4 Spring Pass Ideas to Engage Visitors & Drive Exploration

To get you up and running, here are 4 spring-themed pass ideas you can build on and tailor to fit your audience. Each example includes a suggested headline and details on how to frame the incentive.

1. Check-In Challenge or Itinerary Pass (Outdoor Adventure & Hiking Pass)

Spring is prime time for outdoor exploration, so why not encourage visitors to hit the trails? There are two ways to structure an outdoor adventure pass: either as a check-in challenge with a prize incentive or as a curated itinerary pass that guides users through the best outdoor spots without gamification.

• Check-In Challenge (Gamified with a Prize)

This type of pass encourages participants to check in at designated locations to earn a reward. (See West Virginia Tourism’s Check-In Challenge Pass here)

How passholders benefit: Users can earn an exclusive prize for completing the challenge—If you're creating an outdoor exploration pass, choose practical prizes that hikers and adventurers can actually use, such as:

• A branded bandana
• A lightweight backpack
• A reusable water bottle

These practical rewards make the challenge more engaging and provide extra motivation to visit multiple locations.

• Itinerary Pass (Curated Outdoor Guide, No Gamification)

For those who want to provide a self-guided experience without gamification, an itinerary pass would serve as a digital guide to the best spots in a destination. 

How passholders benefit: Unlike a check-in challenge, there’s no prize -  just a well-curated list of must-visit outdoor locations, helping visitors and locals navigate the best trails and scenic spots at their own pace.

This option works well for destinations looking to highlight outdoor attractions without requiring visitors to check in or complete specific challenges.

2. Paid Attractions Pass (Spring Break or Outdoor Activities)

A paid attractions pass gives visitors access to experiences at an exclusive price, making it easier and more affordable to explore. These passes may provide admission to multiple attractions, allow visitors to choose a set number of experiences, or offer impactful discounts on entry fees. Some may even focus on a single attraction or experience. (See Visit Tampa Bay’s Paid Attractions Pass here)

For spring, this could include access to a variety of outdoor adventures like kayaking, paddleboarding, or bike tours, allowing passholders to choose from multiple participating locations based on the activity they want to try. The pass could include one free rental at a selected spot, while also offering additional discounts at other rental locations, making it easier and more affordable for visitors to get outsiede and explore.

How passholders benefit: The main benefit is cost savings. Whether it’s unlimited access for a set period, discounted admission, or a flexible "pick-your-own" option, visitors get more value or convenience compared to purchasing individual tickets directly.

3. Paid Tasting Pass (Beverage & Culinary Experiences)

A paid tasting pass gives visitors a curated way to experience a destination’s best breweries, distilleries, wineries, or restaurants. These passes often include free tastings, exclusive menu items, or discounts at participating locations, typically within a set time frame. (See Sonoma County’s Paid Tasting Pass here)

For spring, this could highlight seasonal flavors like floral-infused cocktails, citrus-forward beers, or fresh farm-to-table pairings, encouraging visitors to explore the best tastes of the season.

How passholders benefit: Since this is a paid pass, users get access to exclusive perks and deals that aren’t available to regular customers. Some examples include:

• A free tasting flight at a select number of participating breweries or wineries
• A $5 voucher redeemable at featured locations
• One specialty dish or drink per location, available only to passholders
• Additional discounts at participating locations for future visits

These passes create a guided, time-sensitive experience that encourages visitors to explore multiple locations while enjoying significant savings.

4. Savings Pass (Local Deals & Discounts)

A savings pass provides exclusive discounts at local businesses. Unlike a check-in challenge, there are no prizes—just ongoing savings at participating locations. (See Visit Stockton’s Savings Pass here)

For spring, this could focus on plant lovers by offering discounts on gardening supplies, nurseries, and botanical garden entry. Visitors can save on seasonal blooms, garden décor, and even hands-on workshops like floral arranging or herb gardening, making it the perfect pass for those looking to refresh their green spaces this season.

How passholders benefit: Users save money when they visit participating businesses. Typical discounts include:

• 10–25% off purchases
• Free upgrades or bonus items
• Special seasonal offers

For this type of pass, it’s important to work closely with merchants to curate enticing deals that will attract visitors.

By choosing a pass type that aligns with your audience’s interests and pairing it with strong marketing, you can attract more sign-ups, support local businesses, and maximize the value of your destination this season. Now’s the time to bring your idea to life and give visitors a reason to get out and explore this spring!

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