I went back to the Big Apple 30 years later – here's how I saw more and spent less

We caught up with John Fernandez to find out how he used our very own Explorer Pass to plan a nostalgic vacation to NYC.

By Selina Whitby
Published: March 2, 2026
Brooklyn Bridge

New York in ’94 was all about WuTang on the Walkman, Home Alone 2 in the theaters, and actual paper maps to get from A to B. Some things have changed – and some haven’t – as John discovered when he returned to New York to relive his ‘90s childhood vacation.  

Here’s how our Explorer Pass helped him reconnect with the New York he remembered. From revisiting the landmarks that defined that first trip to discovering new perspectives high above the skyline, the pass gave him the flexibility to explore at his own pace while making the most of every moment.

So, tell us about New York in the 90s, what was that first trip like?  

It was magical. I was 14 and we visited over Christmas when it was snowing. Home Alone 2 had just been released and I couldn’t wait to see all the sights from the movie – the Rockefeller Center tree, the Empire State Building and, back then, the Twin Towers. 

These days, only guests can go into the Plaza Hotel, but when I visited you could wander straight in, go up and down in the lift and run around the corridors. It was a very different time! 

That trip turned out to be our last big family vacation, and since my parents are no longer with us, returning was incredibly emotional but I enjoyed reliving those happy times.  

That famous Rockefeller Center tree 30 years apart!

Sounds like it was a really special trip, did you revisit many of the same sights? 

Yes, and some new ones too. I went back to the Empire State Building and did the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferry. Both gave me that unmistakable New York feeling – they’re the sights everyone should see at least once.  

I also visited One World Observatory which was especially meaningful as last time I’d been to the top of the Twin Towers. Looking down from One World and seeing the spot where the buildings once were was incredibly moving and hard to put into words. 

The American Museum of Natural History was a new one for me. I didn’t get to go as a kid, but I’m so glad I did this time as I’m a big museum fan. I also loved Edge. I went at sunset, and the views were incredible. Watching the sun go down over the city from there was unforgettable.   

Views from the Empire State Building – then and now

You used Go City’s Explorer Pass to visit all of those attractions, how did that work out for you? Was it easy to use? 

Absolutely! It was amazing. The flexibility of the Explorer Pass was the best part, sometimes I made reservations on the spot just minutes before entering an attraction. And I could take my time visiting everything. I had a week-long stay, so there was no need to hurry.  

I did find myself wishing I’d chosen a pass with more attractions. When I visited One World, I realised I would have liked to experience the 9/11 Museum as well. Now you can upgrade your choices, so I’m glad that option is available for next time.  

Did the pass feel like good value to you? 

Yes, without a doubt, it allowed me to visit all the major attractions I wanted to while saving a significant amount. The money I saved went towards other experiences on the trip so I could get the most out of being in New York. If you’re travelling on a budget, Go City’s passes are a must. 

Serene winter scenes in Central Park

Speaking of budgets, how else did you save money in New York? 

Hotels were very expensive because I went during the first week of December, right around the Rockefeller Christmas Tree lighting. So instead of staying in Manhattan, I rented a room in a house in Harlem. It was two blocks from the subway and just 15 minutes to the center. It was comfortable, safe, and much more affordable as you can buy groceries and prepare simple meals compared to eating out every day.  

I’d recommend staying in neighborhoods like Harlem or Queens instead of central Manhattan, just make sure you’re close to a subway station. Also, buy the unlimited MetroCard if you’re staying for a week. It really pays off because you’ll use the subway a lot.

The flexibility of the Explorer Pass was the best part – sometimes I made reservations minutes before visiting an attraction!

John Fernandez

What about food highlights? What did you enjoy most on this trip? 

I had to try the classic New York pizza of course. I went to Joe’s Pizza in Times Square – there was a line, but it was well worth it. For dessert, I tried the ice cream at Anita Gelato, which was great, even in the cold! And while I was on the move and walking around all day, Paris Baguette was perfect for quick sandwiches and snacks.  

Finally, if your trip was a movie, what would the title be? 

Chasing Memories: A Journey Through Time in Their Honor 

John’s 5-choice Explorer Pass itinerary 

Empire State Building 
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferry 
One World Observatory 
American Museum of Natural History
Edge 
 
>> See all pass options 

Enjoyed this little slice of New York? 

Check out our guide to getting around New York or the top 20 things to do in NYC for first timers. 

With Go City's New York passes, you can skip the stress and save big on Empire State, Top of the Rock or Edge tickets plus dozens of other must-see attractions, all with one easy-to-use pass.

🗽 We help you decide how many attractions to choose  
💰 How much can you really save in NYC?   

Selina Whitby
Content Lead

Selina is a copywriter and seasoned backpacker who has visited over 50 countries if you count Vatican City, which she does. Her most memorable travel experiences include tubing in Vang Vieng, doing New Zealand’s Nevis Bungee with a fear of heights, and taking a nine-hour flight with a toddler. On her bucket list is Rio Carnival in Brazil, walking the Camino de Santiago, and flying First Class (when she wins the EuroMillions).

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Historical places in New York City that you have to visit
Blog

Historical places in New York City that you have to visit

The city that never sleeps, New York, is all about cultural diversity and freedom, and it's a dream destination for many young people looking for fun. Over 8 million people call it home, making it a veritable melting pot of unique cultures living side-by-side. It's also one of the oldest cities in America, primarily due to its location on the east coast. But which are the most historical places in New York City? Here are our picks of all the ones you have to visit! Including: Statue of Liberty Central Park Ellis Island 9/11 Memorial & Museum Empire State Building and more! Statue of Liberty One of the most recognizable landmarks on Earth, the Statue of Liberty is a must-see attraction. Visitors can always take a ferry to Liberty Island to explore the statue and enjoy stunning city views. The statue was designed by sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, and gifted to the United States by France over 130 years ago. The statue's tablet reads "July IV MDCCLXXVI", representing the date of America's independence. It's visited by millions of people annually and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the United States. Central Park Spanning 840 acres, Central Park is a beautiful urban oasis in the heart of New York City. Visitors can explore the park's many paths, trails, lakes, gardens, and famous landmarks, including the Central Park Zoo and the Belvedere Castle. Ellis Island Ellis Island is the site of the former immigration station that served as the gateway to America for millions of immigrants between 1892 and 1954. Today, visitors can explore the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration and learn about the experiences of these immigrants. 9/11 Memorial and Museum The 9/11 Memorial and Museum honors the victims of the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001. Visitors can pay their respects at the memorial pools and explore the museum's exhibits, which detail the tragic day's events. Brooklyn Bridge The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic photogenic symbol of New York City and a must-visit attraction. You can walk or bike across the bridge and enjoy stunning city skyline views if you visit. It is one of the most visited tourists very often and is considered the most photographed location in history. Empire State Building Another iconic landmark of New York City, the Empire State Building, is a must-visit attraction. The elevator can take you to the observation deck on the 86th floor to enjoy breathtaking city views. The building is 1,454 feet (443.2 meters) tall, including its antenna. The impressive fact about the empire state building is that It took only 410 days of construction to complete the installation. The building features in many films, including King Kong and Sleepless in Seattle. It remained the tallest building until 1971 when the World Trade Center was built. The Metropolitan Museum of Art The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the world's most extensive art museums. Visitors can explore its extensive collection of art and artifacts worldwide, including works by famous artists like Vincent van Gogh, Salvador Dali, and Pablo Picasso. New York is a great hangout destination for school and college students, and they can explore the parts of NYC while staying at affordable student housing in NYC. The Met Cloisters The Met Cloisters is a museum of art and architecture located in Upper Manhattan. It houses an extensive medieval art and architecture collection, including illuminated manuscripts, tapestries, and religious artifacts. Visitors can explore the museum's gardens and enjoy stunning views of the Hudson River. Art students staying in student accommodations in New York can always take advantage of learning the beauty of this city. The Flatiron Building The Flatiron Building in New York City is the most famous landmark. Built in 1902, the Flatiron building is known for its distinctive triangular shape and is a favorite spot for photographers. The Flatiron District's landmark is precisely known because of The Flatiron Building. It is a great place to learn about New York in depth; there is so much history and many different stories to fill your travel bucket list. The New York Public Library The New York Public Library is one of the city's most iconic buildings. Visitors can explore its extensive collections of books and artifacts and enjoy the beautiful architecture and design of the building. It is the second-largest public library in the United States, and with an astounding architectural design, it is worth the time you invest in discovering past beauty. A valuable life lesson that young adults can learn is the fast-paced lifestyle in New York City, where its magnificence lies in how it operates. Living in New York City teaches the essential qualities of acceptance and embracing new beginnings, allowing individuals to strive towards becoming their best selves without being held back by their past. If you want to get into many of the above locations, and many many more, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass For one low price, you'll get into tons of New York's best bits!
Dom Bewley
Statue of Liberty in close-up with the New York skyline beyond.
Blog

