Click here for a complete list of current attractions included with the San Francisco Explorer Pass
Frequently Asked Questions
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?
When your order is complete you will receive an email with printable and Smartphone version of your pass. There is nothing to Redeem, you can go right to first attraction you want to visit and start using your card immediately.
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.
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 50%. We give you the flexibility to create your own itinerary and choose the attractions you want to visit depending on your interests.
Can I visit an attraction more than once?
No. Your pass includes only one visit per attraction.
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 a 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!
