Chicago CityPASS Review 2024: Is It Worth It?

This Chicago CityPASS review explores how the sightseeing pass works, examines which Chicago attractions are included, and determines if it's worth it for you.

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In this Chicago CityPASS review, we explore what the pass offers, explain how it works, and determine if the Chicago CityPASS is worth it for you. Enjoy!

Although its nickname may be the “Second City,” Chicago is anything but. Chicago combines world-class museums, incredible architecture, and mouth-watering food to rank as one of the greatest cities in the world…and they serve it all with a friendly Midwestern attitude.

Having lived there, I can vouch for its greatness. There is so much to do in Chicago that you’ll never experience it all in one trip. And, while you might be more familiar with the attractions in New York City, the quality of sightseeing in Chicago is second to none.

As with any trip to a large city, you’ll need to prepare your budget before you go. Sure, there are plenty of free things to do in Chicago, but you’ll still want to visit the Windy City’s main attractions – especially if it’s your first trip there.

Of course, sightseeing can get expensive. So, how do you save money in Chicago while still visiting all of the city’s most important sights?

The Chicago CityPASS is a good option. When used correctly, this sightseeing pass can save you hundreds – but it isn’t right for everybody. Is the Chicago CityPASS a good deal for you? Let’s find out!

Chicago CityPASS Review: How It Works

Chicago CityPASS logo

The Chicago CityPASS is a sightseeing pass that can help you save money on attractions in Chicago. Like other popular attractions passes, the Chicago CityPASS bundles entry fees for some of the city’s top tourist sights. By bundling fees and including admission to these sights in the price of the pass, you get a hefty discount over the prices you’d pay at the door.

In this case, the Chicago CityPASS can actually save up to 48% on admission to the included sights. That’s a significant amount of money, especially when you’re traveling with more than one person.

Similar to the London Explorer Pass, the Chicago CityPASS includes your admission to a set number of attractions. With this pass, you’ll get “free” entry to five of Chicago’s top eight spots. Two of these attractions are included with every pass, and you get to choose three of the remaining six attractions. You can visit the attractions in any order you like, and the tickets are good for nine consecutive days beginning with the first day you use the pass.

Like other popular sightseeing passes, the Chicago CityPASS comes either electronically on your phone or you can print your tickets. In most cases, you can simply present the ticket as you enter. Regardless, entry to these attractions is included in the price of your pass.

Top Attractions Included on the Chicago CityPASS

The Chicago CityPASS includes admission to five of the top eight attractions in the Windy City. Two attractions are included on every pass, and you get to choose three of the other six options.

Here are the attractions included on all passes:

  • Shedd Aquarium ($53.90)
  • Skydeck Chicago ($59.00)

Plus, you get to choose three of the following:

  • 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)

(*Current as of May 22, 2023)

Editor’s Note: Some Chicago attractions may be sold out or require a wait for the next available entry time.

I’ve toured almost all of these sights (some multiple times), and they are definitely worth a visit. In fact, with the possible exception of Navy Pier (which is basically a shopping center on Lake Michigan), these are truly the top spots to visit in the city.

As you can see, though, sightseeing in Chicago can get expensive pretty quickly – especially if you’re traveling with family. That’s where a Chicago CityPASS can help.

How Much Does the Chicago CityPASS Cost?

Now that we’ve seen what is included, let’s take a look at how much the Chicago CityPASS costs.

PassesChicago CityPASS PriceRegular Price of AttractionsSavings with Pass
Adult (Ages 12+)$134.00$257.55$123.55 (48%)
Child (Ages 3-11)$104.00$209.04$105.04 (50%)
*Current as of May 22, 2023

By using a five attraction Chicago CityPASS, adults can save up to 48% off the price of admission! That’s a ton of savings, and it definitely makes this pass worth considering.

How about we dig into the numbers?

Let’s assume you visit the two sights that are always included. Let’s also assume you choose the Art Institute, Field Museum, and 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck. The regular adult price of admission for those attractions would cost $244.90. By purchasing the Chicago CityPASS for just $134.00, you save $110.90 per person. That’s a savings of 45%! Replace the Art Institute with the river cruise, and you’ve saved $123.55 – or 48%!!!

Here’s another way to look at it: If you visit just 3 attractions, this pass more than pays for itself. Honestly, it’s hard to find a sightseeing pass in any city providing that kind of value. If you’re planning to visit these attractions anyway, the Chicago CityPASS is almost a no-brainer.

Save Money in Chicago – Save up to $123 on sightseeing in Chicago when you purchase the Chicago CityPASS! That’s a savings of about 48%. Follow the link for more details.

Chicago CityPASS Attractions Guide

This Chicago CityPASS review explores how the sightseeing pass works, examines which Chicago attractions are included, and determines if it's worth it for you.
© The Field Museum

As we’ve discussed, the Chicago CityPASS includes “free” admission to some of Chicago’s best attractions. Two attractions are included with every pass (Shedd Aquarium and Skydeck Chicago) and you can choose three of the other five that are offered.

