San Diego Explorer Pass: Save up to 50% – Includes San Diego Zoo

Planning a trip to San Diego? The San Diego Explorer Pass promises an easy, flexible way to see some of the city’s top sights while saving money. With a wide selection of attractions, from world-renowned zoos to harbor cruises, it’s designed for travelers who want to make the most of their visit without the hassle of buying individual tickets.

What makes this pass appealing? First, the cost savings—up to 50% off combined entry fees—and second, the flexibility. You can choose 2 to 7 attractions, use them over 30 days, and access everything via a fully mobile ticket. That means no need to worry about carrying paper tickets or missing out on last-minute plans.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention confusing booking processes or technical hiccups with QR codes and reservations, which can cause frustration. For travelers who prefer a straightforward, no-surprise approach, this might be a point to consider.

This pass suits visitors who want variety and flexibility—families, first-timers, or even locals exploring their city—especially those who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventures, museums, and cruises. If you’re comfortable planning ahead and making reservations where needed, you’ll find this a convenient way to experience San Diego.

Key Points

• You can visit 2 to 7 attractions with one pass, saving up to 50%
• The pass is valid for 30 days from your first visit, offering flexibility
• It includes a full mobile ticket system and access to the Go City app for planning
• Many popular attractions are included, from the San Diego Zoo to harbor cruises
• Some reviews highlight ease of use and great value, while others mention technical issues
• It’s ideal for organized travelers who want to maximize their time

A Comprehensive Look at the San Diego Explorer Pass

Imagine exploring San Diego at your own pace, hopping from lush animal exhibits to historic ships, and cruising scenic bays—all with one convenient ticket. That’s the promise of the San Diego Explorer Pass, a flexible option designed to unlock the city’s best sights while keeping costs in check.

We’ll take you through what to expect, the real benefits, and the potential pitfalls, so you can decide whether this pass is a good fit for your San Diego adventure.

How the Itinerary Breaks Down: What You’ll Get

The itinerary offered through this pass is truly a sampler of San Diego’s diverse attractions. The beauty is in the choices—your pass allows you to pick from a long list of activities and sights. Here’s a detailed look at some of the highlights and what they offer.

San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Both are flagship attractions. The San Diego Zoo covers 100 acres with a sprawling collection of animals, from koalas to gorillas and elephants. It’s famous for its innovative habitats and engaging shows, making it a favorite among families. The Safari Park offers a different experience—larger, more open enclosures that mimic animals’ natural habitats, with a focus on conservation.

Many travelers, like Carol, found the zoo “amazing,” praising the seamless experience and enjoyable day. However, a few, like Johanna, mention that even when the pass malfunctions, staff seem willing to extend courtesy with guest passes, which can be a lifesaver on busy days.

USS Midway Museum

This historic aircraft carrier turned museum is a standout for aviation buffs and history lovers. A self-guided tour takes you through 60 exhibits, including the engine room, crew quarters, and hangar decks. The ship’s size and authenticity give a real sense of what life aboard a Navy vessel was like.

Expect about 2 hours to explore thoroughly. Many visitors, like Arlene, appreciated the “unique experience” of walking through history on the Midway.

Outdoor Adventures & Amusement Parks

For active travelers, the Belmont Park rides, including rollercoasters, zip lines, and mini-golf, promise fun on the beach. With a Ride and Play Pass, you get unlimited rides and activities for about 2 hours. Reviewers have described Belmont as “thrilling” and “interactive,” perfect for families or groups looking for a lively seaside outing.

Marine & Nature Exhibits

The Birch Aquarium at Scripps offers a chance to see living coral reefs, seahorses, and whale songs. It’s educational and engaging, especially if you’re interested in ocean science. Many visitors, like the reviewer who called it “immersive,” note the opportunity to pet sea stars and learn from marine scientists directly.

Similarly, the Living Coast Discovery Center emphasizes conservation, with exhibits close to the bayside. It’s a smaller, more intimate experience ideal for nature lovers.

Cultural & Scientific Attractions

Science lovers will appreciate the Fleet Science Center with hands-on exhibits and an IMAX theater, while art and history buffs can visit the San Diego Museum of Art and Museum of Us in Balboa Park. These museums showcase both classic and contemporary works, appealing to a broad range of interests.

Scenic Cruises & Tours

The City Cruises San Diego offers a 1.5-hour narrated tour of the bay, passing landmarks like Coronado Island and Cabrillo National Monument. It’s a relaxing way to see the city’s coastline and enjoy stunning views. For a more adventurous experience, the Whale Watching & Harbor Tours extend to 4 hours, with captain-led narration about the local marine life—many travelers love the chance to spot dolphins and blue whales.

The trolley tour offers two consecutive days of hop-on-hop-off service, a practical way to explore neighborhoods like the Gaslamp Quarter or Old Town with less walking.

Unique Experiences

For thrill-seekers, the San Diego Speed Boat Adventures and H2O Jet Ski Rentals provide exhilarating ways to see the bay from the water. These self-driving boats and jet skis are designed for safety and ease, even for beginners.

Other notable options include bike rentals, kayaking in La Jolla, and even outdoor bouldering at Asylum. Such choices highlight how the pass caters to both culture and activity cravings.

What Travelers Say about the Pass

The reviews paint a picture of a generally positive experience, especially for those who enjoy planning ahead. Many reviewers appreciate the value for money, with some describing the pass as “excellent” and “amazing,” especially for families or groups wanting variety.

As Carol noted, “The Zoo was amazing,” and Peter highlighted the unique attractions like speed boat tours and electric car rides as “excellent value.” These experiences often stand out because they are memorable and different from typical sightseeing.

However, some travelers encountered issues. Giulianna called her experience “a total scam,” citing trouble with the app and ticket validation, which shows the importance of double-checking reservations and being prepared for possible technical glitches. Others found the process “too complicated,” especially when QR codes didn’t scan or when they had to download the app unexpectedly.

The key to making this pass worthwhile is early planning. Use the Go City app to reserve spots where required and keep track of your visits. The reviews suggest that with a bit of organization, many find it well worth the cost.

Transportation & Timing

The pass includes a 2-day hop-on-hop-off trolley, making it easy to skip the hassle of parking and transit. The Bay cruises range from an hour and a half to four hours, giving options for quick sightseeing or full marine excursions.

Most attractions are around Balboa Park, the waterfront, and central San Diego, all accessible via public transit or short drives. The timing of each activity is flexible, but some, like whale watching and speed boat tours, are weather-dependent and may require reservations.

Duration & Flexibility

The pass’s 30-day validity offers ample time to spread out your visits. Many travelers love being able to pause between activities, especially when exploring a city as diverse as San Diego. The one-year purchase window also helps if your plans change.

The Practical Side: Costs, Reservations, and Convenience

At $124 per person, the pass can be a smart investment, especially if you plan to visit multiple top attractions. The cost savings compared to individual tickets are noteworthy, particularly for families or groups. However, keep in mind that some attractions may charge extra for upgrades or special experiences, which aren’t included in the pass.

The digital format is convenient, but some users report issues with QR codes and app logins. To avoid surprises, it’s best to plan ahead—reserve attractions in advance where necessary and familiarize yourself with the app’s features.

The No-Refund Caveat

Be aware that passes are non-refundable and cannot be changed, so double-check your plans before use. Also, some activities require reservations, making early planning even more crucial.

Final Thought: Is the San Diego Explorer Pass Worth It?

This pass offers significant value for those who want to experience a broad swath of San Diego’s attractions without the hassle of buying individual tickets. It’s particularly well-suited for outgoing travelers who enjoy planning their days, appreciating diversity in activities, and are comfortable with using apps and digital tickets.

If your ideal San Diego trip includes zoo visits, harbor cruises, museums, and outdoor adventures, this pass can streamline your experience and save money. The flexibility of a 30-day window makes it a good choice for those who want to take their time exploring.

Nevertheless, travelers who dislike technical issues or prefer strictly scheduled, pre-booked tours might find this experience a little frustrating. It’s best suited for organized, tech-savvy visitors who enjoy a variety-packed itinerary.

In short, the San Diego Explorer Pass represents a flexible, cost-effective way to enjoy the city, provided you are willing to do a little planning and stay adaptable.

FAQs

Can I choose exactly which attractions I want to visit?
Yes. You select 2 to 7 attractions from the list available, and they are valid for 30 days after your first visit.

Is the pass valid for 30 days after first use?
Correct. You can spread your visits over 30 days, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.

What do I need to use the pass?
The pass is a fully mobile ticket accessed via the Go City app. You’ll need to download the app and activate your chosen attractions.

Are there any attractions that require reservations?
Some activities might need reservations, so it’s advisable to check and book through the app in advance to ensure availability.

Can I visit the same attraction more than once?
No, each attraction can only be visited once with the pass.

What if my QR code doesn’t scan?
Some reviews mention issues with QR codes, so be prepared with the Go City app on your phone and allow extra time at entrances.

Does the pass include transportation?
The pass doesn’t include transportation unless specified, but it does include a two-day hop-on-hop-off trolley service and various guided tours.

Is the pass suitable for families?
Absolutely. Many attractions, like the zoo, aquarium, and Belmont Park, are family-friendly. Just check each activity’s suitability for children.

What’s not included in the pass?
Food, drinks, gratuities, parking fees, and some optional upgrades are not covered. Also, some attractions may have additional costs.

In essence, the San Diego Explorer Pass offers a convenient way to see many of San Diego’s highlights without breaking the bank. While some technical hiccups may occur, most find it a practical choice for a varied and memorable trip—especially if you enjoy a bit of planning and flexibility.