Free cancellation

Experience a 2-Hour GoCar Tour of Downtown & Balboa Park in San Diego

★ 4.6 (76 reviews) · By GoCar Tours San Diego

Experience San Diego like never before with the 2-Hour GoCar Tour of Downtown and Balboa Park. This fun and flexible tour takes you to some of the city's most iconic sights, all at your own pace. Drive your GoCar through lively neighborhoods and scenic parks, guided by GPS commentary that keeps you informed and entertained.

Start your adventure in historic Little Italy, then cruise past the Maritime Museum and the USS Midway aircraft carrier. Enjoy the vibrant Seaport Village, catch a glimpse of Petco Park, and explore the expansive Balboa Park with its gardens and museums. Finish your tour in the lively Gaslamp Quarter, once San Diego’s red-light district, now a hub of nightlife and dining.

This private tour is perfect for all ages (adults 7-99), suitable for all fitness levels, and includes everything you need—maps, helmets, a tank of gas, and GPS-guided navigation. Whether you're visiting San Diego for the first time or a local looking for a new way to explore, this GoCar tour offers a memorable experience that combines fun, history, and stunning scenery.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to see the sights without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the tour?

Your package includes a map, a tank of gas, a GPS touring car rental, helmets, and a rider orientation to get you comfortable with the vehicle.

Can I join if I’m not an expert driver?

Absolutely. The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels and is designed to be easy to operate, even for beginners.

Are there any age restrictions?

Yes. Participants should be between 7 and 99 years old to join this private GoCar tour.

What areas will I see during the tour?

You’ll visit Little Italy, the Maritime Museum, USS Midway, Seaport Village, Petco Park, Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and the Gaslamp Quarter.

Can I cancel if my plans change?

Yes. You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.

Reserve now

Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.

Duration 2 hours

Check availability to see start times.

Guided experience

English

Key facts

Duration 2 hours
Languages English
Group size Up to 2 people
Ages allowed Adults 7–99
Accessibility Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tour type Private

What's included

Included

  • Map
  • Tank of gas
  • Rental of GPS touring car
  • Rider orientation
  • 8.75% environmental fee for carbon offset, gasoline, and tire recycling
  • Helmets

Not included

  • Gratuities (optional)
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Itinerary

Explore San Diego’s top sights at your own pace on a private GoCar tour, covering historic neighborhoods, museums, parks, and waterfront areas.

  1. Stop 1 Pass by

    Begin in Little Italy, once home to San Diego’s Italian community, now a vibrant hub of art, food, and culture.

  2. Stop 2 Pass by

    Visit the Maritime Museum, one of the top maritime museums worldwide, featuring historic ships like the Star of India, built in 1863.

  3. Stop 3 Pass by

    Drive past the USS Midway aircraft carrier museum, which showcases over 60 exhibits including the flight deck and engine room. It served as the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century.

  4. Stop 4 Pass by

    Pass by Seaport Village, a charming shopping and dining area open daily from 10am-9pm, perfect for a quick stroll or a bite to eat.

  5. Stop 5 Pass by

    See Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres, a major sports venue with behind-the-scenes tours available.

  6. Stop 6 Pass by

    Drive through Balboa Park, a sprawling 1,200-acre green space filled with gardens, museums, and cultural attractions like the Japanese Friendship Garden and the Air & Space Museum.

  7. Stop 7 Pass by

    Pass by the renowned San Diego Zoo, home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals, one of the world’s best zoos.

  8. Stop 8 Pass by

    End your tour in the Gaslamp Quarter, a lively district that has transformed from its red-light past into a hotspot for nightlife, dining, and entertainment.

Meeting point & pickup

Meet at the designated starting point to begin your San Diego adventure.

Cancellation & confirmation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.

  • 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day in advance
  • No refund if cancelled within 24 hours
  • May be canceled due to bad weather

Instant confirmation

Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.

From $89.50 per person

Adult Age 7–99
1
  • Free cancellation
  • Secure checkout with our booking partner

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