SF: CA Academy of Sciences & Hop-on Hop-off Tour (Save 15%)

If you’re considering a day exploring San Francisco, a package that combines a hop-on hop-off bus tour with museum entry and a guided walking experience could be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but from what’s on offer, it looks like a solid way to see the city’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What really stands out are the flexibility of the hop-on hop-off bus, which lets you explore at your own pace, and the inclusion of the California Academy of Sciences, a top-tier natural history museum packed with over 40,000 live animals. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that hotel transfers aren’t included, so you’ll need to plan how to get to the starting point.

This tour is best suited for visitors who want a comprehensive taste of San Francisco and prefer having a mix of guided and self-guided experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone with a limited schedule, it offers a good balance of iconic sights and unique local stops.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing: Unlimited hop-on hop-off with frequent buses allows you to create your own itinerary.
• Cultural immersion: Includes a guided walking tour of Chinatown, giving you a glimpse of local life and history.
• Family-friendly: The California Academy of Sciences is a hit with all ages, thanks to its diverse exhibits and live animals.
• Great value: At $110, it offers a lot—entry to a renowned museum, a 48-hour bus ticket, and extra tours—at a competitive price.
• Stunning views: Expect iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Union Square, all with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Convenient combo: The package’s all-in-one approach saves you time and money, especially with the 15% discount.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour begins at the Big Bus Visitor Center at 99 Jefferson Street, where you’ll redeem your voucher. From there, the open-top double-decker bus sets the tone—you’re in for a comfortable ride with excellent views, especially from the top deck. The buses run frequently, so waiting times are minimal, and the digital commentary provides insightful tidbits about San Francisco’s architecture, history, and culture. You’ll find yourself learning about everything from the Gold Rush to the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

The 48-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus

The main feature here is the unlimited hop-on hop-off ticket valid for 48 hours. That means you can hop off at any stop to explore, then hop back on at your leisure. This flexibility is perfect if you want to spend more time at certain attractions like Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, or the Embarcadero. Many reviewers appreciate the convenience of frequent buses, which keep your day fluid and spontaneous.

The stops are strategically placed near key attractions, giving you quick access to iconic sights like the Fisherman’s Wharf, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Painted Ladies Victorian houses. The digital commentary, available in multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, and Korean, adds educational value, making the ride informative rather than just a scenic drive.

The California Academy of Sciences

Included in this package is admission to the California Academy of Sciences, a place that often impresses visitors with its combination of a natural history museum, an aquarium, a planetarium, and a rainforest all under one roof. If you’re into wildlife, the 40,000 live animals will definitely catch your eye. The exhibits are designed to be engaging for all ages, with plenty of interactive displays and opportunities to get close to nature.

The Academy’s uniqueness lies in its multi-faceted approach—you can explore marine life, watch a planetarium show, or walk through a lush, four-story rainforest. Many reviews mention that the museum itself is worth the visit, especially since it’s one of the few places on the planet that combines these attractions in one location.

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Guided Walking Tour of Chinatown

A highlight for many is the guided walking tour of Chinatown. This part of the experience allows you to see a different side of San Francisco—its vibrant culture, historic shops, and local stories. The tour begins at Stop #3 and is accessible via the app, which adds a layer of convenience and flexibility.

Chinatown in San Francisco is one of the oldest and most authentic in North America, and walking through its bustling streets offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. The guide’s insights help you understand the neighborhood’s history, food, and traditions, making it more than just a stroll past colorful storefronts.

Additional Tours and Sunset Experience

The package doesn’t just stop at daytime sightseeing. It also includes a 1-hour panoramic sunset tour, which is a fantastic way to see the city as the sun dips behind the bay—great for photography and those memorable moments.

The Value for Money

At $110 per person, this package looks pretty appealing considering what you’re getting. The retail value is listed as $134, so the 15% discount adds extra savings. When you factor in the unlimited 48-hour hop-on hop-off access, museum admission, and special tours, it’s a good deal that simplifies planning and reduces the hassle of buying separate tickets.

Some reviews mention that the bus is a good way to get a broad overview of the city, especially if you’re pressed for time. The ability to hop off at major sights and explore at your own pace means you’re not stuck in a rigid schedule, which many travelers find refreshing.

What to Keep in Mind

One thing to note is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will need to make your own way to the meeting point, which isn’t a big deal if you’re already in the city or nearby. Also, the voucher must be redeemed at the Big Bus Visitor Center before visiting the museum, so plan to arrive early enough to avoid rushing.

Final Thoughts

This tour package offers a well-rounded day of discovering San Francisco, blending flexible transport with engaging attractions. The combination of the hop-on hop-off bus and the California Academy of Sciences makes it especially appealing for those who want a mix of sightseeing and educational fun. The inclusion of a guided Chinatown tour and sunset ride adds extra layers of local flavor and stunning views.

If you’re someone who likes to see a city on your own terms but appreciates helpful guided insights, this could be an excellent choice. The value is clear, especially with the discount, and the variety of experiences ensures no dull moments.

However, if you’re expecting a more in-depth or exclusive experience, you might find this tour a bit surface-level. Still, for a first visit or a quick overview, it hits many of the city’s highlights at a reasonable price.

Overall, we think this tour is best suited for curious travelers who want to maximize their time and see a broad slice of San Francisco with minimal hassle. It’s practical, reasonably priced, and offers enough flexibility to tailor your day to your interests.

FAQ

Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?
Yes, it’s best to book ahead to secure your spot and get the discount. You can reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans are still flexible.

Where do I redeem my voucher?
You’ll need to redeem your voucher at the Big Bus Visitor Center at 99 Jefferson St or any bus stop along the route.

Is the hop-on hop-off ticket valid for 48 hours?
Yes, you can use the ticket for 48 hours following your first redemption, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

Are the buses wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs.

What language options are available for the audio guide?
The digital commentary is available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, and Korean.

Can I join the guided Chinatown tour via the bus?
No, the Chinatown tour begins at Stop #3 and is available via an app on Android and iOS. You should check with Big Bus staff for additional details.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point.

What’s the best way to see the Golden Gate Bridge?
You can hop off the bus near the bridge and walk around or take photos from the designated viewpoints. The views from the bus are also excellent if you prefer to stay seated.

Is the California Academy of Sciences suitable for children?
Yes, with its interactive exhibits and live animals, it’s generally a hit with kids and families, though all visitors will find plenty to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a flexible, entertaining, and value-packed way to experience San Francisco, this combo tour might just fit the bill. It offers a bit of everything—culture, sights, and the chance to explore on your own terms.

You can check availability for your dates here: