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

San Francisco’s charm is hard to beat—iconic bridges, bustling piers, and world-class museums await. The Go City San Francisco Explorer Pass offers a flexible way to see the city’s highlights without breaking the bank. For $79 per person, you can choose between 2 to 5 activities from over 25 options, and enjoy them over a 30-day window. It’s perfect for travelers who want to customize their experience, skip long lines, and explore at their own pace.

We love how easy it is to access attractions with a digital pass—no need to fuss with paper vouchers or wait in lines. The inclusion of a digital guide makes trip planning smoother, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor. The flexibility of spreading activities over a month is a real plus, giving you time to savor each sight without rushing. However, it’s worth noting that some experiences, like the Muni/cable car system, might require additional planning and reservations—something to keep in mind if you’re relying on public transit.

This pass works best for curious travelers who want a taste of San Francisco’s top attractions without the hassle of individual tickets. Families, first-timers, or anyone looking for a good-value way to explore multiple sights in a limited time will find it ideal. But if you’re more interested in specific activities like the cable cars, it pays to check the details beforehand.

Key Points

• Flexible choices: Select 2-5 attractions from over 25 options, spread out over 30 days.
• No voucher hassle: Enjoy direct entry with a mobile ticket, no paper tickets needed.
• Great value: Save money compared to buying individual tickets, especially if you plan to visit several sites.
• Digital planning: Use the included digital guide to create your itinerary on the go.
• Popular attractions included: Hop-on hop-off bus tours, museums, bay cruises, and more.
• Reservations matter: Some activities require advance booking, so plan ahead.

In-Depth Review of the San Francisco Explorer Pass

The Go City Explorer Pass provides a practical foundation for experiencing San Francisco’s famous sights without feeling overwhelmed or overcharged. For $79, you gain access to a carefully curated selection of attractions, which include the city’s most renowned museums, scenic cruises, and exciting tours. This setup is especially suited for travelers who value flexibility and want to tailor their day-to-day itinerary.

What’s Included and How It Works

Once you purchase the pass, it becomes your digital ticket, redeemable at any participating attraction. No vouchers, no printing—just save it on your phone and scan for quick entry. The pass remains valid for 30 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your chosen activities without the pressure of a strict schedule. The included digital guide helps you plan your route, check reservation requirements, and get tips on timing, which is especially useful since many activities require advance booking.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The itinerary options are diverse, spanning from classic sightseeing to interactive museums. The most popular choices include:

• Big Bus Tours San Francisco: This 1-day hop-on hop-off classic tour is an excellent way to get acquainted with the city’s layout and major landmarks. We loved how it offers direct entry and the freedom to hop off at spots like Fisherman’s Wharf or the Golden Gate Bridge. Many reviews highlight the value of this tour, with one traveler saying it was “an enjoyable day” and the aquarium visit was “probably more fun.”

• California Academy of Sciences: Named a “New Wonder of the World,” this museum combines an aquarium, planetarium, and rainforest exhibit under one innovative roof. Visitors appreciate the interactive exhibits and the stunning architecture, with some reviewers calling it a must-see. The 3-hour visit allows plenty of time to explore its many features without feeling rushed.

• Aquarium of the Bay: Walk through transparent tunnels filled with 20,000 marine creatures, including sharks and rays. While some travelers, like one who wished for a larger aquarium, found it a bit small, most agree it’s a fun and immersive experience. Expect to spend around 2 hours wandering through the exhibits.

• Exploratorium: Perfect for hands-on learners, this science museum boasts over 650 interactive exhibits. Visitors often mention how engaging and playful it is, making it great for families or curious adults. Two hours usually suffice to enjoy most displays.

• Bay Cruises: Several options are included, such as the “Escape from the Rock” cruise and the Golden Gate Bay Cruise. Both offer incredible views of the city skyline, bridges, and Alcatraz. A common highlight is sailing underneath the Golden Gate, with many reviews praising the stunning scenery and interesting commentary on the island’s history.

• Additional Choices: Museums like the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, de Young Museum, and the Asian Art Museum are included, all offering rich collections to explore. For family adventures, the Legoland Discovery Center and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor provide hours of fun. Some travelers found the USS Hornet Museum and the USS Pampanito submarine to be particularly memorable, offering a glimpse into military history.

What Travelers Say

The reviews show a generally positive experience, scoring an average of 4 out of 5. Many praise the ease of use and value for money, with one reviewer noting that they “saved about 35” and enjoyed “seeing all the top sites.” The inclusion of knowledgeable guides on certain tours enhances the experience, with some calling out Captain Mike on the duck tour as “amazing” and a highlight.

However, some concerns do pop up. For example, a few travelers found that reservations for certain activities like the cable cars or specific tours could be tricky or require advance planning. One review mentions difficulty using the pass for public transit, highlighting the importance of confirming details beforehand. Parking around popular areas like Fisherman’s Wharf can also be expensive and limited, which might add to logistical considerations.

Who Will Appreciate This Pass?

The Explorer Pass is ideal for first-time visitors eager to cover multiple sights efficiently or families wanting to maximize their experience without overspending. It’s especially good if you enjoy self-guided exploration, since the digital guide helps you craft your itinerary. If you prefer structured tours or have specific activities in mind, always check if they require reservations or special access.

Practical Tips

• Reserve early for popular activities like the Bay Cruises or the Big Bus Tour to secure your spot.
• Plan your days so you don’t try to do too much in one go—San Francisco can be hilly and tiring!
• Check the opening hours and reservation policies for each attraction, especially the cable cars and museums.
• Remember that parking can be costly, so consider public transportation or walking when possible.
• Use the digital guide actively—it’s your best tool for avoiding surprises and making the most of your pass.

The Sum Up

The Go City San Francisco Explorer Pass offers a flexible, cost-effective way to see many of the city’s iconic sights. Its strength lies in choice and convenience—you can tailor your visit to your interests, spread activities over a month, and skip the hassle of individually purchasing tickets. The included digital guide makes planning easier, and the variety of attractions ensures there’s something for all.

This pass is best suited for curious travelers who want to explore multiple attractions without the hassle, especially families or first-timers who want to see the highlights without rushing or overspending. If you’re comfortable planning ahead and are eager to visit key sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, museums, and bay cruises, you’ll find real value here.

For those who enjoy independent exploration with guided elements and prefer having a variety of options at your fingertips, this pass can turn a trip to San Francisco into a well-organized adventure. Just be sure to check reservation requirements early, and remember that some experiences, like public transit or certain tours, might need additional planning. This pass strikes a good balance between flexibility, value, and memorable experiences.

FAQ

Can I select any attractions I want?
Yes, you choose 2 to 5 attractions from over 25 options, depending on your budget and interests.

How long is the pass valid?
The pass remains valid for 30 days from the first activation, giving you plenty of time to plan your visits.

Do I need to print the tickets?
No, the pass is digital. Save it on your phone and scan it directly at the attraction for quick entry.

Are reservations required for activities?
Some attractions, like bay cruises and tours, do require advance reservations. Check the digital guide for details.

Can I use the pass for public transit like the cable car?
It depends. Some reviews indicate difficulties with public transit, so confirm the specifics if you plan to use Muni or cable cars for transportation.

Is parking around Fisherman’s Wharf expensive?
Yes, parking can cost $25–$30 per day, so consider public transit or walking when possible.

Can I visit museums like SFMOMA or de Young Museum with this pass?
Yes. These museums are included, and you’ll get same-day entrance with your pass.

What if I want to visit attractions on the same day?
Plan ahead and reserve your spots early. While the pass offers flexibility, some activities have limited availability.

What is the experience like for families?
Many reviews mention that the pass offers great value for families, with options like Legoland and the zoo adding to the fun. The digital guide helps plan a kid-friendly itinerary.

In summary, the Go City San Francisco Explorer Pass offers a balanced mix of flexibility, savings, and access to major sights. It’s an excellent choice for adventurous travelers eager to experience San Francisco without the stress of individual ticketing or rigid schedules. Just do your homework on reservations and transportation, and you’ll enjoy a smooth, memorable visit.