San Francisco Pass: Save up to 50% – Includes Big Bus Tours

If you’re planning a trip to the City by the Bay, chances are you’ll want to see its famous sights, dive into its culture, and enjoy its quirky neighborhoods. The San Francisco Pass by Go City promises to do just that—offering access to more than 25 top attractions with one digital ticket. We haven’t personally wandered the streets of San Francisco with it, but after reviewing the details, this pass could be a real game-changer for many travelers.

What we love about this experience? First, the versatility—you can tailor your visit from one to five days, choosing exactly how much of the city’s highlights you want to explore. Second, the cost savings—bundling multiple attractions can easily save you over $100, especially if you plan to visit several spots in a short period. A potential drawback? Some reviews hint that not all activities are consistently available or easy to book, so a little planning is key.

This pass is well-suited for first-time visitors eager to maximize their time and dollars or travelers who want a flexible, all-in-one solution to experience San Francisco’s diverse offerings. Whether you’re a culture buff, an outdoor explorer, or a fan of quirky museums, this package can fit a variety of interests.

Key Points

• Unlimited flexibility for 1 to 5 days depending on your itinerary
• Access to over 25 popular attractions and tours
• Includes Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour for city overview
• Mobile ticket makes entry quick and convenient
• Potential to save over $100 compared to buying individual tickets
• Some reviews mention limitations and booking issues

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Big Bus Tours San Francisco

The classic Hop-On Hop-Off bus is perhaps the easiest way to get an introduction to San Francisco. The 1-day ticket covers almost all the must-see sights—Fisherman’s Wharf, the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, and beyond. With the ability to hop off at any stop and resume later, you get a flexible, stress-free way of ticking off landmarks.

We liked that this tour offers direct entry—no vouchers to redeem, just a mobile pass. It’s especially handy when you’re eager to start exploring quickly. That said, some reviewers noted that you might only be able to use the bus once, and others experienced issues with the validity of certain tickets, so reading the digital instructions carefully is recommended.

California Academy of Sciences

Named one of the ‘New Wonders of the World’ by Conde Nast Traveler, the California Academy of Sciences is a true highlight. It’s a blend of aquarium, natural history museum, and planetarium, all in one building. You’ll see impressive exhibits, including various marine creatures, and can learn about science in a fun, engaging way.

Expect to spend around three hours here, making it a good choice for a dedicated half-day. The reviewers praise the exhibits and the research programs, making it a favorite for families and science enthusiasts alike. Just note that some visitors found it to be very busy during peak times, so plan accordingly.

Aquarium of the Bay

Located at Pier 39, the Aquarium of the Bay offers an up-close look at the marine life of San Francisco Bay. The crystal-clear tunnels are a crowd favorite, allowing you to walk through and see sharks, rays, and colorful fish swimming all around you—an unforgettable experience.

Expect to spend about an hour here. Reviewers mention that it’s perfect for families, and they appreciate the chance to learn about conservation efforts. Be prepared for some crowds, especially on weekends, but the exhibits are well-designed for a smooth visit.

Blue & Gold Fleet – Escape from the Rock Cruise

This 90-minute bay cruise is arguably one of the most iconic ways to see San Francisco from the water. You’ll sail under the Golden Gate Bridge, circle Alcatraz, and hear stories of escape attempts and infamous prisoners.

Travelers rave about the stunning views and informative narration. Expect a relaxed pace that’s suitable for most ages. The reviewers highlight how the cruise offers a different perspective on the city’s landmarks—an experience that’s both scenic and educational.

Exploratorium

The Exploratorium is a playground for the curious. Boasting over 650 interactive exhibits, it’s a place where you can touch, experiment, and learn. From large outdoor art to microscopic investigations, it embodies San Francisco’s love for innovation and science.

A visit usually takes about an hour and a half, though some visitors might spend longer if they love hands-on activities. The museum’s focus on being a learning laboratory makes it perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to get their hands dirty.

Blazing Saddles Bike Rental and Tours

Exploring San Francisco’s scenic waterfront and bridges by bike is a must-do. The all-day bike rental from Blazing Saddles gives you flexibility and freedom. Their mobile app provides helpful tips and suggested routes, like the popular ride across the Golden Gate to Sausalito.

Expect to spend up to six hours enjoying this ride, which covers areas like Crissy Field, the Presidio, and charming seaside villages. Reviewers appreciate the easy-to-ride bikes and the scenic route, although some mention that it’s best to be comfortable cycling on city streets and paths.

San Francisco Zoo & Gardens

The zoo is a peaceful escape from the city hustle. Home to over 2,000 animals, it offers a chance to connect with wildlife from around the world. We’re told that the zoo’s exhibits are well-maintained, and the variety of species provides entertainment for all ages.

Plan for about three hours here. Visitors often find it a relaxing way to spend part of the day, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Keep in mind that some reviewers noted that the zoo could be crowded on weekends.

SFMOMA

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a haven for art lovers. With a recent expansion, it’s now the largest museum of its kind in the country, housing works from Klee, Calder, and many others. The galleries are spacious, and the art is engaging and thought-provoking.

A typical visit lasts around two hours, but art aficionados could spend longer soaking in the pieces. The museum’s location in the city makes it easily accessible, and many reviews highlight the impressive collection and the beautiful architecture.

USS Pampanito

A visit to this World War II submarine offers a tangible glimpse into naval history. With a self-guided audio tour, you’ll explore the compartments, torpedoes, and living quarters, giving you a sense of life aboard a wartime vessel.

Expect around an hour and a half for the tour. Reviewers mention that it’s a fascinating, immersive experience, especially for history buffs or families interested in maritime adventures.

de Young Museum & Legion of Honor

Both located in Golden Gate Park, these art museums showcase an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The de Young is especially popular, with a notable observation tower offering sweeping park views.

Plan for about three hours to explore both. Visitors praise the impressive collections and the park’s scenic surroundings, making it a relaxing cultural stop after sightseeing.

Walt Disney Family Museum

Disney fans will love this museum dedicated to Walt Disney’s life and work. Interactive exhibits, early drawings, and a detailed model of Disneyland make it a delightful stop.

A typical visit takes about two hours. The reviews highlight the engaging multimedia presentations and the chance to see Disney’s creative process up close.

Who Will Get the Most Value?

Based on everything we’ve seen, this San Francisco Pass is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see many sights without breaking the bank. It’s especially helpful if you plan to take the Big Bus Tours, visit major museums, and enjoy several boat cruises.

Families, culture seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts will find the pass offers good value, provided they do some planning to reserve spots for popular activities. However, travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or are only interested in a few attractions might find it less cost-effective.

A Few Caveats to Keep in Mind

While the pass offers impressive flexibility, some reviews indicate potential booking issues or certain activities being unavailable despite inclusion. It’s wise to check ahead and book reservations for high-demand attractions, such as the GoCar or specific tours.

Plus, the limitation of one use per activity means that if you want to revisit a place, you may need to purchase additional tickets. Always read the digital instructions carefully to avoid surprises at the gate.

Final Thoughts

The San Francisco Pass by Go City packs a lot of value for travelers who want a convenient, cost-effective way to explore this vibrant city. It’s especially useful for those who prefer to plan ahead and hit multiple highlights in a short time. With a blend of sightseeing, culture, and fun activities, it captures San Francisco’s eclectic spirit.

While it’s not perfect—some attractions may require reservations or have availability issues—the overall package offers a well-rounded introduction to the city’s best features. Whether you’re gazing at the Golden Gate from a cruise, marveling at modern art, or cycling across the iconic bridge, this pass helps you make the most of your trip.

For travelers who value flexibility, convenience, and savings, this might just be the ticket to a memorable San Francisco adventure.

FAQ

How many attractions are included with the pass?
The pass includes admission to more than 25 popular San Francisco attractions and activities, giving you a wide range of options to choose from.

Can I use the pass for multiple days?
Yes, the pass is valid for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days, depending on the option you select. You can visit as many attractions as you like within that period.

Is the ticket really mobile?
Absolutely. Your digital pass is available on your mobile device and allows for quick entry—no need for paper vouchers or tickets.

Are there any attractions that might require reservations?
Yes, some activities like GoCar tours and certain boat cruises recommend or require advanced reservations. Be sure to check the instructions on your digital guide or app.

What are some of the highlights included?
Major highlights include the Big Bus Tours, California Academy of Sciences, Aquarium of the Bay, bay cruises, museums like SFMOMA and de Young, and exciting experiences like the USS Pampanito submarine tour.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included unless specifically stated, so plan for meals separately.

Are there any limitations I should know about?
Some reviews mention that activities like fishing may not be available, and that certain attractions can be busy or require reservations. It’s wise to plan ahead.

Who should consider this pass?
This pass is perfect for first-time visitors, families, art lovers, and outdoor explorers who want a comprehensive, flexible way to see San Francisco and maximize their travel budget.

To sum it up, if you’re eager to explore San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods, museums, and scenic spots without the hassle of buying individual tickets, the Go City Pass offers a compelling way to do so. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy flexibility and value a well-rounded experience, making every dollar and minute count in this fascinating city.