Should I buy Go City’s Orlando pass or get individual tickets?

Long story short: convenience, ease of use and potentially substantial savings give the pass the edge.

Published: January 19, 2026
Alligators in Orlando

Orlando promises a hugely varied pick’n’mix of top attractions – think everything from Lego to space exploration; alligators to A-list waxworks at Madame Tussauds – and the cost soon adds up. Which is where the Go City Orlando pass comes in. But is it really a better option than buying your tickets on the go? Spoiler: we reckon it is. Our guide walks you through the pros and cons of both, using real numbers and examples so you can make up your own mind.

Firstly, what is a sightseeing pass?

In simple terms, a pass like Go City Orlando’s bundles admission to stacks of must-see attractions for one upfront price. It’s a VIP ticket to Orlando’s greatest hits, with everything you need – maps, tickets, booking links and more – all stored in one easy-to-use app. Just flash your pass at your chosen attractions and you’re in!

Orlando attractions

Get access to more than 30 top Orlando attractions!

The pros of using a pass

Lock in costs before you travel

Orlando budgeting gets slippery fast. But with the Go City Orlando pass you pay just once to unlock dozens of great experiences. If Kennedy Space Center is on your list (and it really, really should be), you’re already most of the way to value. Add an airboat ride, Gatorland, and a couple of museums, and the savings really start to stack. The pass’s single upfront price also makes for fewer surprises and easier planning, especially for families. 

Discover hidden gems

Of course, you’ll already have your Orlando bucket-listers locked in (looking at you, Kennedy Space Center, Gatorland and Madame Tussauds). But what about the under-the-radar attractions you might not otherwise consider? The Go City Orlando pass includes several cool surprises, like adventure golf, Orlando Magic basketball tickets and the weird and wonderful world of WonderWorks. And remember, the more you see and do with your pass, the more you’ll save vs buying tickets individually.

One app, no hassle

The Go City app stores all your Orlando sightseeing tools in one place. That means no piles of printouts, mislaid emails, or forgotten attraction opening times. It's sightseeing made simple.

Complete flexibility 

Kennedy Space Center or the Orlando Eye? Boggy Creek airboat tour or the Sea Life Aquarium? Don’t fritter away precious hours squabbling over them: with a Go City Orlando pass you can do it all. Just check the app for availability and note that popular attractions may require advance booking (very straightforward via the app). 

Pass perks

Orlando pass attractions occasionally include perks that you might not otherwise have access to. We’re talking VIP treats like skip-the-line entry, restaurant discounts and other cool freebies.

Saturn V at Kennedy Space Center

Don't skip your chance to encounter the Saturn V rocket at Kennedy Space Center!

The pros of individual tickets 

Of course the Go City Orlando pass won’t be for everyone. If you’re in town for non-pass theme parks like Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World (and don’t plan to do much else), paying as you go will likely work out better for you.

No upfront commitment

If you’re planning to visit one or maybe two paid attractions, single tickets can be more cost-effective. With individual tickets, you only pay for what you actually use.

Superior spontaneity

With individual tickets, there’s zero pressure to tick off attractions and more time to meander, popping into the occasional animal attraction or quirky museum if the mood takes you. But do keep in mind that popular spots often sell out or cost more during peak seasons.

Let's compare...
 

Feature 

Go City Orlando passes

Individual tickets 

Upfront cost 

✔ Paid in advance, easier to budget 

✖ Pay per attraction, adds up fast 

Total savings 

✔ The more you see, the more you save 

✖ No guaranteed savings 

Convenience 

✔ One app, one QR code, done 

✖ Booking and managing multiple tickets separately 

Extra perks 

✔ Skip-the-line access, shop discounts, food offers, free guides 

✖ None – you get what you pay for 

Food & drink deals 

✔ Includes some options and offers 

✖ Not included 

Hidden gems 

✔ Curated line-up by local experts 

✔They’re out there, you’ll just need to do some more research 

Flexibility 

✔ Visit what you want, when you want 

✔ Freedom to pick day-by-day 

Risk of overspending 

✔ No nasty surprises 

✖ Hard to track daily spend 

How much are you actually saving? 