But what exactly are these places? Here’s a brief introduction to each spot.

Shedd Aquarium

If you love sea life, you can’t miss the Shedd Aquarium. Filled with over 32,000 sea creatures from around the world, this is easily one of my favorite spots in Chicago.

Explore the exhibits and get up close and personal with whales, sharks, penguins, and more. The dolphin show is also a treat, so be sure to catch it while you’re there.

Skydeck Chicago

Get an incredible 360 degree view of the city – and up to 4 states – when you soar to the top of the world-famous Willis Tower. Formerly known as the Sears Tower, this impressive skyscraper is the second tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

In addition to the view, this attraction includes interactive exhibits and an interesting short film about the history of the tower. You can even walk out onto The Ledge – glass floor balconies situated 103 floors above the city. Seriously, this is a really cool experience!

Field Museum

Chicago’s Field Museum is another “can’t miss” spot in the Windy City. This incredible museum boasts Egyptian mummies, an impressive exhibit on over 10,000 years of Chinese history, and the world’s largest T. Rex skeleton.

Your Chicago CityPASS also includes admission to one of the museums 3D movie exhibitions. (Editor’s Note: Be be sure to book your showtime upon arrival!) Entry to the touring exhibits may require an extra fee, but – trust me – there is plenty to see without it.

Art Institute of Chicago

This Chicago CityPASS review explores how the sightseeing pass works, examines which Chicago attractions are included, and determines if it's worth it for you.
American Gothic by Grant Wood [Public domain or Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

I’ve visited art museums all across the world, and I can’t recommend the Art Institute of Chicago enough. This is one of the either/or options, but it may be my favorite attraction in Chicago.

Take your time wandering through the museum and get up close and personal with works by Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet, Matisse, Cezanne, Rembrandt, and many more. Their huge collection also includes two paintings you’re sure to know – American Gothic and the important pointillist masterpiece Sunday Afternoon on La Grande Jatte.

Adler Planetarium

Situated on the shore’s of Lake Michigan, America’s first planetarium includes over 60,000 square feet of exhibits and two domed theaters. There are plenty of learning opportunities and hands-on activities for adults and children alike. The building also houses the Doane Observatory and it’s telescope, which is one of the few urban research observatories in existence.

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck gives you the opportunity to see Chicago’s impressive skyline from a different angle. Located at the top of the John Hancock Center, this sight includes interactive exhibits that teach you about Chicago’s rough and tumble history. Situated near the lake, you also get an incredible view of Chicago’s beaches from over 1,000 feet in the air.

Museum of Science and Industry

Measuring at 14 acres, this is the largest science museum in the entire country. Exhibits here include a captured German U-boat from WWII, a replica coal mine, and the Apollo 8 spacecraft (yes, that’s the one that brought the first astronauts to the moon)! Many people consider this their favorite sight in Chicago, and I can definitely see why.

Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour

Enjoy views of the city from the Chicago River on the award-winning Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour! Your entertaining guide will provide insight into the birth of skyscrapers, how Chicago rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1871, and the history of Chicago as a French trading post. It’s a great way to learn about Chicago’s rich history while seeing the city from a different angle!

Other Benefits of the Chicago CityPASS

  • Skip the Line Access – Several attractions include “fast track entry” with the purchase of a Chicago CityPASS. This can save valuable time and help you avoid waiting in long lines during peak times.
  • Great Value – As we discussed earlier, the Chicago CityPASS can help you save up to 48% off the regular admission price at some of Chicago’s biggest tourist attractions. Visit just 3 attractions and the pass more than pays for itself. That’s an incredible value!
  • Convenience – Having all of your tickets on your phone is super convenient. It can also be a time saver.
  • Valid for 9 Days – While cards like the Paris Pass are good for a shorter period of time, the Chicago CityPASS is valid for 9 days from the first day you use it. That gives you plenty of time to visit each spot so you won’t feel rushed.

Visit Chicago’s Top Attractions and Save! – Want to save money in Chicago? Now you can! Get up to 48% OFF Chicago attractions with the Chicago CityPASS. Use the link to learn more.

Where the Chicago CityPASS Falls Short

While I think the Chicago CityPASS provides a great value, keep in mind that the purchase of a Chicago CityPASS isn’t valid indefinitely. Yes, your pass is good for 9 days after you first use it. However, the pass can expire even if it hasn’t been used.

You have one year from the date of purchase to use your pass. That should give you plenty of time, but some other sightseeing passes have a two year expiration policy.

Who Should Consider the Chicago CityPASS?

First-time Visitors to Chicago – If this is your first visit to Chicago, a sightseeing pass is a wonderful option for you. The pass includes the most important attractions in the city, and it’s a huge money saver.

Families and Small Groups – This pass is perfect for families and small groups looking to save money in Chicago. With a savings nearing half off the regular adult admission prices, you could be saving hundreds of dollars with the Chicago CityPASS. Seriously, this thing is hard to beat.

Anybody Visiting 3 or More Attractions – By visiting just 3 of these places, the pass more than pays for itself. And since you get to choose 5 of them, the pass really becomes a no-brainer.

Travelers Wanting to Take Their Time – You have 9 days to use your pass after your first use, so you have plenty of time to enjoy each sight. Sure, you can visit more than one attraction each day, but you don’t have to.

Who Should Skip the Chicago CityPASS?

Travelers with No Interest in Sightseeing – If you don’t plan on sightseeing, or you don’t plan on going to the included attractions, this card is obviously not for you.

Those Visiting Fewer than 3 Attractions – Likewise, if you plan on visiting fewer than 3 of the included attractions, simply skip the pass and pay at the gate.

Travelers Wanting More Options – I think the Chicago CityPASS is great because it offers admission to the essential Chicago attractions at a super low price. However, it doesn’t include everything. If you like the idea of a Chicago sightseeing pass but want more options, the Go City: Chicago All-Inclusive Pass may be a better fit.

Tips for Using the Chicago CityPASS

Using the Chicago CityPASS is pretty straightforward, but there are a few quirks that could diminish its value if you’re not careful. Here are a few tips to get the most out of your pass.

  • Visit all five attractions. – Even though the Chicago CityPASS more than pays for itself when you visit just three attractions, be sure to use all five visits in order to get the most value from the pass.
  • Pay attention to expiration dates. – It’s important to redeem your pass before it expires. You now have 365 days from the date of purchase to use your pass. Keep in mind, after your first use, you have 9 days to finish visiting the included attractions.

How to Get a Chicago CityPASS

Purchasing your pass is a piece of cake. Just follow the link to buy your Chicago CityPASS online now!

Upon purchase, your pass will be instantly delivered to your email. You can then use the pass on your mobile phone, or you can print your tickets if you’d prefer a paper copy.

Is the Chicago CityPASS Worth It?

So, is the Chicago CityPASS worth it? If you’re planning on sightseeing in Chicago, the answer is (almost always) a definite YES!

Although the Chicago CityPASS is small, it is definitely mighty. It includes all of the “must-see” attractions in Chicago, and it can potentially save you over a hundred dollars per adult. Seriously, over 48% off the regular price is almost unheard of.

This Chicago CityPASS review explores how the sightseeing pass works, examines which Chicago attractions are included, and determines if it's worth it for you.

If you have plans to visit Chicago, you should definitely consider the Chicago CityPASS. Heck, by visiting just three of the included attractions, the pass more than pays for itself. I think it’s a great deal, and I think you will too.

Thanks so much for reading our Chicago CityPASS review. Please leave any questions or comments you have in the space below. Until next time, happy traveling!

Save 48% on Chicago’s Best Attactions! – Save up to 48% on Chicago’s top tourist destinations with the Chicago CityPASS. Follow the link above to get yours now!

Chicago CityPASS Review
  • Attractions
  • Pass Options & Lengths
  • Price
  • Fast Track Entry
  • Overall Value
Overall
4.6

Chicago CityPASS Review

For sightseeing in Chicago, the Chicago CityPASS is definitely worth it. It includes all of the “must-see” attractions in Chicago, and it can potentially save you over a hundred dollars per adult. Seriously, up to 48% off the regular price is almost unheard of.

If you have plans to visit Chicago, you should definitely consider the Chicago CityPASS. HBy visiting just 3 of the included attractions, the pass more than pays for itself.

In our opinion, this pass is a great deal, especially if you catch a sale!

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7 Comments

  1. The first time my wife and I visited Chicago together we got the City Pass and it was totally worth it. I’m not sure we had enough time while we were there to use the entire booklet and it was still cheaper than if we would have bought each ticket separately.

    That said, I love this review because it also talks about where the City Pass falls short and who should not buy it. Too many affiliate reviews seem to avoid saying anything remotely negative about what they’re reviewing in order to push an affiliate sale.

    1. Thanks Joe! There are always a few drawbacks to anything, right? Very few things are perfect, so I try to provide a fair perspective. With that said, I really do think the Chicago City Pass is great. Having lived there for a couple of years, I think it’s a really good value for the major sightseeing attractions in the city.

  2. We used it several years ago and it was TOTALLY worth it. Used the Seattle one a year ago and it was worth it too.

    1. It’s a great pass! If you’re going to visit at least 3 of those sites (and if it’s your first time in Chicago, you definitely should), it is well worth the cost, IMO.

  3. Hi Greg! Thanks for this GREAT breakdown of Chicago CityPASS! You pretty much nailed it. I just wanted to let you know about some good news — as of today, we are now selling mobile tickets for Chicago on citypass.com. This means that a physical product is no longer necessary; you can present the mobile ticket barcodes right on your phone for entry to the attractions. We now offer mobile tickets for New York, Tampa Bay, Toronto, Philadelphia and Chicago, and are looking forward to doing the same for our other cities as soon as possible.
    Thanks!
    Alicia @ CityPASS

  4. MaJean Bognot says:

    Thank you so much for this information. Visiting Chicago tomorrow for the first time with the family and we are so excited! I will definitely purchase the CityPass!

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