What is a San Francisco Explorer Pass?

A San Francisco Explorer Pass is a multi-attraction pass that includes admission to your choice of 3, 4, or 5 San Francisco attractions for one low price.

How does a San Francisco Explorer Pass work?

• Purchase a pass for the number of attractions you want to visit — we offer 3, 4, or 5-Choice Passes.
• Your San Francisco Explorer Pass gets you into any of the 27 included attractions. No need to decide before your trip, choose as you go from the options included with your pass.
• Simply present your pass at included attractions for admission. Pay nothing at the gate.
• Visiting your first attraction activates your card. Then, you'll have 30 days to use your pass.

How will I get my pass?

You'll get your pass via email as soon as your order processes. Choose between 2 options:

• Use your pass right on your phone with the free Go City Card app.
• Print your pass and guidebook at home.

Links and easy-to-follow instructions for both options will be in your confirmation email.

What else does the pass include?

You'll get a guide with hours of operation and directions for each attraction, and a map to help plan your itinerary.

Plus extra dining, shopping and entertainment discounts to help you save even more along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions Show All

Is this just a discount card? Will I still need to buy tickets?

No. Passes include admission to each attraction; no need to pay anything at the gate. Some attractions may offer upgrades or special exhibits for an additional fee.

Do I need to choose my attractions in advance?

Nope, choose as you go. The pass is good for any combination of the number of attractions you purchased.

My child is under 3 years old. Can I get them a San Francisco Explorer Pass?

Child Passes are recommended for children ages 3-12. Many attractions offer free admission for younger children. Please consult the attraction websites for more details.

How will I get my pass?

You'll get your pass via email as soon as your order processes. Choose between 2 options:

• Use your pass right on your phone with the free Go City Card app.
• Print your pass and guidebook at home.

Links and easy-to-follow instructions for both options will be in your confirmation email.

How do I activate my pass?

Easy: simply visit your first attraction!

Is the pass valid all day?

You bet! Feel free to visit the attractions any time of the day as long as they are open or operating.

What is your refund policy?

Our Risk Free Guarantee gives you 30 days from your purchase date to return any non-activated passes for a full refund.

How much will I save?

Compare the price of the pass to the gate prices of the attractions you want to visit to see how much you can save. Many customers save 45%.

We give you the flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose the attractions you want to visit depending on your interests.

For inspiration, check out some of our sample itineraries, insider tips, and more for info on all the fun things to do in San Francisco so you can make the most of your time here.

Can I visit an attraction more than once?

No. Your pass includes only one visit per attraction.

Can I purchase passes on the spur of the moment when I arrive in San Francisco?

Of course! Visit one of our local purchase locations or order online and receive your pass(es) digitally. Please be aware that online orders may take additional time to process. If you need your pass(es) immediately, please contact cs@smartdestinations.com.

Does a San Francisco Explorer Pass expire?

Yes. You have one year from the date of purchase to begin using your pass. After one year, it will expire.

Do I need to make reservations to visit the attractions?

Attractions that require a reservation will display this symbol on the guidebook page.

Some attractions require a credit card to hold a reservation. In these cases, your credit card will not be charged unless you do not show up for your reservation.

Can I use my San Francisco Explorer Pass to ride the cable cars?

Your San Francisco Explorer Pass may be used for a 1-day Muni Visitor Passport, which includes a full day of unlimited rides on the cable cars, muni trains, and muni buses. However, be sure to pick up your passport prior to boarding. There are two locations to do this — one in Fisherman's Wharf and one in Union Square. Both are just a short walk from the cable car boarding locations.

Can I use my San Francisco Explorer Pass® to visit Alcatraz Island?

No. The Escape from the Rock Cruise option does not include a visit to Alcatraz Island but does circle the island and include a narrated account of the most feared institution in the American penal system.

What's the catch?

There’s no catch. San Francisco Explorer Pass has a partnership with all of the participating attractions to make your visit to San Francisco as memorable as possible and to help you save time and money.

Can I share my pass with a friend or sell it?

No. The San Francisco Explorer Pass is non-transferrable and may not be re-sold.

What happens if an attraction is closed or a tour is cancelled due to weather or other problem?

While we do our best to ensure that all attractions are available, events happen that are out of our control. The great thing about a San Francisco Explorer Pass is that there are so many attractions to choose from. If an attraction is closed, or cannot be visited for some reason, we know you'll find a fun alternative in your guidebook!

I still have questions!

Please feel free to email us at cs@smartdestinations.com and we'll be happy to help you!