Here’s an example of what a standard 2-day Orlando itinerary might cost with individual tickets: 

Day 1

  • Kennedy Space Center: $83
  • Madame Tussauds: $32
  • Boggy Creek airboat tour: $46

Day 2

  • Legoland Florida Resort: $129
  • Orlando Eye: $32
  • Magic dinner show: $39

That’s a total cost of $351. Now compare that to a 2‑day Orlando All-Inclusive Pass, priced at $219. In this example, you’d save about $132 or around 38%*, and you might still have room to squeeze in another attraction or two along the way, potentially boosting your savings even further.

Don’t forget – the pass also includes the handy app, extra perks and peace of mind that you won’t need to buy expensive tickets on the fly. 

*prices accurate as of January 2026

Child building with Lego

Legoland Florida Resort is a major hit with families.

Final verdict: should you go for the pass?

Absolutely you should! Orlando has some of the best attractions in all of Florida and there’s every chance you’ll want to visit enough of them that the Go City Orlando pass quickly pays for itself, and then some. Costs stay static and your whole itinerary lives in one easy app, alongside maps, tickets, opening hours and more. That means less admin, and more time for Orlando sightseeing. 

Looking for more Orlando inspo? Get the lowdown on why WonderWorks is an Orlando must-do and acquaint yourself fully with the different types of Orlando passes that are available from Go City. 

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. 

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® - just choose a pass to get started!

Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Assisted by AI
Freelance travel writer
Assisted by AI

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.This article was authored with the support of AI technology. The Go City team has reviewed this piece to ensure it meets our high standards for quality, accuracy and relevance.

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Getting Around Orlando - How to Get Around Orlando for Tourists

Planning to spend some time exploring Orlando? We put together a go-to guide packed with information for getting around the city and beyond. Renting a car is recommended as it’s the most convenient option for getting around Orlando. Alternative options include public transportation, taxis, and hotel shuttle services. Many hotels located near I-Drive and other popular attractions offer free or inexpensive shuttles to attractions as well. What about if you're planning to visit lots of Orlando attractions? Be sure to check out the pass for Orlando by Go City® – the more you do, the more you save. By Car (Recommended) The easiest and most convenient way to get around Orlando is by car, as many of the city’s top attractions are spread out and require multiple transfers on public transportation. If you plan on driving, be sure to keep some cash on hand for tolls and consider investing in a good map (free area maps provided by attractions are not the most reliable). Or, bring a GPS with you and ensure you have downloaded relevant online maps on your phone. If you have access to a SunPass, EZ-Pass, I-Pass, or anything like that, we also recommend bringing it along for this trip. Tolls can be expensive and many areas have shifted to electronic-only tolling. By I-Ride Trolley in the International Drive Area If you plan to stay in the International Drive (also called I-Drive) area, consider purchasing a pass for the I-Ride Trolley which services lots of attractions in the area including SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and more. Single rides are available but require exact change. I-Ride Trolley stops include 6 theme parks, more than 200 restaurants, more than 485 shops and premium outlets, over 30,000 hotel rooms, and more. Visit iridetrolley.com for more information. By bus LYNX, Orlando’s comprehensive bus system can get visitors to most areas in Orlando and beyond, but it can be a hassle when it comes to trip planning and bus schedules. Their bus stops are marked with a pink bus or paw print sign and run every 15, 30, or 60 minutes depending on the route. Check their site for schedules and route maps. LYMMO, Orlando’s free downtown circulator bus service offers service throughout the immediate downtown Orlando area. Check their site for schedules and route maps. Keep in mind that most public transit services stop operating around midnight or earlier. By taxi or ride-share Taxis are typically available at major attractions and most hotels. However, most visitors find that renting a car is less expensive than relying on taxis. You might also opt to use a ride-share service like Lyft or Uber if you're only trying to get between a few places (or if you're going out for the evening and don't want to drive). Keep in mind that you'll need to download the app of your chosen service in advance. Save up to 50% on Orlando attractions Discover our full line-up of Orlando attractions from Kennedy Space Center to Fun Spot America. 🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you. 😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option.
Casey Makovich
friends enjoying a night out
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Thursday Thrills: The Ultimate Orlando Day Out

You’ve landed in Orlando, the playground of Florida, but it’s not just the weekends that pack a punch here. Thursdays in Orlando sparkle with possibility—fewer crowds, cool events, and a city that never sleeps on the fun. Whether you’re seeking theme park thrills, eye-popping museums, family-friendly wildlife, or just the perfect meal to feast on, we’ve scouted the best ways to make your Thursday unforgettable. From world-class attractions to quirky surprises and delicious pit stops, let us show you how to make every Thursday in Orlando a day to remember.  Here’s our cheat sheet to an amazing Thursday in Orlando:  Kennedy Space Center  The Orlando Eye  SEA LIFE Aquarium  WonderWorks  Gatorland  Island H2O Water Park  Madame Tussauds Orlando  The Outta Control Magic Dinner Show  Disney Springs nightlife and foodie finds  Kennedy Space Center: Launch your Thursday into Orbit  Fuel up your curiosity and begin your Thursday at the Kennedy Space Center, where the wonders of human exploration blast off—literally. You’ll stand beneath Saturn V rockets, gaze at real Space Shuttles, and maybe catch an astronaut talk that gives goosebumps in all the best ways. The Center’s sprawling campus lets you experience riveting stories of space discovery, from the Space Race to today’s Mars missions.  What makes a Thursday special here? The crowds are a little lighter, making for a more personalized visit. Get up close with the Atlantis Shuttle, walk beneath genuine moon rockets, and interact with countless hands-on exhibits. Younger visitors will love the immersive astronaut training simulators—where you can “float” in space or try your hand at docking the International Space Station.  If you’re feeling peckish, try the Moon Rock Café for classic American bites and a stellar view of the Rocket Garden—best paired with a locally-brewed “Space Dust” IPA if you’re over 21. Don’t miss the IMAX theater for a larger-than-life blast-off, or the bus tour to Saturn V Center, which will have you marking your calendar for the next real launch. It’s educational, it’s jaw-dropping, and it sets the tone for an adventurous Thursday in Orlando.  The Orlando Eye: Take in the City from New Heights  Nothing says “you’re in Orlando now” like a slow ride on The Orlando Eye, officially known as The Wheel at ICON Park. Soar 400 feet above the city and the entire I-Drive entertainment district comes into view. In one gentle revolution (about 20 minutes), you’ll spot theme parks, lakes, and on clear days, even the launch pads at Kennedy.  Thursdays are prime for visits—smaller crowds mean less waiting and more time to soak up those panoramic vistas in a climate-controlled capsule. The ride feels peaceful, with bubbles of excitement as you reach the top and see the Orlando sprawl stretch toward the horizon. For a treat, time your ride for sunset for dazzling golden skies, or go after dark and watch the city light up.  If you’re celebrating a special Thursday, look into the Sky Bar cabins serving up champagne or craft cocktails for a mid-air toast. Afterwards, take a stroll through ICON Park—neon-lit, buzzy, and full of fun places to grab a bite, from casual BBQ to upscale seafood. Don’t forget to snap that perfect selfie with the Eye behind you; it’s one of the city’s best backdrops!  WonderWorks: Mind-Bending Fun for All Ages  WonderWorks flips your Thursday upside-down—quite literally, thanks to the dazzling upside-down façade that greets you curbside. Part science museum, part playground, this attraction is a paradise for the eternally curious. Step inside and enter a world where imagination reigns: hurricane simulators, rope courses, lie detector tests, and laser tag await.  With fewer school groups on Thursdays, you can bounce from zone to zone with ease, challenging friends to the Mind Ball game or braving the Earthquake Café (we dare you to try the 5.3 Richter scale simulation with your coffee in hand!). The hands-on exhibits encourage everyone to play, learn, and laugh, making it the ultimate stop for energetic families or those young at heart.  Special mention goes to the Wonder Coaster ride (you build your own roller coaster and then “ride” it in VR!) and the Bubble Lab, where you can literally encase yourself in a giant bubble—your Insta followers will thank you. If you’re traveling with tweens or teens, this is the place to let them run wild before moving on to the next Orlando thrill.  Gatorland: Wild Encounters, Pure Florida Vibes  Nothing says “Orlando adventure” like meeting its most famous local residents—the gators! Gatorland is all about swampy fun, with thousands of alligators and crocodiles living their best lives across lush outdoor marshes and boardwalks. You’ll catch everything from fierce feeding demonstrations to gentle petting zoo encounters all under the supervision of expert trainers.  Thursdays are especially rewarding here—you’ll dodge the weekend crowds and get closer access to those “up close” experiences. Brave souls can sign up for Gatorland’s zipline, soaring above the gator ponds for a pulse-racing thrill (there’s even a wheelchair-friendly zipline for all to enjoy). The Screamin’ Gator Zip Line gives you heart-pounding goosebumps and a bird’s-eye view of the scaly action below.  Feeling less daring? Take it easy and wander the scenic swamp boardwalks or catch the Gator Jumparoo Show, where alligators leap for their lunch to the amazed cheers of the crowd. Kids can cool off at the fun splash pad, and the train ride offers a laid-back loop of the park for weary legs. Before you leave, try the onsite eatery’s fried gator bites—a quirky, only-in-Florida snack that, we promise, is tastier than it sounds!  Island H2O Water Park: Slide Your Way into Thursday  When the Florida sun starts blazing, nothing beats making a splash at Island H2O Water Park. This tech-savvy water park offers more than 20 unique rides, wave pools, and splash zones—plus an interactive app that lets you choose music, launch light shows, and snap digital memories while zipping down slides.  Come Thursday, the atmosphere is vibrant but mellow, making it blissfully easy to snag the best cabanas or race your mates down the “Hashtag Heights” slide without the long waits. Kids love the kid-friendly splash lagoons and lazy river, while thrill-seekers go straight for the multi-story drop slides and the Live Streaming Zone, which lets you broadcast your water-fueled exploits with friends back home.  Island H2O goes above and beyond with their immersive experience—there’s live DJ music, and with app-based wristbands, you even control what’s playing while you float. With plenty of food trucks on-site (tacos, burgers, ice cream—you get the vibe), you’re set for hours of watery fun. Don’t forget flip-flops and sunscreen!  Madame Tussauds Orlando: Strike a Pose  Get ready to rub shoulders with the rich and famous—well, sort of! Madame Tussauds Orlando offers a who’s-who of wax figures so lifelike, you’ll do a double-take. Snap a selfie with Taylor Swift, shoot hoops beside Shaquille O’Neal, chill with Morgan Freeman, or head to a space-themed area for your Buzz Aldrin shot.  The vibe is pure fun, with themed sets, props, and playful staff happy to help you capture your favorite poses. On Thursdays, you can take your time, make silly faces with the celebs, and enjoy the interactive exhibits with fewer folks crowding your shot. It’s as much about creativity as celebrity—set up your own “red carpet moment” or go for one of the quirky behind-the-scenes experiences.  If you’re with friends who love pop culture or have a teen obsessed with social media, this spot is a hit. Plus—it’s right next door to other I-Drive attractions, so you can double up with SEA LIFE Aquarium or The Orlando Eye for a half-day of laughs and “did that really just happen?” moments.  Disney Springs: Thursday Evenings, Live Music, and Sweet Treats  Wrap up your Thursday in Orlando with a trip to Disney Springs—the city’s premier entertainment, dining, and shopping district. As twilight falls, the place comes alive with live music on the patios, illuminated fountains, and venues buzzing with locals and tourists alike.  Thursday nights are perfect for exploring without the Saturday crush. Wander the waterfront, catch a set at the Waterview Park stage, or sit under the lights at The Boathouse with fresh oysters and an Old Fashioned. Got a sweet tooth? You can’t go wrong with cookies from Gideon’s Bakehouse or decadent chocolates at The Ganachery. For a quick dinner with standout flavor, try Polite Pig’s famous brisket or Wolfgang Puck’s signature pizza.  Love shopping? Find everything from Disney fashion to unique homewares and trendy jewelry—many shops stay open late. If you’re looking for a nightcap, wander over to Wine Bar George for top-notch pours, or sip a Florida ale at Dockside Margaritas. The night air is warm, the lights twinkle, and your Thursday feels absolutely magical.    Orlando on a Thursday? Unbeatable. You’ve got wild animal encounters, world-class amusements, foodie heavens, and experiences that turn a midweek day into something epic. Whether you’re orbiting rockets at Kennedy, gawking at gators, or living it up at Disney Springs, Thursday is your golden ticket to seeing the city’s bold, brilliant best. Trust us—skip the “just another Thursday” routine and let Orlando show you how it’s done.    Check out our guide to magnificent mornings in Orlando, and why not explore the fascinating Museum of Illusions?  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started! 
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Orlando in December

When picturing Orlando, the first thing that comes to mind may be its summery weather and famous outdoor attractions. Still, the city comes alive during the wintertime, with fun events, seasonal entertainment and holiday cheer. There's always something going on during this time of the year, you just need to know where to look! Check out the dazzling light displays at Harry P. Leu Gardens, or cozy up in a museum café. Or, if you’re travelling with family, head over to Legoland for fantastic seasonal shows, or marvel at Disney’s annual holiday parade. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, or a seasoned veteran to the area, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. For a taste of Orlando during the festive season, check out our list of the best things to do during the month of December! Whatever you choose to do, we’re sure it’ll be great. Hit the Classics Every theme park worth its name knows how to do Christmas right – and Magic Kingdom is no exception to this rule. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, this place has long been one of the major attractions of the city – and it’s easy to see why. The park presents over 40 rides and attractions to be enjoyed, including It’s a Small World, Space Mountain, and of course, its iconic Cinderella Castle. But as if this place wasn’t magical enough, you can catch seasonal firework displays, parades, and magical ‘’snowfalls’’, turning the park into a captivating winter wonderland. A total classic for any time of the year, this quintessential Orlando mainstay is sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Another one of our favorite theme park experiences for the month of December is available at Epcot. Staying true to the park’s main theme, the International Festival of the Holidays goes all out to provide a global celebration of the holiday season. Enjoy various iterations of Christmas through music, cuisine and special events. Each night all throughout the month, a celebrity will tell the story of Christmas accompanied by an orchestra and choir. Learn more about the time-honored traditions of different countries and soak up the holiday spirit. We especially love this take because it provides something a little different, with no less of the fun. See the Sites For those chilly December evenings, why not head out to the theater? If you’re looking for art and culture in the City Beautiful, you might be pleasantly surprised by what the area has to offer. For years, the Orlando Theatre has served as a regular entertainment house for some of the most talented performers you’ll ever see. Whether you’re looking to catch a Broadway show, see one of your favorite musicians, or laugh harder than ever with some live standup, this place has it all. In the past, the center has played host to the likes of Elton John, Paul McCartney and John Mulaney. Serving up engaging performances all throughout the week, this place would provide the perfect evening out in the city. Though December weather is generally pretty temperate, some days can get a little chilly. If you’re looking for a great colder weather activity, look no further than the Orlando Museum of Art. Founded way back in 1924, this place has long played a fundamental role in the city’s artistic community. In its impressive collection, you’ll find everything from Contemporary and American art to that of the Ancient Americas. We recommend checking the website before going for any upcoming exhibitions. With so much to see and learn, it'd be easy to just get lost here exploring this unique repository. Get Festive December is a fantastic time to visit some of Orlando’s famed theme parks, since the weather will be more bearable and the lines shorter. Great for those travelling with family, we’d consider Legoland way up there with Magic Kingdom as one of the top theme parks in the city. With over 50 rides, shows and attractions to choose from, the possibilities are pretty much endless here. Highlights include The Great Lego Race, The Dragon, and Miniland USA. Come Christmastime, the park transforms into an exciting dreamland, offering experiences worth treasuring forever. Catch seasonal shows, activities, sparkling lights, and more! With a wide variety of things to do stretching all throughout the month, there’s plenty of fun to be had here. Just because the city has cooled down doesn’t mean you have to stay huddled up inside! With its unique tropical climate, Florida is home to many wonderful green spaces just waiting to be discovered. An unmissable stop for all nature lovers, Harry P. Leu Gardens is well-recognized for its diverse collection of exotic plants. Covering over 40 acres, this charming historic park promises meticulously landscaped grounds and lakes, and great walking trails to enjoy. This stunning urban oasis is especially magical in the wintertime, when you can catch the Dazzling Nights display all throughout the month of December. Beautiful, calm and serene, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend some time away from the city. For a truly spectacular winter wonderland experience, check out Night of a Million Lights. Running all throughout the month, this event invites guests to enjoy a beautifully decorated fairytale neighborhood. Eat seasonal snacks as you stroll. Take a tram ride through the village. Enjoy a traditional Christmas market. Buying a ticket to this event provides support for ill children, so be sure to check it out. All-round feel good and super sparkly, this one should rank right at the top of the itinerary! While you might not get blankets of snow and wintry temperatures, no city knows how to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year better than Orlando. From exciting parades to over-the-top light displays, there’s much to do and see here for every type of traveller. Explore the city’s fantastic cultural institutions. Take a holiday tour of Epcot. Or, hang out and enjoy the sights at the Night of a Million Lights. Trust us when we say, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to festive activities and events to choose from. To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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