49 Mile GoCar Special – All Day For The Price Of 5 Hours

Imagine zipping around San Francisco in a bright yellow, GPS-guided GoCar that talks to you in your language, giving fun facts and directions as you go. For $309 per group (up to 2 people), you get a full 5-hour adventure that covers the classic 49 Mile Drive along with all the must-see neighborhoods and landmarks. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this experience offers a unique, hands-on way to explore the city at your own pace.

What we love about this tour is how it combines technology and storytelling to make sightseeing both entertaining and educational. The GPS system is easy to follow, and the storytelling aspect adds a layer of personality and history that makes each stop more memorable. Plus, the flexibility to stop wherever you want—whether for photos, a quick snack, or an in-depth look—makes it stand out from traditional bus tours.

A couple of considerations include the initial learning curve—getting comfortable in the GoCar might take a few minutes—and the fact that parking or stopping can sometimes be tricky in busy areas. However, the overall experience is highly praised for its value and fun factor, especially given the all-day access for one fixed price.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want to see a broad swathe of San Francisco without the constraints of a fixed schedule, and those who enjoy a bit of tech-driven storytelling. It’s also perfect for families or couples eager to share a fun, interactive experience on wheels.

Key Points

• Flexible full-day adventure: You get five hours of exploring San Francisco in a GPS-guided GoCar, covering top sights and neighborhoods.
• Self-paced sightseeing: Stop whenever you like, which means more opportunities to take photos, grab a snack, or linger longer at favorite spots.
• Multilingual GPS guide: The GPS offers immersive stories in 9 languages, making it accessible for international travelers.
• Comfortable and easy to drive: The yellow GoCar is fun to operate, even for beginners, with safety helmets provided for peace of mind.
• Authentic local experience: Pass by iconic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge, Haight-Ashbury, and Fisherman’s Wharf, with some reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and stunning views.
• Great value for the price: Compared to other city tours, this offers a full day of sightseeing at a flat rate, which many reviews consider a good deal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and How It Works

Your adventure begins at the GoCar Tours location on 431 Beach Street in Fisherman’s Wharf—an ideal spot to start exploring from the heart of San Francisco’s tourist hub. After a quick driver orientation and safety briefing, you’ll be fitted with a helmet, and the fun begins.

The full tank of gas and the GPS-guided narration make it easy to follow the route. The GPS system’s turn-by-turn directions help you navigate the city’s complex streets without stress, and the stories bring the city’s history and culture to life. Whether you choose to follow the designed route or create your own path, flexibility is key.

What’s Included and What to Know

The all-inclusive price covers the full-day rental for the two-seater GoCar, plus safety gear and a full tank of gas. You’ll need a major credit card and a valid driver’s license (no international license necessary), and be at least 21 years old.

The security deposit is $500, but can be reduced to $300 if you purchase optional insurance. The process is straightforward, though it may involve a short wait during check-in and check-out. Reviews mention that the staff is friendly and helpful, which eases any initial nerves.

Touring San Francisco: The Highlights

Golden Gate Bridge and Fort Point

No trip is complete without a drive over the Golden Gate Bridge. The GoCar guides you directly to the best viewing points, and many reviewers (like Tina, who loved her electric GoCar experience) mention the pleasure of seeing this iconic structure close-up. Fort Point beneath the bridge offers a historic perspective and fantastic photo ops.

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Presidio and Legion of Honor

Passing through the Presidio reveals lush parks and historic military sites. The Legion of Honor offers stunning architecture and views of the city skyline. The GPS narrates details, making these stops educational and engaging.

Fisherman’s Wharf, Cliff House, and Ocean Beach

Cruising along the waterfront, you’ll glimpse Fisherman’s Wharf, famous for its seafood and lively atmosphere. The Cliff House and Ocean Beach provide scenic vistas, perfect for a quick stop or a leisurely photo session.

Golden Gate Park, Haight-Ashbury, and Alamo Square

Driving through Golden Gate Park, you’ll see gardens, museums, and wide-open spaces. The Haight-Ashbury neighborhood is a colorful hub of counterculture history, while Alamo Square’s Painted Ladies are undeniably iconic.

The Joys of the GPS-Guided Tour

Multiple reviews praise the storytelling GPS for making the drive more than just a visual experience. It offers fun facts and local insights that you might miss in a standard sightseeing bus. For example, one reviewer (Krysten) loved how the verbal cues made navigating easier and how much she learned about San Francisco’s landmarks.

The Flexibility and Fun Factor

The best part? You can stop at your leisure, explore a neighborhood in-depth, or continue on the scenic route. Several reviews highlight the fun of the electric GoCar, which is quieter and faster, offering the chance to cover more ground comfortably.

Notable User Experiences

• Marlon and his daughter enjoyed the quality time and the personalized experience, emphasizing how fun it was to explore with someone special.
• Tina appreciated the quietness and speed of the electric version, remarking how it felt safe and smooth.
• Others found the guided narration to be both entertaining and informative, enriching their visit.

Considerations and Tips

While most reviews are glowing, some mention that parking can be tight or that the initial setup takes a few minutes. Also, the hilly terrain of San Francisco means you’ll want to be comfortable with some inclines.

Starting early in the morning is recommended to maximize your time, especially during busy seasons or weekends. Also, remember that the tour is best suited for confident drivers—though the GoCar is easy to operate, navigating San Francisco’s streets is not for the faint of heart.

This experience is ideal for travelers who value flexibility and enjoy interactive, story-driven exploration. It suits families, couples, or friends eager to see many neighborhoods with freedom, rather than just riding on a bus. If you’re someone who appreciates learning about local history while enjoying beautiful vistas, this is a fantastic choice.

It’s especially good for those who want a fun, memorable adventure without the hassle of traditional tours or the expense of multiple tickets. If you’re comfortable in a small vehicle and love the idea of driving yourself around one of America’s most scenic cities, you’ll find this a worthwhile outing.

The 49 Mile Drive: A Classic San Francisco Experience

The 49 Mile Drive is a well-known scenic tour that captures the city’s highlights. Your GoCar follows this route, weaving through neighborhoods and along the coast. Along the way, you’ll encounter Fisherman’s Wharf, a bustling hub of seafood stalls, souvenir shops, and street performers. It’s a lively start that sets the tone for an energetic day.

Golden Gate Bridge

As expected, the Golden Gate appears early on. The GPS guides you to prime viewpoints, often accompanied by interesting stories. The reviews rave about the views from Fort Point and the surrounding areas, with Tina noting how the electric GoCar made crossing the bridge more comfortable and fun.

Presidio and Fort Point

The Presidio offers a peaceful contrast to the city’s hustle, with green spaces and historic sites. Fort Point, under the bridge, is a highlight—an old Civil War-era fort that provides a different perspective of the bridge’s grandeur. Many mention the stunning vistas from this area, perfect for photos.

Cliff House and Ocean Beach

cruising past the historic Cliff House, which has been a local landmark for over a century, and along Ocean Beach, you’ll experience the Pacific’s fresh breeze. These scenic spots are perfect for a quick stop or a longer break.

Golden Gate Park and Neighborhoods

Driving through Golden Gate Park, you’ll see famous sights like the de Young Museum and Japanese Tea Garden (your GoCar can guide you past or to entrance points). The vibrant Haight-Ashbury district offers a glimpse into the hippie era, with colorful murals and unique shops. Alamo Square with its famous Painted Ladies provides a postcard-perfect view.

Customization and Personal Touches

The self-guided nature of this tour means you can tailor your day. Many reviewers recommend starting early, so you can linger at each stop and explore side streets or hidden gems.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Expect a mix of guided narration and your own exploration time. The GPS offers entertaining stories about each landmark, giving context that makes the sights more meaningful. For example, at Fisherman’s Wharf, you might learn about the history of the area’s fishing industry, while at the Golden Gate Bridge, the stories focus on its construction and symbolism.

This tour offers a fun, flexible way to see San Francisco’s highlights without the pressures of a group tour or fixed schedule. The GPS narration adds education and entertainment, making each stop more engaging. The all-day access for a flat fee is a good value, especially considering the number of sights you can cover comfortably.

While some might find driving in San Francisco’s hills challenging, most reviewers report feeling safe and enjoying the experience. The option of electric GoCars, which are quieter and faster, enhances the overall adventure, especially for those who appreciate eco-friendly transportation.

This tour is best suited for travelers who prefer independence and want a personalized, memorable way to explore. If you’re comfortable behind the wheel and eager to combine sightseeing with storytelling, this will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The GoCar seats two people, but it does not accommodate booster seats for small children. It’s best for adults or older children who can comfortably sit and drive or ride with an adult.

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

Can I pick up the GoCar on weekends?
Yes, the tour is available on weekends, with pick-up hours from 09:00 to 12:00, depending on the day.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, minus a $20 cancellation fee. Weather-related cancellations are also accommodated.

How much does the optional insurance cost?
Purchasing insurance reduces the security deposit to $300 and may provide peace of mind in case of accidents.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, the GPS guide offers narration in 9 languages, making it accessible for international visitors.

How long does the check-in process take?
While check-in involves a safety briefing and paperwork, reviews indicate staff are friendly and efficient—expect a brief wait, especially during busy times.

Choosing the 49 Mile GoCar Special means opting for a day of personalized discovery in San Francisco. It’s perfect for those who want to see a lot without feeling rushed, and who enjoy learning stories as they go. The self-guided format combined with a talking GPS makes this a fun, engaging option for travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a bit of adventure.

The cost is reasonable when you consider the full-day access and the unique experience of driving a fun, story-telling vehicle. Whether you’re a history buff, a photo enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to enjoy the city in a different way, this tour offers a memorable way to explore San Francisco’s sights at your leisure.

If you’re looking for a light-hearted, flexible, and informative adventure, the GoCar experience is well worth considering. It’s a charming, memorable way to see the city and gain new stories to tell back home.

You can check availability for your dates here: