Is the Denver CityPASS Worth It? A Complete Guide

Denver, Colorado, often overshadowed by the stunning mountain towns, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking both culture and adventure. The Mile High City offers a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant food scenes to fascinating museums. But like most major cities, sightseeing can get pricey. Fortunately, there’s a way to save on top attractions: the Denver CityPASS.

In this blog, we’ll break down how the Denver CityPASS works, what it offers, and whether it’s a good option for your trip to Denver.

How the Denver CityPASS Works

The Denver CityPASS is a convenient sightseeing pass that gives you access to 3, 4, or 5 of the city’s most popular attractions at a discounted rate. Unlike other passes that require you to choose specific attractions upfront, the Denver CityPASS allows you to pick your attractions once you’re in the city.

You can buy the pass online, and after purchase, you’ll receive mobile or printable tickets, depending on your preference. Once activated at your first attraction, the pass is valid for 7 consecutive days, so you can take your time and explore at a leisurely pace. This flexibility makes it ideal for visitors who want to take their time sightseeing in Denver.

Attractions Included with the Denver CityPASS

The Denver CityPASS includes five major attractions, but you’ll first select from the top seven options. Here’s what you’ll get:

• Downtown Aquarium ($26.50)
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science ($22.95)
• Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus ($17.00)
• Denver Botanic Gardens ($15.00)
• Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum ($18.95)
• Denver Art Museum ($19.00)
• History Colorado Center ($15.00)

As you can see, the pass includes some of Denver’s top attractions, ranging from science and history to nature and art. While the attractions you choose will depend on your interests, all of them are worth visiting.

How Much Does the Denver CityPASS Cost?

The cost of the Denver CityPASS depends on how many attractions you want to visit:

• 3 attractions: $43 (adult) / $36 (child)
• 4 attractions: $54 (adult) / $46 (child)
• 5 attractions: $59 (adult) / $54 (child)

When you compare the cost of the pass to the individual admission prices, it’s clear that it offers excellent value. For example, if you buy a 5-attraction pass for $59, and visit the most expensive attractions (like the Georgia Aquarium and Museum of Nature & Science), you’ll save up to 43% off the regular price.

For adults, the 3-attraction pass costs $43 and saves $25.40 when visiting three top attractions like the Aquarium and Museum of Nature & Science.

Is the Denver CityPASS a Good Deal?

The Denver CityPASS offers a solid deal, especially for families and first-time visitors. Here’s the breakdown:

• If you plan on visiting all five attractions, you can save up to 43% compared to buying tickets individually. The more expensive attractions you choose, the better the savings.
• The 3-attraction pass offers 37% savings, which is great if you’re visiting just a few sites.
• If you’re traveling with children, the CityPASS offers up to 48% savings for kids under 12.

The pass is ideal for those who want to explore the city’s top attractions and save a significant amount in the process.

The Attractions You’ll Visit with the Denver CityPASS

Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll get access to with the Denver CityPASS.

• Downtown Aquarium: A fun, family-friendly spot featuring over 500 species of aquatic animals. Explore interactive exhibits and a stunning shipwreck display.
• Denver Museum of Nature & Science: A perfect stop for history and science buffs. Explore dinosaur fossils, wildlife exhibits, and interactive displays. You can also catch an IMAX movie or visit the Planetarium for an extra cost.
• Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus: This hands-on museum is great for kids, with exhibits focused on science, art, and exploration. Kids will love the zip lining and indoor mountain climbing.
• Denver Botanic Gardens: A peaceful 24-acre oasis filled with themed gardens, from tropical to aquatic plants. There’s also a children’s garden where younger visitors can explore and learn.
• Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum: A dream for aviation enthusiasts. The museum showcases over 50 aircraft and space vehicles, along with exhibitions on astronauts and space exploration.
• Denver Art Museum: A must-see for art lovers, the museum features a wide range of collections, including European and American Indian art. The museum also offers rotating exhibitions and live artist demonstrations on weekends.
• History Colorado Center: Learn about the history of the Centennial State through exhibits and interactive displays. The center brings Colorado’s history to life, making it a fascinating stop for all ages.

Benefits of the Denver CityPASS

• Saves Money: With up to 43% off admission fees, the CityPASS gives you excellent value for top attractions in the city.
• Skip the Lines: At several popular attractions, the pass allows you to skip the ticket lines, saving you time and letting you focus on enjoying the sights.
• 9-Day Flexibility: The CityPASS is valid for 7 days from the first activation, giving you a leisurely amount of time to visit your chosen attractions.
• Mobile Pass: You can use your mobile ticket for added convenience, though paper tickets are still an option if you prefer them.

Where the Denver CityPASS Falls Short

While the Denver CityPASS is a great deal, it does have a few limitations:

• Limited Selection: While the attractions offered are great, there are no guided tours included in the pass, which might be a dealbreaker for some visitors.
• Focus on Exhibits: Most of the attractions are museum-based, so if you prefer outdoor adventures or tours, the CityPASS might not be the best fit.

However, for those who enjoy museums and exhibitions, this pass is a fantastic way to see the city’s highlights while saving money.

Who Should Consider the Denver CityPASS?

• First-Time Visitors: The CityPASS offers access to the city’s top attractions, which are ideal for first-timers looking to experience the best of Denver.
• Families: With a mix of kid-friendly and adult attractions, families will enjoy the savings and the variety of activities.
• Sightseers Who Like to Take Their Time: The CityPASS gives you 7 days to use the pass, perfect for those who want to spread out their sightseeing.

Who Should Skip the Denver CityPASS?

• Outdoor Enthusiasts: If you’re more interested in outdoor activities or mountain tours, you may find the CityPASS too focused on museums.
• Tour Lovers: The pass lacks guided tours, so if you prefer guided experiences, this might not be the best option for you.

Tips for Using the Denver CityPASS

• Pick the Most Expensive Attractions: To get the best savings, choose the attractions with the highest admission fees.
• Don’t Forget the Denver Art Museum: Admission for kids under 18 is always free, so don’t waste your pass on them.
• Print Backup Tickets: Although the pass offers mobile tickets, printing a backup is always a good idea.

How to Buy the Denver CityPASS

Purchasing the CityPASS is easy. Simply buy it online, and you’ll receive your tickets via email. From there, you can either use your phone to display the pass or print a hard copy.

Final Thoughts: Is the Denver CityPASS Worth It?

The Denver CityPASS is definitely worth considering if you plan to visit several of the city’s top attractions. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, families, and those who enjoy exhibitions. With up to 43% savings, you’ll get great value for your money.

If you’re ready to explore Denver and save, the CityPASS is a convenient and affordable way to enjoy the city’s best sights!