San Diego: CityPASS® Save up to 46% at Must-See Attractions

If exploring San Diego is on your travel list, the San Diego CityPASS® offers a practical and cost-effective way to experience the city’s most popular attractions. Priced at $178 per person, this pass grants access to five key venues—including SeaWorld® San Diego, LEGOLAND® California, and your choice between the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park—valid for 9 consecutive days. The flexibility to spread out visits over nearly two weeks makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a leisurely pace.

While the pass includes a wide range of attractions and offers savings of up to 46%, a noteworthy limitation is that transportation and food are not included. This means travelers should plan for additional expenses if they want convenience between stops. The instant mobile ticket delivery and self-guided access streamline the process, but some reviews mention occasional technical issues at attractions like LEGOLAND, so it’s wise to keep a backup plan.

This tour suits visitors eager to explore multiple attractions at their own pace, especially families or groups wanting maximum flexibility. For those who love seeing San Diego’s top sights without the hassle of individual ticket purchases, the CityPASS® provides a straightforward, economical option. The 9-day validity period also means it’s perfect for multi-day stays, giving plenty of time to enjoy each venue comfortably.

Key Points

• Includes five major attractions: SeaWorld®, LEGOLAND®, San Diego Zoo or Safari Park, USS Midway Museum, and a Bay cruise.
• Valid for 9 consecutive days: Offers flexible scheduling over almost two weeks.
• Offers up to 46% savings: Significant discounts on top San Diego sites.
• Instant mobile ticket delivery: Easy access and quick entry at each venue.
• No transportation or food included: Additional costs may apply for these essentials.
• One-time admission to three attractions: Choose between the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park.

You can check availability for your dates here:

San Diego CityPASS®: The Core Offer

The San Diego CityPASS® gives visitors admission to five essential attractions, with the option to select which one of the two major parks to visit. The San Diego Zoo provides a 1-day pass that includes not only entry but also unlimited use of the Guided Bus Tour, Kangaroo Bus, and Skyfari Aerial Tram, plus access to scheduled shows and exhibits. Alternatively, the Safari Park offers a 1-day pass with unlimited rides on the Africa Tram along with general exhibits.

The general admission to the USS Midway Museum features a 3D holographic movie about the Battle of Midway and an audio tour available in six languages, enhancing the experience. Visitors also enjoy a Bay cruise tour, covering over 50 local landmarks across more than 20 miles of scenic sights, and access to Birch Aquarium at Scripps.

The self-guided nature of these visits allows travelers to customize their itinerary, making the most of each location’s offerings without time constraints.

How the Attractions Fit Into Your Schedule

The 9-day validity means you can take your time visiting each site, even if you prefer a relaxed pace or wish to revisit favorites. For instance, the SeaWorld® San Diego ticket can be used on any day within this period, as can the LEGOLAND® California entry.

The USS Midway Museum is a highlight, offering a self-guided tour of an historic aircraft carrier with engaging exhibits and the holographic movie. The Bay cruise provides a scenic break from land-based activities, showcasing San Diego’s skyline and landmarks from the water.

For the Zoo or Safari Park, the one-time admission grants access to all regular shows and exhibits, with unlimited use of certain transportation options within the parks, making it easier to explore without extra charges.

Navigating Logistics and Access

Present your mobile ticket at each attraction for quick scanning, with no need for printed tickets. The meeting point is flexible, as tickets can be accessed online through my.citypass.com to make reservations if needed.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating visitors with mobility needs. However, travelers should plan their days accordingly, as some attractions involve a fair amount of walking or standing.

Because transportation and food are not included, travelers should plan their own travel between venues, possibly renting a car or using local transit. The self-guided nature means no group tours or guided commentary are provided, offering independence but requiring some planning.

The Experience at Major Attractions

SeaWorld® San Diego combines rides, shows, and marine life exhibits, with the pass providing a full-day experience. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see marine animals, enjoy rides, and watch shows, although crowds can vary based on the season.

LEGOLAND® California appeals especially to families, with its themed rides and interactive exhibits. The single-day ticket allows access to all rides, but some reviews indicate occasional issues with pass scanning, so arriving early can help avoid delays.

The USS Midway Museum offers a unique perspective on naval history with its aircraft carrier exhibits, aircraft displays, and the holographic movie about the Battle of Midway, which enhances understanding of World War II history.

San Diego Zoo remains a standout, with its vast collection of animals, lush habitats, and the Skyfari aerial tram offering great views. The Safari Park provides a more open, safari-style experience with tram rides through expansive landscapes.

Bay Cruises allow visitors to see San Diego’s skyline, port area, and landmarks like Coronado Bridge from the water, adding a relaxing element to the sightseeing.

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Tips for Maximizing Your Pass

Travelers benefit from spreading out visits over the 9-day window, avoiding rushes and crowds at popular spots. The self-guided format means flexibility but requires some pre-planning to decide the order of attractions.

To avoid issues like the one reported at LEGOLAND, arriving early and confirming barcode validity on the day of visit can prevent delays. Since food and transportation are not included, packing snacks and planning transit routes will help keep days smooth.

Most attractions have regular schedules and scheduled shows, so checking their times ahead of your visit helps make the most of each experience. The instant mobile tickets generally work smoothly, but keep a backup in case of technical glitches.

Is the San Diego CityPASS® Worth It?

For travelers planning to visit multiple major attractions within a limited timeframe, the CityPASS® offers substantial savings—up to 46%—compared to individual tickets. The 9-day validity provides enough flexibility to explore at a comfortable pace, making it especially good for families or groups with diverse interests.

However, those seeking a more guided or inclusive experience might find the self-guided approach less suited, and the additional costs for transport and food should be considered. Despite a minor chance of technical issues at some sites, the overall convenience and significant savings make the pass attractive.

In sum, the San Diego CityPASS® is an efficient option for maximizing sightseeing while controlling costs, especially for visitors eager to explore the city’s top attractions without rushing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the CityPASS® include transportation between attractions?
No, transportation is not included; travelers need to plan their own transit arrangements.

Can I visit attractions more than once with the pass?
The pass grants one-time admission to each included attraction, but within the parks like the Zoo or Safari Park, unlimited use of some transportation is allowed during the day.

Is the pass valid for consecutive days?
No, the 9-day validity means you can use the tickets anytime within that period, spreading out your visits.

Are there any age restrictions?
The information provided does not specify age restrictions; standard tickets are generally for all ages, with possible discounts for children.

What attractions are included in the pass?
The pass includes SeaWorld® San Diego, LEGOLAND® California, your choice of San Diego Zoo or Safari Park, USS Midway Museum, San Diego Bay Cruise, and Birch Aquarium.

What should I do if my barcode doesn’t scan?
You should contact CityPASS customer support; some reviews mention waiting on hold for barcode issues, so arriving early is advisable.

How long does each attraction typically take?
While durations vary, the pass allows flexibility; some attractions like SeaWorld or the Zoo can take a full day, while others like the cruise may be shorter.

Are the attraction guides knowledgeable?
The tour is self-guided; no guides are provided, but attractions offer their own interpretive materials and staff assistance.

Can I purchase the CityPASS® on arrival?
Most likely, but instant mobile delivery is emphasized; buying online ensures quick access and avoids potential lines.

Is the pass wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs.

This rundown of the San Diego CityPASS® highlights its value for flexible, budget-friendly exploration of the city’s top attractions. With careful planning and taking advantage of the 9-day window, visitors can enjoy everything from marine life and animals to historic ships and scenic cruises efficiently and affordably.

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