Go City vs CityPASS: Which Attraction Pass Saves You More?
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Planning a city vacation with your family can feel like managing a full-on logistics operation—especially when you’re trying to see it all without overspending.
I’ve spent countless hours researching the price of things to do and often come back to an attraction pass to save money.
If you’ve been weighing Go City vs CityPASS, you’re in the right place. I’ve used both with my family in cities like Boston, Seattle, New Orleans, and more. Here’s everything you need to know to pick the best pass for your next family adventure.
What Are Go City and CityPASS?
Go City and CityPASS are two of the most popular attraction passes in the U.S., offering discounted access to top tourist spots. They’re designed to save you money and streamline entry, but they work differently:
- Go City: Offers both All-Inclusive and Explorer Passes, allowing you to visit a set number of attractions (Explorer) or unlimited ones within a certain number of days (All-Inclusive).
- CityPASS: Offers bundled tickets to a fixed list of top attractions, usually five, for a set price.
Both passes are available in many major cities and can be bought online in advance (affiliate links included below).
👉 Check Go City Prices & Cities
👉 Compare with CityPASS Offers
Key Differences Between Go City and CityPASS
Here’s how these passes really compare:
| Feature | Go City | CityPASS |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | High (especially All-Inclusive) | Moderate (set attractions) |
| Price Range | Wide, depending on pass type | Usually mid-range |
| Cities Available | 25+ cities globally | 15 U.S. & Canada cities |
| Type of Pass | All-Inclusive or Explorer | Fixed bundle |
| Best For | Variety seekers, spontaneous plans | Focused sightseeing |
Go City is ideal for families who want maximum flexibility, while CityPASS works best if you want to hit the highlights without overthinking.
Which One Is Better for Families?
In our experience, Go City gave us the freedom to say “Let’s do the aquarium today and a river cruise tomorrow” without extra cost. We used it in Boston and New Orleans, where the All-Inclusive option let us decide on the go.
CityPASS, on the other hand, was perfect for our Seattle and Tampa trips where we knew the top attractions we wanted—like the Shedd Aquarium and the Museum of Science and Industry. Teens appreciated not being overscheduled while still hitting the best sights.
For families with teens, the Go City card might be better if your kids change their minds (a lot). Teens don’t always want to wake up early for museums—this is where Go City helps you pivot easily. If you’ve got a clear itinerary, CityPASS will save you time and money.
Price Comparison: Where You Save the Most
Example: Boston (2 Adults + 2 Teens)
- Go City All-Inclusive (2-Day): $229 per adult, $189 per teen
- CityPASS: Not available
We visited:
- New England Aquarium ($34)
- Boston Duck Tour ($52)
- Museum of Science ($29)
- Fenway Park Tour ($25)
Total Value: $140+ per person
Go City Cost: $229
Savings: Break-even at 4+ attractions in 2 days
Example: Chicago (2 Adults + 2 Teens)
- CityPASS: $134 per adult, $114 per teen
- Go City Explorer (3-choice): $89 per adult, $69 per teen
Visited:
- Shedd Aquarium ($44)
- Skydeck ($30)
- Field Museum ($32)
Total Value: $106
CityPASS Cost: $134 (includes two additional attractions)
Savings: Better with Go City if doing only 3; CityPASS wins with all 5.
Pros and Cons of Each
Go City
Pros:
- Great for spontaneous planners
- Huge list of attractions
- Offers both all-inclusive and customizable options
Cons:
- Can feel rushed if trying to do too much
- Not always available in smaller cities
CityPASS
Pros:
- Curated list of must-sees
- Simple to plan
- Often cheaper if visiting all included spots
Cons:
- Less flexibility
- Not ideal if you want offbeat or lesser-known attractions
How to Choose the Best Pass for Your Trip
Ask yourself:
- Do you like planning everything in advance? → Go with CityPASS
- Do your teens prefer deciding in the moment? → Choose Go City
- Are you visiting a city like New Orleans or Orlando? → Check if both passes are available (they’re not always!)
If flexibility is key, especially for families who change plans based on weather or energy levels, Go City is the winner. If you’re looking to visit top attractions and save money, CityPASS is a solid choice.
👉 Ready to pick? Use these links to get the best deal:
💡 Want even more flexibility on the road? Pair your pass with one of these best road trip planning apps to map out attractions, food stops, and detours your teens will actually enjoy.
Final Thoughts: Which Attraction Pass Wins?
Honestly, both are great tools for budget-conscious, experience-hungry families. The real winner is the pass that fits your travel style best. We’ve used both depending on the city and the vibe of our trip. For cities where flexibility and volume are key (Boston, Seattle), Go City wins. For cities with a clear list of must-see places (Chicago, Tampa), CityPASS is your best bet.
So go ahead—match your travel personality to your pass, and get exploring!
More Helpful Planning Posts:
- Simplify Your Travel Planning
- Fail-Proof Travel Budget
- Save Money on Attractions
- Travel Planning Apps
- How to Use Roadtrippers
Want more inspiration for your next city adventure? National Geographic’s travel guides offer deep dives into culture, history, and attractions beyond the usual tourist spots.
FAQ Go City vs CityPASS:
Q: Can I use both Go City and CityPASS in one trip?
A: Yes, but it might not be cost-effective unless you’re doing an extended stay.
Q: Are these passes refundable?
A: Both offer refund policies within a certain timeframe. Check the terms before purchasing.
Q: Do I need to make reservations for attractions?
A: Some attractions require advance reservations, especially during peak travel times. Always check after purchase.
Until your next road trip, happy planning!
