New York City Pass

I was excited when I heard about New York CityPass. We have been planning on going to New York for the longest time and I think this just might be the impetus we need to get us going.

Sure, we can always find hotel deals, but the thought of sightseeing and all the extra expenses we would have to get a family of five to all the New York attractions is what has held us back. So you can imagine how a $65 pass for adults and a $49 pass for children would excite me. With a New York City Pass, you get to see these famous landmarks that are all included in the booklet: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the new Greek and Roman galleries, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Guggenheim Museum, the American Museum of Natural History, a trip to the top of the Empire State Building Observatory, and tour of the Manhattan skyline from the water aboard a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise. Doesn't that just about cover a comprehensive yet educational tour of New York?

Not only does the booklet include tickets to these attractions, it also provides you with maps and tips on the best times to go to the different venues. I found it quite amusing that their website has a 'sanity-saving tips for traveling with children' section. I have to say, the tips were very helpful and appropriate.

These passes are valid from December 15 to March 15. If you live on the east coast, that means you won't have to feel rushed to use up all your tickets on one weekend. We are actually planning on driving to the city at least a couple of weekends before the expiration date. That way, we can take our time and just see the sites that fit within our schedule for that weekend rather than rushing through things just to get your money's worth.

The New York City Pass, I think, would be a great Christmas present for the best family on your list. I know the best family on my list will be getting these for Christmas ;)