Discovering New York with the Sightseeing Pass

When I first heard about the New York Sightseeing Pass, I was intrigued by the idea of having access to over 100 attractions in the city that never sleeps. As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for ways to make travel more enjoyable and less stressful for families. So, I decided to take my family on an adventure to The Bronx and beyond, armed with this pass.

A Family Adventure Begins

Our journey began with a sense of excitement and anticipation. With three kids in tow, I knew that planning was key to making the most of our six-day pass. We started by booking some of the must-see attractions in advance, like the Statue of Liberty tour and the 9/11 walking tour. This turned out to be a great decision, as it ensured we didn’t miss out on these iconic experiences.

One of the highlights of our trip was the 9/11 walking tour. Our guide, Jonathan, was fantastic, and his storytelling brought the history of that day to life in a way that was both educational and moving. It was a powerful experience that left a lasting impression on all of us.

The American Museum of Natural History was another stop on our itinerary. While it may be more kid-oriented, it was a hit with our family. The kids loved exploring the exhibits, and it was a fun way to spend a few hours. Plus, it brought back memories of the “Night at the Museum” movie, which added an extra layer of excitement.

Exploring the City with Ease

One of the things I loved about the Sightseeing Pass was the flexibility it offered. We hopped on the Big Bus tour to get a feel for the city and see some of the major landmarks. It was a relaxing way to take in the sights, and the kids enjoyed the open-top bus ride.

We also visited the Central Park Zoo, which was a delightful experience. The kids were thrilled to see the Red Pandas and Snow Leopards up close. It was a great way to spend an hour, even though it was bustling with school kids on day trips.

The Empire State Building was a personal favorite of mine. As a photography enthusiast, I appreciated the unobstructed views it offered. While the queues were long, we opted for the stairs, which turned out to be quite the workout. But the breathtaking views from the top made it all worthwhile.

Making Memories and Saving Money

The Sightseeing Pass not only allowed us to explore a wide range of attractions but also saved us a significant amount of money. We estimated that we saved around $600, which was a pleasant surprise. While we did encounter a hiccup with Luna Park, where the pass wasn’t accepted until late May, the overall experience was positive.

We also had a blast at Bowlero, where we enjoyed a game of bowling and some arcade fun. It was a great way to unwind and have some family-friendly entertainment.

Our adventure concluded with a visit to the One World Observatory. The views from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere were nothing short of spectacular. We were fortunate to have clear skies, which made the experience even more memorable.

In the end, the New York Sightseeing Pass proved to be a fantastic way to explore the city with my family. It offered convenience, flexibility, and savings, making it a valuable tool for any family looking to make the most of their time in New York City. If you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, I highly recommend giving it a try. It’s a surefire way to create lasting memories with your loved ones.