Chicago has a way of giving you options. This pass gives you the freedom to pick smart, then swap as your day changes. I like the mobile-friendly pass and the built-in digital guide that tells you hours and how to get in. I also like that you can choose up to seven activities from a big menu without feeling locked into a rigid plan. The main drawback to keep in mind: some of the biggest sights require reservations, so you’ll want to plan ahead (and have a backup screen or printout in case your phone acts up).

You’re basically buying flexibility plus the convenience of one ticket used across many Chicago landmarks—observation decks, museums, boat cruises, even family-friendly stops. The pass is priced at $84 per person, and it can be a strong value when you stack a few high-demand attractions. But if you only end up using one or two “small” items, you might wonder if it was worth the hassle.

Key things to know before you commit

• Pick 2–7 attractions from 35+ options, then adjust based on weather and your mood
• Mobile pass + digital guide help you scan in quickly and find the right check-in spot
• Reservations are required for major picks like Skydeck Chicago and 360 CHICAGO
• You’re on your own for timing: show up when your reservation (if needed) and hours line up
• A lot of the best Chicago value is at the top tier attractions, especially the observation decks and river views
• Family options are built in, from LEGOLAND to the Museum of Illusions to MSI films

Build-your-own Chicago days (without overplanning)

This is an all-in-one Explorer Pass, where the “tour” is really your choices. After you buy, your pass shows up digitally, and the Go City app (and guide) gives you the practical info you need: where to go, when things are open, and any special instructions.

What you like right away is the no-stress flexibility. You don’t have to pre-select attractions at checkout. Instead, you can browse the included digital guide, decide what fits your day, and use the pass at the ticket areas by showing your pass on your phone (or printing it at home).

That freedom is useful in Chicago, where your plans can change fast. If the wind shifts, you pivot. If the morning starts slower than expected, you save the big-deal museum for later. If the line at one spot looks too long, you move to the next thing.

Price and value: when $84 really works

At $84 per person, the math usually comes down to how you build your list. This kind of pass tends to pay off when you choose a mix of:

• One or two “headline” sights (the observation decks are the obvious candidates)
• One or two experiences that are priced like standalone admissions (big museums, planetarium, major tours)
• At least one “Chicago on the water” moment (architecture cruises, speedboat options)

One couple in the feedback you provided specifically noted that their three picks came out about 20% lower than booking each one directly. That’s not a guarantee for every combo, but it matches how this product is designed: stack a few popular items and the per-attraction cost drops.

Where value can slip is when your final plan leans toward attractions that cost less on their own, or when reservation friction eats your time. Some people also felt the savings didn’t beat the effort after a rough start. Your best move: commit to 3–4 solid attractions (especially ones that need reservations) so the pass earns its keep.

Reservations for Skydeck Chicago and 360 CHICAGO

Here’s the part I’d treat like a “do this first” task: check your digital guide for which attractions require advanced reservations. From the info provided, both:

• Skydeck Chicago (Willis Tower) and
• 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

require reservations.

Also note the special instruction: reservations need you to click through using your unique link in the Go City app/PDF—if you skip that step, you may be blocked from making the reservation. That’s exactly the kind of small technical step that turns into a big day-of problem.

If you want to avoid stress, do this:

• Save your pass to your phone before you leave your hotel
• Screenshot the “reservation-required” instructions in the app
• If Skydeck or 360 is in your must-do list, reserve early and pick a time that won’t force you to rush across the city

Skydeck Chicago vs 360 CHICAGO: two ways to see Chicago from high up

Both are tall, famous, and timed around the same idea: you want that Chicago skyline view without doing the work of planning multiple rooftop-style visits.

Skydeck Chicago (Willis Tower)

Skydeck Chicago sits on the 103rd floor at 1,353 feet. The highlight here is the classic Chicago panorama—from the lakefront all the way toward stadiums and downtown landmarks. Plan for this as a “big view” anchor.

One thing to watch: at Willis Tower, there can be extra onsite logistics like upsells or changes in pricing depending on crowd levels (at least one buyer reported an extra $10 on the day). It’s not something you can control, but it’s a good reason to keep a little buffer in your budget.

360 CHICAGO (94th floor)

360 CHICAGO is on the 94th floor, and the experience is paced around a quick trip up in the elevator and then the view. The angle here is still dramatic, but you’re choosing between two icons depending on where you want your skyline emphasis.

Practical takeaway: pick based on your calendar and reservation availability first, then decide which location feels more convenient for the rest of your day. Both are worth your “wow” factor.

Riverwalk and Big Bus: the fastest way to get your bearings

If you want to feel oriented in a new city, Chicago’s water-and-skyline vibe makes this easy. The pass includes a 1-Day Classic Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Chicago tour, which is one of the best “first two hours” tools you can buy.

You can hop on and off at stops that match your walking energy. It also helps when you’re not sure where the best museum block, shopping stretch, or lakefront access point is yet. Even if you don’t use every stop, the bus gives you a moving map.

Also, “Chicago Riverwalk” is part of this included set, tying the experience to the riverfront. That’s smart because you’ll likely end up spending time on foot along the water later anyway.

Architecture cruises from the water: Shoreline Sightseeing and Seadog

Chicago is built to be seen from the river and lake. This pass gives you multiple water options, which is great because weather and your energy level can decide which one fits.

Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour

This is a guided cruise with details about buildings along the Chicago River and their historical significance. It’s the kind of experience where you get more than just a view—you get names, context, and why certain facades matter.

Seadog Architecture River Tour (from Navy Pier)

You also have a Seadog Architectural River Tour from Navy Pier. Starting at Navy Pier can make logistics easier if you’re already planning to be on the lakefront.

Seadog Extreme Thrill Ride and Lakefront Speedboat Tour

If you want speed instead of calm, the pass includes:

• Seadog Extreme Thrill Ride (high-speed across Lake Michigan)
• Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour (the thrilling lakefront version)

These are a great pairing if you love a “look + feel” day: museum in the afternoon, and then a rush ride on the water later.

Museum Campus: Adler Planetarium and big-school museums

If you’re planning one museum-heavy day, the area around the Museum Campus is a logical target. The pass can get you into major attractions there, and it’s an easy way to build a full day without bouncing across town too many times.

Adler Planetarium

Adler includes admission to exhibitions and experiences, including the historic Atwood Sphere, plus your choice of two shows. If you like space, this is one of the more complete experiences on the list.

It’s also ideal for families because the planetarium format is naturally interactive and the Museum Campus setting makes it easy to stack with other nearby stops.

Field Museum

The Field Museum is built around big, famous exhibits—like SUE, the world’s largest T. rex, plus an Egyptian tomb experience and major collections including Chinese history and culture. If you want “one ticket, many worlds” energy, this is your anchor.

For kids and indoor variety near the same time window

If you’re traveling with children, you’ve got options that don’t depend on perfect weather:

• LEGOLAND Discovery Center (indoor, LEGO-focused, great for kids about ages 3–10)
• Chicago Children’s Museum (hands-on exhibits on Navy Pier)
• Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) (hands-on science, plus access to a Giant Dome Theater film screening)

I like this mix because it covers both “hands-on science” and “imaginative play,” so you’re not stuck repeating one theme all day.

Navy Pier: the lakefront magnet (and more than rides)

Navy Pier is a Chicago classic for a reason. It’s a 50-acre lakeside destination with shopping, eating, thrill rides, and that easy “we’re here” vibe.

What’s smart about the pass approach is that it treats Navy Pier as a hub. Even if you don’t ride everything, you can use it to anchor:

• A museum stop in the area
• A boat cruise departure
• An indoor family activity when the wind makes outdoor plans annoying

One practical note: Navy Pier can be busy. If you’re heading there for a timed reservation at an observation deck, try not to stack it too tightly.

Museum stops for adults: Chicago History, MCA, and writers

Not every stop is “hands-on” or family-friendly. You’ve also got classic Chicago culture and art options.

Chicago History Museum

If you want a fast path into Chicago’s story, this is a smart first-day pick because it gives you a foundation. It’s also the kind of museum where you’ll find the background to understand what you see later outside.

Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA)

MCA focuses on living artists and rotating exhibitions. It’s a good choice when you want Chicago to feel current instead of only historic. If you’re also planning a river cruise, pairing art with skyline views can make the day feel balanced.

American Writers Museum

This is for people who love words and interactive storytelling. If writing feels a bit dry for you, it might still work because the displays and programs are built around engaging genres of writing rather than only author biographies.

Science, illusions, and hands-on fun: MSI and Museum of Illusions

Two stops worth calling out if you want a change of pace from big history museums:

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (MSI)

MSI is described as the largest science museum in the country and it includes permanent exhibits plus a film screening at the Giant Dome Theater. The key value here is the hands-on, dynamic style, which makes it easier to keep kids (and adults) interested without turning the day into a slow march of reading placards.

Museum of Illusions

This is built for fast fun: over 80 immersive rooms and mind-bending exhibits. If your group likes playful learning, it’s a good “reset” between bigger commitments.

Frank Lloyd Wright: Home and Robie House tours

Chicago is one of the best places in the U.S. to see Frank Lloyd Wright’s ideas in real settings, and the pass gives you two tour options:

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

This is his residence and workspace early in his career, and it connects you to major works tied to his early period. A home-and-studio tour format helps you understand the architecture as something lived in, not just admired from the sidewalk.

Frederick C. Robie House tour

The Robie House is often treated like a headline Wright building. If you only pick one Wright stop, decide based on what you want most: the more personal home-and-studio story, or the landmark building tour.

Practical advice: give yourself time to walk around after the tour so you can compare what you learned with the lines you see outside.

Theater, ghosts, and other guided experiences

Some included options are short, guided, and very “Chicago character.”

• Chicago Theatre Marquee Tour: a behind-the-scenes history walk through a famous venue built in 1921.
• Lincoln Park Hauntings Ghost Tour & Ghost Hunt: an on-foot investigation around a haunted area tied to the Great Fire of 1871 and local legends. This one requires advanced reservation, so don’t treat it as a last-minute add-on.
• Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Home Museum: a guided 45-minute tour in Oak Park, outside downtown.
• Chicago Theatre + river plans can be a great pairing if you want day views and then a guided indoor moment later.

Family and playful extras: LEGOLAND, bowling, and Harry Potter

For groups that want variety (and sanity), these are often the easiest wins.

• 10pin Bowling Lounge: reserved lane time for 90 minutes, shoe rentals, and a pizza lunch included. Bowling is a solid “everyone can do this” plan, and the food inclusion helps keep costs predictable.
• Harry Potter Shop Chicago: includes admission with a Butterbeer experience. If your group loves the franchise, this is a low-effort, high-entertainment stop.
• Museum of Illusions is another option when you want action without needing a big reservation.

Outdoor adventure choices: Forge Adventure Park and ziplines

The pass includes Explorer Activities at The Forge Adventure Park & Ziplines—things like axe throwing, archery, laser tag, kayaking, and kids adventure zones. One key detail: climb and zipline adventure are not included.

So this is best if your group likes structured activities and doesn’t need the zipline itself. If you do want zipline time, check the included activities section in the guide so you know what’s covered before you show up.

Speedboats, flyovers, and the high-energy side of Chicago

If you want a “tech + thrill” day, you’ve got:

• Flyover in Chicago (an immersive “soar over” style attraction)
• Seadog Extreme Thrill Ride and the Lakefront Speedboat Tour for the real-deal speed

I like that these options are built for groups who don’t want only museums and walking. They also work well when the weather is too hot or too breezy for long outdoor stretches.

Food add-ons included in the pass

This pass doesn’t generally include meals, but a couple options do bake in food:

• Bacci Pizzeria on Taylor Street includes a pizza and drink combo
• 10pin Bowling Lounge includes pizza lunch

If you’re trying to keep daily spending under control, these are the “nice surprise” inclusions.

Small-group factor

The overall experience is listed with a maximum of 15 travelers. For activities that feel like guided tours, this kind of smaller cap can help you get questions answered and keep the pacing from dragging.

When this pass can disappoint you (and how to prevent it)

This is where I’m most practical. Several issues in your feedback revolve around the pass working smoothly at the attraction, especially early on or when QR codes don’t scan.

Here are the failure points to watch for:

• QR or barcode scanning problems at entry
• Reservation steps not completed through your unique Go City link
• Pass access problems when purchased through an intermediary

What I’d do to protect your day:

• Save the pass in the Go City app and also keep a backup (print or screenshot)
• Reserve the reservation-required attractions early
• Plan your day so you’re not stuck between two timed experiences if scanning fails

Also, be honest with yourself about your own style. If you love spontaneous wandering and don’t want to check apps at all, a pick-and-mix pass can feel like extra steps. But if you’re okay using your phone like a ticket wallet, it can save money and time.

Who should book this Chicago Explorer Pass?

You’ll probably like it if:

• You want flexibility (weather changes, energy changes)
• You’re open to using a smartphone ticket
• You’re planning 3–5 major Chicago attractions instead of only one “nice-to-have”
• You like mixing skyline views with museums and at least one boat cruise

You might skip it if:

• Your group refuses reservations and hates timed plans
• You want a totally offline experience
• You only plan to visit low-cost attractions

Should you book the Chicago Explorer Pass 35+ Things To Do?

I think it’s a strong buy if you’re building a real itinerary out of a few major priorities: observation decks (Skydeck or 360), one or two “big admission” museums, and a river/lake experience. At $84, you’re paying for convenience plus the chance to stack savings without hunting down tickets.

Book it if you’re willing to do one thing well: open the digital guide, identify what needs reservations, and lock those in early. If you can handle that, you’ll likely end up with a Chicago trip that feels planned, but not stiff.

FAQ

How many attractions can I choose with the Chicago Explorer Pass?

The pass lets you access 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 attractions from a larger selection of 35+ options.

Do I need to pre-select attractions at purchase?

No. After purchase, you can choose your attractions later using the included digital guide.

How long is the pass valid?

Your Explorer Pass is valid for 30 days from the date of activation.

Can I use the pass on my phone?

Yes. Your pass is mobile and you can also print it at home if you prefer.

Do I need reservations for every included attraction?

Not every attraction requires one, but some popular ones do. Skydeck Chicago and 360 CHICAGO require reservations, and the digital guide will note which ones need advanced booking.

How do I get into attractions once I choose them?

You show your pass at designated ticketing areas (either on your smartphone or printed).

What kind of attractions are included?

The pass includes a mix of observation decks, museum admissions, architecture cruises, hop-on hop-off sightseeing, and family-friendly indoor attractions, plus a few guided tours.

Is food included?

Usually not. Food and drink are not included unless stated as part of a specific attraction (for example, a pizza lunch at 10pin, and a pizza and drink combo at Bacci Pizzeria).

Is the pass offered in English?

Yes, the pass is offered in English.

Is this experience refundable?

This pass is listed as non-refundable, and it can’t be changed for any reason.