Go City: New York Explorer Pass: 90+ Things to Do Including Edge

Visiting New York City can quickly become a financial challenge — ticket prices for major attractions add up fast. The Go City: New York Explorer Pass offers a flexible way to see over 90 top sites, from Empire State Building to Statue of Liberty and Broadway, all for a fixed price of $89 per person. Whether you’re here for a quick weekend or a more leisurely 30-day trip, this pass is designed to let you create your own itinerary, with access to 2 to 6 attractions depending on what you choose.

What we love about this pass is its long validity period — you can use it over up to 30 days after your first visit — and the digital format, which makes planning smooth and contactless. Plus, the app helps organize your visits, making it easier to avoid missing out on favorite sights. That said, it’s not without its small caveats, like needing to reserve certain attractions in advance and being mindful of activity-specific restrictions, but overall, it’s a money-saver with lots of options.

This pass suits travelers who want flexibility and value — especially if you plan to hit more than two attractions. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see key landmarks, or repeat visitors looking to explore deeper into the city’s diverse neighborhoods and museums. Just remember, some activities like the Statue of Liberty Pedestal or Crown access require separate reservations, and weather can impact certain outdoor plans.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Valid for 30 days, with the ability to visit 2-6 attractions at your own pace.
• Cost-Effective: Offers significant savings over buying individual tickets.
• Convenience: Digital pass and app streamline planning and entry.
• Variety: Over 90 attractions and activities to choose from, including iconic landmarks, museums, and tours.
• Reservations Needed: Some attractions require advance booking, so plan ahead.
• Limitations: Some activities like sunset views and certain Statue of Liberty areas are not included or have restrictions.

This pass is designed for those who want to maximize their time in New York City without the hassle of buying individual tickets for each attraction. It offers a wide selection of major sights and activities, letting you tailor your experience based on your interests and pace.

Visiting Iconic Landmarks

Starting with Empire State Building, the classic skyscraper offers panoramic views from its observation decks. The renovated lobby and multimedia guides enrich the experience, and you can see up to five states on a clear day. Keep in mind, reservations are required, and late-day or sunset visits aren’t available with this pass, so planning is key if you want night views.

Next is Edge NYC, the newest observational platform in Hudson Yards. The ride up is quick, but the real highlight is stepping out onto the open-air platform—a thrilling way to see the skyline from over 100 stories high. Travelers tend to rave about the views, but note that reservations are needed to secure your time slot.

Then there’s Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. This is a favorite for the unobstructed 360-degree views, including Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. The indoor and outdoor decks make it versatile, though you’ll need to wait in line for a time slot, so consider visiting early or late to avoid crowds.

Tours and Hop-On, Hop-Off Experiences

The Big Bus Tours give you a one-day pass to hop on and off at major locations around uptown and downtown Manhattan. This is an excellent way to get an overview while listening to interesting commentary, often in multiple languages. The Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises offer stunning views of Manhattan from the water, including options for a 1.5-hour cruise—a relaxing way to see the city’s skyline from a different perspective.

Museums and Cultural Spots

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the American Museum of Natural History are included, but note that some require advanced reservations. The MoMA’s collection of modern art is world-famous, and the Natural History Museum is a staple for families and science buffs alike.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a moving tribute, with the twin reflecting pools and exhibits that honor the victims. It’s a meaningful visit, but remember, you’ll need to get a time slot in advance.

Iconic Neighborhoods and Walks

A walk through Greenwich Village or Harlem can be booked to explore their unique cultural history. These tours offer insights into American counter-culture and Harlem’s jazz legacy. The Chinatown and Little Italy guided tours provide a taste of ethnic neighborhoods with colorful stories and sights.

The High Line walk, starting at Chelsea Market, is a favorite for its urban renewal story, with art installations and views of the Hudson River.

Unique and Offbeat Attractions

For something different, the Museum of Sex or Spyscape offer insights into human sexuality and espionage, respectively. The Fotografiska showcases powerful photography exhibitions, and ARTECHOUSE provides a digital art experience blending science and creativity.

Active and Outdoorsy Options

If you prefer outdoor adventures, renting a bike in Central Park or on Governors Island makes for a wonderful break from the city hustle. The Yankee Stadium tour is popular, especially for sports fans, offering access to Monument Park and the Yankees Museum.

Practical Tips Based on Reviews

Travelers mention that the reservation system generally works well, and the app makes it easy to track used passes. Many reviews highlight the value for money — especially if you plan your days well and leverage pre-bookings for popular sites. One traveler noted they “used the pass on the big tour and got a day free,” emphasizing the benefit of planning efficiently.

However, some reviews point out potential pitfalls: weather can spoil outdoor plans like the Statue of Liberty, and some attractions like the Empire State Building require reservations and might be crowded or unavailable at certain times. A few travelers experienced issues with ticket redemption or customer service, so keep your confirmation emails handy and contact the provider if needed.

Who Should Consider This Pass?

This Explorer Pass is ideal for independent travelers who like the flexibility to choose their attractions and visit at their own pace. It’s also great for families or groups looking to save money on multiple activities. But, if you want to visit specific sites like the Statue of Liberty’s Crown or Pedestal, you’ll need to book separately.

The Bottom Line

The Go City New York Explorer Pass offers fantastic value for those eager to see the city’s highlights without the stress of buying individual tickets. The broad selection allows you to customize your trip, whether you’re interested in breathtaking views, world-class museums, or neighborhood walks. The digital format makes it especially convenient, and the ability to visit over 30 days means you don’t have to cram everything into one day.

If you’re a planner who likes flexibility, or someone who enjoys discovering hidden gems alongside the big sights, this pass is a smart choice. Expect some attractions to require reservations, and be mindful of weather for outdoor visits. Overall, it’s a practical, cost-effective way to experience the best of New York City.

FAQ

Can I visit all attractions at any time?
Most attractions can be visited at your convenience within the 30-day window after first use, but some, like Empire State and One World Observatory, require reservations for specific time slots.

How many attractions can I visit with the pass?
You can choose between 2 and 6 attractions from the list of over 90, depending on your plan and how much you want to see.

Is the pass easy to use on the day?
Yes, simply show your mobile pass at the entrance or book in advance when required. The Go City app helps you organize your itinerary and reserve spots.

Are there any attractions that are not included?
Yes, some activities like visiting the Statue of Liberty’s Pedestal or Crown require separate reservations and are not included in the pass.

What should I do if I have trouble with reservations?
Use the app or digital guide to check reservation requirements. If issues arise, contact the Go City customer support or the attraction directly.

Can I cancel the pass if plans change?
Yes, the pass offers free cancellation if you cancel more than 24 hours before your first activity. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is it worth it for a short trip?
Absolutely, if you plan to visit multiple sites in a limited time. It’s especially economical if you want to cover quite a few top landmarks without buying individual tickets.

To sum it up, the Go City New York Explorer Pass is an excellent tool for travelers looking for flexibility, convenience, and savings. It’s especially suitable for those with a packed itinerary who want to maximize their experience without overspending. Just remember to plan your reservations early, keep track of weather, and enjoy exploring one of the world’s most exciting cities with confidence.