40+ BEST Issues to Do in San Diego with Youngsters (2024)


San Diego County overflows with enjoyable for households. As a mother who lived on this Southern California seashore metropolis for a few years and returns often along with her brood, I’m excited to share the very best issues to do in San Diego with youngsters. There are plentiful actions to maintain all ages content material, from theme parks and animal adventures to nature play and museums. Based mostly on my household’s experiences and information of our beloved former hometown, listed below are the very best kid-friendly San Diego points of interest!

40+ BEST Issues to Do in San Diego with Youngsters (2024)
San Diego Bay and San Diego Skyline (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

Discover San Diego offers, together with attraction ticket reductions and discounted lodge packages. Scroll to the underside of this record of San Diego points of interest for youths to discover a particular San Diego low cost only for you!

Children on the beach in San Diego
My daughter and pals on the seashore in San Diego, California (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

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1. The Seaside

When contemplating the very best San Diego points of interest for youths, the seashore all the time tops the record. This standard California trip vacation spot is famend for its lengthy sandy seashores and surfable waves. In actual fact, San Diego boasts greater than 70 miles of shoreline. It doesn’t matter what time of yr you go to, magnificence and enjoyable abound at San Diego seashores.

In summer time, youngsters can construct sandcastles and splash within the waves. Energetic households will take pleasure in taking part in water sports activities like browsing classes, boogie boarding, or a sea-kayaking tour.

Cooler spring and fall temperatures imply extra space to calm down and unfold out a seashore blanket or go for a stroll alongside the shore. These visiting San Diego in winter are sometimes shocked to search out the seashores too chilly for swimming. However wetsuits can be found from surf outlets for die-hard ocean lovers. Low season is a superb time to discover San Diego tide swimming pools, trying to find hermit crabs, sea stars, mussels, and different sea life at low tide.

San Diego beach at sunset
Pacific Seaside at sundown (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

Finest Seashores in San Diego for Households

  • Mission Seaside (mellower waves for younger kids, close to Belmont Park Amusement Park)
  • La Jolla Shores Seaside (lovely crescent-shaped seashore)
  • Coronado Island Seaside (immaculate seashore close to the Lodge Del Coronado)
  • Kids’s Pool Seaside (artifical breaker protects from giant waves, situated in La Jolla Cove)
  • Fletcher Cove in Solana Seaside (smaller seashore with playground)
  • Pacific Seaside and Ocean Seaside (bustling boardwalk, a number of eating places, frequented by school youngsters)
  • Torrey Pines State Seaside (an area favourite with fewer vacationers, close to Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve)
Balboa Park Lily Pond and Conservatory
Balboa Park Lily Pond and Conservatory (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

2. Balboa Park

The situation of the first-ever World’s Truthful, Balboa Park is certainly the most effective issues to do in San Diego with youngsters. Get pleasure from free admission to this spacious park, which you may be shocked to be taught is twice as large as New York Metropolis’s Central Park. Some points of interest and actions require a charge.

Spreckels Organ Pavillion
Spreckels Organ Pavillion (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

High Issues to Do at Balboa Park

  • Hearken to dwell music on the world’s largest outside organ at Spreckels Organ Pavillion.
  • Go to the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
  • Play the Brass Ring Sport on the Balboa Park Carousel for an opportunity to win a free spin.
  • Wander by way of 19 gardens, together with the Desert Backyard, Japanese Friendship Backyard, and the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Backyard.
  • Eat at quite a few snack carts and eateries, together with The Prado Restaurant.
  • Store for art work and take artwork lessons on the Spanish Village Artwork Heart.
  • Experience the Balboa Park Miniature Prepare.
  • Get pleasure from quite a few picnic areas and playgrounds.
  • Watch dwell theater performances at The Outdated Globe Theatre.
  • Discover 17 museums showcasing artwork, science, historical past, and extra.
Timken Museum at Balboa Park
Timken Museum of Artwork at Balboa Park (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

Free Balboa Park Museums (Donation Recommended)

  • Timken Museum of Artwork
  • Centro Cultural de la Raza
  • Institute of Modern Artwork
  • San Diego Historical past Heart
This koala at San Diego Zoo looks like he's waving hello, doesn't he?
Koala at San Diego Zoo (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

3. San Diego Zoo

After all, you may’t go to San Diego with youngsters and never go to its famend zoo. Extensively considered the most effective zoological facilities on this planet, the San Diego Zoo wows animal lovers. This zoo focuses on conserving endangered animals and educating the general public concerning the world’s creatures.

 

4 thousand animals representing 800 species make their houses right here. Take a peek at lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!). However there are additionally koalas, Komodo dragons, pygmy hippos, and lots of different uncommon animals positive to fascinate guests.

Home to pandas, the San Diego Zoo is one of the most well-known and beloved zoos in the world ~ California with Kids
Residence to pandas, the San Diego Zoo is likely one of the most well-known and beloved zoos on this planet (Photograph credit score: Go to San Diego)

The San Diego Zoo is likely one of the solely zoological facilities within the U.S. that homes big pandas. In an settlement with China, pandas have been welcomed again in the summertime of 2024 after the earlier Oreo-colored residents returned residence in 2019. Guests can even see crimson pandas on the San Diego Zoo.

Youngsters will take pleasure in visiting the Kids’s Zoo. They will play on the Fisher-Worth Discovery Playground and work together with goats, sheep, and different mellow creatures within the petting zoo.

As a many-year annual member, learn my suggestions for taking advantage of visiting the San Diego Zoo with youngsters. Able to go? Purchase your San Diego Zoo entry passes now!

Safari Caravan at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Caravan Safari on the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (Photograph courtesy of San Diego Zoo World)

4. San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Safari Park is simply as spectacular as its sister property, the San Diego Zoo. This animal park encompasses a whopping 1,800 acres in comparison with the zoo’s 100. Be warned that there’s quite a lot of floor to cowl, particularly when visiting with kids or aged adults.

The African Tram is the park’s king attraction. It transports guests by way of a wide-open panorama just like that of the African Savannah. Riders spy on such creatures as rhinos, giraffes, and Cape buffaloes. Pay a further charge to stand up near the animals on a Caravan Safari (proven above).

However that’s not the one memorable journey on the Safari Park. Buy a cup of nectar at Lorikeet Touchdown to return nostril to beak with brightly plumed lorikeet parrots. On sizzling days, deliver swim gear for kids to chill off within the animal-shaped fountains on the Savannah Cool Zone. (A youngsters’ favourite a part of the park!)

You’ll be able to even zip-line on the San Diego Zoo Safari Park over the heads of untamed animals. Or, for a really memorable journey, join the Roar and Snore in a single day tenting within the park. Purchase your San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets now!

Legoland California theme park
LEGOLAND California theme park (Photograph credit score: Legoland California)

5. LEGOLAND California

Whereas many amusement parks current passive leisure, dad and mom can be happy to find interactive points of interest at LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad. On the Volvo Driving Faculty, kids drive pint-sized vehicles round streets dotted with cease indicators and dealing stoplights. Youngsters can even construct and race LEGO automobiles and even program computerized LEGO Mindstorms robots.

The Police and Fireplace Academy Rescue trip will get Mother and Dad concerned. Riders pile into a fireplace truck or police automobile, then energy the car by pumping levers up and down as they race different groups to place out a “fireplace” and cease make-believe robbers. This all the time leaves my household huffing, puffing, and laughing!

Learn my suggestions for visiting LEGOLAND California with all ages or buy discounted LEGOLAND California tickets.

Belmont Park in San Diego
Big Dipper Curler Coaster at Belmont Park (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

6. Belmont Park

Youngsters of all ages adore Belmont Park on the Mission Seaside Boardwalk. Go to this waterfront theme park for carnival video games with prizes, ice cream treats, funnel muffins, and greater than a dozen enjoyable rides.

Admission is free at this standard San Diego attraction. Pay as you go to trip and play. For limitless entry to 13 rides and included parking, buy a Belmont Park Experience & Play Cross.

The star attraction at Belmont Park is the Big Dipper Curler Coaster. This historic picket curler coaster was initially inbuilt 1925 and has been restored on your rickety using pleasure. Heads up: it is a very jerky trip. (However my teenagers find it irresistible!)

The Children's Pool in La Jolla
The Kids’s Pool in La Jolla (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

7. La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is a superb place for outside actions. Come at low tide to search for marine life in tide swimming pools alongside the Pacific Ocean. Then, stroll alongside sea cliffs and peer at California Harbor seals and sea lions lazing on the seashore close to Kids’s Pool Seaside. At Scripps Parkway, take pleasure in a picnic lunch on an expansive grassy space overlooking the ocean.

This jewel of San Diego can also be well-known for its designer outlets, artwork galleries, and upscale eating choices. For a cool spot to buy SoCal souvenirs, head to the Cave Retailer and climb down a 145-step tunnel to the Sunny Jim Sea Cave. (Watch out, although—the steps will be slippery!)

Dolphin Days show at SeaWorld San Diego
Dolphin Days present at SeaWorld San Diego (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

8. SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego is finest identified for exhibits starring ocean animals like dolphins and sea lions. Aquariums full of sea life abound right here, too, together with a walk-through shark tank. For an additional particular deal with, ebook a Premier Expertise, like a Dine with Orcas Meal or Penguin Encounter.

This theme park additionally options enjoyable rides, which has all the time been a draw for my youngsters. Sesame Avenue Bay of Play gives candy rides for younger kids, like Elmo’s Flying Fish and Abby’s Sea Star Spin. The Sky Tower and Bayside Skyride present spectacular views of Mission Bay. In the meantime, curler coasters like Manta and Shipwreck Rapids thrill adventurous parkgoers.

Learn my suggestions for visiting SeaWorld San Diego with youngsters and purchase your SeaWorld San Diego Skip-the-Line Tickets!

Scripps Birch Aquarium in San Diego with kids
Scripps Birch Aquarium (Photograph credit score: Wayne Martin Belger, courtesy of Birch Aquarium)

9. Birch Aquarium at Scripps

This aquarium in La Jolla gives a worthwhile various to SeaWorld San Diego. It’s a fantastic place for households on a decent finances or with restricted time. The main target at Birch Aquarium is on ocean training, animal care, and conservation.

I particularly advocate this San Diego attraction for households with infants and toddlers. Little youngsters like to get an up-close view of tanks full of fish. Search for glowing moon jellies, lovely lionfish, silvery sardines, sharks, and different sea creatures.

Older kids additionally take pleasure in viewing marine life and exploring hands-on reveals. They will even pet sandpapery sea stars and slimy sea cucumbers in fake tide swimming pools within the outside Tide Pool Plaza. Learn all my suggestions for exploring Birch Aquarium with youngsters.

A living sculpture in the Seeds of Wonder Children's Garden
A bunny-shaped plant sculpture within the Seeds of Marvel Kids’s Backyard at San Diego Botanic Backyard (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

10. San Diego Botanic Backyard

The 37-acre San Diego Botanic Backyard comprises greater than two dozen themed gardens alongside 4 miles of trails. That is one among my favourite issues to do in San Diego with youngsters and a must-see each time my household returns to our former hometown.

Seeds of Marvel Kids’s Backyard

The Seeds of Marvel Kids’s Backyard is geared towards younger youngsters (kindergarten and youthful). Kids would possibly take pleasure in making bubbles with tubs of soapy water and wands. Then, dig up buried plastic dinosaurs. A baby-sized playhouse is successful for faux play. Better of all is the mannequin railroad observe with trains that chug by way of the backyard.

Hamilton Kids’s Backyard

In the meantime, Hamilton Kids’s Backyard appeals to larger youngsters. Households can begin by enjoying a large sport of tic-tac-toe. Subsequent, wander by way of a labyrinth fabricated from feathery vegetation. Kids can even be taught to learn a sundial and climb the centerpiece treehouse. Throughout sizzling summer time months, youngsters play with toy boats and funky off their tootsies in a miniature stream.

Study extra about these and different gardens in my full San Diego Botanic Backyard assessment.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in San Diego County
Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve (Photograph credit score: Feverpitch, Depositphotos.com)

11. Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve

The reserve is residence to the uncommon twisty Torrey pine in addition to prickly pear cactuses, wildflowers, and different native vegetation. Select from eight climbing trails at Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve. After your hike, cool off within the ocean on the Torrey Pines State Seaside under the seashore cliffs.

