San Diego Explorer Pass: Save up to 50% – Includes San Diego Zoo

Looking for a way to explore San Diego’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank? The San Diego Explorer Pass offers a flexible, all-in-one ticket that grants access to 2 to 7 attractions for just $124 per person. With options ranging from the world-famous San Diego Zoo to whale watching tours, this pass is ideal for visitors who want to maximize their time and savings. The pass is valid for 30 days after first use, making it perfect whether you’re in town for a quick visit or planning a more leisurely stay.

What we love about this pass is its ease of use—it’s fully mobile, with a handy app that lets you plan your itinerary on the fly. Plus, the variety of attractions means you can tailor your experience to your interests, whether that’s animals, history, science, or outdoor adventures. One potential drawback is that some activities, like whale watching or certain tours, may require reservations, so planning ahead with the app is a smart move.

This pass suits travelers who appreciate flexibility—those who want to choose their adventures rather than stick to a strict schedule. It’s especially good for families, couples, or groups with diverse interests, since the options span wildlife, museums, boat tours, outdoor activities, and cultural sites. If you’re looking for a way to get a broad yet affordable taste of San Diego, this pass could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Choose between 2-7 attractions from over 45 options, valid for 30 days.
• Convenience: Fully digital, with a user-friendly app for planning and entry.
• Cost savings: Save up to 50% compared to buying individual tickets.
• Variety of attractions: Includes wildlife parks, museums, boat tours, outdoor activities, and more.
• Booking tips: Some activities may need reservations—use the app to plan ahead.
• Ideal for: Travelers who want a mix of experiences and flexible scheduling.

Exploring the San Diego Explorer Pass: What You Can Expect

San Diego is a city bursting with character—beaches, parks, historical sites, and incredible wildlife. The Explorer Pass is designed to give you a taste of all that in a way that’s both budget-friendly and flexible. Let’s walk through what you can expect when you dive into this multi-attraction experience.

The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park: Iconic Wildlife Encounters

Most travelers will be excited about the San Diego Zoo, one of the world’s most renowned zoological parks. With your pass, you get free entry, and it’s easy to see why it’s a highlight. The zoo covers 100 acres filled with extensive animal exhibits—from cuddly koalas to majestic gorillas, elephants, crocodiles, and more. The zoo’s layout is designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats, making it a treat to walk around and spot wildlife.

A major plus, as one reviewer shared, is how “the zoo was very nice. A little difficult because I was using a walker,” but overall, the experience was enjoyable. The zoo offers educational shows and close-up animal encounters, making it perfect for families or animal lovers.

If you prefer a more “wild” experience, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is an option. It’s set in a sprawling space with 13 distinct habitats that showcase endangered and exotic species. The Safari Park emphasizes conservation efforts, and visitors often mention the beautiful, varied landscapes that make exploring a real pleasure.

One traveler noted, “We went to San Diego zoo Safari. Had a great time. Lots of walking, but fun. The platypus was so cute.” If you’re concerned about walking or mobility, it’s worth considering your options—both parks are large and walking-intensive.

Maritime and Naval History: USS Midway Museum

For history buffs, the USS Midway Museum is a must. This massive aircraft carrier offers a self-guided tour with around 60 exhibits inside the ship, including the engine room, galley, and even the ship jail. Visitors love the “interactive” feel and the chance to step aboard a real naval vessel.

A reviewer described it as “San Diego’s most famous long-serving US aircraft carrier,” and many appreciate the “up-close views of aircraft” and the sailor stories that bring the experience alive. The walkaround takes about 2 hours, providing enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Outdoor Adventures: Whale Watching, Speedboat Tours & Bike Rentals

San Diego’s natural beauty shines in its outdoor activities. The City Cruises Whale Watching & Harbor Tours is a highlight for those keen to see marine life. During a 4-hour tour, you might see dolphins, sea lions, and—if luck’s with you—blue whales, the largest creatures on Earth. Several reviews praise the “live narration” and the chance to spot wildlife in the wild.

Speedboat adventures like San Diego Speed Boat Tours are popular, offering a fun, self-driving experience with safety features and eco-friendly motors. Travelers mention it as “extremely safe, stable and comfortable”, and a good way to see the harbor from a different perspective.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, bike rentals or a kayak tour along La Jolla’s coast can be perfect. The Coronado Bike Rentals & Tours allow you to explore at your own speed, with options for full-day rentals and guided tours.

Museums, Science & Culture: Art, Space, and Science Centers

San Diego’s cultural scene is well-represented with places like the San Diego Museum of Art and the Fleet Science Center. The museum offers a chance to see paintings from Old Masters to contemporary works, housed in a beautiful historic building. The Fleet Science Center is especially engaging with interactive exhibits and a 300-seat theater showing films in 2D and 3D.

One reviewer enjoyed their visit, commenting, “The museum was fantastic, and the kids loved the hands-on exhibits.” The science center also includes a free IMAX screening—a nice bonus.

Unique Neighborhoods & Local Charm: Old Town, Gaslamp District & More

Exploring San Diego’s neighborhoods is made easy with the Old Town Trolley Tours, included with your pass for two days. The guided hop-on-hop-off trolley provides entertaining guides sharing local history and trivia as you hop between attractions.

For a taste of local history, the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park offers an expert-led walking tour through one of California’s oldest neighborhoods, packed with Victorian architecture and stories of early settlers.

Plus, the Gaslamp Quarter is lively and historic, perfect for a relaxed evening stroll or a ghost tour that reveals San Diego’s spooky side.

Special Experiences: Petco Park, the Japanese Garden & More

Sports fans can book a guided tour of Petco Park, getting access to rare areas like the press box and historic Western Metal Supply Co. Building. Nature lovers will enjoy the Japanese Friendship Garden, featuring koi ponds, bonsais, and a 1735 bronze statue.

The pass also offers additional outdoor options like hiking at Mission Trails Regional Park or visiting the Living Coast Discovery Center, a zoo and aquarium emphasizing coastal conservation.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the pass offers a great value with its wide array of attractions, some reviews highlight the importance of planning ahead. Because some activities require reservations, using the Go City app to schedule visits ensures you won’t miss out. Also, remember that food, drinks, parking fees, and gratuities are not included, so budget accordingly.

The pass’s validity for 30 days after activation allows for a relaxed pace—perfect if you prefer to spread out your adventures. However, the non-refundable policy means it’s wise to plan your must-see attractions in advance to avoid disappointment.

Transportation & Accessibility

Most attractions are near public transportation, but some involve walking or outdoor activity, so comfortable shoes are recommended. If mobility is a concern, check with individual attractions regarding accessibility options.

Cost-Effective for Diverse Interests

If your group has varied interests, the pass’s flexibility is a significant plus. Whether you’re into animals, science, history, or outdoor fun, you’ll find something that appeals. Plus, the up to 50% savings can make a big difference, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions.

Who Should Consider the San Diego Explorer Pass?

This pass is best suited for adventurous travelers who love mix-and-match days of activity, and who appreciate the freedom to choose attractions on the fly. Families with kids, couples wanting a varied itinerary, or friends looking for a flexible way to explore all facets of San Diego will find this a practical option.

If you’re someone who prefers structured, guided tours with fixed schedules, you might find the flexible pass less ideal. However, for those who enjoy customizing their trip and saving money, the Explorer Pass delivers value and variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit multiple attractions in one day with the pass?
Yes, you can visit multiple attractions within your 30-day window, but each attraction can only be visited once. Planning your days well will help maximize your experience.

Is the pass valid for 30 days after first use or purchase?
The pass is valid for 30 days after you activate your first attraction visit, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

Are all attractions included in the pass free to enter?
Most are, but some attractions may offer optional upgrades or extras that cost extra. Food, drinks, and parking are also not included.

How do I reserve spots for activities that require reservations?
Use the Go City app or digital guidebook to plan your itinerary and reserve slots where needed to avoid missing out.

Can I use the pass for both locals and visitors?
Absolutely. Since the pass is valid for 30 days, it’s great for visitors wanting a flexible itinerary or locals looking for a fun way to rediscover their city.

Is the pass suitable for people with mobility challenges?
Many attractions are accessible, but check with individual venues beforehand. The pass itself is just a digital ticket; accessibility depends on each location.

What if I lose my mobile ticket?
You can contact Go City customer support via email for assistance. The app also keeps a digital copy of your pass.

How much can I save with this pass?
Potentially up to 50% compared to buying each attraction separately, especially if you pick several high-ticket items like the zoo, whale watching, and museum visits.

Are there attractions suitable for kids?
Yes, many attractions are kid-friendly, including the zoo, aquarium, and outdoor parks. The pass is a good choice for family trips.

To sum it up, the San Diego Explorer Pass is a versatile and budget-conscious way to see a broad slice of San Diego’s attractions. It’s especially suited for those who want flexibility, variety, and value. While some planning is necessary—particularly around reservations—the ability to tailor your visit, coupled with savings, makes this a compelling option for many travelers. Whether you’re into wildlife, history, science, or outdoor fun, this pass can help you craft a memorable San Diego adventure.