Is the Seattle CityPASS Worth It? A Cost-Benefit Analysis
The Seattle CityPASS offers admission to five of Seattle’s top attractions at a significant discount compared to buying individual tickets. Deciding if it’s worth it depends on which attractions you plan to visit and how much time you have. Let’s delve into the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
What is the Seattle CityPASS?
The Seattle CityPASS is a bundled ticket that grants entry to a pre-selected set of attractions in Seattle. Instead of purchasing individual tickets for each place, you buy one pass that covers them all. The current Seattle CityPASS includes admission to:
- Space Needle
- Seattle Aquarium
- Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour
- Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) OR Woodland Park Zoo
- Chihuly Garden and Glass OR Museum of Natural History and Culture
The pass is valid for nine consecutive days, giving you ample time to explore. For more information on how city passes work, you can check out Wikipedia’s CityPASS entry.
The Cost Breakdown
To determine if the CityPASS is worth the investment, compare the combined cost of individual tickets to the price of the pass. As of October 26, 2023, the Seattle CityPASS costs around $114 for adults and $89 for children (ages 5-12). You need to calculate the total cost of the attractions you’re *actually* going to visit if you bought them separately. If that cost is higher than the CityPASS price, then it’s worth it.
Factors to Consider
* **Which Attractions Interest You:** Are you genuinely interested in visiting at least 3-4 of the included attractions? If not, the pass may not be economical.
* **Your Itinerary:** Do you have enough time to visit multiple attractions? The CityPASS is most beneficial if you plan a packed itinerary.
* **Discounts and Promotions:** Check for potential discounts on individual attractions through AAA, military, or other affiliations. These discounts might sway your decision.
* **Flexibility:** The CityPASS offers flexibility, as you don’t have to decide which attractions to visit until you’re there. You can also choose between MoPOP and Woodland Park Zoo, and between Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Museum of Natural History and Culture.
Seattle CityPASS FAQs
Is the Seattle CityPASS worth it for one day?
Probably not. To maximize the value of the pass, you need to visit several attractions, which is difficult to accomplish in a single day.
Does the Seattle CityPASS include the underground tour?
No, the Seattle CityPASS does not include the Underground Tour. It only covers the attractions listed above.
How long is the Seattle CityPASS valid?
The Seattle CityPASS is valid for nine consecutive days from the date of first use.
Can I use the Seattle CityPASS on different days?
Yes, you can use the pass on non-consecutive days as long as they fall within the nine-day validity period after the first attraction is visited.
Is the Seattle CityPASS cheaper than buying individual tickets?
Generally, yes, if you plan to visit at least three or four of the included attractions. Compare the individual ticket costs with the pass price to be sure.
Summary
The Seattle CityPASS can be a valuable tool for saving money on Seattle’s top attractions. Carefully assess your travel plans and the attractions you want to visit to determine if the pass aligns with your interests and itinerary. If you’re planning to visit several of the included attractions, the CityPASS is likely a worthwhile investment.
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