San Diego: CityPASS® Save up to 46% at Must-See Attractions

San Diego’s bright beaches, world-class zoos, and historic ships are calling, and with the CityPASS®, you can experience many of its highlights without breaking the bank. For $178 per person, this 9-day pass offers a flexible way to visit some of the city’s most iconic attractions, including the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND, and the USS Midway Museum—all at a savings of up to 46%. The tickets are delivered instantly via mobile, allowing you to plan your visits at your own pace.

What we love most about this pass is the freedom it provides: you can spread your visits over nine days, in any order, and skip the stress of planning and ticket lines. The access to the San Diego Zoo’s Skyfari Aerial Tram is a highlight, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the lush landscape. Plus, the USS Midway’s 3D holographic movie and self-guided audio tour make it a fascinating stop for history buffs and naval enthusiasts alike.

One potential drawback is that some travelers have experienced issues with the pass at LEGOLAND, where one reviewer’s pass was rejected initially, leading to a wait and some confusion. This highlights that, while generally smooth, a quick check or calling ahead might save you some time.

This tour is perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who prefers the flexibility of choosing when to visit each attraction without the pressure of a fixed schedule. If you’re comfortable with a bit of planning—such as reserving certain attractions in advance—it offers great value and an easy way to see San Diego’s best.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Use your pass over 9 days, visiting attractions in any order.
• Savings: Get up to 46% off combined ticket prices.
• Convenience: Instant mobile delivery and scan at each venue simplify entry.
• Inclusions: Admission to major sights like the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND, USS Midway, and more.
• Authentic Experiences: Enjoy immersive exhibits like the USS Midway’s holographic movie and the Skyfari Tram.
• Considerations: Some issues reported with pass validation at LEGOLAND; plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the San Diego CityPASS® Experience

If you’re wondering what it’s really like to use a CityPASS® in San Diego, let’s break down what you can expect on your nine-day adventure. This pass is an excellent way to experience the city’s top attractions without the hassle of buying individual tickets, and it offers a solid balance of value and flexibility.

How the Itinerary Unfolds

Once you purchase your CityPASS®, you’ll receive a mobile ticket that can be scanned at each location. The beauty of the system is that you’re not forced into visiting all attractions on a single day. Instead, you can space out your visits based on your interests, weather, and energy levels.

First stop: Many visitors choose to start at the San Diego Zoo, often ranked among the best in the world. The zoo’s lush grounds, combined with the Skyfari Aerial Tram, offer sweeping views of the animals and the park itself. Here, you’ll get not just a chance to see pandas, koalas, and elephants but also an experience that feels more like wandering through a lush botanical garden than a typical zoo.

Next, you might head over to the USS Midway Museum. This historic aircraft carrier offers a combination of self-guided tours, audio narratives, and the 3D holographic Battle of Midway movie—a surprisingly immersive way to walk through naval history without leaving dry land. From the flight deck, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the bay, making it a highlight for many.

Other attractions like SeaWorld, LEGOLAND, and the Maritime Museum are just a short drive away. Each offers something distinctly different: SeaWorld with its marine shows and rides, LEGOLAND with its intricate Lego sculptures and themed rides, and the Maritime Museum with historic ships and exhibits.

What Makes Each Stop Special

San Diego Zoo: The wide variety of animals and the Skyfari Tram make this a must-see. We loved how the tram gives you a bird’s-eye view of the zoo’s sprawling landscape, making it easier to navigate and appreciate the diversity within.

USS Midway Museum: The holographic movie and the tour of the aircraft carrier bring history to life. As one reviewer noted, “It’s a fascinating stop for history buffs,” and the audio tour adds depth that suits all ages.

SeaWorld: While some travelers find the ticketing process straightforward, there are occasional hiccups—one user did mention their pass was rejected at LEGOLAND, requiring a call to customer service. So, keeping your digital pass handy and allowing a little extra time on busy days can be wise.

LEGOLAND: If you have kids or just love Lego, this theme park is fun, but some users have faced issues with pass validation. Confirm your tickets in advance, and be prepared for potential delays.

Other attractions: The Old Town Trolley Tours offers a relaxed, narrated overview of the city, ideal for easing into San Diego’s neighborhoods and history.

The Practical Side: Logistics, Price, and Value

The price of $178 might seem high initially, but when you compare it to buying individual tickets, the savings are significant—up to 46%. The nine-day validity allows you to spread out your sightseeing without the pressure of daily schedules, which is perfect for a relaxed vacation or a family trip.

The instant mobile delivery system simplifies access, but a note from a review indicates that sometimes, at LEGOLAND, the pass was initially rejected. While customer service was helpful, it’s best to double-check your tickets before heading to the gate.

Regarding transportation, the pass doesn’t include transit, so you’ll need to rely on your car, rideshare, or public transportation to move between attractions. Food and drinks are also not included, which is typical for such passes, so budget accordingly.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

The USS Midway’s holographic movie and sprawling aircraft carrier offer an immersive glimpse into naval life, far beyond typical static exhibits. The Skyfari Tram at the zoo provides a scenic, relaxing break from walking, offering views that are not accessible from the ground — a genuine highlight.

The Old Town Trolley adds a narrative layer to exploring San Diego, with stops at key neighborhoods and historic sites, giving you a sense of the city’s diverse character.

Who Should Consider This Pass?

This CityPASS® is best suited for families, first-time visitors, and anyone who values flexibility. If you prefer a set schedule, fixed tour packages may be better, but for those who want to set their own pace, this pass offers excellent value. Travelers who enjoy experiencing both outdoor attractions like the zoo and historic sites like the USS Midway will find it especially worthwhile.

People who are comfortable with basic planning—such as reserving certain attractions or being proactive about potential validation issues—will get the most out of this experience. It’s also an excellent choice for those who want to maximize their sightseeing while keeping costs predictable.

Final Thoughts

The San Diego CityPASS® offers a well-rounded, cost-effective way to explore the city’s most iconic sights at your own pace. Its balance of savings, flexibility, and authentic experiences appeals to a wide range of travelers, especially those who like a mix of nature, history, and entertainment.

While there are occasional hiccups—as with any big-ticket system—it’s generally a smooth experience that allows you to avoid long ticket lines and focus on enjoying your trip. From the lush habitat of the zoo to the historic decks of the USS Midway, you’ll find plenty to love in this blend of education, entertainment, and scenic beauty.

If you’re planning a 9-day stay in San Diego, this pass is a smart investment. You’ll spend less time stressing over tickets and more time making memories exploring one of California’s most vibrant cities.

FAQ

Does the CityPASS® cover multiple visits to each attraction?
No, each attraction is a single admission, but you can visit each once within the 9-day period.

Can I use the pass on the same day for multiple attractions?
Yes, there’s no limit to how many attractions you can visit in a day, giving you flexibility to pack in multiple sights if you wish.

Is the ticket valid immediately after purchase?
Yes, you receive a mobile ticket that is valid starting on your first visit. The 9-day period includes your first day.

What happens if my pass doesn’t scan at an attraction?
You should contact customer service promptly. One reviewer experienced a delay at LEGOLAND but found help through customer support.

Are there any age restrictions or discounts for children?
The information provided doesn’t specify, but typically, children’s tickets are available separately, and the pass generally covers general admission for all ages.

Can I visit attractions in any order?
Yes, you are free to choose the sequence that suits your schedule, maximizing your comfort and experience.

Is transportation included?
No, this pass doesn’t include transport—plan accordingly to move between attractions.

Are there any special considerations for wheelchair users?
Yes, the pass is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

How long do I have to use the pass?
The pass is valid for 1 year from purchase, but the 9-day window starts from your first visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: