Seattle CityPASS Review: Is It a Good Deal for You?

Planning a trip to Seattle? Whether you’re there for the famous coffee culture, the vibrant food scene, or the iconic sights, the city offers a ton of great attractions to explore. But let’s face it—admission to those top spots can quickly add up. That’s where the Seattle CityPASS comes in. This pass is a great way to save some money while checking out the city’s best attractions. In this review, we’ll break down what’s included, how much it costs, and whether it’s worth it for your trip.

How Does the Seattle CityPASS Work?

The Seattle CityPASS grants you access to five of the city’s top attractions at a discounted rate. You can choose from a set list of seven attractions, giving you the flexibility to pick the ones that interest you most.

Once you buy the pass online, you’ll receive it via email, either as a mobile ticket or a printable one. When you use it for the first time, the pass is activated and will be valid for nine consecutive days. This allows you plenty of time to explore the city at a leisurely pace.

What’s Included in the Seattle CityPASS?

The Seattle CityPASS gives you entry to five attractions. Two attractions are included with every pass, and you get to pick the remaining three from a list of options. Here are the attractions you’ll have access to:

• Space Needle: Day & Night Admission ($68.78)
• Seattle Aquarium ($40.00)

Then, you can choose three from the following:

• Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour ($40.79)
• Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) ($33.00)
• Woodland Park Zoo ($29.00)
• Chihuly Garden and Glass ($39.38)

These prices are based on regular adult admission fees as of May 2023.

How Much Does the Seattle CityPASS Cost?

Here’s how much you’ll pay for the pass:

• Adult (ages 13+): $119.00
• Child (ages 5-12): $89.00

If you visit all five included attractions, adults save up to $102.95, which is a 46% discount. For kids, the savings come out to $64.90, or about 42% off the regular admission price.

If you’re planning to see all the attractions on the list, this is definitely a worthwhile investment.

Seattle CityPASS Attractions Overview

Here’s a closer look at the top attractions you’ll visit with the Seattle CityPASS.

1. Space Needle
   Enjoy stunning 360-degree views of Seattle from the observation deck, located 520 feet up. You’ll get two admissions—one during the day and another in the evening, on the same day. Be sure to reserve your timed entry in advance, as it’s a popular spot.
2. Seattle Aquarium
   Discover marine life from the Puget Sound and beyond. Highlights include otters, seals, and a 120,000-gallon tank with daily dive shows. Interactive exhibits like “Life on the Edge” allow you to touch tide pool creatures, making it a fun experience for kids and adults alike.
3. Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour
   Take a one-hour narrated tour of Elliott Bay and the Seattle Waterfront. The cruise offers beautiful views of the skyline, the Space Needle, and local wildlife. Be sure to reserve your timed departure when you activate your CityPASS.
4. Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
   If you love music, movies, or video games, MoPOP is a must-see. Explore exhibits on Marvel superheroes, Star Trek, Nirvana, and more. Interactive displays like the Indie Game Revolution and the Sound Lab are fun for all ages.
5. Woodland Park Zoo
   Explore wildlife from around the globe, including elephants, gorillas, and penguins. The zoo features a variety of exhibits such as the Assam Rhino Reserve and Banyan Wilds, as well as a special area for kids to engage with animals and play.
6. Chihuly Garden and Glass
   Admire the stunning glass art installations by Dale Chihuly. The glasshouse features a 100-foot sculpture, while the garden blends art and nature, creating a visually striking experience.

Additional Benefits of the Seattle CityPASS

• Big Savings: The pass offers up to 46% off the regular cost of admission. This is a great deal if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions.
• Skip the Lines: Most attractions offer fast-track entry, meaning you can skip ticket lines and get to the fun faster.
• Valid for 9 Days: Once activated, the pass is good for nine consecutive days, so you have ample time to explore at a relaxed pace.
• Extra Discounts: The pass also provides discounts at gift shops and other attractions, giving you even more ways to save.

Where the Seattle CityPASS Falls Short

While the Seattle CityPASS is a great deal, it’s not perfect. One downside is that it doesn’t offer access to every attraction in the city. For example, if you’re interested in visiting museums or tours that are not included in the pass, you’ll need to pay separately.

Who Should Consider the Seattle CityPASS?

• First-Time Visitors: If it’s your first time in Seattle, the CityPASS gives you access to all the major attractions you’ll want to see.
• Families: The pass is a great option for families, with several kid-friendly attractions like the zoo and the aquarium. Plus, the savings can add up quickly for a family of four.
• Sightseers with a Relaxed Pace: The pass is valid for nine days, so if you prefer to take your time and explore Seattle at a leisurely pace, this is a perfect fit.

Who Should Skip the Seattle CityPASS?

• Repeat Visitors: If you’ve already seen most of Seattle’s major attractions, this pass may not be the best option for you.
• Those Not Interested in Sightseeing: If you’re not keen on museums, zoos, or popular landmarks, you might not get the best value from the CityPASS.
• Tour Lovers: If you’re more interested in guided tours than exhibits, you may be disappointed since the pass doesn’t include any tour options.

Tips for Using the Seattle CityPASS

• Maximize Your Savings: To get the best value, be sure to visit the most expensive attractions like the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden.
• Visit the Space Needle Twice: You get two entries to the Space Needle (daytime and evening), so make the most of them to enjoy the view at different times of day.
• Use the Pass for Discounts: Don’t forget about the additional discounts at gift shops and on other attractions. This can add extra savings to your trip.

How to Buy the Seattle CityPASS

The Seattle CityPASS can be easily purchased online. After buying the pass, you’ll receive your tickets via email. You can either use your mobile phone to present them or print them out for a physical copy.

Is the Seattle CityPASS Worth It?

The Seattle CityPASS offers excellent value, especially if you plan to visit the top attractions in the city. With savings of up to 46%, it’s a solid choice for first-time visitors, families, or anyone who enjoys sightseeing at a relaxed pace. If you’re aiming to see Seattle’s best attractions and save money, this pass is definitely worth considering.

Enjoy your trip to Seattle, and don’t forget to make the most of the Seattle CityPASS!