Go City Chicago: 3 Ways to Save Up to 11%

A sparkling jewel of the Midwest, Chicago is a city full of contradictions. Equal parts grit, and sullied history, meld with spellbinding architecture, an enviable art scene, world-class restaurants, and top-tier museums to create an urban oasis. Take on even more of the Windy City with Chicago Go Pass.

Ready to take on the Windy City without blowing your budget? The Go City Chicago Explorer Pass (yep, also known as the Go City Card Chicago) is your all-access key to some of the city’s most iconic spots—think Skydeck Chicago, 360 Chicago, and the Shedd Aquarium—without the hassle of buying separate tickets.

With the Explorer Pass, you’ll have up to 30 days to enjoy everything from architecture river boat tours and hop on hop off Big Bus rides, to hands-on fun at the Museum of Science and Industry and kid-friendly gems like the Field Museum and Chicago Children’s Museum.

If your dream Chicago day includes observation decks, walking tours, bike rentals, or snapping a selfie on the Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier, this pass makes it all easier—and way more fun.

Let’s dive into how to use it, where to go, and why it’s a total game-changer for anyone planning a Chicago adventure!

[ez-toc]

Go City Chicago Explorer Pass Discount Tickets

Score awesome group discounts with the Go City Chicago Explorer Pass and make the most out of your Windy City adventure!

Don’t worry—we’ve got your back with discounted tickets too, so you can see more and spend less. Let the Chicago fun begin!

Go City Chicago Explorer Pass Coupons and Discounts

Military Discount: No military deal just yet—but don’t worry, you can still grab sweet Chicago Go City savings when you book with us.

AAA Member Discount: AAA perks took a day off here, but we’ve got you covered with awesome discounted passes through us!

Senior Discount: No senior specials for this one, but age is just a number when you’re scoring deals with us.

Local Discount: Living in Chicago won’t get you a local rate—but hey, everyone gets to save big with us anyway.

Group Discount: Rolling deep with 20 or more? Group rates kick in, and the savings get seriously exciting!

Go City Chicago Explorer Pass Vacation Packages

Make the most of your Go City Chicago Explorer Pass with our exclusive vacation bundles packed with extra fun. Snag ticket deals plus access to other top Chicago attractions—all in one exciting, money-saving package!

Plan less, play more—our bundles make your Chicago trip smoother, sweeter, and full of unforgettable stops.

Father and child viewing the city at 360 Chicago during sunset - Chicago, Illinois, USA — photo credit: 360 CHICAGO via Facebook

Hotels Near Go City Chicago Explorer Pass

Staying close to the action can make your explorations seamless and enjoyable. Here’s a curated list of hotels conveniently located near the attractions you’ll access with your Go City Chicago Explorer Pass:

Go City Chicago Explorer Pass Hotel Packages

Make your Go City Chicago Explorer Pass work harder with our hotel bundles—yes, tickets and comfy stays included! From sightseeing to snoozing, we’ve packed it all in one easy, awesome deal. Why book separate when you can bundle, chill, and save in style?

Chicago Attractions

360 Chicago: Located at 875 N Michigan Ave, 360 Chicago takes you 1,000 feet above ground for epic views of the city and Lake Michigan. The TILT experience is a thrilling must-try, especially for adventurous families.

Kids will love spotting landmarks from above, while adults can relax at the bar with skyline views. It’s stroller-friendly and timed tickets help skip long waits, making it easy for families to enjoy. Visit around sunset to catch the city glow in both daylight and twinkling night lights.

Art Institute of Chicago: Sitting at 111 S Michigan Ave, the Art Institute of Chicago is more than just a museum—it’s an art adventure for the whole family. Must-sees like Van Gogh’s The Bedroom and the dreamy Thorne Miniature Rooms keep kids and adults equally captivated.

Stop by the Ryan Learning Center for free, hands-on activities that give little ones a break from walking. There’s a café inside and shaded spots nearby for a quick snack break or rest. It’s a cultural gem that makes learning feel like play.

Hurricane Harbor Chicago: Make a splash at Hurricane Harbor Chicago, just off 1 Great America Parkway in Gurnee—a waterpark packed with slides, waves, and nonstop fun. Families with young kids will appreciate Splash Island, a shallow and shaded area perfect for safe, giggly play.

Bigger kids and thrill-seekers can race down towering slides or drift along the lazy river. Bring water shoes for hot surfaces and rent a locker to stash your stuff stress-free. It’s the perfect summer day trip that keeps everyone cool and smiling.

Insider Go City Chicago Explorer Pass Tips

The Go City Chicago Explorer Pass is your ticket to big fun and big savings—but only if you know how to use it right. These insider tips will help you skip the stress, save time, and squeeze the most out of every attraction.

Start With High-Value Attractions: Use your Go City Chicago Explorer Pass on pricier attractions like 360 Chicago (worth over $30), the Shoreline Architecture River Cruise (around $50), or the Field Museum. These give you the most bang for your buck compared to cheaper museums or walking tours.

Map Attractions By Area: Save travel time by grouping nearby attractions. For example, pair the Art Institute of Chicago with Millennium Park and the Museum of Contemporary Art—all walkable. For Navy Pier activities, combine them with the Architecture River Cruise since they’re right next to each other.

Avoid Weekends For Popular Spots: Skydeck Chicago, Shedd Aquarium, and the Field Museum get especially crowded on weekends. Aim for weekday mornings when lines are shorter and crowds are lighter, especially if you’re traveling with kids in strollers or need extra time.

Check Reservation Requirements: Some attractions—like the Museum of Science and Industry, the Skydeck, and the river cruises—require timed reservations. You can usually book online using the Go City link provided after purchasing. Don’t assume you can just walk in!

Use The Go City App: Download the official Go City app to store your digital pass, track how many attractions you’ve used, and check hours. It also shows which locations require advance reservations, helping you avoid surprises.

Go City Chicago Explorer Pass FAQs

Can I Bring Food Into Go City Chicago Explorer Pass?

The Go City Chicago Explorer Pass itself doesn't impose restrictions on bringing food into attractions; however, each attraction has its own policy regarding outside food and beverages.

For instance, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry allows visitors to bring their own food and offers on-site dining options. Conversely, attractions like LEGOLAND® Discovery Center prohibit outside food and drinks but provide an internal café for refreshments.

Similarly, the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel and Rides do not permit outside food and drinks on the rides for safety and cleanliness reasons, but there are numerous dining options available at Navy Pier.

To ensure a smooth experience, it's advisable to check each attraction's specific food policy in advance. Many venues offer on-site dining or nearby restaurants, so planning meals accordingly can enhance your visit.

Go City Chicago Explorer Pass Parking

The Go City Chicago Explorer Pass does not include parking; each attraction manages its own parking facilities.

For example, Navy Pier offers two on-site parking garages—the West Garage and East Garage—accommodating up to 1,500 vehicles. Valet parking is also available at Entrance 1.

Other attractions, like the Museum of Science and Industry and the Field Museum, have their own parking lots or nearby paid parking options. It's advisable to check each attraction's website for specific parking information and rates.

To save on parking costs, consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services when visiting multiple attractions in a day. Additionally, some downtown hotels offer parking packages that might be cost-effective if you're staying overnight.

What Is the Chicago Explorer Pass?

The Chicago Explorer Pass by Go City is an all-digital pass that grants you admission to your choice of about 29 top Chicago attractions. It offers flexibility, allowing you to select 2 to 7 attractions from a curated list that includes iconic sites like Skydeck Chicago, 360 CHICAGO, the Field Museum, and the Shoreline Architecture River Cruise.

Once activated at your first attraction, the pass remains valid for 30 days, giving you ample time to explore at your own pace. You can conveniently access your pass via the Go City app or by printing it out, eliminating the need for multiple tickets.

This pass is ideal for travelers seeking a customizable and cost-effective way to experience Chicago's premier attractions.

Is the Go City Pass Worth It in Chicago?

Yes—if you plan ahead and pick high-value attractions, the Go City Chicago Explorer Pass can absolutely be worth it. It gives you access to top spots like 360 Chicago, the Shoreline Architecture River Cruise, and the Field Museum for less than paying individual gate prices.

This Explorer pass is such great value, it's a bit expensive to purchase, but use it on two attractions and the rest are free with the vouchers, such a great idea. It's especially cost-effective for travelers aiming to hit 3 or more major attractions.

What Is the Difference Between the Explorer Pass and the All Inclusive Pass?

The primary distinction between the Go City Chicago Explorer Pass and the All-Inclusive Pass lies in their structure and flexibility.

Explorer Pass: You buy the Go Explorer Pass for a specific number of attractions—choosing from 2 to 7 options. Once activated at your first attraction, you have 30 days to visit the remaining selected attractions at your own pace. This pass is ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed itinerary and wish to explore Chicago's highlights over an extended period.

All-Inclusive Pass: The Go City Chicago All-Inclusive Pass allows unlimited access to over 25 attractions for a set number of consecutive days—ranging from 1 to 5 days. It's designed for visitors aiming to experience as much as possible in a short timeframe, offering significant savings if multiple attractions are visited daily.
Serena's Lenses

If you have a clear list of must-see attractions and a flexible schedule, the Explorer Pass offers the freedom to spread out your visits. Conversely, if you're on a tight schedule and eager to immerse yourself in Chicago's offerings intensively, the All-Inclusive Pass provides the best value.

Go City Chicago Explorer Pass Reviews

Want to know if the Go City Chicago Pass is really worth it? Check out reviews from real travelers who’ve tried it themselves!

How to See Chicago’s Best Without Spending the Most

Here at Tripster, we hook you up with discounted rates on Chicago attractions, hotels, shows, and vacation packages to keep your trip stress-free and fun.

Looking for even more things to do? Our handy travel guide is packed with insider tips, hidden gems, and everything you need for a legendary Windy City adventure!

Did We Miss Anything?

Let us know in the comments below!

Written by Kyla Paler

Go City Card Chicago: 3 Ways to Save Up to 11%