TourPass NYC

The TourPass NYC offers an affordable way to explore some of New York City’s most iconic sights for $129 per person. This 4-attraction pass is designed for those who want a flexible, streamlined experience, with the option to visit Liberty Island, Ellis Island, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and enjoy a 60-minute sightseeing cruise. The tour is flexible, lasting from 1 to 7 days, making it suitable for both quick visits and longer stays.

One of the main strengths of this pass is the priority ferry boarding for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, which helps you skip long lines and save hours of waiting. It’s particularly appealing for visitors who want to maximize their time without the hassle of booking individual tickets. The inclusion of skip-the-line access to the 9/11 Memorial Museum is another significant benefit, allowing you to spend more time exploring these important sites.

However, it’s important to note that guide-led tours or inside access to the Statue of Liberty’s crown are not included, and hotel pickup is not provided. For those who prefer a self-guided experience and are comfortable meeting at the designated meeting point, this pass offers great value and convenience.

Key Points

• Includes four major attractions: Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and a sightseeing cruise
• Priced at $129 per person, with a flexible duration of 1 to 7 days
• Priority ferry boarding saves hours during busy periods
• Skip-the-line access to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum enhances convenience
• Meeting point is 24 State St, near major subway stations
• Tour does not include hotel pickup or interior access to the Statue of Liberty’s crown

Exploring the Statue of Liberty with Priority Ferry Access

The tour begins with a ferry ride from Castle Clinton in Battery Park, which departs after you meet at 24 State St. The priority boarding feature ensures you avoid long lines, allowing you to enjoy more time on Liberty Island and the Pedestal Museum. The admission ticket includes a 30-minute orientation tour in English that provides background on the statue’s history and significance.

While the interior access to the Statue’s crown isn’t available, visitors can still explore the pedestal and learn from the informative displays. The ferry ride itself offers views of the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty, making it a memorable part of your day.

Ellis Island: Grounds and Museum Access

After visiting the Statue of Liberty, the ferry takes you to Ellis Island, where you gain access to the grounds and the Ellis Island Museum. The ticket includes a one-hour visit, giving a chance to explore the historic immigration station and learn about the stories of millions of immigrants who passed through.

The Ellis Island Museum features exhibits on the immigrant experience, and the island’s grounds provide excellent photo opportunities with views back to Manhattan. The ferry schedule allows for flexible timing, so you can spend as much or as little time as you prefer here.

Visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The tour includes skip-the-line access to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, located in Lower Manhattan just a short walk from the ferry drop-off point. The museum opening hours are from 10 am to 5 pm Thursday through Monday.

The Museum offers a compelling and respectful space to learn about the events of September 11, 2001, and the impact on the city and the world. Visitors can explore exhibits that include artifacts, photographs, and personal stories. The memorial pools are open to the public and provide a serene space of remembrance.

This part of the tour is designed for those who want to reflect without worrying about long wait times, thanks to the skip-the-line entry included with the pass.

The 60-Minute Sightseeing Cruise from Pier 15

The final highlight of the TourPass NYC is a 60-minute sightseeing cruise departing from Pier 15 in the South Street Seaport Historic District. Several departures are available daily, so you can choose a time that best fits your schedule.

During the cruise, you’ll see landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge, and possibly Statue of Liberty, all from the water. This cruise provides a relaxing way to enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline and iconic bridges, making it a great way to unwind after visiting the other sites.

How to Access the Tour and Practical Details

The meeting point for ticket redemption is 24 State St in Manhattan. Travelers should arrive at least 15 minutes early to collect their ferry tickets and meet their guide. The location is near South Ferry Station (1), White Hall Street Station (N, R, W), and Bowling Green (4, 5).

The ferry departs from Castle Clinton in Battery Park, and food and drinks can be brought onboard as long as they are sealed. The ferries also have snack bars with food and souvenirs available for purchase. Restrooms are available onboard, and facilities on Liberty and Ellis Islands are wheelchair accessible.

Note that access inside the Statue of Liberty is limited to the pedestal; crown access is currently unavailable. The round-trip ferry service is valid for the day of your visit and between Liberty and Ellis Islands, but reentry is not permitted once disembarked.

Flexibility and Booking Policies

The TourPass NYC offers the advantage of booking in advance, with most bookings made 46 days ahead. Confirmation is immediate upon booking, and the ticket can be canceled for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility makes it easier to plan your visit around other NYC activities.

Since no hotel pickup is included, travelers need to reach the 24 State St meeting point independently, using public transit, taxi, or rideshare services.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This pass is ideal for those seeking a cost-effective, self-guided experience of New York City’s top attractions. It suits visitors who value priority access to avoid long lines, and who are comfortable meeting at a designated location. The tour is practical for short stays or multi-day explorations, thanks to its flexible duration.

However, travelers looking for guided inside tours of the Statue of Liberty or hotel pickups may find this tour less suitable. It works best for independent explorers who appreciate the convenience of all-in-one tickets and the opportunity to customize their schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I meet to redeem the NYC TourPass?
You meet at 24 State Street in Manhattan. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to collect your ferry tickets.

How do I get to the meeting location?
The closest subway stations are South Ferry (1), White Hall Street (N, R, W), and Bowling Green (4, 5).

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, parking is available around Pearl Street, but rates vary. Public transportation or rideshare options are often more convenient.

Where does the Statue of Liberty ferry depart from?
Ferries depart from Castle Clinton in Battery Park. Your guide will direct you for ticket collection.

Can I take a later ferry if I miss my scheduled departure?
Your ticket is valid only for the specific time printed. Make sure to arrive early.

Are infants allowed on the ferry?
Yes, infants 2 years and younger travel for free as lap children.

Can I bring food or drinks onboard?
Yes, sealed food and beverages are permitted. The ferries have snack bars for purchases.

Is alcohol allowed onboard?
No, alcohol is not permitted on ferries or in screening facilities.

Does the pass include entry to the Statue of Liberty’s interior?
It allows ferry access and viewing from the pedestal, but inside access to the crown is unavailable.

Is the 9/11 Memorial free?
Yes, the Memorial is free and open to the public, but skip-the-line tickets are included for the Museum.

What are the Museum hours?
The museum is open Thursday to Monday, 10 am to 5 pm.

Can I visit the 9/11 Museum without a tour?
Yes, but the pass includes skip-the-line entry, which speeds up your visit.

The TourPass NYC offers a convenient, affordable way to experience some of the most important landmarks in New York City. Its priority ferry access and skip-the-line Museum entry make it especially valuable for visitors who want a streamlined experience without sacrificing depth. While it doesn’t include interior Statue of Liberty access or guided tours, its flexibility and inclusions make it a practical choice for independent explorers eager to see the city’s highlights efficiently.