2HR Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Loop GoCar Tour

If you’re planning a trip to San Francisco and want to see the city’s main sights without the hassle of traditional tours or public transportation, the GoCar self-drive tour might catch your eye. It offers a unique way to explore at your own pace, using a compact, GPS-guided vehicle that combines sightseeing with a dash of adventure. We’ve looked into what this experience really involves, and here’s what you need to know to decide if it’s right for you.

What we love about this tour is the freedom it provides—you set your own schedule and stop whenever something catches your eye. Plus, the entertaining narrated stories make the drive informative and fun, giving you context about each location without the need for a guide standing beside you. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that some reviewers mention the vehicles can be a bit worn, and traffic or navigation issues could put a slight damper on your day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of independence, want a relaxed way to see the city’s landmarks, and don’t mind the novelty of driving a small, quirky vehicle. It’s also great for those who want a flexible schedule and a fun, memorable experience—perfect for couples, friends, or even small families who can comfortably fit in the GoCar.

Key Points

• Self-guided freedom to explore at your own pace
• Narrated stories add educational value to your sightseeing
• GPS navigation helps prevent getting lost
• Ideal for small groups of up to 2 people per car
• Duration and flexibility: 2 hours, with the option to extend
• Good value considering the included gas, helmets, maps, and narration

An Honest Look at the 2HR Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Loop GoCar Tour

If you’re a fan of sightseeing that lets you control the pace and enjoy local highlights without rushing, this self-driven tour can be quite appealing. The idea of zooming through San Francisco in a quirky little vehicle, all while listening to stories about the city’s most iconic spots, sounds like a fun way to spend a couple of hours. Let’s explore what makes this experience tick, what you can expect, and some of the nuances that could influence your decision.

What’s Included and the Value You Get

For $169 per group (which covers up to 2 people), the package includes a full tank of gas, helmets, GPS navigation, a detailed map, and a rider orientation. The inclusion of a full gas tank and helmets makes it straightforward — no hidden costs here, and you’re ready to go as soon as you arrive. The environmental fee of about 8.75% is built in, supporting offsets for gasoline and tire recycling, which is a nice touch for eco-conscious travelers.

Most reviews mention that the price is reasonable considering the experience. When you factor in the flexibility to stop anywhere you want, and the guided narration that enriches your understanding of each location, it’s a compelling package. Many reviewers found it to be a highlight of their trip, with one mentioning they extended their ride because they were having so much fun.

The Itinerary: Your San Francisco Highlights

Let’s break down what you’ll see during this quick but packed tour:

• Palace of Fine Arts Theatre: Starting at this beautiful structure, you’ll appreciate its classical architecture, a favorite for photos. It’s a quick stop with free admission, perfect to set the mood for your adventure. One reviewer said it was a nice introduction, though a brief one.

• Golden Gate Bridge: The centerpiece of the city. The tour takes you to a viewing area and Fort Point, where you get close enough to see the bridge soaring above you. You’ll love the views here, and many visitors say this is a must-visit. You can’t cross the bridge on this tour, but the vantage point at Fort Point offers a great photo op.

• Lombard Street: Known as the “crookedest street,” this is a fun part of the ride. Zipping down Lombard in your GoCar is a unique experience, and it’s easy to stop for photos or to soak in the sights. Reviewers describe it as a highlight, especially since it’s such an iconic San Francisco spot.

• Fisherman’s Wharf: Driving through this lively area lets you glimpse the bustling seafood shacks, shops, and street performers. It’s a lively neighborhood, and the tour passes through, giving you the chance to wave to fellow visitors and soak up the lively vibe.

• Presidio of San Francisco: This historic military base offers some of the best views of the bay. The Presidio also boasts interesting sites like the Disney Museum and a scenic architecture. One reviewer said, “This is where you get some of the most beautiful views,” and many appreciated the chance to see a more peaceful, scenic part of the city.

• Fort Point National Historic Site: Sitting right under the Golden Gate Bridge, this spot is both beautiful and historically significant. It’s a favorite for photos and learning about the Gold Rush era. Some reviews mention the vantage point makes for excellent pictures of the bridge.

• Crissy Field: The final stop is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for outdoor activities. You’ll see runners, dog walkers, and kayakers enjoying the bay. Many said it’s a perfect place to wrap up the tour, with fantastic views of the Golden Gate.

Driving Experience: What to Expect

The GoCar is a fun, motorcycle-style three-wheeled vehicle. It’s small, easy to park, and designed for two riders. The controls are straightforward, with motorcycle handlebars, throttle, and brakes, making it accessible even if you’re not a seasoned driver.

The cars are GPS-equipped, which is a huge plus—no worries about getting lost or missing a turn. The narrative is delivered via a recorded voice, providing interesting facts and stories along the way. Many reviews mention how helpful and informative the commentary is, adding depth to the sightseeing.

Driving in San Francisco’s traffic can be slow—most travelers report an average speed of about 30 mph or less. Some reviewers also pointed out that the vehicles can be a bit worn or noisy, which may impact comfort, especially if you’re sensitive to noise. One review mentioned a breakdown, highlighting that some cars may have mechanical issues, so it’s worth being prepared for slight hiccups.

Flexibility and Pacing

One of the clear advantages of this tour is that you control the pace. Want to linger at Fort Point or spend extra time at Crissy Field? No problem. The GPS always knows where you are, so you can pause or explore without pressure. Several reviewers extended their rides beyond the two hours, citing how enjoyable and flexible the experience is.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour lasts roughly 2 hours, and if you’re tight on time, you might want to plan carefully. Also, the itinerary is designed to be a quick overview—not an exhaustive city tour—so if you’re eager to see everything, consider extending your time or doing multiple rounds.

Considerations and Drawbacks

While many loved their experience, a few issues came up in reviews. Some users mentioned the vehicles being somewhat worn, which could mean a less smooth ride or minor mechanical problems. One review referenced a breakdown that resulted in additional Uber costs, so being aware of the potential for hiccups is wise.

Another point is that you can’t cross the Golden Gate Bridge on foot or in the car. Instead, the tour takes you to vantage points like Fort Point, where you can see the bridge close up. If walking the bridge itself is on your list, you’ll need a separate plan.

Lastly, no hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so you’ll need to coordinate your arrival at the meeting point. It’s located conveniently near public transportation, which helps if you’re staying centrally.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for adventurous travelers who love the idea of controlling their sightseeing experience. If you’re comfortable driving a small vehicle and enjoy a bit of novelty, you’ll likely find this a delight. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples wanting a memorable, fun way to see key spots without the restrictions of a guided bus tour.

It’s not ideal if you’re expecting a fully guided experience or if you prefer walking or more traditional sightseeing. Families with small children should consider the vehicle’s size, weight limits, and helmet requirements, but it could work if your kids are comfortable in helmets and enjoy a bit of driving.

Final Thoughts

The 2HR Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Loop GoCar Tour offers a fresh way to explore San Francisco’s highlights at your own pace. The combination of scenic views, engaging narration, and the freedom to stop whenever you wish makes it a memorable experience for many travelers. While the vehicles’ condition and traffic might pose minor hurdles, the overall value and fun factor tend to outweigh these concerns.

If you’re after a flexible, interactive way to see the city’s most iconic sights—especially if you’re traveling as a couple or small group—this could be a highlight of your trip. Just be prepared for some noise, potential mechanical hiccups, and the need to plan your start point in advance.

For those who want to make their San Francisco adventure both memorable and unique, this tour is worth considering—just keep your expectations realistic and your camera ready.

FAQ

Can I cross the Golden Gate Bridge in the GoCar?
No, you cannot drive across the bridge itself. The tour takes you to Fort Point underneath, where the bridge appears towering above you. You can, however, access pedestrian areas from the bridge vantage point.

What’s included in the price of $169?
The package includes a GPS-equipped GoCar, a full tank of gas, helmets, a detailed map, and a rider orientation. The environmental fee is also included, supporting carbon offsetting and tire recycling.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The vehicle seats two, and passengers must be 4 years or older with a DOT-approved helmet. It’s best for kids comfortable with helmets and sitting still during the drive.

Do I need a driver’s license?
No motorcycle license is required. Drivers must be 21 or older, have a valid driver’s license, and provide a major credit card.

Can I extend the tour beyond 2 hours?
Yes, many reviewers did so, enjoying the flexibility of the GPS-guided ride. You can stop and explore at your leisure, but the standard tour time is 2 hours.

Are there any hidden costs or extras?
Optional collision damage waiver (about $19) is available, and gratuities are not included. You’ll want to budget for optional extras if desired.

What if I have a flight delay or need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If canceled less than 24 hours in advance, no refund is issued.

Is the tour suitable for larger groups?
Each GoCar holds two people, so for groups larger than two, you’ll need to rent multiple vehicles.

If you’re craving a fun, flexible way to see San Francisco’s iconic sights, this GoCar tour offers an engaging mix of scenery, storytelling, and independence. Just go in prepared for some traffic, wear your helmet, and enjoy the ride!