New York City Explorer Pass Review - My Exciting 3-Day New York City Sightseeing Itinerary

By Katie Sagal

This New York City Explorer Pass review was submitted by Ryan C, as part of our Blog Ambassador Program – a fun way to visit top New York City attractions for free, share your experience and be featured on our blog. [clear-line] This year, I was really excited to be able to try out the New York City Explorer Pass for myself. I’ve been reading reviews and product comparisons for a while, and finally decided to go for it. I chose a 5-attraction New York City Explorer Pass because I was going to be in the Big Apple for a three-day weekend. The pass allows you to visit your choice of the 70+ attractions included in their program, which encompasses an amazing selection of top attractions like museums, observation decks, and fun tours. The best part? I saved a ton on admission to the best attractions in New York. It was easy to use, convenient, and even eco-friendly if you choose to go digital (which is something that also matters a lot to me when I travel). Read on to find out why I highly recommend the New York City Explorer Pass.

My 3-Day Itinerary

new-york-united-states-panorama-view

I recently spent a long weekend in New York City and decided to use the New York City Explorer Pass to save time and money on my attraction visits. If you’re traveling to NYC and want to avoid renting a car, I recommend taking some time to get to know the subway system. It can seem confusing, but it just takes a little time to get used to. Plus, learning the subway will save you time avoiding traffic and money. I planned where I wanted to go in advance, so I also spent some time thinking about how to get between attractions via mass transit. I decided to buy a multi-ride MTA pass to save money, and I recommend that, too. Or, if it seems too confusing, then Uber and Lyft are great alternatives, as well as regular taxis (though can be very pricey). So, here’s an overview of what I saw during my vacation with the 5-Choice New York City Explorer Pass.

  • Day 1: Top of the Rock & NFL Experience, Times Square
  • Day 2: Metropolitan Museum of Art & Madame Tussauds New York
  • Day 3: 9/11 Museum & Memorial

DAY 1 Top of the Rock

man-cap-standing-observatory-deck-edge

My first day in NYC, I wanted to see what the fuss was all about. I decided I only had time and space to see one observation deck, and although I heard good things about both the Top of the Rock and the Empire State Building, I opted for the Top of the Rock observation deck. This observation deck provides stellar unobstructed views of the city (including the iconic Empire State Building) and the building itself has some gorgeous Art Deco details. From this amazing vantage point you can see practically everything – like the Chrysler Building, the Flatiron Building, Central Park, and plenty more. Even on a cloudy day! I also enjoyed exhibits showcasing the history of the building and of Rockefeller Center itself, which provided a cool overview of this famous cultural center in NYC. I would definitely recommend going early in the morning as I did – it saves you time waiting in line.

NFL Experience, Times Square

As a major football fan (go Pats!), this recently opened attraction in Times Square (just a short walk from Top of the Rock) was at the top of my list of things to do in New York City. I ended up spending about 2.5 hours doing all of the activities, like measuring the speed and accuracy of my long throw up against some of the best players in the NFL and practicing some of the major combine events, in addition to checking out all of the authentic memorabilia (my favorite was the collection of every Super Bowl ring to date). My New York Explorer Pass' NFL Experience ticket included the 4D theater/thrill ride experience, which I felt made it worth a visit to the NFL Experience alone--highly recommend, it was one of the coolest experiences if you've ever wondered what it's like to be a pro NFL athlete. Afterwards, I headed back towards Rockefeller Center to enjoy the sights and take in some people watching. It’s also by plenty of shopping, so there was ample opportunity to indulge in some sartorial fun.

DAY 2 Metropolitan Museum of Art

met-metropolitan-museum-art-entrance-new

The next day, I wanted to spend some time in Uptown NYC to see a new area of the city and to explore more of the area adjacent to Central Park. I started my day at the Met, one of the most famous arts & culture museums in the entire world, and I was totally blown away by this place (and wonderfully surprised by the stunning experience on the museum's rooftop! (pictured above)). They have everything from one of the best collections of Ancient Egyptian artifacts in the entire world to some of the most famous European sculpture, painting, and drawings you’ve ever heard of. It truly took me much more time than I thought here, and I loved every minute of it. The gift shop also got me again – fortunately, I got a discount on my purchase with the New York City Explorer Pass!

Madame Tussauds New York

After lunch, I decided to re-visit Times Square and experience the hype of Madame Tussauds New York. I had even more fun than I expected checking out the fun and interactive exhibits on display, particularly the ones themed around Film & TV because I got to pose with my favorite late-night host Jimmy Fallon and other icons, including Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games, Jennifer Anniston from Friends, and more--but my favorite pic was definitely a posing with all the members of the Spice Girls, such a fun throwback. If you're in Times Square, a visit to Madame Tussauds is definitely worth it!

DAY 3 9/11 Memorial & Museum

world-trade-center-new-york

On my last day in New York, I chose to visit an attraction that I knew would be moving and tough to see, but that I knew I couldn’t miss. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is located at the former site of the World Trade Center and is designated to honor the attacks from 1993 and 2001. The Museum itself is filled with multiple galleries of really emotional exhibits, including the Memorial Exhibition, which highlights the lives lost in the attacks on this site, and the Cover Stories exhibit, which pulls together the cover pages of different newspapers to show how they cover the events and aftermath of 9/11. The Memorial was a bit more uplifting, with some really inspiring architecture and design work that I think truly honored those lost and those who sacrificed, while also gesturing towards the renewal and rebuilding of the site/neighborhood. Afterwards, this downtown location made it easy to enjoy strolling around and popping into bookstores, indie shops, and more. There were also plenty of nice restaurants I was interested in, so I made a full day out of it even though the museum & memorial only took me about 3 hours to fully appreciate.

My Tips for Planning with Your New York City Explorer Pass

  • I would absolutely recommend downloading the Go City Card app – it makes it a lot easier to enter attractions and you don’t need to keep track of any bits of paper.
  • While none of the attractions I visited require reservations, some of them do (especially cruises), so be sure to check on what you want to do to see if you need them.
  • The guidebook is super helpful, and the New York City Explorer Pass even more so. Check it out before your trip to help you decide which attractions you want to see.
  • I would also recommend checking out the websites of the museums, etc., you want to visit, so you can see what kind of special exhibits or events are going on during your visit.
  • To get the most out of your New York City Explorer Pass in terms of budget, I highly recommend planning in advance. If you choose pricier attractions, for example, you’ll save more overall.
  • I would also be sure to budget a lot of time for attractions like museums – you never know how long it will actually take you to see what interests you, and many NYC museums are top-notch.
  • Although you can find food at most museums, etc., in New York, it’s pretty expensive and often doesn’t have much variety. I recommend eating before or after your attraction visits to be sure you’ll find something tasty.

And obviously, you don’t have to choose the attractions that I chose for my vacation! There are many cruises and tours, for example, which are great introductions to the city and are exciting to boot. With nearly 75 attractions to choose from, you’re sure to find plenty to love. With my itinerary, I would have saved over $40 with the 5-Choice New York Explorer Pass when you compare the cost of purchasing tickets at each of the attractions I visited in this itinerary. I hope this New York Pass review is useful to those of you who want to see NYC without busting the bank. I saved money, time, and energy with the New York City Explorer Pass, and I’m sure you will, too.

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

New York skyline at dawn, featuring Empire State Building in centre
Blog

Observation Decks in New York

The city that never sleeps? You bet! Day or night there’s always something going on in New York City. But for a whole new perspective - or when you tire of the crowded sidewalks - one of the best ways to take in all that action is from above. You’ll be dizzy with delight gazing down on the blocks and the buildings, the scurrying people and the yellow taxis. But which is the best observation deck in New York? Each of the New York sky decks offers a different view and a different experience from a different height. Here’s the low down (sorry, had to be done) on five (or so) of the city’s high spots... Empire State Building Where: Midtown ManhattanWhen: Opened 1931Height of Observation deck: 1050 ft, 320 mtrs (86th floor) or 1,250 ft, 381 mtrs (102nd floor) Time to get yourself in an Empire state of mind...at New York’s most Instagrammed landmark! 443.2 meters tall and built during the Great Depression as a soaring symbol of hope and prosperity, for 40 years the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world. Even though it's not even in the top 20 these days, it’s still one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks and guarantees you a spectacular 360o view of New York City. You’ll find not one but two observation decks - the outdoor one on the 86th floor and (at an extra cost) the indoor one on the very top (102nd) floor.Begin your visit in the newly restored Art Deco lobby and check out the interactive museum to learn about the building’s rich history. Maybe even grab a selfie with King Kong?! Then zoom up to the 86th floor and drink in a view so impressive that, on a clear day, you can see 5 states. Telescopes give you an even better view of other looming landmarks including the Chrysler Building, One Vanderbilt and the Rockefeller Center - and further beyond, Central Park, Brooklyn, the East River and the Hudson River. If you download the official Empire State Building multi-media tour you can get details of the view from every vantage point. There are even heaters to keep you cosy whatever the time of year. Top of the Rock Where: Midtown Manhattan When: Opened 1933 (Observation deck 2005)Height of Observation deck: 850 ft (67, 69 and 70th floors) The only problem with being up the Empire State Building is that you can’t see the Empire State Building! To capture that iconic landmark in your photos you could instead consider taking the elevator to one of three - yes three - observation decks at the Rockefeller Center - known as the Top of the Rock. Hold tight as you’re whisked to the 67th floor in just 42 seconds, to an indoor deck with views of the Empire State. Or choose floor 69 for an outdoor deck with glass walls and 270o views. From the 70th floor you have 360o views of Manhattan without having to shoot through glass. Once you’ve seen some of the best sights in New York from above - you can see them again from below, since the Rockefeller Center is just a hop and a skip away from Times Square, 5th Avenue, MOMA, Central Park and loads more hot spots. One World Observatory Where: Lower ManhattanWhen: Opened 2014 (Observation deck 2015)Height of Observation deck: 1,268 ft (102nd floor) Could the best birds-eye view of New York City be from the One World Observatory, the breath-taking observation deck at One World Trade Center (the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere)? Be enthralled by its exciting elevator where all four walls are digital screens. There’s more impressive tech as you ascend to the 102nd floor, with a time-lapse transformation of New York from the 17th century to today. Check out another cool video of life in New York in the See Forever Theatre, then cameras at the ready to capture the scene as you gaze through the glass at Manhattan, Brooklyn and the Statue of Liberty spread below. Maybe you’ll even treat yourself to a speciality cocktail - or the full a la carte menu - at ONE dine restaurant and bar? Edge Where: Hudson YardsWhen: Opened 2020Height of Observation deck: 1,131 ft, 345 meters (100th floor)The Apex (part of the City Climb Experience): 1,271 ft, 387 meters Take it to the top! The Apex is not only the highest observation deck in New York City - but in the whole of the Western hemisphere! Opened in 2020 Edge is a new kid among the observation decks - but super cool since, if you dare, you can grab the very best views of Manhattan through its glass floor.It’s right in the heart of Hudson Yards, New York’s newest neighbourhood where residents, tourists - and you! - can enjoy over 100 shops, food stops, public art and public gardens. Soar up to the 100th floor to visit the champagne bar, stake out the sky deck or walk upstairs to the 101st floor, for flawless 360o views of New York and New Jersey. Ratchet up the fun (and fear) factor even more at City Climb NYC, which opened in 2021. Dare you don a harness to scale the outside of the skyscraper to the highest observation deck in New York? Look out from The Cliff (the first outdoor platform) then ascend 161 steps of The Stair to The Apex for truly vertiginous views. No walls, no glass - but a giddying thrill if you’re brave enough to lean out at a height of 1,271 feet! The Vessel Whilst we’re in Hudson Yards, can we give a quick honorary mention to The Vessel? Whilst not an observation deck, this bronze honey-comb of stair-cases is certainly worth the climb if you’re looking for a new perspective on the city. Soaring 150ft, it cost an eye-watering $200million and is the centerpiece of this shiny new district where former industrial properties have been transformed into the most expensive real-estate development in US history! The High Line It’s also a great spot to take a stroll on the High Line, around 2km of stunning green walkway following the course of a former elevated railroad. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city streets and see New York from a new angle, whilst enjoying art, sculpture and landscaped planting. When you’ve taken all your pics, don’t forget to drop off at Chelsea Market in the Meatpacking District, renowned as one of the world’s best indoor markets, for foodie treats and quirky independent retailers. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Where: Midtown ManhattanWhen: Opened 2021Height of Observation deck: 1,063 ft (92nd floor) Back to the observation decks - and have we saved the best til last? Another new addition to the skydeck roster, opened in 2021, SUMMIT takes views to a whole new level thanks to a thrilling glass elevator and amazing interactive installations created by artist Kenzo Digital. He describes it as an attempt to express the “intoxicating inspiration of New York City.” As a unique experience, plus the best view of the Empire State and Chrysler buildings, it’s not to be missed! Oh and did we mention that the photo opps are insane? Get your senses in a spin on the top three floors of One Vanderbilt, one of Manhattan’s tallest skyscrapers, right next-door to Grand Central Terminal. Start your experience in ‘Transcendence 1’, with floor-to-ceiling windows and reflective surfaces designed to extend the sky so, whether its sunny, rainy or cloudy, you feel like you’re floating in air! Experience ‘Affinity’ where you’re surrounded by huge silver balloons, look for your face in the clouds of ‘Unity’, then dare yourself to stand and stare down from Levitation, transparent skyboxes hanging over 1,000 feet above Manhattan.Catch your breath in Aprés bar and lounge, before taking Ascent, the two glass elevators that offer an even more dizzying view of New York. If you choose the ultimate ticket you’ll get a SUMMIT signature cocktail too. They even offer proposal packages for anyone looking for an extra special engagement! With an All-Inclusive Pass the sky’s the limit. If this round-up has left you feeling on top of the world, remember to always take your adventures to new heights - with Go City.
Jo Cooke
Friends Header
Blog

Friends Locations in New York City

How you doin'? If you’re a Friends fan on a break in New York City, you have to check out these familiar locations.
Seren Morris
Blog

New York in November

There's something quite enchanting about wintertime in New York – the weather is brisk, the streets are lit up, and the air is filled with the first signs of holiday cheer. From the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to ice skating at the Rockefeller, the city has a little something to offer for everybody. If you’re planning on making the trip, have a read through our guide of some of the best activities and events taking place throughout the month. To ensure that you don’t miss out on a thing, check out our Explorer pass and All-Inclusive pass. With Go City, you can see more, for less. Get into the Holiday Spirit Wintertime in the city brings a whole host of seasonal, family-friendly activities. Towards the end of the month, New York Botanical Garden’s beloved train show opens its doors. With around 200 intricate replicas of steam engines and iconic landmarks delightfully constructed from natural materials in their rawest form – think pinecones, acorns and seeds, this unique holiday experience is nothing but a sight to behold. In addition, the exhibit showcases antique models from the 1800s. Thoroughly captivating and festive, the show perfectly captures the beauty of the city in miniature. Each year, the city transforms into an other-worldly wonderland with millions of holiday lights right after Thanksgiving. Those who are interested in experiencing the stunning over the top displays up close should consider taking a Christmas Lights Tour. Along the route, you’ll move through dazzling displays of toy soldiers, Santa Claus and reindeer which illuminate the residences of Brooklyn. Totally exciting and Instagram-worthy, this is the perfect activity for any holiday lover. If it’s a unique shopping experience that you’re after, look no further. Every year, Union Square’s Holiday Market draws in millions of shoppers with a wide array of affordable, quality items. With over 100 booths offering everything from handmade accessories and souvenirs to delicious food and drink, you don't want to miss out on this one. Enjoy a hot chocolate, browse the stalls, or check out the live music – the day is yours! See the Classics You’ve seen it in all the movies: the iconic Rockefeller ice skating rink. Every year without fail, this classic winter attraction ushers in the holiday season right in the center of Manhattan. Attracting more than 150, 000 skaters every season, this uber-popular attraction has never failed to delight. Family-friendly and fun, this place offers the perfect NYC ice skating experience for those of all ages. Since the rink is prone to long lines during this time of year, we suggest looking into special tickets if you’re trying to cut down on time. One of our favorite things to do in November in New York is to head down to the city center to catch the Thanksgiving Day Parade. Since originating in 1924, the parade has grown to become the largest in the world, now drawing in a huge crowd of spectators each year. An iconic New York tradition as watched by millions of Americans, the event is sure to put a smile on anybody’s face. Featuring floats, giant character balloons, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend Thanksgiving Day. Those who want to get into the Christmas spirit early should definitely look into booking tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. A classic New York holiday activity, this annual music stage show offers its own original music score, a flying Santa Claus, and of course, the much-vaunted dazzling precision of the Rockettes. An iconic spectacle of music, dance, and festivity, this one-of-a-kind tradition is nothing short of mesmerizing. Find Fun Activities If you’re trying to avoid the frosty weather, why not make time to visit one of New York’s most widely acclaimed cultural amenities? Located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, the American Museum of Natural History cultivates curiosity and interpretation in the natural world. Home to an expansive collection of over 30 million artefacts, you’ll be spoiled for choice with this one. Fascinating and fun, the museum provides a great educational experience for those of all ages. Art is everywhere in New York, so it’s no surprise that the city provides some fabulous creative institutions. Celebrating over 100 years of contemporary American art, the Whitney Museum serves to preserve, protect and interpret the works of great US artists. Arguably the finest holding of its kind in the world, the permanent collection features pieces by Jasper Johns, Cy Twombly, and Cindy Sherman. A great stop for all art lovers, this place would make the perfect day trip. New York City is well-recognized for its thriving comedy scene. If you’re interested in seeing a show, why not check out the New York Comedy Festival? Kicking off mid-November, the event features an impressive lineup of some of the city’s biggest laugh-out-loud performers. Comedy fans will be delighted by the number of shows taking place across five boroughs. With previous performances from David Cross, Marc Maron, and even Conan O’Brien, there’s no excuse to skip out on this one. Another great indoor activity is the New York City Horror Film Festival. Attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees each year, this event has grown to become the largest and most highly respected film festival of its kind. From cult classics to newer contributions to the genre, the event offers a wide variety of screenings to suit every taste. Those who are especially interested in horror should be able to attend special events, masterclasses and celebrity Q&As. November is one of the most fun and exciting times to see New York. Attractive events and holiday cheer all across the city make it a great time for tourists to go and explore. Whether you’re visiting unique landmarks, discovering world-renowned museums, or trying out different foodie attractions, one thing’s for sure – your trip won’t be boring! To make the most out of your vacation, check out our All-Inclusive pass and Explorer pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

Thick check Icon