My most well-liked path is the Seaside Path, which descends over three-quarters of a mile from the ocean cliff to the seashore and gives sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean alongside the best way. Alternatively, the two.5-mile loop Man Fleming Path is a straightforward path for households with younger kids. Everybody, together with these in wheelchairs or strollers, can benefit from the .5-mile Discovery Path close to the Torrey Pines Lodge, which options data markers about native vegetation.

Old Town San Diego
Outdated City San Diego (Photograph courtesy of SanDiego.org)

12. Outdated City San Diego

Step again in time on this historic space of San Diego. Staking declare because the birthplace of contemporary California, Outdated City is the place the primary Spanish settlers arrived in 1769 and constructed the primary of 21 missions within the state. Right this moment, vacationers and locals wander by way of 15 historic buildings in Outdated City San Diego. Store a wide range of shops peddling souvenirs, do-it-yourself soaps, candies, and extra.

The actual motive my household loves Outdated City? The meals! With over 25 eateries inside a 1-mile radius, you might be positive to search out one thing to please each member of the family’s style buds. The specialty right here, although, is Mexican delicacies. Menus burst with conventional dishes like tamales, enchiladas, and chiles rellenos. Examine my household’s Outdated City favourite and extra on this round-up of the finest San Diego household eating places.

The New Children's Museum in San Diego
The New Kids’s Museum (Photograph courtesy of The New Kids’s Museum)

13. The New Kids’s Museum

With a lot to do in San Diego with youngsters, it might be straightforward to overlook this good spot for kids within the coronary heart of the Downtown Gaslamp Quarter. That’s a disgrace as a result of its the proper place for folks to relaxation a bit whereas the youngsters play.

This museum was designed to encourage kids to assume, play, and create utilizing hands-on exhibitions and inventive actions. Some areas of The New Kids’s Museum are age-specific, like Sketch Aquarium for ages 2+ and Reconnecting to Residence for ages 6+. Different areas have interaction kids throughout age teams.

Cabrillo National Monument
Cabrillo Nationwide Monument (Photograph credit score: bonandbon, Depositphotos.com)

14. Cabrillo Nationwide Monument

Convey the youngsters to Cabrillo Nationwide Monument for a San Diego historical past lesson. Then hike alongside the Bayside Path to absorb beautiful panoramic views of the ocean and metropolis under. It’s possible you’ll even see migrating whales in January and February!

This nationwide monument is called for Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. In 1542, he was the chief of the primary European expedition of what’s now the West Coast of the US.

Old Point Loma Lighthouse
Outdated Level Loma Lighthouse (Photograph credit score: sepavone, Depositphotos.com)

15. Outdated Level Loma Lighthouse

The spotlight of a go to to Cabrillo Nationwide Monument is Outdated Level Loma Lighthouse. From 1855 to 1891, it lit the best way for sailors getting into San Diego Bay. Right this moment, guests get a glimpse of life within the 1800s by way of interval furnishings and lighthouse instruments on show.

The Joker Soaker at  Legoland Water Park
The Joker Soaker at Legoland Water Park (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

16. LEGOLAND Water Park

A should for water lovers, LEGOLAND Water Park is likely one of the prime issues to do in San Diego with youngsters. This aquatic middle affords thrilling full-sized water slides and a lazy river for giant youngsters, teenagers, and grown-ups. For younger youngsters, there are water playgrounds with mellow waterslides and animal-shaped fountains. Dive into all of the splashy enjoyable with my LEGOLAND Water Park suggestions.

Whale watching in Southern California
Whale watching in Southern California (Photograph credit score: ronniechua, Depositphotos.com)

17. Whale Watching in San Diego

San Diego is likely one of the finest locations to go whale watching all yr lengthy. Grey whales migrate from Mexico to Alaska and again from mid-December to mid-March. Off the Pacific Coast in the summertime, you would possibly even spot the world’s largest animals, blue whales. You’ll seemingly spot dolphins throughout your San Diego whale-watching journey, too. E book your San Diego whale-watching tour now with our accomplice, GetYourGuide!

My daughter and I typically undergo from seasickness, however we each fared properly on our San Diego whale watching tour. For households that suffer from movement illness, pack some Dramamine simply in case.

