Boston Pass: Save up to 50% – Includes Franklin Park Zoo

If you’re planning a trip to Boston and want to explore more without breaking the bank, the Boston Pass by Go City offers a flexible way to access over 45 top attractions at a fraction of the individual ticket prices. From historic sites and museums to boat cruises and trolley tours, this pass packs a lot of value into one simple package.

Our review highlights three things we love about the pass: the ease of instant digital delivery, the wide range of included activities, and the ability to customize your itinerary across multiple days. The only thing to keep in mind is that some attractions, especially seasonal ones, may require reservations or have limited opening days. This pass is best suited for travelers who enjoy planning ahead but also want the freedom to pick and choose from a variety of experiences.

Whether your trip is brief or extended, the flexibility and savings offered make it a smart choice for anyone eager to dive into Boston’s sights without the hassle of buying individual tickets. Now, let’s break down what makes this pass a practical companion for your Boston adventure.

Good To Know

• Cost-Effective: Save up to 50% compared to buying tickets individually.
• Flexible Duration: Choose from 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 days to fit your schedule.
• Instant Access: Receive your pass immediately via PDF, usable on mobile or printed.
• Wide Range of Attractions: Over 45 activities including museums, tours, and cruises.
• User-Friendly: Digital guide and app help you navigate and plan your visits.
• Seasonal Variations: Some attractions and tours are seasonal, so check dates in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Boston Pass Experience

The Boston Pass by Go City is designed to give you full access to Boston’s highlights without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for each attraction. Whether you’re interested in history, science, or scenic views, this pass has a lot to offer. It’s available in durations from just 1 day up to 7 days, allowing you to tailor your sightseeing to your schedule and interests.

The process is straightforward—upon purchase, you receive a digital PDF that contains your QR-coded pass and a detailed digital guide. There’s no fixed meeting point; you simply start at any of the included attractions. This flexibility means you can begin your sightseeing wherever it suits you, saving time and reducing logistical stress. Plus, the Go City app helps you decide what to visit next, see opening hours, and make reservations when needed.

The pass’s main appeal is its ability to bundle dozens of activities into a single purchase, saving you up to half the cost of individual tickets. For many, this means more experiences and fewer worries about overspending. Travelers mention how easy it is to use, with “immediate admission” at many sites, and “skip the lines” benefits at popular venues like the Museum of Science and the Old State House.

What’s Included? A Deep Dive into Attractions & Tours

The Boston Pass offers a broad lineup of attractions covering historical, cultural, and recreational interests. Here’s a closer look at some of the highlights and what you can expect:

Tours and Activities

• Historic Sightseeing Cruise: Available seasonally from April to October, this cruise offers a relaxing way to see Boston’s waterfront and learn about its maritime history. Reviewers often praise its seasonal charm, though some mention that timings can be limited outside peak months.
• CityView Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley: Running from April to November, this dual-day ticket offers a convenient way to explore key neighborhoods. Travelers love how it provides a “great overview” and flexibility to hop off at spots like Harvard or the North End. Keep in mind, some reviewers note that the trolley’s stops are spread out, so planning your day helps maximize the experience.
• Swan Boats of Boston: A seasonal favorite from April to September, these boats in Boston Commons are a delightful way to relax and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers say it’s a “nice break” from walking.
• Harvard Tour and Movie Mile Walking Tour: For those interested in history and film, these guided walks provide insights into Harvard’s campus and Boston’s movie shoots. Some reviewers mention that reservations are required (indicated by ‘R’), so plan ahead.
• Harbor Cruises and Capes: Seasonal cruises such as Hyannisport Harbor and the Cape Cod Canal are perfect for day trips, with some reviewers noting they’re ideal for escaping city hustle.

Museums & Cultural Sites

• Museum of Science & Museum of Fine Arts: The pass grants access to Boston’s flagship museums, which visitors describe as “impressive”, especially for families and art lovers. The Museum of Science is frequently praised for its engaging exhibits and the ability to skip ticket lines.
• Historic Sites and Landmarks: The Old State House and Paul Revere House are must-visits for history buffs. Reviewers mention that “saving time with the pass” makes historical explorations more relaxed.
• JFK Presidential Library, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Peabody Essex Museum: These museums showcase Boston’s diverse cultural and historical fabric, often with high praise for their collections.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Unique Experiences and Seasonal Highlights

• Liberty Ride, House of the Seven Gables, and Mayflower II: These attractions offer insights into Boston’s colonial past and maritime history, with some reviews noting that reservations are necessary.
• Franklin Park Zoo: Included in the pass and a hit with families, especially considering its proximity to the city center. Visitors comment on how it’s an “affordable way to see animals” without a separate ticket.

Additional Perks

Many users appreciate the digital guide that accompanies the pass. It offers practical info such as opening times, addresses, and reservation instructions, which is a huge help when navigating multiple attractions. The Go City app further streamlines the experience by allowing you to plan your day and access tickets digitally, reducing the need for paper.

Experiences & Insights from Reviewers

Reviewers consistently mention that the ease of use is a major advantage. Khushi from the US appreciates how the Go City app is “easy to use and cost-effective,” and Brian from the US highlights that the pass is “worth the money” because it facilitates quick visits without lingering too long at each site.

Several travelers point out how the pass encourages efficient planning—“We did not feel like we had to linger” says one reviewer, which is perfect if you’re short on time. Melissa A from the US mentions, “It helped us focus on the activities included, and it’s a lower price than individual tickets,” emphasizing the money saved.

However, some mention seasonal limitations. For example, Najat points out that some attractions are seasonal or have specific days, so checking ahead is crucial. Others, like Jane from the US, note that trolley stops may require some planning if they’re not conveniently located near your accommodation.

A common theme is the value for money — many reviewers found that the pass paid for itself through just a few attractions like the Museum of Science, USS Constitution, and harbor cruises. Zachary from the US says, “It paid for itself in one day,” which is often the case when hitting the top-tier sites efficiently.

How Does It Fit Into Your Boston Trip?

The duration options—from 1 to 7 days—allow flexibility depending on your length of stay. Short trips (1-2 days) might maximize the pass by focusing on highlights like the historical tours, museums, and a harbor cruise. Longer stays open up the chance to explore neighborhoods, enjoy multiple museums, and revisit favorite spots.

Travelers often mention that starting early is key, especially since many attractions open around 9 to 10 am. “I recommend starting early to make the most of your pass,” advises a reviewer, and some highlight how reserving popular tours ahead of time prevents disappointment, courtesy of the included reservation instructions.

Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to combine your pass with local transit or walking. Many find Boston’s compact downtown ideal for walking, and the hop-on-hop-off trolley provides a convenient way to cover larger distances comfortably.

Who Is This Pass Perfect For?

This ticket works best for first-time visitors who want a rundown of Boston’s most famous sights. It’s also great for families and groups looking for a cost-effective way to access multiple attractions in a short span.

If you love self-guided itineraries or prefer sightseeing at your own pace, the pass’s flexibility will suit you well. It’s less ideal if you’re traveling during the off-season when some attractions might be closed or if your focus is solely on specific sites not included in the pass.

Active travelers who enjoy a packed schedule will benefit from the multi-day options, while leisurely explorers might prefer a shorter pass to avoid rushing or missing out on more relaxed experiences.

Final Thoughts: Is the Boston Pass Worth It?

For value seekers, this pass is a no-brainer—saving up to 50% on top attractions makes it an economical choice, especially when you plan to visit several sites each day. The wide range of included activities means you’ll likely find something that aligns with your interests, whether it’s historical tours, museums, or scenic cruises.

The ease of instant digital delivery and the helpful digital guide streamline your planning, letting you focus on enjoying Boston. The seasonal attractions and tours add variety and freshness, though travelers should check availability and opening days in advance.

If you’re traveling with a flexible schedule and want to see Boston without the stress of ticket lines, this pass offers a convenient, budget-friendly way to maximize your trip. Just remember to plan ahead for reservations and seasonal closures, and you’re set for an exciting Boston adventure.

FAQ

Can I use this pass for multiple attractions on the same day?
Yes, you can visit as many included attractions as you like within your purchased days, provided they’re open and available at the time.

How do I receive my pass?
Your pass comes as a PDF with a QR code, which you can save on your phone or print out. There’s no physical card involved.

Is transportation included in the pass?
No, transportation isn’t included, but the pass covers most major attractions and tours.

Are all attractions available on any day?
Most attractions are seasonal, so check the included digital guide for availability, especially outside peak months.

Do I need to make reservations?
Some activities, indicated with ‘(R)’, require reservations. The digital guide provides instructions on how to reserve.

How long is the pass valid after purchase?
You have one year from the purchase date to activate your pass. Once activated, it’s valid for the number of days you chose, consecutively.

Can I buy a shorter pass and still access most attractions?
Yes, the 1-day or 2-day options are suitable for brief visits, but longer durations maximize value if you plan to explore more.

Is the pass suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many attractions like the Franklin Park Zoo and museums are family-friendly, and the pass offers great savings for groups.

What if I want to revisit attractions?
Your pass is valid for the consecutive days purchased, so revisits are possible if they’re open and you plan accordingly.

What should I do if an attraction is closed during my visit?
Check the digital guide or app for updates. If an included attraction is unavailable, consider alternatives within the pass or contact support for options.

In summary, the Boston Pass offers a smart way to see the city’s main sights, saving both time and money. It’s ideal for proactive travelers who enjoy flexibility and want to pack their Boston trip with memorable experiences without worrying about individual ticket costs.

You can check if your dates are available here: