Exploring Chicago with the Go City Explorer Pass offers a flexible, budget-friendly way to see the Windy City’s most famous spots. For $84 per person, you can choose between 2 and 7 attractions, enjoying a two-month window to activate and visit them at your own pace. This pass is ideal whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to hit the highlights or someone who wants to mix and match experiences over a longer trip.
What we particularly like about this pass is its ease of use—no long lines, no ticket counters, just scan your digital ticket or app, and go. Plus, the significant savings of up to 50% on combined entrance fees make it attractive, especially if you plan to visit several popular sites like the Skydeck at Willis Tower or the Shoreline Architecture River Cruise.
One potential consideration is that some attractions require reservations in advance—notably Skydeck Chicago and 360 Chicago. This means you need to plan ahead for certain experiences, but the included app and digital guide make this straightforward. If you’re a flexible traveler who enjoys customizing your itinerary, this pass can be a real time-saver. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a blend of iconic skyline views, cultural museums, and scenic river cruises.
Key Points
- Cost-effective: Save up to 50% on top Chicago attractions
- Flexible: Choose between 2 to 7 attractions, usable within 30 days
- Convenient: Digital pass and app simplify planning and avoid long lines
- Variety: Over 35 attractions, including Skydeck, Navy Pier, and museums
- Reservations: Some popular sites require booking in advance
- Ideal for: First-timers, families, and travelers wanting to see a broad range of Chicago’s highlights
A Closer Look at the Chicago Explorer Pass Experience
When you’re in a city like Chicago, famous for its skyline, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural institutions, a flexible pass like this can really streamline your sightseeing. At $84, the value depends on your choices—visit just a few major attractions, and you’ll likely save compared to buying tickets separately. If you’re planning to explore key sites like the Skydeck at Willis Tower, the Shoreline River Cruise, or the Field Museum, this pass combines convenience with savings.
Location and Duration: The pass is valid for one year from purchase, which offers plenty of flexibility if your trip plans change. Once activated with your first attraction, you then have 30 days to visit the remaining sites, fitting well into a typical Chicago itinerary.
How it works: You simply present your digital pass at each attraction—no need to purchase tickets on-site, which can mean long waits and hassle. The included app provides detailed information, reservation instructions, and maps, making it easier to plan each day. This is especially handy if you’re unfamiliar with the city or want to avoid the stress of last-minute planning.
Popular Attractions
The list of over 35 options includes many of Chicago’s most iconic sites. Some highlights include:
– Skydeck Chicago: Ascend the Willis Tower’s 103rd floor for breathtaking views. Be aware that reservations are required, so plan ahead.
– Shoreline Architecture River Cruise: See Chicago’s famous skyline from the water—an experience often praised for its relaxed pace and knowledgeable guides.
– Field Museum: Explore natural history and culture—ideal for families or museum buffs.
– Navy Pier: Enjoy the rides, shops, and lively atmosphere of this historic waterfront spot.
– 360 Chicago: For panoramic city views from the John Hancock Center, with an optional TILT experience for thrill-seekers.
Reviews from travelers indicate this pass offers great value and convenience. One reviewer noted that “entry into all these places worked flawlessly,” appreciating the ease of use. Another pointed out that booking was straightforward, and the savings were significant compared to buying tickets individually.
Planning more time in Chicago? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect
Skydeck Chicago:
Taking the elevator up to the 103rd floor of Willis Tower is a must-do. The views are stunning, with a clear vista of Lake Michigan, the city, and beyond. Many reviewers have expressed how impressive the skyline looks from above, especially on a clear day. Just remember, reservations are recommended, and lines can be long, so plan accordingly.
Shoreline Architecture River Cruise:
This is a relaxing way to see Chicago’s famous architecture from a different perspective. Guides share stories and facts about the buildings, making it both informative and enjoyable. Travelers have appreciated the smooth ride and the chance to snap great photos. The cruise departs from Navy Pier, making it easy to combine with other activities.
The Field Museum:
A treasure trove of natural history exhibits, including Sue the T-Rex. Visitors love how easy it is to spend a few hours here, exploring everything from ancient artifacts to scientific exhibits. The pass grants quick entry, so you can maximize your time.
Navy Pier:
This lively waterfront area offers rides, shopping, and food. It’s a favorite for families and those wanting a relaxed break from museums. The Ferris wheel provides great views of the city skyline and lake.
