium and Museum of Science.
• Choose your adventures: Pick two additional attractions from harbor cruises, Harvard Museum, Franklin Park Zoo, or View Boston Observation Deck.
• Skip the lines: Tickets are pre-purchased, so no long queues at entrances.
• Mobile tickets: Valid for 1 year from purchase, easy to use on a smartphone.

How the Boston CityPASS Works in Practice

The Boston CityPASS simplifies visiting up to six attractions, with the initial stops typically including the New England Aquarium and the Museum of Science. Both sites typically allow around four hours each, giving enough time to explore exhibits and enjoy attractions like the aquarium’s central tank and the interactive science displays.

After the first two stops, travelers can choose between Boston Harbor Cruises, Harvard Museum of Natural History, Franklin Park Zoo, or View Boston Observation Deck. The harbor cruise lasts about 60 minutes and offers a relaxing way to see Boston from the water, with some reviews highlighting it as the best activity on the pass. The View Boston Observation Deck provides unparalleled city views and is also a one-hour experience.

The Franklin Park Zoo is another option, offering general admission with a four-hour window, though some reviews mention that the zoo may occasionally be closed for private events. The Harvard Museum of Natural History includes all permanent and special exhibits plus access to the Peabody Museum, with about three hours allocated for exploration.

The Top Stops: Aquarium, Museum of Science, and More

The New England Aquarium is a highlight with its large central tank and variety of marine life. Visitors typically spend around four hours here, enjoying exhibits such as the penguins and sea lions, which often receive praise for their close proximity and engaging displays.

Next, the Museum of Science offers interactive exhibits that are more engaging than expected, with general admission giving access to all exhibits for about four hours. Several reviews mention that it’s fun for both adults and children, making it a good choice for families.

The Boston Harbor Cruise is praised as a relaxing and scenic journey, lasting about an hour. It’s especially popular for its stunning views of Boston’s skyline and historic waterfront. The View Boston Observation Deck offers a panoramic perspective of the city, perfect for first-time visitors wanting instant photo opportunities.

Planning Your Visit: Logistics and Timing

The tickets are valid from the first day of use for nine consecutive days, providing flexibility to visit attractions in any order. The meeting points are accessible near public transportation, which makes moving between sites straightforward. Operating hours generally run from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, accommodating various schedules.

Since transportation to and from attractions is not included, travelers should plan to use public transport, taxis, or ride-sharing services. The mobile tickets are easy to present, avoiding delays or paperwork at entry. It’s worth noting that most venues have minimum ages for free entry, so families with children should consider whether a Child Pass might be more convenient.

Notable Benefits and Limitations of the CityPASS

The main advantage of the Boston CityPASS is the significant savings — around 45% compared to buying individual tickets. The convenience of pre-paid tickets and skip-the-line access enhances the experience, especially during busy seasons. The nine-day window also allows for a relaxed pace, giving visitors flexibility.

However, some reviews point out potential drawbacks. The Harvard Museum of Natural History is not free, contrary to some expectations, and attractions like the zoo can be closed for private events, which might limit options. Plus, transportation costs are not covered, and some users report challenges with making reservations for the Museum of Science online.

Who Will Enjoy the Boston CityPASS?

This pass is an excellent choice for families and budget-conscious travelers wanting to maximize their time and savings. It’s especially suited for those planning to visit multiple attractions in a short period, say 2 to 3 days, as several reviews suggest. The flexibility and ease of use make it a practical solution for first-time visitors eager to see Boston’s highlights without worrying about individual ticket lines.

Those who prefer a more relaxed pace or wish to spread their visits over several days will appreciate the validity period. However, travelers looking for transportation included or seeking guided tours should be aware that these services are not part of this pass.

Final Thoughts on the Boston CityPASS

The Boston CityPASS® offers a cost-effective and flexible way to explore Boston’s top attractions, combining major sites like the aquarium, science museum, and harbor cruise with the freedom to choose among other popular sites. Its 9-day validity allows for easy planning and avoiding rushed visits.

While it delivers good value and helps avoid long ticket lines, it does require separate arrangements for transportation. Some attractions may be closed temporarily, so checking availability in advance is wise. Overall, it’s an excellent option for families and first-time visitors who want to see Boston efficiently and affordably.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Boston CityPASS include transportation?
No, transportation to and from the attractions is not included. Visitors need to plan transport separately.

Can I visit the attractions in any order?
Yes, the pass is valid for 9 consecutive days from the first use, and attractions can be visited in any order.

Are the tickets valid for a year?
The mobile tickets are valid for one year from the date of purchase, giving ample time to plan visits.

What attractions are included in the CityPASS?
The pass includes admission to the New England Aquarium and Museum of Science, plus your choice of two from Boston Harbor Cruises, Harvard Museum of Natural History, Franklin Park Zoo, or View Boston Observation Deck.