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

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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