360 Chicago:
From the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center, you can see the city, lake, and even catch a glimpse of Indiana or Wisconsin on a clear day. The TILT experience, which leans visitors out over the glass, is optional but adds a thrill.
Other Options:
For those with more time, the pass also covers attractions like the Museum of Science & Industry, the Chicago Children’s Museum, and even bike rentals, offering active ways to explore.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights
Based on reviews, many visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guides on the river cruise, who share entertaining trivia about Chicago’s architecture. One traveler noted that the driver on the hop-on-hop-off bus was “very fun and informative,” making the city’s sights come alive.
The views from the Skydeck and 360 Chicago are consistently praised. Several reviews mention how these vantage points provide a “fascinating” perspective on the city’s layout and skyline, especially if you’re a first-time visitor.
Pricing is also a big plus. One reviewer remarked that “getting a ticket at any time was no problem” and that the pass was “much cheaper than booking separately.” For families or groups, these savings can make a significant difference, especially if you plan to do multiple activities.
Some travelers noted the importance of planning ahead for some attractions due to reservation requirements, but the included app helps streamline this process. It’s a smart way to avoid disappointment, particularly during busy weekends or holiday periods.
Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Pass
- Reserve early for popular attractions like Skydeck Chicago and 360 Chicago to secure your preferred times.
- Sync the pass with the Go City app to access up-to-date information on operating hours and reservation instructions.
- Plan your route to minimize travel time—pair a river cruise with nearby attractions like Navy Pier or the Museum of Science & Industry.
- Use the 30-day window wisely—activate your pass when you’re ready to visit the attractions that interest you most.
- Bring your phone or printed copy of the pass for easy scanning at each site.
- Allocate time for breaks and meals—Chicago is famous for its food scene, so consider exploring local eats between sites.
Who Should Consider the Chicago Explorer Pass?
This pass is a smart choice if you want to see multiple highlights of Chicago without the hassle of buying individual tickets. Families will appreciate the value and variety, especially with kid-friendly options like the Children’s Museum or the Ferris Wheel. First-timers will love the flexibility and convenience, while seasoned travelers can use it to focus their trip on specific interests like architecture, museums, or skyline views.
It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy having some control over their schedule but want to ensure they hit the bucket-list spots. If your trip is short and you want to maximize your time and savings, this pass can truly be a game-changer.
FAQ
Can I visit attractions in any order?
Yes, your pass is valid for 1 year from purchase, and once activated, you have 30 days to visit your chosen attractions in any order.
Do I need to reserve spots for all attractions?
No, only some popular sites like Skydeck Chicago and 360 Chicago require reservations. The app provides instructions for each.
How do I activate my pass?
You activate it at any of the included attractions or tours by scanning your digital pass or app.
What if I change my plans?
Your pass is flexible—if you need to cancel, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the pass good for multiple days?
Yes, once activated, you have 30 days to use your remaining visits, making it suitable for a multi-day trip.
Are there discounts or cheaper options elsewhere?
Some reviews mention finding cheaper prices on third-party sites like GetYourGuide, but the convenience and included features of the official pass often justify the cost.
Can I use it for family groups?
Yes, the pass is per person, but multiple passes can be purchased for families or groups traveling together.
What types of attractions are included?
A wide range, from skyline views and river cruises to museums, children’s activities, and even bike rentals.
Are guided tours included?
Some attractions like the river cruise have guided elements, but most are self-led or include recorded audio guides.
What should I bring?
Your smartphone or printed pass, reservation confirmations for certain attractions, and a sense of adventure.
To sum it up, the Chicago Explorer Pass offers a smart, economical way to explore the city’s must-see sights. It’s especially useful if you’re eager to balance iconic skyline views, engaging museums, and scenic cruises without the stress of individual ticket purchases. The flexibility and savings make it ideal for first-time visitors, families, or anyone wanting to maximize their time in Chicago.
While reservations are necessary for some of the most popular attractions, the included app simplifies planning and keeps everything organized. If you enjoy having control over your itinerary and want to avoid long ticket lines, this pass is a practical, value-packed choice.
Whether you’re soaring above the city from the Skydeck, cruising past glittering skyscrapers, or exploring natural wonders at the museums, the Explorer Pass helps you see Chicago in a way that’s both affordable and memorable.
You can check availability for your dates here: