San Diego Explorer Pass: Tickets to 2-7 Attractions

Planning a trip to San Diego? If so, you’ll want a way to see the city’s highlights without breaking the bank or getting bogged down in ticket lines. That’s where the San Diego Explorer Pass from Go City comes in. It promises flexibility, substantial savings, and the chance to tailor your sightseeing experience—whether your time is short or you’re planning a longer stay.

From what we’ve gathered, this pass is a practical choice for travelers eager to explore San Diego’s family-friendly attractions, museums, and tours at a pace that suits them. Two things we love? First, the ease of use—a fully digital pass that you can download and activate on your phone—and second, the vast selection of over 40 attractions. The potential to save up to 50% on individual tickets is a big draw, especially when visiting multiple sites.

However, there’s a minor consideration: since the pass is not date-specific and activation requires visiting attractions within 30 days of your first use, planning your itinerary can be a little tricky if you’re on a tight schedule. But for those with flexible plans or multiple days in San Diego, this offers fantastic value.

This pass is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to experience San Diego’s top sights without the hassle of buying tickets individually or worrying about opening hours. If you enjoy self-guided itineraries and want the freedom to choose your own adventure, it’s an excellent option.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary with 2-7 attractions to choose from over 40 options
• Digital convenience simplifies access and reduces hassle
• Significant savings compared to purchasing single tickets separately
• Long validity of 2 months from first use offers flexibility
• Variety of attractions including zoos, museums, boat tours, and more
• Easy activation at any included attraction or tour

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Ultimate Guide to the San Diego Explorer Pass

What Is It?

The San Diego Explorer Pass is a digital ticketing solution offering access to a selection of over 40 attractions, museums, and tours in San Diego. You pick how many sites you want to visit—anywhere from 2 to 7—and your pass is valid for 60 days from your first visit. It’s designed for travelers who want flexibility, convenience, and savings.

How Does It Work?

Once purchased, you receive a fully digital pass that you can store on your smartphone or print at home. The activation is simple: you visit your first attraction, show your pass—or scan the QR code—at the entrance, and it’s activated. From there, you have 30 days to visit the remaining attractions you’ve chosen. The pass is valid for 1 year from purchase, giving you plenty of time to plan your sightseeing.

What Are the Highlights?

You can select from a broad spectrum of top San Diego attractions, including the world-famous San Diego Zoo or Safari Park (but not both on the same pass), USS Midway Museum, Birch Aquarium, San Diego Air & Space Museum, and more. For those interested in city touring, there’s the hop-on hop-off trolley or a Bay Harbor Cruise.

More Great Tours Nearby

What are the Benefits?

The biggest perk is cost savings—up to 50%—which can really add up if you’re planning to visit several attractions. Plus, the pass offers the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you want to spend a full day at the zoo or just swing by the USS Midway for a quick tour, the options are yours.

Deep Dive into the Attractions

San Diego Zoo or Safari Park: You pick one of these world-class wildlife parks. The zoo is iconic for its lush habitats and diverse animal collection, while the Safari Park offers expansive outdoor enclosures and safari-style experiences. Reviewers mention that having the flexibility to choose one or the other saves money while still offering a memorable wildlife experience.

USS Midway Museum: This aircraft carrier turned museum is a hit with history buffs and families alike. Visitors love the immersive experience of exploring the ship’s decks and aircraft. One traveler noted, “It’s fantastic and saved us each $100,” highlighting its value.

Birch Aquarium & Air and Space Museum: Both provide engaging, family-friendly exhibits. The aquarium’s beautiful tanks and interactive displays earn praise for their educational value, while the Space Museum offers insights into aviation and space exploration.

City Tours & Cruises: The hop-on hop-off trolley and the Bay Harbor Cruise give scenic views and logistical convenience. The trolley is especially appreciated for its guided commentary and flexible stops, while the cruise offers stunning vantage points of San Diego’s skyline and harbor.

Other Notable Attractions: The Japanese Friendship Garden, Maritime Museum, and the Natural History Museum are all options that cater to different interests. Some reviews detail the helpfulness of guides and the stunning views, especially during boat tours and outdoor excursions.

What to Expect When Using the Pass

Expect a smooth experience if you follow the instructions provided. Download the Go City app, upload your voucher, and familiarize yourself with the reservation procedures for popular sites. Some highly visited attractions, like the zoo or USS Midway, require advance booking—so plan accordingly.

Many travelers appreciate the convenience of having all their entry tickets in one digital place. One reviewer noted, “It was very easy to call up the sites we wanted and get suggestions on less busy times,” which can help you avoid crowds and make the most of your visit.

Potential Challenges

Some users have experienced technical issues with apps or scanning codes, as noted in reviews, which can cause slight delays. Plus, since the pass isn’t tied to specific dates, it requires some planning to make sure you visit during open hours and avoid seasonal closures. The fact that the zoo and safari park cannot be used on the same pass is also something to keep in mind when planning.

How to Maximize Your Experience

• Reserve popular attractions early: Especially during peak season or holidays.
• Plan your route: Group nearby attractions to save travel time.
• Use the app: It provides real-time updates on opening hours and tips.
• Think about your interests: Select attractions that suit your travel style—family fun, history, science, or scenic tours.

What Do Travelers Say?

Reviews are generally positive, with a 4.5-star average. Many travelers appreciate how easy it is to use and how much money they save. One reviewer shared, “It was fantastic and saved us each $100,” indicating great value for those who plan wisely. Others mention the helpful guides and stunning views during boat tours, further enhancing the experience.

However, there are some cautions, such as technical hiccups and the need for reservations, especially for the most popular sites. One user described their experience as “ruined,” but this seems to be the exception rather than the rule.

Final Thoughts

The San Diego Explorer Pass offers a flexible, budget-friendly way to see the city’s top attractions. Whether you’re a family wanting a fun day at the zoo or a culture lover eager to explore museums, this pass adapts to your interests. Its digital nature and long validity make it a smart choice for planning a multi-day adventure without the hassle of buying individual tickets.

If you enjoy self-guided exploring, saving money, and customizing your itinerary, the Explorer Pass is likely to be a hit. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value flexibility and are comfortable with a bit of planning to avoid peak times and reservations.

The Sum Up

The San Diego Explorer Pass is a well-rounded option for visitors who want to maximize their time and budget. Its wide selection of attractions means you can tailor your trip around your interests—whether wildlife, history, or scenic cruises. The cost savings are significant, particularly if you plan to visit multiple sites, and the digital format makes it easy to manage on the go.

This pass suits families, couples, or solo travelers with an adventurous spirit and a desire for independence. If you’re looking for a straightforward way to see San Diego’s highlights and beat the ticket lines, the Explorer Pass offers excellent value.

However, it does require some planning—reserving popular attractions ahead of time and making sure your visit fits within the validity period. For those willing to organize a little, it can transform what might be a stressful ticket scramble into a smooth, enjoyable experience.

In the end, if your goal is to explore San Diego at your own pace while saving money, this pass deserves serious consideration. It’s about making your trip more flexible, more fun, and more affordable—all important ingredients for a memorable California vacation.

FAQ

How many attractions can I choose with the Explorer Pass?
You can select from 2 to 7 attractions, depending on your preference and budget.

What is the price of the pass?
The pass costs $124 per person, which can save you up to 50% compared to buying tickets separately.

How long is the pass valid?
Once activated at your first attraction, the pass is valid for 30 days to visit the remaining attractions, with overall validity of 1 year from purchase.

Can I visit the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park with the same pass?
No, you must choose either the San Diego Zoo or the Safari Park—both are not included on the same pass.

How do I activate the pass?
Simply show your digital pass on your smartphone or print it, then scan or show the QR code at your first attraction.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Transportation to attractions and food or drinks are not included unless specified.

Is the pass suitable for large groups?
Yes, it works for individual travelers and groups alike, as long as each person has their own digital pass.

Can I use the pass for guided tours?
Some attractions and tours like the hop-on hop-off trolley are included, but check the specific reservation requirements.

What if I encounter technical issues?
Some reviews mention app problems, so having a backup plan—like printed tickets—is advisable. Support is available via the Go City app.

Where can I find the most current list of attractions?
Check the Go City app or your digital guide for the latest updates on participating attractions and opening hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: