San Diego GoCar Tour: Early Bird Special

Exploring San Diego in a GoCar: A Fun, Flexible Way to See the City

When it comes to sightseeing in San Diego, a traditional bus tour might seem a bit predictable. That’s where the San Diego GoCar Tour: Early Bird Special offers a refreshing twist. This half-day adventure combines the thrill of driving a storytelling vehicle with the freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s a unique way to see the city’s iconic sights, from lush parks to bustling neighborhoods, all wrapped into a compact three-hour experience.

What we love most about this tour is how it blends informative detours with stunning scenery—you’re not just sitting on a bus listening to a guide; you’re actively driving through neighborhoods and parks, stopping for photos, and soaking in views of the Pacific Ocean. However, a potential consideration is that the GoCar is fuel-powered, not electric, which might matter to eco-conscious travelers. Still, if you’re after a fun, flexible, and insightful way to explore San Diego, this tour hits the mark perfectly, especially for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and hands-on discovery.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see the city in a more personal and engaging way, whether you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or family. It’s a particularly good choice if you prefer an active, self-guided feel with the added benefit of guided stops and scenic views. Keep in mind, this tour is best suited for those over 21 with a valid driver’s license and a sense of adventure.

Key Points

• Flexible Tour Duration: 3 hours of driving, with an early return option by noon, perfect for fitting into a busy travel schedule.
• Self-Driven Experience: Drive a storytelling GoCar equipped with GPS, making navigation easy and fun.
• Scenic Stops & Detours: Visit iconic locations like Balboa Park, Old Town, the USS Midway, and the Gaslamp Quarter, with options to park and stroll.
• Authentic Local Discovery: Drive through neighborhoods like Little Italy, Hillcrest, and the boutique shopping district of Hillcrest, experiencing San Diego’s local flavor.
• Family Friendly with Caveats: Suitable for travelers over 21 with a valid license; note that GoCars don’t accommodate children or car seats.
• Value for Money: At $86 per person, this experience offers a comprehensive city tour with considerable flexibility and memorable photo opportunities.

A Deep Dive into the San Diego GoCar Tour

Starting Point & Equipment

Your adventure begins at Drivewize LLC, where you’ll be oriented on how to operate your GoCar—think of it as a mini storytelling vehicle with GPS tech built-in. This setup simplifies navigation and helps you enjoy the sights without worrying about getting lost. The inclusion of helmets ensures safety, while the safety briefing sets the tone for a relaxed, fun ride.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour features a carefully curated route designed to showcase San Diego’s most captivating spots. As you start, you’ll pass through Old Town San Diego, a historic area perfect for snapping pictures of colonial architecture and learning about local history. The reviews note that this stop offers scenic views and photo opportunities, making it a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the atmosphere.

Next, you’ll cruise into Little Italy, known for its lively vibe and excellent eateries. Whether you stop for a quick photo or indulge in some gelato afterward, this neighborhood adds a charming flavor to your trip. For those who love maritime history, the Maritime Museum and the USS Midway provide impressive photo stops. The reviews highlight the scenic views passed along the way, with many noting how close the GoCar allows you to get to these landmarks.

Seaport Village and Horton Plaza offer a mix of shopping and sightseeing, giving you chances to explore boutique stores or enjoy waterfront views. Notably, the Petco Park and Gaslamp Quarter stops are prime spots for capturing the urban vibe and ballpark excitement. The tour also takes you to Banker’s Hill and Balboa Park, famous for its lush gardens, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The Inez Parker Rose Garden offers a particularly picturesque stop—perfect for Instagram-worthy shots.

For wildlife and zoo lovers, the San Diego Zoo is included as a pass-by stop, giving you an idea of how close you’re driving to one of the city’s most iconic attractions. The last stops in Hillcrest and the scenic lookout points provide a lovely conclusion before returning to your starting point.

Scenic Detours & Stops: Authentic Experiences

One of the tour’s strengths is the ability to park and stroll at popular locations, giving you more flexibility to explore. The review from a family noted that their 8-year-old loved the GoCar, calling it “the best part” of their trip. They appreciated Kevin, the guide, for being helpful and friendly, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Another reviewer pointed out that some of the GoCars might need better maintenance, specifically mentioning GPS and accelerator issues. While this isn’t a common complaint, it suggests that the experience can vary slightly depending on the condition of your vehicle. It’s a good idea to double-check the vehicle before departure to ensure everything’s functioning smoothly.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The interactive nature of driving your own vehicle makes the tour more engaging than a passive bus ride.
– The GPS-guided routes help you navigate easily through busy streets and neighborhoods.
– The stops in key locations encourage exploration and photography.
– The scenic drives along the coast and through historic districts make for memorable moments.
– The value—at $86 for a three-hour tour—offers a lot of sightseeing for your money.

Cons:
– The fuel-powered GoCars might be a concern for eco-conscious travelers; they are not electric.
– Limited to a maximum of two passengers, so it may not suit larger groups.
– Age restriction of 21+ and driver’s license requirements mean it’s not suitable for younger travelers or those without a valid license.
– Some reviews mention occasional vehicle maintenance issues, so expect possible minor hiccups.

Pricing & Value

At $86 per person, this experience provides a lot of flexibility and the chance to see many of San Diego’s highlights in a short time. Considering the time spent and the variety of locations covered—including historic districts, parks, neighborhoods, and waterfronts—many will find it to be a good value, especially if you enjoy a more personalized sightseeing method.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to explore San Diego at their own pace, in a vehicle that’s more engaging than a shuttle or bus. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or families with older children (21+), especially those interested in capturing photos and experiencing the city up close. If you’re someone who enjoys driving and discovering hidden corners, this will suit you well.

Final Thoughts

The San Diego GoCar Tour: Early Bird Special offers a unique, engaging way to explore the city’s most iconic sights. With scenic drives, flexible stops, and informative detours, it’s particularly suited to curious travelers who want more control over their sightseeing experience. While the fuel-powered aspect and occasional vehicle hiccups are minor considerations, they shouldn’t overshadow the genuine fun and discovery this tour provides.

For those seeking a memorable, interactive day in San Diego, this experience delivers well on value, fun, and the chance to see the city from a new perspective. Whether you’re snapping photos in Balboa Park, strolling through Little Italy, or taking in waterfront views, you’ll come away with great memories—and plenty of stories to tell.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the GoCars can only seat two people and require drivers to be 21 or older with a valid license. Children under 21 or those needing car seats can’t be accommodated.

Do I need an international license?
No, a valid driver’s license from your country is sufficient. No special international license is needed.

Can I extend the tour?
Yes, on the day of rental, you can choose to extend the tour in 15-minute increments, though additional costs will apply.

Are hotel pick-ups included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off. You will need to meet at the starting location.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the GoCar, GPS technology, helmets, and a safety briefing. Insurance is optional and can be purchased on-site.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is the tour suitable for eco-conscious travelers?
Since GoCars are fuel-powered, they are not electric, which might be a consideration for those seeking environmentally friendly options.

This review highlights that the San Diego GoCar Tour: Early Bird Special is more than just a city drive—it’s an adventure that lets you engage directly with your surroundings while offering the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Perfect for those who want a lively, personalized way to experience San Diego’s vibrant neighborhoods, scenic spots, and iconic landmarks.