Go City: San Francisco Explorer Pass: Choose 2 to 5 Things To Do

When planning a trip to San Francisco, the sheer number of attractions can be overwhelming—and pricey. The Go City San Francisco Explorer Pass promises to simplify your visit, offering access to over 25 popular sights and activities with a single, flexible ticket. From iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge to family favorites like the aquarium and museums, this pass aims to help you see the best of the city while saving some cash.

We’ve looked at the details, reviews, and what this pass actually offers, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your San Francisco adventure. Among the many things we appreciate are the value for money and the ease of use—plus, the flexibility to explore at your own pace. But, like any travel tool, it has its quirks, so we’ll also point out some considerations.

If you’re someone who enjoys a self-guided, flexible itinerary and plans to hit several top spots without the stress of ticket lines, this pass could be a great addition. It’s especially suited for families, first-timers, or travelers who want to maximize their time without overpaying for individual tickets.

Key Points

• The pass offers 2 to 5 attractions of your choice from a list of over 25 options.
• Valid for 30 days, giving you flexibility on when to visit each attraction.
• Skip the voucher redemption process; just show your mobile ticket for quick entry.
• Includes a digital guide to assist in planning your visits.
• Popular activities include bus tours, museums, cruises, and family-friendly attractions.
• Most reviews highlight good value, easy access, and stunning views as big pluses.
• Some users experienced issues with booking or app glitches, so early planning is advised.
• This pass is best for independent travelers who want to explore freely.
• Price point at $79 per person for up to five attractions makes it a cost-effective choice if you plan your visits well.
• Keep in mind, some attractions may require advance reservations, so check the digital guide.

The real strength of the Go City San Francisco Explorer Pass lies in its versatility. With over 25 attractions to choose from, you can customize your experience based on your interests, whether they lean toward art, science, history, or scenic cruises. The flexibility to select 2, 3, 4, or 5 activities allows for tailored itineraries fitting your schedule and preferences.

The Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour

One of the most popular ways to get an overview of San Francisco is the Classic 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. We love the way this tour covers nearly all the must-see sights, from Fisherman’s Wharf to the Golden Gate Bridge, with the freedom to hop on and off at any stop. It’s a great way to get your bearings and enjoy stunning views without the hassle of navigating public transportation or parking.

Reviewers frequently mention the value here, with one stating, “It was an enjoyable day, saw a couple of different things, went to the zoo & the aquarium. The aquarium was probably more fun.” This type of flexible sightseeing suits travelers who want to see many sights in one day without rushing.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

The pass includes top-tier museums like the California Academy of Sciences, de Young Museum, and SFMOMA. The California Academy of Sciences stands out as a highlight, being named a “New Wonder of the World” by Conde Nast Traveler. We think the interactive exhibits and the aquarium, with its walk-through tunnels filled with 20,000 species, will appeal especially to families or those interested in marine life.

The Walt Disney Family Museum offers a more playful, multimedia experience, with exhibits on Disney’s legacy, including an intricate model of Disneyland. Reviewers mention the “great experience” and the “fun for kids and adults,” indicating its broad appeal.

Unique and Historic Experiences

History buffs will appreciate the USS Pampanito, a WWII submarine that you can walk through and learn about its role in naval history. The USS Hornet Museum, another naval highlight, provides insight into military aviation and the aircraft carrier’s storied past.

Alcatraz is notably absent from this pass but included via a cruise, which brings us to the next point.

Cruises and Scenic Tours

The Blue & Gold Fleet offers two cruises: Escape from the Rock, circling Alcatraz and sharing tales of daring escape attempts, and the San Francisco Bay Cruise beneath the Golden Gate. Reviewers love these experiences for stunning views of the city skyline and landmarks. One user said, “Sailing underneath the Golden Gate Bridge and watching the sea lions at Pier 39 — it’s magical.”

The Bridge-to-Bridge Cruise from Oakland to San Francisco’s bridges captures the essence of bay travel and offers memorable photo opportunities.

Family and Adventure Activities

For families or those seeking an active day, options include Legoland Discovery Center, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, and Blazing Saddles’ bike rentals. The Legoland is a hit with kids, with interactive play areas and miniature landmarks built from LEGO bricks.

The Flyer Thrill Zone provides a quick, adrenaline-pumping experience soaring over San Francisco’s rooftops, perfect for those craving a bit of excitement.

Other Noteworthy Activities

The San Francisco Zoo offers encounters with over 2,000 animals, and the GoCar Tours feature a GPS-guided storytelling car—a novel way to explore the city and learn about its landmarks.

Reservations are often recommended for popular activities, so early planning is advisable to secure spots, especially during peak seasons.

A standout feature of the Explorer Pass is the digital guide, which helps you plan your visits and provides up-to-date information on opening times and reservation needs. No need for physical vouchers—just save the pass on your phone and enjoy direct entry. This convenience is appreciated in reviews, where travelers note the ease of use.

However, a few reviews mention hiccups like the pass disappearing after first use or glitches with the app, making early activation and planning essential. A tip is to check the digital guide early and secure reservations for activities that require them.

At $79, the pass represents solid value if you plan to visit multiple attractions. For example, individual tickets to places like the California Academy of Sciences or SFMOMA can add up quickly, making this pass a cost-effective solution for visitors with a packed itinerary. Yet, the key is to carefully select your attractions and plan ahead.

The reviews reveal that many users feel they saved significant money and enjoyed the flexibility of customizing their day. One user said, “We saved so much money and had a great time.” But it’s worth noting that booking in advance for certain activities is often necessary, which can limit spontaneous visits.

Duration and Flexibility

You can purchase the pass for 1 to 30 days, but most travelers opt for the 30-day validity to spread out their visits. This flexibility is helpful if you want to take your time, especially with attractions that require advanced reservations.

This pass is ideal for independent travelers who enjoy planning their own itinerary and want to visit several major sights without the hassle of buying individual tickets. Families, first-timers, or anyone wanting to maximize their sightseeing without overpaying will find real value here.

Adventure-seekers will appreciate the cruises and active options like biking or the flying theater, while culture lovers can indulge in the museums and historic sites.

However, those who prefer guided, pre-arranged tours or are looking for a more structured experience might find this approach too flexible or require more planning.

For the savvy traveler, the Explorer Pass offers a flexible, money-saving way to see some of San Francisco’s top attractions at your own pace. It’s especially well-suited for those comfortable with a bit of planning and reservations, as many activities require booking ahead.

The pass’s greatest strength lies in its combination of variety and convenience—you can mix and match attractions to suit your interests and schedule. The included digital guide simplifies the process, helping you avoid long lines and last-minute scramble for tickets.

Travelers who love independent exploration, enjoy scenic cruises, or want family-friendly activities will find this pass a handy tool to enrich their visit without breaking the bank.

However, it’s not perfect. Some users have encountered app glitches and booking issues, so early planning and cautious reservation are recommended. Also, if you’re only planning to visit a couple of attractions, the pass might not be the best value.

Ultimately, if your goal is to see as much of San Francisco as possible, with flexible timing and multiple options, this pass can be a cost-effective, enjoyable way to make your trip memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use the pass for multiple attractions in one day?
Yes, you can visit multiple attractions within the 30-day validity period, but you may need to book reservations in advance for certain activities.

Is the pass valid for 1 or 30 days?
You choose the duration when purchasing. It is typically valid for 30 days from first activation, providing ample flexibility.

Do I need to print anything?
No, the pass is mobile-only. Simply save it on your phone for direct entry.

Are there any attractions that require reservations?
Some activities may need advance reservations. Check the digital guide for specific instructions on each attraction.

What’s included in the pass?
Access to 2, 3, 4, or 5 attractions from over 25 options, plus a digital guide. Food, drinks, and transportation aren’t included unless specified.

How far in advance should I book activities?
It’s recommended to book reservations as early as possible to secure availability, especially for popular attractions.

Can I visit the same attraction more than once?
Typically, the pass allows one entry per attraction unless specified otherwise. Check each attraction’s policy.

What if I want to visit more than five attractions?
The standard pass covers up to five attractions. For more, you might need additional passes or pay separately.

Is the pass suitable for children?
Many attractions are family-friendly, but check individual activity details for age restrictions.

What should I do if I encounter problems with the pass?
Contact Go City customer service or email the provided support contacts. Early planning helps prevent issues.

In the end, the Go City San Francisco Explorer Pass offers an appealing blend of flexibility and value for the traveler eager to cover the highlights of the city without fuss. With early planning and a bit of research, you’ll find it a handy companion for an unforgettable Bay Area adventure.