Sesame Place San Diego
Sesame Place San Diego (Photograph credit score: Sesame Place)

18. Sesame Place San Diego

Sesame Place opened within the southern suburb of Chula Vista in 2022. This theme park was designed particularly for kids aged 3 to 10. Count on dwell exhibits, parades, kiddie rides, and water slides. Kids additionally love photograph ops with beloved characters like Elmo, Abby Cadabby, and Cookie Monster.

Sesame Place Rides

  • Abby’s Fairy Flight (swing trip)
  • Cookie Climb (tower drop trip)
  • Elmo’s Rockin’ Rockets (round trip)
  • Rub-A-Dub Sub (vertical circle trip)
  • Sesame Avenue Soar & Spin (gives park views)
  • Sunny Day Carousel
  • Tremendous Grover’s Field Automobile Derby (kiddie curler coaster)

Sesame Place Water Park Rides

For a splashing good time, younger youngsters will take pleasure in amusements like Elmo’s Foolish Sand Slides and The Rely’s Splash Citadel. Greater youngsters can be excited to search out thrilling water slides, too. For instance, Cookie’s Monster Mixer is a 4-story raft trip that sends households on a swirling, swishing journey.

Sunset Cliffs in San Diego
Sundown Cliffs in San Diego (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

19. Sundown Cliffs Pure Park

I’ve been visiting San Diego often since I used to be a child and lived right here for 15 years, however till final yr, I had by no means visited Sundown Cliffs Pure Park. What a disgrace!

Locals and some in-the-know vacationers flock to this free nature park at dawn and sundown to absorb what many contemplate to be the best possible views in San Diego, myself included. The 68-acre Sundown Cliffs stretch alongside the western ridge of Level Loma. Get pleasure from climbing trails and quite a few lookout factors to absorb the fantastic thing about the Pacific Ocean. For security’s sake, maintain a detailed maintain of kids and canine.

Old Town Trolley Tour
Outdated City Trolley Tour (Photograph credit score: Outdated City Trolley Tour)

20. Outdated City Trolley Tour

Discover 11 San Diego stops on Outdated City California: Hop-On Hop-Off Narrated Trolley Tour. E book a 1- or 2-day journey aboard this cheery orange car. It’s a enjoyable method to discover town at your personal tempo with out worrying about driving in California site visitors or discovering parking.

Outdated City Trolley Tour Stops

  • Outdated City Market
  • Maritime Museum / Star of India
  • Embarcadero Marina
  • Seaport Village
  • Marriott Marquis And Marina
  • Gaslamp Quarter
  • East Conference Heart – Petco Park and Hilton Bayfront
  • Barrio Logan
  • Coronado / Orange Avenue
  • Balboa Park / Zoo
  • Little Italy
Seaport Village
Seaport Village (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

21. Seaport Village

Wander by way of quirky boutiques and memento outlets on the waterfront Seaport Village buying and leisure complicated. It’s located beside San Diego Bay close to downtown San Diego. This is likely one of the finest locations to absorb bay views over a restaurant meal. Youngsters will particularly benefit from the Historic Carousel, sweets outlets, and darling Gepetto’s Toys Retailer.

Parents and kids in Carlsbad, California
My household on the Carlsbad Flower Fields

22. Carlsbad Flower Fields

Each spring, San Diegans and vacationers alike flock to the Flower Fields at Carlsbad to scent the ranunculus and pose for wonderful photograph alternatives amongst hundreds of blooms. Experience a tractor-pulled wagon by way of greater than 50 acres of rainbow-colored rows of flowers. Then, tiptoe by way of a maze fabricated from candy peas.

At Santa’s Playground, kids climb and slide amongst restored playhouses and gigantic mushrooms. These have been as soon as a part of the favored Santa’s Village amusement space. It was situated in Lake Arrowhead from 1955 to 1998 earlier than being relocated to the flower fields.

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad are usually open from March by way of Mom’s Day every year. Learn my recommendation for visiting the Carlsbad Flower Fields with youngsters.

Petco Park
Petco Park (Photograph credit score: SherryVSmith, Depositphotos.com)

23. Petco Park

One of many coolest locations within the nation to observe a baseball sport is Petco Park. That’s as a result of it’s constructed proper into the historic Western Metallic Provide Firm Constructing within the Gaslamp Quarter. Absorb views of downtown whereas cheering on the house crew, the San Diego Padres. Plus, there are many locations to discover and eat proper earlier than or after the sport.

Petco Park can also be the one main league baseball stadium with a lodge instantly related to it. My husband and I stayed right here one weekend, and it was such a thrill to stroll proper throughout the skyway from the lodge to the stadium! Search for particular baseball packages on the Omni Lodge San Diego.

Hotel del Coronado
Lodge del Coronado (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

24. Lodge del Coronado

Along with being a superb place to spend the night time, the Lodge Del Coronado is a vacationer attraction in its personal proper. Many individuals come to this well-known resort only for the day.

The lodge is situated on Coronado Island throughout from downtown San Diego. The “island” is definitely a peninsula, but it surely’s obtained an island vibe and feels worlds away from town. Coronado Island Seaside is public, so anybody can splash and play right here. Or you may pony up large bucks for seashore loungers, an umbrella, beachside service, and hosted video games.

The Lodge Del Coronado is famend for its extravagant weekend brunch, fancy-schmancy outlets, and immaculate stretch of seashore. Including to the glamorous vibe, many films have been filmed right here, most notably Some Like It Scorching, starring Marilyn Monroe. It made our record of the finest seashore resorts on this planet.

The Del (because it’s identified to locals) is worthy of a go to year-round. Throughout winter holidays, day guests and lodge visitors alike can take a spin on the oceanside outside ice skating rink. In summer time, there’s a curler rink as a substitute.

Coronado Ferry Landing in San Diego
Coronado Ferry Touchdown (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

25. Coronado Ferry Touchdown

On the opposite aspect of Coronado Island is the Coronado Ferry Touchdown, an exquisite place to play whereas taking in unbelievable San Diego skyline views. To cross the San Diego Bay, drive alongside the two.1-mile Coronado Bridge or board the Coronado Ferry on the Conference Heart or Broadway Pier in San Diego for a memorable method to attain the island.

The Touchdown is residence to a handful of retailers in addition to many sit-down eating places and informal eateries. On weekends, you’re more likely to hear dwell music enjoying as you wander. From right here, you too can hire bicycles, surreys, kayaks, and jet skis. There’s additionally a small seashore that’s standard with native households for its mellow waves, good for younger youngsters.

Little Italy San Diego
Little Italy San Diego (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

26. Little Italy

San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood close to the Gaslamp Quarter packs a tasty punch. This can be a tremendous enjoyable place to walk by way of artwork galleries and darling outlets, however the primary draw is the scrumptious Italian delicacies. From gelaterias and pasta outlets to high-end delicacies, you received’t go hungry in Little Italy.

Probably the most enjoyable for households is Filippi’s Pizza Grotto. A wee grocery full of delightfully pungent cheeses, hanging salamis, and different Italian goodies will entertain hungry clients ready for a desk. And the pizza? Fugheddaboudit!

Reuben H. Fleet Science Center
Fleet Science Heart (Photograph credit score: Lance Cpl. Lisa M. Tourtelot, Public area, by way of Wikimedia Commons)

27. Fleet Science Heart

Situated at Balboa Park, Fleet Science Heart (previously Reuben H. Fleet Science Heart) is full of interactive reveals. Youngsters of all ages could have a lot enjoyable turning knobs and urgent buttons, they received’t understand they’re studying about science. My kids cherished this museum a lot once they have been little, I had a tough time tearing them away when it was time to go!

The Star of India at the Maritime Museum
The Star of India on the Maritime Museum (Photograph credit score: neilld, Depositphotos.com)

28. Maritime Museum of San Diego

The entire household will take pleasure in touring distinctive crusing vessels on the floating Maritime Museum. Steam-powered boats, crusing ships, and submarines make up the museum’s fleet of 9 boats.

 

The expertise consists of the Star of India, the world’s oldest lively crusing yacht. Youngsters get a kick out of pretending they’re pirates on the excessive seas on this spectacular outdated ship.

USS Midway Museum
USS Halfway Museum (Photograph credit score: dcwcreations, Depositphotos.com)

29. USS Halfway Museum

Not removed from the Maritime Museum, seafarers and navy buffs will admire the usMidway Museum at Naval Pier. Climb aboard to discover this retired naval plane service. Reserve your USS Halfway Museum Skip-the-Line Tickets now!

SEA LIFE Aquarium
SEA LIFE Aquarium (Photograph credit score: SEA LIFE Aquarium)

30. Sea Life Carlsbad Aquarium

Guests get a glimpse of what it’s wish to dwell below the ocean at Sea Life Carlsbad Aquarium from encapsulated pop-up plastic bubbles in fish-filled tanks. Buy separate tickets or select park hoppers to discover this aquarium situated at LEGOLAND California. Study extra about each the theme park and the aquarium with my firsthand LEGOLAND California suggestions.

Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden in San Diego Balboa Park
Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Backyard (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

31. Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Backyard

Though there are 19 gardens at Balboa Park, I feel one particularly deserves a shout-out. The Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Backyard bursts with colourful blooms, particularly in springtime. With a central fountain and aromatic flowers, it is a favourite, particularly for younger kids. There is no such thing as a entrance charge for this or the Desert Backyard proper subsequent door.

Balboa Park Carousel
Balboa Park Carousel (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

The Balboa Park Carousel was inbuilt 1910. It options three chariots, 27 hand-carved horses, and 25 different animals, together with giraffes, pigs, and a dragon. I’ve obtained a comfortable spot for this merry-go-round because it was the primary amusement park trip my son ever rode. The carousel is often open on weekends and college holidays.

This is likely one of the few carousels on this planet that also affords the brass ring sport. Large youngsters and adults who need to play ought to select an outdoor horse. Then, attain out to understand the small rings on every spin. Iron rings don’t depend. Solely the rider who nabs the brass ring wins a free trip!

Balboa Park Railroad
Balboa Park Railroad (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

33. Balboa Park Railroad

Climb aboard a miniature practice situated simply outdoors the San Diego Zoo’s entrance. It takes three minutes to chug by way of Balboa Park’s grassy panorama and an extended tunnel. Hold your eyes peeled for humorous Burma Shave indicators planted alongside the observe. The practice usually runs every single day throughout summer time and spring break however solely on weekends low season.

If sharing a practice trip with a gaggle of school-aged kids, beware that field-tripping youngsters scream in unison by way of the tunnel. It’s finest to attend for the subsequent practice.

San Diego Model Railroad Museum
San Diego Mannequin Railroad Museum (Photograph credit score: San Diego Mannequin Railroad Museum Fb web page)

34. San Diego Mannequin Railroad Museum

Acquired a child who loves trains? Then the San Diego Mannequin Railroad Museum is for your loved ones! It homes one of many largest indoor mannequin practice shows on this planet. This attraction is a big hit with the preschooler set. Discover this museum celebrating all issues choo-choo at Balboa Park.

San Diego Natural History Museum
San Diego Pure Historical past Museum (Photograph credit score: SherryVSmith, Depositphotos.com)

35. San Diego Pure Historical past Museum

The whole household will take pleasure in studying about dinosaurs, ocean creatures, geodes, and extra on the San Diego Pure Historical past Museum in Balboa Park. Youngsters can be enthralled by the massive Bea Everson fountain out entrance, too.

Unconditional Surrender Statue in San Diego
Unconditional Give up Statue (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

36. Unconditional Give up

In entrance of the usMidway within the waterfront park, Tuna Harbor, you’ll discover the enduring Unconditional Give up statue. This 25-foot-tall sculpture celebrates the victory of the Allied Forces after World Battle II. You may be shocked by simply how large this statue is in individual — I do know I used to be!

It’s primarily based on the well-known photograph of a sailor and a nurse embracing in a kiss after the information of Japan’s give up in 1945. There may be some controversy about this statue as a result of the pair weren’t a pair. Somewhat, the girl was grabbed by a stranger who kissed her.

Grilled corn at San Diego County Fair
Grilled corn at San Diego County Truthful (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

37. San Diego County Truthful

If visiting San Diego with youngsters in the summertime, hit up the San Diego County Truthful in Del Mar. It usually runs from early June by way of early July every year. Save time and money by shopping for your tickets upfront on-line.

Count on theme park rides, carnival video games with prizes, livestock shows, uncommon retail choices, and dwell leisure. Meals, backyard, and artwork contests are additionally enjoyable to peruse.