Empire State Building Vs Statue of Liberty NYC Comparison

Ask your average Jane or Joe to name as many top New York attractions as they can in 10 seconds and it’s fairly likely the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building will be first out of their mouths. But how do they measure up? Which has been around the longest and which has stolen the most blockbuster movie scenes? We got up close and personal with these two titans of the Manhattan skyline to find out. History The Statue of Liberty arrived on US shores in 1885, a gift from the people of France. This beautifully rendered copper giant was designed by celebrated sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, with a metal framework by his engineering pal Gustave Eiffel. Yes, that Gustave Eiffel. The statue was dedicated on Liberty Island in October 1886, where she has stood ever since, her gorgeous patina earning her the nickname ‘Green Goddess’. Still the definitive emblem of American freedom after more than 140 years, the statue attracts around 3.5 million visitors every year. The Empire State Building joined the party a little later, and will reach its centenary year in 2031. Perhaps the most iconic Art Deco building on the planet, it stands at 1,453ft and was the world’s tallest building for over four decades, until topped by the World Trade Center’s North Tower in 1970. No other building has held the record for that long, just one of many accolades held by this monolithic Manhattan masterpiece, which attracts around four million visitors a year, primarily for the birds’ eye views afforded by its observation platforms on the 86th and 102nd floors, some 1,250ft from terra firma. At the Movies The iconic status of the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building mean both have featured in countless movies, TV shows and music videos over the years. How many can you think of? The image of King Kong at the top of the Empire State Building, clinging to his beloved Ann Darrow (Fay Wray) and swatting away airplanes like flies before succumbing to their gunfire, is one of the most recognizable in movie history. It’s the Empire State’s mic drop moment, but the Green Goddess is no cinematic slouch either, having appeared on the silver screen many hundreds of times, even as far back as the silent movie era, when she made what is thought to be her debut alongside Charlie Chaplin in 1917’s The Immigrant. As a proud symbol of American freedom, Lady Liberty has also done innumerable stints in disaster movies, representing hope – or the fall of humankind. We’re talking the haunting image of the statue half-buried in sand in the closing scenes of Planet of the Apes as well as appearances in – deep breath – Independence Day, Deep Impact, The Day After Tomorrow, Cloverfield and, um, Sharknado 2. What can you do at the Statue of Liberty? A trip out to the planet’s most famous torchbearer takes in both Liberty Island (where the statue is located) and its near-neighbor Ellis Island, home of the National Museum of Immigration. And it’s well worth visiting both while you’re here. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the rich history of New York and the USA itself, there’s no better place to start. Photographs, heirlooms and a database of searchable historical records track the history of immigration in the US, and you can even peep into the baggage rooms and dormitories once used by ‘the huddled masses’ who arrived in New York in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Of course, the statue herself is the main event, and there are various options depending on what you want to see. You can book to climb to the top of the pedestal on which Lady Liberty stands, or go the whole hog and climb the 162-step spiral staircase inside the statue for epic views from right up inside her famous crown. Tickets for these experiences are available via the Statue City Cruises website, while a pass from Go City includes your ferry ticket plus entry to the museums, as well as dozens more New York attractions including the Guggenheim, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and – yep – the Empire State Building. What can you do at the Empire State Building? Really the only downside of visiting the observation platforms on the 86th and 102nd floors of the Empire State Building is the fact that those crazy views don’t include... the Empire State Building itself. Instead, soak up some of the best selfie opportunities in town with backdrops that include Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge and many other icons of the New York skyline. The 86th floor is in pole position for photo opps thanks to its open air platform, while the top floor is higher up (obvs) but fully enclosed. You can pimp up your visit with a range of direct ticket options that includes skip-the-line tickets, premium champagne packages and guided tours of the building, including the incredible Art Deco lobby. Or go straight for the 86th floor with an attraction pass from Go City. How to get to the Statue of Liberty The Statue of Liberty’s location on Liberty Island means the only way of getting there is by ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or the Liberty State Park in New Jersey. All passengers are required to undergo a security screening before boarding, so we’d recommend arriving 30 minutes or so before your planned departure, to avoid missing the boat. The Staten Island Ferry is another option if you just fancy a close pass (with stacks of great photo opportunities of both the statue and Manhattan skyline) but without actually physically visiting the attraction. Check out our blog on the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty here. How to get to the Empire State Building Getting to the Empire State Building is an absolute cinch. It’s right in the center or the Big Apple and you really can’t miss it; it’s visible from just about everywhere. The nearest metro stations are Herald Square and Penn Station, or arrive in style at the awesome Grand Central, and make the 10-minute walk from there. Check out our blog on the best time to visit the Empire State Building here. Save on New York Activities and Attractions And that concludes our deep dive into the world of the Empire State Building vs the Statue of Liberty. We hope, in the unlikely event that you choose to visit only one of these big attractions, that in some small way our guide can help you make your decision. If not, and if indecision continues to dog you, remember you can easily visit both and save money thanks to Go City’s All-Inclusive and Explorer passes for New York. So what are you waiting for?
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Edge vs Empire State Building
Blog

Edge vs Empire State Building - Compare Observation Decks

Batman Vs. Superman. Freddie Vs. Jason. Kramer Vs. Kramer. It seems that, as a species, we have a fascination with face-offs. We even have a classic 1997 action thriller named after them! So, clearly, humans love a good head-to-head. In the spirit of healthy competition, let's pit two of New York's best attractions against one another and see which comes out top. The Edge Vs. the Empire State Building. Young blood versus the old guard. Youth Vs. Experience. Who will win? Does visiting both make you the real winner? Let's explore. Round 1. Fight! Edge Vs. Empire State Building: Backstories The Empire State Building likely needs no introduction. Once the proud owner of 'the world's tallest building' moniker, it has since been beaten by some ungodly tall creations in the past 50 years. Still, it's arguably one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet. At nearly 1,500ft tall, it towers over the rest of Manhattan like a beacon of capitalist excess. Around 4 million people ascend its many floors to look out over the city every year. So it's probably going to win the popularity contest. Image courtesy of Mike Van Moonlight/Shutterstock The Edge, on the other hand, is the guitarist of U2. Wait, that's not right. Just going to check our notes. No, this Edge is, in fact, a massive observation platform found in the gentrified redevelopment of Hudson Yards. Surrounded by new builds and moderno architecture, its tower of sights is unmissable. As it's so new, there isn't much backstory to mention here. But, given the comparisons between its name and a certain stadium-rock guitarist, one could only imagine there is some crossover there. Just to be clear, there isn't. We had to say that for legal reasons. But one can imagine. Edge Vs. Empire State Building: Cinema stylings Image courtesy of Drop of Light/Shutterstock The Empire State Building has a rather storied history on celluloid. Who could forget King Kong climbing the tower's summit with damsel in hand while planes pepper them with gunfire? But that's just one of many. In fact, it's likely one of the most photographed landmarks in cinematic history. How does Edge measure up? Well, given its relative infancy, not so well. In fact, no matter how hard we looked, we couldn't find a single film that featured it. However, while it may not be in any movies, you can actually watch movies up there. Yes, the Edge has its own outdoor cinema thanks to a partnership with NY's Museum of Modern Art. Beat that, Empire State Building! What can you do at Edge When you arrive, you'll likely want to see the view from the top and discover what all the fuss is about. So, head inside and ride the elevator a might 100 stories up. Then, step out onto the open-air viewing platform and see for yourself. Oh, did we mention that platform has a glass floor? No? Well, if you're already up there, you'll learn the hard way. Once you're braving it, dare to sip some champagne and look out on the city's skyline in wonder. Take some snaps too, because a chance like this should not go begging. Then, when you're done soaking up the views, head down into Hudson Yards. You'll find plenty of places to eat, drink, and even shop in this new development, so go ham. What can you do at the Empire State Building While it may be tempting to head straight to the top of the Empire State Building, settle down. Take it slow and soak it all in. Start at the bottom, where you'll be greeted by the recently-restored Art Deco lobby, which boasts 24-karat gold and aluminum leaf ceiling murals. Enough opulence! Time to move on. Next, immerse yourself in the Empire State's interactive museum, which features a dozen galleries that explore the history of the building, from its conception and creation through to today. Selfies ahoy with the large King Kong statue on display. Then, head up to the 80th floor and wander the art exhibits that are all dedicated the icon of the NY skyline. Now, yes, it's finally time to make your way to the summit and experience the best views in the city. You'll get a 360-degree view of the city that is as Grammable as any other skyline. Come rain, shine, or freezing temperatures, your time in the summit will be aided by state-of-the-art heaters that will keep you warm and toasty during New York's most arctic months. How to get to Edge For starters, head towards Hudson Yards. You can get there on the subway by taking the Number 7 through Times Square to Penn Station. Bus-wise, the M34-SBS, M12, and M11 bus lines stop within a few minutes walk of the tower. You could even hop on two wheels and bike there. Cycle to the Hudson River Park along the West Side Highway and follow the trail down the Hudson Yards. Easy, peasy, and good for the ol' heart! How to get to Empire State Building If you're in New York City, you're halfway there. However, there's no need to live on a prayer, because it's pretty easy to see it with the eye test. Just look up from most places in the city, because you'll be able to orient yourself with no problem! If you're heading in from further outside the city center, the nearest metro stations are Herald Square and Penn Station. Or, if you're getting the train, disembark at Grand Central, and it's a short 10-minute walk from the station. We've even got a blog dedicated to the best times to visit the Empire State Building. So, if you're not sure when to head there, have a look and see what we suggest! Save on New York Activities and Attractions The battle is over. But who won? That's up to you to decide. No matter who reigns victorious in the Edge Vs. Empire State Building face-off, you should definitely check out both when you visit New York. And, when you're in the city that never sleeps, make sure your itinerary is loaded up for a full 24 hours with Go City. Thanks to our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see Edge, the Empire State Building, and New York's best of the rest at one low price!
Dom Bewley

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