San Diego Explorer Pass: Tickets to 2-7 Attractions

Planning a trip to San Diego? With its wealth of attractions — from world-famous zoos to historic ships — the city offers plenty to see and do. The San Diego Explorer Pass makes it easier—and more affordable—to take in the highlights. For $124 per person, you can visit 2 to 7 attractions over two months, selecting from over 40 options. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for family-friendly fun, this pass gives you the flexibility to customize your San Diego adventure.

What we really appreciate about this pass is how it offers significant savings—up to 50%—compared to buying tickets separately. Plus, with a 60-day window from your first visit, you can plan your days without feeling rushed. We also love that the entire process is digital, so there’s no need to carry around paper tickets; just download your pass onto your phone and go.

One thing to keep in mind is that attractions and tours are subject to change, and some popular sites like the zoo require reservations, so planning ahead is essential. This pass is ideal for travelers who value flexibility and want a cost-effective way to explore San Diego at their own pace.

Key Points

• Flexibility in choosing 2 to 7 attractions from over 40 options.
• Long validity period of 60 days from first use—great for planners and spontaneous travelers alike.
• Significant savings—up to 50%—compared to individual ticket prices.
• Digital convenience—no physical card needed, just download or print.
• Variety of options—from zoos and aquariums to harbor cruises and museums.
• Reservation requirements for popular attractions—plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the San Diego Explorer Pass: A Deep Dive

How the Pass Works and What It Offers

The San Diego Explorer Pass is designed to give you maximum choice while simplifying your travel planning. You start by selecting between 2 and 7 attractions from a list of over 40 options. Once activated at your first attraction, your pass remains valid for 60 days—a generous window that allows you to spread out your visits or concentrate them into a few days.

This flexibility is perfect for those who like to customize their itinerary or if your plans change unexpectedly. The pass is entirely digital, which means you can either store it on your phone or print it at home. When you arrive at each attraction, simply show your digital pass for admission, making lines shorter and check-in smoother.

What Are the Main Attractions Included?

The highlight of the pass is how it combines top San Diego experiences. You can visit iconic spots like the San Diego Zoo (or the Safari Park, but not both), the USS Midway Museum, and the Birch Aquarium at Scripps. For those interested in history and military aviation, the USS Midway offers a fascinating glimpse into life aboard an aircraft carrier, with plenty of exhibits and aircraft to see.

For families or science enthusiasts, the Fleet Science Center with its IMAX theater provides engaging exhibits and movies. Nature lovers will enjoy the Japanese Friendship Garden or a whale-watching cruise, which can be booked through the app, often providing a truly memorable experience on the water.

How About Additional Activities?

Beyond the core attractions, the pass also includes options like a 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour, a Bay Harbor Cruise, or even a Speed Boat Adventure. These tours add a relaxed, scenic element to your trip, offering unique perspectives on San Diego’s coastline, harbor, and cityscape.

More Great Tours Nearby

How to Use and Reserve

Most attractions don’t require pre-booking, but some, especially popular ones, do require advanced reservations—so it’s wise to plan ahead. The instructions on your confirmation voucher or in the app will guide you on how to activate your pass and reserve spots where needed.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews highlight how straightforward and cost-effective the process is. One traveler noted, “It was very easy to buy, download the app, upload the voucher, show it, and enjoy the activity,” in less than 10 minutes. That simplicity is a big plus. Another reviewer appreciated the ease of use, stating the pass was “super convenient” and included valuable suggestions on less busy visiting times.

However, not all feedback was perfect. Some users experienced technical glitches, like difficulty scanning QR codes or app problems, which underscores the importance of early reservations and checking the most current info on the app.

How Does the Pricing Stack Up?

At $124, the pass might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the discounts of up to 50% and the value of visiting multiple attractions, it becomes a smart deal—especially for those planning to see several sites. For example, if individual tickets to the zoo or the USS Midway cost more, the pass can easily save you hundreds.

In terms of value, it’s best suited for travelers who want to see multiple attractions without the hassle of buying tickets separately, and willing to plan ahead to make the most of each visit.

Who Will Love the San Diego Explorer Pass?

If you’re someone who enjoys flexibility and saving money, this pass offers a lot of value. It’s especially appealing for families, groups, or first-time visitors who want to cover a variety of sights without a rigid schedule. Active travelers who appreciate digital convenience and short wait times will find this especially handy.

Conversely, if you prefer a structured, guided tour or only plan to visit one or two sites, the pass might be less advantageous. And if you’re traveling during peak times or holidays, remember to reserve early and check for any special operating hours.

Final Thoughts

The San Diego Explorer Pass delivers real value for those eager to explore the city’s top attractions without breaking the bank. It encourages flexible planning while offering substantial discounts, making it a practical choice for a diverse range of travelers.

You’ll love the variety of attractions available, from the world-famous San Diego Zoo to harbor cruises, and the ease of use—no paper tickets, no fuss. The digital format makes it convenient to carry and show at each site, and the long validity period means you can take your time exploring.

However, be mindful of reservation requirements for some attractions and the possibility of app glitches if not planned carefully. Overall, if you’re in San Diego for a few days and want a personalized, cost-effective way to discover the city, this pass is likely to fit your needs.

FAQ

Can I visit the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park with this pass?
No, you can only choose one of these attractions. Your pass includes either the San Diego Zoo or the Safari Park, not both.

How long do I have to use the pass?
Your pass is valid for 60 days from your first attraction visit, giving you plenty of time to plan your visits.

Do I need to reserve attractions in advance?
Most attractions don’t require reservations, but popular sites like the zoo do. It’s best to check the instructions in your app or confirmation to reserve ahead.

Can I use the pass for multiple visits?
No, each attraction counts as one visit. Once you’ve visited your selected sites, the pass expires after 60 days or after completing the number of attractions purchased.

Is the pass only for adults?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but typically, these passes are suitable for all ages—just check if any attraction has age-specific requirements or discounts.

What if I experience technical problems with the app?
Support is available, but reviews indicate some users have had issues. It’s wise to download your pass early and have a backup plan, like printing your voucher.

Are the attractions open year-round?
Most attractions operate year-round, but hours may vary, especially over holidays or special events. Always check the latest info via the app or attraction websites.

How much can I really save?
Savings depend on which attractions you choose, but up to 50% off is common, especially when visiting high-cost sites like the zoo or ships.

To sum it up, the San Diego Explorer Pass stands out as a flexible, budget-friendly way to experience the city’s most popular attractions. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want to avoid the hassle of ticket lines and enjoy the freedom to explore at their own pace. Whether you’re a family, a couple on a city getaway, or a solo explorer, this pass can unlock a memorable San Diego adventure that balances value with variety.

You can check availability for your dates here: