Wednesday, April 23, 2025

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


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

San Diego Bay and San Diego Skyline (Picture credit score: Colleen Lanin)

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

Children on the beach in San DiegoChildren on the beach in San Diego
My daughter and mates on the seaside in San Diego, California (Picture credit score: Colleen Lanin)

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1. The Seashore

When contemplating one of the best San Diego sights for youths, the seaside all the time tops the listing. This standard California trip vacation spot is famend for its lengthy sandy seashores and surfable waves. In truth, San Diego boasts greater than 70 miles of shoreline. It doesn’t matter what time of 12 months you go to, magnificence and enjoyable abound at San Diego seashores.

In summer time, children can construct sandcastles and splash within the waves. Lively households will get pleasure from 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 loosen up and unfold out a seaside blanket or go for a stroll alongside the shore. These visiting San Diego in winter are sometimes stunned to seek out the seashores too chilly for swimming. However wetsuits can be found from surf retailers for die-hard ocean lovers. Low season is a superb time to discover San Diego tide swimming pools, looking for hermit crabs, sea stars, mussels, and different sea life at low tide.

San Diego beach at sunsetSan Diego beach at sunset
Pacific Seashore at sundown (Picture credit score: Colleen Lanin)

Finest Seashores in San Diego for Households

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

2. Balboa Park

The placement of the first-ever World’s Truthful, Balboa Park is unquestionably the most effective issues to do in San Diego with children. Get pleasure from free admission to this spacious park, which you is likely to be stunned to be taught is twice as large as New York Metropolis’s Central Park. Some sights and actions require a charge.

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

Prime Issues to Do at Balboa Park

  • Take heed to reside 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 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 paintings and take artwork lessons on the Spanish Village Artwork Middle.
  • Journey the Balboa Park Miniature Prepare.
  • Get pleasure from quite a few picnic areas and playgrounds.
  • Watch reside theater performances at The Previous Globe Theatre.
  • Discover 17 museums showcasing artwork, science, historical past, and extra.
Timken Museum at Balboa ParkTimken Museum at Balboa Park
Timken Museum of Artwork at Balboa Park (Picture credit score: Colleen Lanin)

Free Balboa Park Museums (Donation Steered)

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

3. San Diego Zoo

In fact, you’ll be able to’t go to San Diego with children and never go to its famend zoo. Extensively considered the most effective zoological facilities on the earth, 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 properties right here. Take a peek at lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!). However there are additionally koalas, Komodo dragons, pygmy hippos, and plenty of different uncommon animals certain 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 KidsHome 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 among the most well-known and beloved zoos on the earth (Picture credit score: Go to San Diego)

The San Diego Zoo is among the solely zoological facilities within the U.S. that homes large pandas. In an settlement with China, pandas had been welcomed again in the summertime of 2024 after the earlier Oreo-colored residents returned residence in 2019. Guests also can see purple pandas on the San Diego Zoo.

Children will get pleasure from visiting the Kids’s Zoo. They’ll play on the Fisher-Value Discovery Playground and work together with goats, sheep, and different mellow creatures within the petting zoo.

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

Safari Caravan at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Safari Caravan at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Caravan Safari on the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (Picture courtesy of San Diego Zoo International)

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 numerous floor to cowl, particularly when visiting with kids or aged adults.

The African Tram is the park’s king attraction. It transports guests by a wide-open panorama much like that of the African Savannah. Riders spy on such creatures as rhinos, giraffes, and Cape buffaloes. Pay an extra charge to rise 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 scorching days, convey swim gear for youngsters to chill off within the animal-shaped fountains on the Savannah Cool Zone. (A children’ favourite a part of the park!)

You may even zip-line on the San Diego Zoo Safari Park over the heads of untamed animals. Or, for a very 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 parkLegoland California theme park
LEGOLAND California theme park (Picture credit score: Legoland California)

5. LEGOLAND California

Whereas many amusement parks current passive leisure, mother and father will probably be happy to find interactive sights at LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad. On the Volvo Driving College, kids drive pint-sized automobiles round streets dotted with cease indicators and dealing stoplights. Children also can 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 hearth truck or police automobile, then energy the automobile by pumping levers up and down as they race different groups to place out a “hearth” and cease make-believe robbers. This all the time leaves my household huffing, puffing, and laughing!

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

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

6. Belmont Park

Children of all ages adore Belmont Park on the Mission Seashore Boardwalk. Go to this waterfront theme park for carnival video games with prizes, ice cream treats, funnel truffles, 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 Journey & Play Cross.

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

The Children's Pool in La JollaThe Children's Pool in La Jolla
The Kids’s Pool in La Jolla (Picture 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 seaside close to Kids’s Pool Seashore. At Scripps Parkway, get pleasure from a picnic lunch on an expansive grassy space overlooking the ocean.

This jewel of San Diego can also be well-known for its designer retailers, 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 might be slippery!)

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

8. SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego is finest recognized for exhibits starring ocean animals like dolphins and sea lions. Aquariums crammed with 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 children. Sesame Avenue Bay of Play offers 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 ideas for visiting SeaWorld San Diego with children and purchase your SeaWorld San Diego Skip-the-Line Tickets!

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

9. Birch Aquarium at Scripps

This aquarium in La Jolla offers a worthwhile different to SeaWorld San Diego. It’s an important place for households on a good price range or with restricted time. The main target at Birch Aquarium is on ocean schooling, animal care, and conservation.

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

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

A living sculpture in the Seeds of Wonder Children's GardenA 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 (Picture credit score: Colleen Lanin)

10. San Diego Botanic Backyard

The 37-acre San Diego Botanic Backyard accommodates greater than two dozen themed gardens alongside 4 miles of trails. That is one among my favourite issues to do in San Diego with children 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 children (kindergarten and youthful). Kids would possibly get pleasure from 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 the backyard.

Hamilton Kids’s Backyard

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

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

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in San Diego CountyTorrey Pines State Natural Reserve in San Diego County
Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve (Picture 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 crops. Select from eight mountain climbing trails at Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve. After your hike, cool off within the ocean on the Torrey Pines State Seashore under the seaside cliffs.

My most well-liked path is the Seashore Path, which descends over three-quarters of a mile from the ocean cliff to the seaside and offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean alongside the way in which. Alternatively, the two.5-mile loop Man Fleming Path is a simple 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 info markers about native crops.

Old Town San Diego Old Town San Diego
Previous City San Diego (Picture courtesy of SanDiego.org)

12. Previous City San Diego

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

The true motive my household loves Previous City? The meals! With over 25 eateries inside a 1-mile radius, you might be certain to seek 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 Previous City favourite and extra on this round-up of the finest San Diego household eating places.

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

13. The New Kids’s Museum

With a lot to do in San Diego with children, it could be simple to overlook this good spot for youngsters within the coronary heart of the Downtown Gaslamp Quarter. That’s a disgrace as a result of its the right place for fogeys 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 creative 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 MonumentCabrillo National Monument
Cabrillo Nationwide Monument (Picture 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 attractive panoramic views of the ocean and metropolis under. Chances are 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 LighthouseOld Point Loma Lighthouse
Previous Level Loma Lighthouse (Picture credit score: sepavone, Depositphotos.com)

15. Previous Level Loma Lighthouse

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

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

16. LEGOLAND Water Park

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

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

17. Whale Watching in San Diego

San Diego is among the finest locations to go whale watching all 12 months 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 doubtless spot dolphins throughout your San Diego whale-watching journey, too. E book your San Diego whale-watching tour now with our associate, GetYourGuide!

My daughter and I generally endure 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
Sesame Place San Diego (Picture 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 youngsters aged 3 to 10. Anticipate reside 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 (offers park views)
  • Sunny Day Carousel
  • Tremendous Grover’s Field Automotive Derby (kiddie curler coaster)

Sesame Place Water Park Rides

For a splashing good time, younger children will get pleasure from amusements like Elmo’s Foolish Sand Slides and The Rely’s Splash Fort. Larger children will probably be excited to seek 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 DiegoSunset Cliffs in San Diego
Sundown Cliffs in San Diego (Picture credit score: Colleen Lanin)

19. Sundown Cliffs Pure Park

I’ve been visiting San Diego recurrently since I used to be a child and lived right here for 15 years, however till final 12 months, 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 take into account to be the very best views in San Diego, myself included. The 68-acre Sundown Cliffs stretch alongside the western ridge of Level Loma. Get pleasure from mountain climbing trails and quite a few lookout factors to absorb the fantastic thing about the Pacific Ocean. For security’s sake, preserve an in depth maintain of kids and canine.

Old Town Trolley Tour Old Town Trolley Tour
Previous City Trolley Tour (Picture credit score: Previous City Trolley Tour)

20. Previous City Trolley Tour

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

Previous City Trolley Tour Stops

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

21. Seaport Village

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

Parents and kids in Carlsbad, CaliforniaParents 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 superb photograph alternatives amongst 1000’s of blooms. Journey a tractor-pulled wagon by greater than 50 acres of rainbow-colored rows of flowers. Then, tiptoe by a maze fabricated from candy peas.

At Santa’s Playground, kids climb and slide amongst restored playhouses and gigantic mushrooms. These had 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 Mom’s Day annually. Learn my recommendation for visiting the Carlsbad Flower Fields with children.

Petco ParkPetco Park
Petco Park (Picture 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 Steel Provide Firm Constructing within the Gaslamp Quarter. Soak up 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 resort instantly linked 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 resort to the stadium! Search for particular baseball packages on the Omni Resort San Diego.

Hotel del Coronado Hotel del Coronado
Resort del Coronado (Picture credit score: Colleen Lanin)

24. Resort del Coronado

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

The resort is situated on Coronado Island throughout from downtown San Diego. The “island” is definitely a peninsula, nevertheless it’s received an island vibe and feels worlds away from the town. Coronado Island Seashore is public, so anybody can splash and play right here. Or you’ll be able to pony up large bucks for seaside loungers, an umbrella, beachside service, and hosted video games.

The Resort Del Coronado is famend for its extravagant weekend brunch, fancy-schmancy retailers, and immaculate stretch of seaside. Including to the glamorous vibe, many films have been filmed right here, most notably Some Like It Sizzling, starring Marilyn Monroe. It made our listing of the finest seaside inns on the earth.

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

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

25. Coronado Ferry Touchdown

On the opposite facet of Coronado Island is the Coronado Ferry Touchdown, an exquisite place to play whereas taking in unimaginable 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 Middle or Broadway Pier in San Diego for a memorable approach 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 reside music taking part in as you wander. From right here, you too can hire bicycles, surreys, kayaks, and jet skis. There’s additionally a small seaside that’s standard with native households for its mellow waves, excellent for younger children.

Little Italy San Diego Little Italy San Diego
Little Italy San Diego (Picture 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 artwork galleries and darling retailers, however the principle draw is the scrumptious Italian delicacies. From gelaterias and pasta retailers to high-end delicacies, you gained’t go hungry in Little Italy.

Essentially the most enjoyable for households is Filippi’s Pizza Grotto. A wee grocery crammed with 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 CenterReuben H. Fleet Science Center
Fleet Science Middle (Picture credit score: Lance Cpl. Lisa M. Tourtelot, Public area, through Wikimedia Commons)

27. Fleet Science Middle

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

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

28. Maritime Museum of San Diego

The entire household will get pleasure from 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. Children get a kick out of pretending they’re pirates on the excessive seas on this spectacular outdated ship.

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

29. USS Halfway Museum

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

SEA LIFE AquariumSEA LIFE Aquarium
SEA LIFE Aquarium (Picture credit score: SEA LIFE Aquarium)

30. Sea Life Carlsbad Aquarium

Guests get a glimpse of what it’s wish to reside beneath 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. Be taught extra about each the theme park and the aquarium with my firsthand LEGOLAND California ideas.

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

31. Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Backyard

Though there are 19 gardens at Balboa Park, I feel one specifically 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 CarouselBalboa Park Carousel
Balboa Park Carousel (Picture 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 received a tender spot for this merry-go-round because it was the primary amusement park trip my son ever rode. The carousel is usually open on weekends and faculty holidays.

This is among the few carousels on the earth that also presents the brass ring sport. Massive children and adults who wish to play ought to select an out of doors horse. Then, attain out to know the small rings on every spin. Iron rings don’t rely. Solely the rider who nabs the brass ring wins a free trip!

Balboa Park RailroadBalboa Park Railroad
Balboa Park Railroad (Picture credit score: Colleen Lanin)

33. Balboa Park Railroad

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

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

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

34. San Diego Mannequin Railroad Museum

Obtained 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 prepare shows on the earth. This attraction is a large hit with the preschooler set. Discover this museum celebrating all issues choo-choo at Balboa Park.

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

35. San Diego Pure Historical past Museum

Your complete household will get pleasure from studying about dinosaurs, ocean creatures, geodes, and extra on the San Diego Pure Historical past Museum in Balboa Park. Children will probably be enthralled by the large Bea Everson fountain out entrance, too.

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

36. Unconditional Give up

In entrance of the united statesMidway 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 Warfare II. You is likely to be stunned 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’s some controversy about this statue as a result of the pair weren’t a pair. Relatively, the girl was grabbed by a stranger who kissed her.

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

37. San Diego County Truthful

If visiting San Diego with children in the summertime, hit up the San Diego County Truthful in Del Mar. It usually runs from early June by early July annually. Save time and money by shopping for your tickets prematurely on-line.

Anticipate theme park rides, carnival video games with prizes, livestock shows, uncommon retail choices, and reside 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 avenue corn snack. Deep-fried treats and frybread tacos are all the time successful, too. Mother and father could wish to swing by the beer backyard for an grownup beverage to scrub all of it down.

Whaley House in Old Town San DiegoWhaley House in Old Town San Diego
Whaley Home in Previous City San Diego (Picture credit score: iriana88w, Depositphotos.com)

38. Whaley Home

Whereas exploring Previous City San Diego, older children would possibly get pleasure from a tour of Whaley Home. This supposedly haunted constructing was featured on the Journey Channel’s America’s Most Haunted. 

It is usually San Diego’s first home fabricated from bricks. Through the years, the constructing has been used as a courthouse, theatre, billiard corridor, and faculty.

San Diego Air and Space MuseumSan Diego Air and Space Museum
San Diego Air and House Museum (Picture 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 Warfare I, World Warfare II, the Golden Age of Flight, and method past.

“Be the Astronaut” offers children and adults alike a style of area 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
San Diego SEAL Tour (Picture 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 the town alongside the way in which. Then your amphibious automobile 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 DiegoKids playing at Scripps Parkway in La Jolla Cove, San Diego
Children taking part in at Scripps Parkway in La Jolla Cove (Picture credit score: Colleen Lanin)

Save Cash on Your San Diego Household Trip

Wish to get monetary savings on enjoyable issues to do in San Diego with children? In fact, you do!

Get Away At present

Use low cost code TravelMamas to get $10 off any two-night or longer Southern California bundle (resort and two-ticket minimal) whenever you ebook by our associate, Get Away At present. Additionally, discover San Diego offers, together with attraction ticket reductions!

Children Free San Diego Month

These contemplating a fall go to are in luck! October is Children Free San Diego Month, with over 100 offers only for children. It’s a good way to save lots of a bunch and offers households a great motive to go to San Diego low season. Have a look at which sights, inns, 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 way more!

Groupon

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

Expedia Kids in the City San Diego videoExpedia Kids in the City San Diego video

Be taught Extra About California with Children

Try my San Diego sights with children video above that I made as a part of Expedia’s Children within the Metropolis marketing campaign. This venture highlights 12 of America’s hottest locations, with suggestions from some high 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 wonderful San Diego trip requires fabulous lodging. Check out my picks for finest inns for youths in San Diego. (I’ve personally stayed at each resort!)

 

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

40 Things to Do in San Diego with Kids40 Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

Maintain These San Diego Household Sights

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

Things to Do in San Diego with KidsThings to Do in San Diego with Kids

What do you assume are one of the best San Diego sights for youths? Tell us your ideas and questions within the feedback under!

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

 

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