49 Mile GoCar Special – All Day For The Price Of 5 Hours

Explore San Francisco in a GPS-Guided GoCar for a Full Day

The 49 Mile GoCar Special offers a unique way to see San Francisco over 5 hours at a relaxed pace, all for $309 per group. Designed for up to 2 people, this self-guided tour uses a lively yellow GPS-guided GoCar that narrates stories and provides turn-by-turn directions in 9 languages. This experience is perfect for those who want the flexibility to explore the city’s top sights on their own schedule, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to vibrant neighborhoods like Haight-Ashbury and the Castro District.

While the all-day option extends the typical 5-hour drive, the tour is structured so you can craft your perfect day, stopping as long as you like at key landmarks. The tour begins at Fisherman’s Wharf, with the opportunity to traverse the scenic 49-mile route covering beaches, parks, and city districts. Expect an exciting mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and the freedom to choose your own adventure in one of California’s most picturesque cities.

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Key Points

• Full-day self-guided tour in a GPS-enabled, talking GoCar in 9 languages
• Price: $309 per vehicle, seats 2 persons, includes full tank of gas and helmets
• Duration: 5 hours with flexible start times, usually available in the morning or afternoon
• Highlights: Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Haight-Ashbury, Alamo Square, and more
• Meeting Point: Fisherman’s Wharf at 431 Beach Street
• Additional details: Driver age 21+, $500 security deposit, optional insurance available

Starting Point at Fisherman’s Wharf

The adventure kicks off at GoCar Tours located at 431 Beach Street, conveniently near the historic F streetcar line. The meeting process is straightforward, with staff providing a driver orientation and safety briefing. Once you’re familiar with the small, easy-to-drive yellow GoCar, you’re ready to roll onto the famous 49-mile scenic route.

The full tank of gas is included, so you can start exploring immediately. The location’s central spot makes it simple to start your day with views of the waterfront and easy access to nearby attractions. The Monday to Thursday schedule allows flexibility, with pickup times from 09:00 to 17:00, and slightly earlier on weekends.

Navigating San Francisco with the GPS-Guided GoCar

This GPS-guided vehicle features turn-by-turn directions and storytelling narration available in 9 languages—Spanish, Italian, German, English, French, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean. The interactive guide not only guides you through the route but also shares interesting facts about San Francisco’s history, landmarks, and neighborhoods, making it as educational as it is fun.

The talking GPS ensures you stay on track without needing a separate map or guidebook, and the easy handling of the GoCar makes it suitable even for newcomers to city driving or those unfamiliar with automatic vehicles. The storytelling aspect adds a layer of entertainment, turning your drive into an engaging city tour filled with local trivia.

Top Sights Along the 49-Mile Route

The scenic drive takes you past some of the city’s most renowned spots, including Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and lively street performers. From there, you cruise through the Marina District, with views of the bay, and Crissy Field, a popular waterfront park.

The Golden Gate Bridge is a highlight, with stops at Fort Point for close-up views and photo ops. The route also includes the Presidio and the Legion of Honor, offering glimpses of San Francisco’s military history and art collections. The Cliff House and Ocean Beach provide more coastal scenery, with sandy expanses perfect for stretching your legs.

In the city’s parks, you’ll explore Golden Gate Park, home to gardens, lakes, and cultural sites, before heading into the neighborhoods of Haight-Ashbury, famous for its role in the 1960s counterculture, and Alamo Square, where the iconic Painted Ladies frame downtown San Francisco.

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Customizing Your Day with Self-Guided Freedom

One of the main advantages of this tour is flexibility. You’re free to stop for lunch at your preferred time and pace, with no fixed schedule. The full-day option allows for an unhurried exploration of beaches, parks, and neighborhoods, with the ability to blaze your own trail or follow the suggested route.

The GPS guide also helps uncover hidden gems and classic sights alike, offering a personalized experience. Whether you want to linger at Golden Gate Park or snap photos at the Golden Gate Bridge, the tour adapts to your interests.

Practical Details: Renting and Returning the GoCar

The rental includes safety helmets and a full tank of gas. To rent, you need to be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license—no need for an international license. The security deposit is $500, held on your credit card during the rental, but can be reduced to $300 if you purchase optional collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance.

Reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with a small $20 cancellation fee. The flexible booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later, which is helpful in case of changing plans or bad weather. You can choose morning or afternoon departures depending on your schedule.

The Experience of Driving a GoCar

Many users highlight how easy it is to drive the compact, electric GoCar, with some noting initial learning curves, but overall praising the friendly staff and clear instructions. The GPS guide receives consistent praise for entertaining narration and precise directions.

The electric version is especially appreciated for its quieter operation and faster speeds—up to 85 mph—although most drive at around 45 mph for safety and comfort. The small storage area in the rear provides enough space for personal belongings, which can be locked for security.

Review Highlights and Practical Tips

The reviews show a high satisfaction rate, with an average rating of 4.7/5. Common praise goes to the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and enjoyable storytelling. Many recommend starting early to maximize their time and suggest booking the all-day option to visit more sights comfortably.

A few notes for potential renters include long check-in times during busy periods and the need for patience with San Francisco’s hillier streets. The small, nimble GoCar handles well but requires attention when navigating steep hills.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This full-day tour suits adventurers who want freedom to explore at their own pace, families with older children, or couples eager for a fun, interactive city experience. The self-guided narration is ideal for those curious about local history and culture, while the compact size makes it easy to maneuver through busy city streets.

It’s a cost-effective way to see many of San Francisco’s highlights without the constraints of traditional guided tours, though the initial learning curve and traffic considerations should be kept in mind.

San Francisco’s Best Way to Discover Its Sights and Hidden Corners

The 49 Mile GoCar Special provides a unique, flexible way to explore San Francisco’s top landmarks and neighborhoods in a self-paced manner. The GPS narration and scenic route ensure an engaging experience, while the full-day duration allows plenty of time to stop, explore, and enjoy.

While it requires a bit of initial patience and responsible driving, most find the fun and freedom outweigh the minor logistical hurdles. This tour is perfect for those who want to see the city from a different perspective, combining adventure with education.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GoCar suitable for children?
The GoCar is designed for two persons and does not accommodate booster seats for small children. Riders must be 21 years or older with a valid driver’s license.

What languages are available for the GPS narration?
The GPS guide offers 9 language options, including English, Spanish, Italian, German, French, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean.

How long is the rental?
The standard full-day rental lasts 5 hours, with the possibility of rescheduling in case of bad weather or other issues.

What is included in the rental?
The rental includes a full tank of gas, driver safety briefing, helmets, and the GoCar itself. Insurance is optional and available for purchase.

Where do I pick up the GoCar?
The main pickup location is at 431 Beach Street, near Fisherman’s Wharf.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, drivers must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid driver’s license.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the rental for a full refund, minus a $20 fee.

Is there an option to buy insurance?
Yes, renters can purchase collision damage waiver (CDW) insurance to reduce the security deposit from $500 to $300.

What makes this tour different from other San Francisco sightseeing options?
This self-guided, GPS-enabled tour combines driving fun with storytelling, offering personalized exploration without the constraints of a traditional group tour or public transportation.

What should I keep in mind about the terrain?
San Francisco’s hills require careful driving. The small, nimble GoCar handles well, but caution is advised on steeper streets.

Is it worth choosing the electric GoCar?
Many reviews praise the electric version for being quieter and capable of higher speeds, which enhances the overall experience.

This 49 Mile GoCar Special combines convenience, fun, and educational storytelling to create a memorable way to enjoy San Francisco’s sights at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby