VIP tickets are rarely worth the premium.

Usually not. Unless you hate waiting in line more than you like having that cash in your pocket.

Most VIP add-ons are just shortcuts past a queue you’d stand in for maybe twenty minutes. The “exclusive” area is often worse than the regular spot. The drink ticket program is a math problem you lose on. And the commemorative lanyard goes in a drawer by the end of the day.

If you’re going to a show or museum where you’ll be there for hours and hours, and missing ten minutes of standing matters? Sure, buy the fast pass. But for the typical city tour or tourist trap, the basic ticket gets you the same thing — a guide, a bus, and that one photo spot everyone takes.

Save the difference for a nice dinner instead. You’ll remember that more than skipping a rope line.