Planning a trip to Chicago? The Windy City is known for its rich culture, iconic architecture, world-class museums, and mouthwatering food scene. While it’s a fantastic place to explore, visiting all the top attractions can become quite pricey. If you want to save money while checking out some of the city’s must-see sights, the Chicago CityPASS might just be the perfect solution. In this review, we’ll break down how the pass works, what it includes, and whether it’s a good deal for your trip.
How the Chicago CityPASS Works
The Chicago CityPASS is a sightseeing pass that gives you access to five of Chicago’s top attractions at a discounted price. Instead of buying individual tickets for each spot, you pay a single price for the pass and gain entry to some of the city’s best-known attractions. This pass can save you up to 48% on admission costs, making it an excellent choice if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
Once you purchase the pass, it’s delivered electronically, either as a mobile ticket or a printable version. After you use it for the first time, the pass is valid for nine consecutive days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sights at your own pace.
Attractions Included with the Chicago CityPASS
The Chicago CityPASS grants entry to five major attractions in Chicago. Here’s a quick look at what’s included:
- Shedd Aquarium ($53.90)
- Skydeck Chicago ($59.00)
In addition to these two, you’ll get to choose three attractions from the following options:
- The Field Museum ($42.00)
- Museum of Science and Industry ($37.95)
- 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck ($50.00)
- Adler Planetarium ($35.00)
- Art Institute of Chicago ($40.00)
- Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour ($52.65)
These prices reflect the regular adult admission costs as of May 2023.
How Much Does the Chicago CityPASS Cost?
Here’s a breakdown of the Chicago CityPASS pricing:
- Adult (Ages 12+): $134.00
- Child (Ages 3-11): $104.00
By using the pass for all five attractions, you can save up to $123.55 per adult, which is a 48% discount. For children, the savings are around 46%.
For example, if you visit the two included attractions and then choose the Art Institute, Field Museum, and 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck, the regular admission would cost $244.90. With the CityPASS, you pay only $134.00, saving $110.90. Even by replacing the Art Institute with the river cruise, you can still save $123.55.
In short, if you plan to visit just three attractions, the pass will likely pay for itself, and visiting all five will offer significant savings.
Chicago CityPASS Attractions Overview
Here’s a closer look at each of the attractions you’ll have access to with the Chicago CityPASS:
- Shedd Aquarium
Explore over 32,000 sea creatures at one of the world’s most famous aquariums. You’ll find everything from penguins to whales. Be sure to catch the dolphin show and visit the exhibits featuring aquatic life from around the world. - Skydeck Chicago
At the top of the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), you’ll get spectacular views of Chicago and four neighboring states. The famous Ledge is a glass balcony offering a heart-pounding experience 103 floors up. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Chicago. - Field Museum
The Field Museum is home to world-renowned exhibits, including the famous Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex ever found. You’ll also find exhibits on ancient Egypt, Chinese history, and much more. Don’t miss the museum’s impressive 3D movie experiences. - Art Institute of Chicago
One of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., the Art Institute houses masterpieces from artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet. You’ll also find iconic works like Grant Wood’s American Gothic and Sunday Afternoon on La Grande Jatte by Seurat. - Adler Planetarium
Explore the wonders of space at America’s first planetarium. With fascinating exhibits and two domed theaters, the Adler is perfect for anyone interested in the stars. The planetarium also offers interactive exhibits, making it fun for both kids and adults. - 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center, this observation deck offers some of the best views in the city. You’ll also find interactive exhibits that teach you about Chicago’s history, and you can enjoy the view of Lake Michigan from over 1,000 feet up. - Museum of Science and Industry
This massive museum features hands-on exhibits, including a real German U-boat from WWII and a replica coal mine. It’s one of the largest science museums in the country, and many consider it a favorite attraction in Chicago. - Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour
Take a relaxing cruise along the Chicago River and learn about the city’s famous architecture. This tour is perfect for history buffs and anyone interested in Chicago’s fascinating development after the Great Fire of 1871.
Additional Benefits of the Chicago CityPASS
- Skip the Lines: Many attractions offer fast-track entry with the CityPASS, saving you time during busy periods.
- Huge Savings: The pass can save you up to 48% off regular admission fees, making it a great deal if you plan to visit at least three attractions.
- Flexibility: The pass is valid for nine days, so you can spread your sightseeing out without feeling rushed.
- Convenience: With mobile ticketing, you can easily access your tickets on your phone, eliminating the need to carry paper copies.
Where the Chicago CityPASS Falls Short
While the Chicago CityPASS is a great deal, it does have a couple of limitations:
- Limited Selection: You only get access to five of the city’s top attractions. While these are certainly the most popular, there are other great places to visit in Chicago that aren’t included, such as the Navy Pier.
- No Tours: Unlike some other sightseeing passes, the CityPASS doesn’t offer guided tours. If tours are a big part of your travel experience, you might want to consider other passes.
Who Should Consider the Chicago CityPASS?
- First-Time Visitors: If it’s your first time in Chicago, the CityPASS offers a fantastic way to visit the most important attractions at a discounted price.
- Families and Small Groups: If you’re traveling with family or friends, the pass can save you a significant amount of money, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions.
- Sightseers Who Want to Save: If you’re planning on visiting at least three attractions, the CityPASS will quickly pay for itself.
Who Should Skip the Chicago CityPASS?
- Repeat Visitors: If you’ve already been to Chicago and seen most of the major attractions, the CityPASS may not be worth it for you.
- Those Not Interested in Sightseeing: If you’re not planning to visit many of the attractions or are more interested in exploring beyond the main sights, this pass may not be ideal.
- Travelers Who Want More Options: If you want a more comprehensive sightseeing pass with additional attractions, consider looking into the Go City Chicago All-Inclusive Pass.
Tips for Using the Chicago CityPASS
- Visit All Five Attractions: To maximize your savings, visit all five included attractions. Even if you only visit three, the pass still pays for itself.
- Prioritize the Most Expensive Attractions: For the best value, use the pass for the most expensive attractions like the Skydeck Chicago and Art Institute.
- Take Advantage of the Fast-Track Entry: Many of the included attractions offer skip-the-line access, so use this to your advantage, especially during peak seasons.
How to Buy the Chicago CityPASS
You can easily purchase the Chicago CityPASS online. Once you make your purchase, you’ll receive your tickets by email. You can either print them or use your mobile phone for entry.
Is the Chicago CityPASS Worth It?
If you’re planning to visit the top attractions in Chicago, the Chicago CityPASS is an excellent value. With savings of up to 48% off regular admission prices, it’s a great option for first-time visitors, families, and anyone who wants to see Chicago without breaking the bank. Plus, with the flexibility of nine days to use your pass, you can explore at a leisurely pace.
Whether you’re interested in art, history, science, or great views, the Chicago CityPASS is a fantastic way to experience the city while saving money.
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