Truthful meals is one other main draw. Get the grilled corn on the cob and slather it with cotija cheese and chili powder for a Mexican road corn snack. Deep-fried treats and frybread tacos are all the time successful, too. Mother and father could need to swing by the beer backyard for an grownup beverage to scrub all of it down.

Whaley House in Old Town San Diego
Whaley Home in Outdated City San Diego (Photograph credit score: iriana88w, Depositphotos.com)

38. Whaley Home

Whereas exploring Outdated City San Diego, older youngsters would possibly take pleasure in a tour of Whaley Home. This supposedly haunted constructing was featured on the Journey Channel’s America’s Most Haunted. 

It’s also San Diego’s first home fabricated from bricks. Over time, the constructing has been used as a courthouse, theatre, billiard corridor, and college.

San Diego Air and Space Museum
San Diego Air and House Museum (Photograph credit score: San Diego Air and House Museum)

39. San Diego Air and House Museum

The San Diego Air and House Museum is standard with would-be pilots and astronauts. Expertise aerospace historical past with a re-creation of the Wright Brothers’ 1901 glider. Additionally, view fighter planes from World Battle I, World Battle II, the Golden Age of Flight, and method past.

“Be the Astronaut” provides youngsters and adults alike a style of house journey. This hands-on exhibit teaches concerning the pleasure and challenges of exploring our photo voltaic system.

San Diego SEAL Tour
San Diego SEAL Tour (Photograph credit score: San Diego SEAL Tour )

40. San Diego SEAL Tour

Benefit from the sights of San Diego throughout a enjoyable 1.5-hour San Diego SEAL Tour. It takes place on each land and sea.

The narrated tour begins at Seaport Village and continues alongside San Diego streets. You’ll be taught concerning the historical past of town alongside the best way. Then your amphibious car will carry your loved ones into the harbor for a floating tour of the bay.

Kids playing at Scripps Parkway in La Jolla Cove, San Diego
Youngsters enjoying at Scripps Parkway in La Jolla Cove (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

Save Cash on Your San Diego Household Trip

Need to get monetary savings on enjoyable issues to do in San Diego with youngsters? After all, you do!

Get Away Right this moment

Use low cost code TravelMamas to get $10 off any two-night or longer Southern California bundle (lodge and two-ticket minimal) while you ebook by way of our accomplice, Get Away Right this moment. Additionally, discover San Diego offers, together with attraction ticket reductions!

Youngsters Free San Diego Month

These contemplating a fall go to are in luck! October is Youngsters Free San Diego Month, with over 100 offers only for youngsters. It’s an effective way to avoid wasting a bunch and offers households a superb motive to go to San Diego low season. Have a look at which points of interest, resorts, and eating places are providing freebies to households.

Go San Diego Card

It’s properly value investing in a Go San Diego Card. You’ll save as much as 55% on enjoyable issues to do in San Diego, just like the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld San Diego, the New Kids’s Museum, and rather more!

Groupon

It makes good sense to verify Groupon for reductions on actions and eating places in your vacation spot, and San Diego isn’t any exception. View Groupon San Diego offers now.

Expedia Kids in the City San Diego video

Study Extra About California with Youngsters

Try my San Diego points of interest with youngsters video above that I made as a part of Expedia’s Youngsters within the Metropolis marketing campaign. This undertaking highlights 12 of America’s hottest locations, with suggestions from some prime household journey bloggers.

On the lookout for good meals in San Diego? Learn my picks for the finest San Diego eating places for households.

A superb San Diego trip requires fabulous lodging. Check out my picks for finest resorts for youths in San Diego. (I’ve personally stayed at each lodge!)

 

Discover extra of the Golden State with these California holidays for households.

40 Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

Hold These San Diego Household Sights

For future reference, save this record of issues to do in San Diego with youngsters. One of the best ways is to pin the picture above or under to Pinterest. I hope you’ll observe Journey Mamas on Pinterest whilst you’re at it!

Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

What do you assume are the very best San Diego points of interest for youths? Tell us your suggestions and questions within the feedback under!

This web site was compensated by Expedia for taking part within the Youngsters within the Metropolis undertaking when this story launched in 2012. This text is up to date often to mirror San Diego’s present choices for households. 

 

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