Chicago Explorer Pass 2025: Is It Really Worth It?

Dreaming of hitting all those must-see spots in Chicago, like maybe the Skydeck or the Art Institute? Thing is, all those tickets can really add up, you know? That’s where the Chicago Explorer Pass comes in. It’s almost like a prepaid ticket booklet, that gets you into a bunch of spots for one set price. But is it really as sweet a deal as it sounds? Let’s take a peek at what this pass brings to the table for 2025, alright?

What is the Chicago Explorer Pass?

So, the Chicago Explorer Pass is that multi-attraction pass that’s especially handy for tourists. Rather than purchasing individual tickets for each museum, tour, or landmark, the pass lets you pick a specific number of attractions to visit and then gets you in. Basically, you get access to your chosen attractions. It’s very, very beneficial. It might be a great money-saver, mostly if you are aiming to pack a lot of sightseeing into your Chicago adventure. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Chicago Explorer Pass)

How the Explorer Pass Functions

Using this pass is that straightforward. First, you’re going to purchase a pass for the number of attractions you want to see – that usually comes in options from three to seven. Then, you get to select which attractions you want to visit from a pretty sizable list. When you’re there, you just present your pass (it’s available on your phone!) to get inside. As a matter of fact, it’s very much like having a VIP ticket to all the best stuff. So, each time you visit a spot, it gets deducted from your pass allowance, alright?

What Chicago Attractions Are Included?

Here’s a peek at what’s included in the Chicago Explorer Pass for 2025, even though attraction lineups might vary a bit, okay?

Skydeck Chicago: That iconic skyscraper that gets you great views.
Art Institute of Chicago: An impressive collection, in fact.
Field Museum: Dinosaurs, culture, you name it! It’s really cool!
Shedd Aquarium: Super huge, as a matter of fact. Great marine life, even.
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck: Slightly more views of the city.
Museum of Science and Industry: Hands-on, as a matter of fact, very much for everyone.
Shoreline Architecture River Cruise: Cruising through architecture. So much learning and viewing in one trip!
Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Chicago: When you want to just, view everything.

The pass also covers many other boat tours, walking trips, and small museums, that lets you see quite a range of what the city has on offer. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Chicago City Pass)

Chicago Explorer Pass: The Benefits and Drawbacks

The Explorer Pass seems enticing, but it is a good option to purchase it? Here’s a look at what’s great and what might just, make you think twice.

Benefits

Potential Savings: You might save a good amount, but that totally hinges on if you actually would have visited all those attractions and how expensive those individual tickets are. Very often, it makes sense to buy, even when on the fence.
Flexibility: Choose on the go! Very flexible with scheduling, as a matter of fact.
Convenience: Just one pass, that gives entry into several places, you know? It is super convenient.

Drawbacks

Must do the Math: The discounts only make sense when you actually see enough, because maybe if you don’t use it enough, the cost is the same or worse.
Attraction Limitations: Not every single popular spot is on the list. But the major spots are.
Spontaneity Killer: you maybe feel kinda stuck seeing places, but only those spots. So that makes it less random, too.

How to Maximize Savings with the Explorer Pass

Want to squeeze every penny out of the Chicago Explorer Pass? Here’s the lowdown on getting the most bang for your buck.

Plan the route: Create a list. Write down your routes, what you can go to in what order. Maybe plan it all out beforehand.
Aim for expensive attractions: Hit the pricey places first. Get to the ones that are going to have some return. Very beneficial to you.
Consider travel time: Chicago is not always quick to cross. Plan so you travel smoothly.

Is the Chicago Explorer Pass Right for You?

The million-dollar question: Does the Chicago Explorer Pass fit your travel style? This pass might be your best buddy, if you’re:

Planning to see several big-name sights. You have some big trips you are hoping to make.
Cool with planning a tiny bit, just for some money-saving.
Desiring a little ease while traveling, that lets you enter locations really fast.

The pass maybe is skippable when:

You like to keep things super loose with not even, set plans at all. Just go and vibe!
You’re mostly in Chicago for like, unique dining experiences. Food-tour vibes!
you mostly plan on like, cheap or free sights, mostly?

Ultimately, it seriously, just boils down to what gets you excited on holiday! If you would just, enjoy packing attractions in a trip, as a matter of fact, then seriously go ahead. But it could also maybe not make a ton of sense for someone who just likes relaxing at a cafe. I mean, maybe?

Read our full review: Chicago Explorer Pass Full Review and Details