Parents with kids who are into discovery and exploration should definitely take their children to a town that offers a variety of chances for them to engage in it. San Diego is not short of such options, with some allowing visitors to see and learn about different species and others offering the chance to learn more about science and technology. Some beautiful parks and museums offer both, in addition to the chance to go on rides and engage in other forms of entertainment. Popular attractions such as Balboa Park, Seaport Village, and Petco Park are found in San Diego. It also has several cute boutiques, theme parks, and sandy beaches, such as Moonlight Beach and Coronado Beach. And plenty of amazing accommodation options are available here too - from the best hotels for families to the best Vrbo vacation rentals near San Diego Zoo. With your lodging sorted, you can now have some family fun while enjoying the best of the city. Check out these best things to do in San Diego with kids.
1. Belmont Park
One of the best ways to spend a family day is to take your kids on the wildest of rides and Belmont Park will provide you with plenty of options if you have no plans for the weekend. This seaside amusement park features rides that range from roller coasters for those kids who aren’t afraid of a challenge to carousels for younger kids who just aren’t ready yet for thrill-seeking experiences. Other kids activities include zip lining through the air at the park’s high-flying center or testing your aim in a game of laser tag. When you’re all done with your activities, you can grab a bite while getting great views of San Diego’s ocean, as well as stop by the shops to take something home to remember the trip.
Belmont Park
Address: 3146 Mission Blvd, 92109 San Diego, CA
Website: Belmont Park
2. San Diego Zoo (from USD 72.0)
San Diego Zoo is hands-down one of the best San Diego attractions for kids. Discovering new animals is one of the most exciting parts of being a kid, so parents should make taking their kids to San Diego Zoo a priority if they or their kids are animal lovers. This world-famous San Diego zoo provides over 3,000 different animals for visitors to see and learn about, including lions, gorillas, rhinos, elephants, and pandas. The admission tickets include guided tours in different spots of the zoo, educating guests on different species, their habitats, and ways to keep them from going extinct. The new “Animal in Action” exhibit allows visitors to see people handle certain animals, providing a more personal and amazing experience.
San Diego Zoo
Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, 92101 San Diego, CA
Website: San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass: Any Day Ticket
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
3. USS Midway Museum
One of the most common dreams that we have as kids is to take to the skies in some shape or form, and one of the ways to keep that dream alive for your children is to take them to the USS Midway Museum. Visitors will be able to learn about the variety of aircraft used by the United States Airforce throughout the years and enjoy great views of the ocean along the way. The museum allows visitors to get a look at 29 different aircraft that have been restored over time. Self-guided audio tours are also available for exploring over 60 exhibits, making this site a great spot for family activities.
USS Midway Museum
Address: 910 N Harbor Dr, 92101 San Diego, CA
Website: USS Midway Museum
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4. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Taking your kids out for a walk while enjoying nature is a good way to help them stay active and improve their interest in the outdoors at the same time. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is perfect for such an occasion. A variety of hiking trails is available that let you get a good workout in as well as take photos of the Torrey pine trees and hills. The beautiful trails also take you guys out so that you can get a great view of the ocean and San Diego’s urban scene at the same time. The Nature Center lets you learn about the animals that occupy the area as well.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Address: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, 92037 La Jolla, CA
Website: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
5. SeaWorld San Diego
If you’re looking for kid-friendly activities in San Diego, then SeaWorld San Diego would definitely interest you. Fans of marine life who are looking for a place that is as fun as it is educational should see what SeaWorld San Diego has to offer. In addition to seeing sea lions, blue whales, dolphins, and other animals perform at different special events, parents can take their kids on roller coasters to get an extra thrill. Shipwreck Rapids is one of the most popular water rides here. A variety of tours and activities for kids are provided, including petting the dolphins and other mammals for a more personal experience. Visitors will also get to learn about how the park is working to save different species from extinction and make sure that they are taken care of.
SeaWorld San Diego
Address: Mission Bay Park, 500 Sea World Dr, 92109 San Diego, CA
Website: SeaWorld San Diego
6. San Diego Automotive Museum
Parents who are car enthusiasts and want their kids to learn more about the auto industry should take their kids to the San Diego Automotive Museum on their next free weekend. Visitors will get to look at collections of cars dating back to the 1930s, as well as motorcycles made by Harley-Davidson, the Indian Motorcycle Company, and other organizations. The entire family will also be able to learn about legends like Evel Knievel and Steve McQueen, their accomplishments, and what got them into performing the wildest of stunts. Events will also show off motorcycles and cars that were used in popular TV shows and movies.
San Diego Automotive Museum
Address: 2080 Pan American Plaza, 92101 San Diego, CA
Website: San Diego Automotive Museum
7. San Diego Bay Walk
If you and your family feel like going easy this weekend and want to avoid going on rides or doing outdoor activities in the mountains, then you should take a trip to San Diego Bay Walk for a sunny Sunday evening. Going for a walk along the bay will provide several photo ops of the ocean while you get a nice tan or you can take your kids on a boat to catch some fish. You can all enjoy a nice meal while you watch the Air Races and there are plenty of gift shops nearby so you could take something home for remembering the weekend.
8. Fleet Science Center
For parents with kids who aspire to explore different aspects of science and want to learn more, stopping by the Fleet Science Center is the best option for providing an educational experience in a fun way. IMAX films are provided to help visitors learn about how the weather works and its impact on the planet, as well as national parks and all of the species that occupy them. The center also comes with the Young Scientist and Tinkerer’s Club program that provides games and kids activities to make learning about science more fun. It is also the perfect place for schools thinking of somewhere new to take their students on field trips. With its opportunities for learning and fun, Fleet Science Center is surely one of the best kids’ activities in San Diego.
Fleet Science Center
Address: 1875 El Prado, 92101 San Diego, CA
Website: Fleet Science Center
9. Whale watching tour (from USD 55.0)
If whale watching has always been on your bucket list, then San Diego may provide the ideal opportunity for you to check it off your list. Each year, between December and April, thousands of gray whales swim past the San Diego coastline. And with the aid of an experienced crew, you can board a yacht that will take you on a whale-watching tour. Besides whales, you and your kids can also enjoy the sightings of dolphins and sea lions. The mesmerizing San Diego skyline also looks very charming from the ocean.
San Diego: Whale Watching Tour
Duration: 3.5 hour
10. San Diego One Hour Harbor Cruise and Sea Lion Adventure (from USD 40.0)
For a relaxing family trip, you can choose to go for a San Diego One Hour Harbor Cruise and Sea Lion Adventure. Aboard a beautiful vessel, you will embark on a leisurely cruise of San Deigo Bay, where you will get opportunities to enjoy city views as well as be able to see many naval ships. Kids will also enjoy seeing colonies of sea lions in their natural environment.
San Diego Harbor Cruise with Sea Lion Sighting
Duration: 1 hour
11. The New Children’s Museum
A museum dedicated to kids is the perfect way to keep your children entertained in San Diego. The New Children’s Museum offers a range of interactive exhibits that educate and enlighten kids in a fun manner. In addition to a hands-on exhibit, there are also engaging art installations, play areas for kids of different ages, workshops, visual art experiences, and more await children at this museum. A cafe and museum shop are also available here.
The New Children’s Museum
Address: 200 W Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Website: The New Children’s Museum
Price: 15.50 USD
12. Waterfront Park
For some wholesome and free, family-friendly fun in San Deigo, head over to Waterfront Park. Located in downtown San Diego, this family attraction is a great place to visit especially during the hot summer days. It offers kids a chance to splash about in a playful and interactive fountain, run around in a dedicated children’s play area with unique equipment, and more. Families can also enjoy a leisurely picnic with delicious food in one of the many picnic areas. Enjoy a day out in the open by spending some time with your kids at Waterfront Park.
Waterfront Park
Address: 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Website: Waterfront Park
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
Price: free
Take your kids on an adventure in San Diego!
Families who are looking for something new to do for a family day will be happy to know that San Diego is not short on options. Whether you’re looking for activities for teenagers or things to do with toddlers in San Diego, there is plenty to choose from. Parents and kids who are animal lovers can stop by SeaWorld and San Diego Zoo to discover new species and how to keep them from going extinct. A variety of museums is available for those looking to learn about different parts of history, such as aircraft, the auto industry, and science. Other spots allow you to acquire some bike rentals, go for a nice walk by the ocean, or take great photos of the sun setting over the water. There are also beautiful beaches that feature fun water activities for a family vacation one for the books. Consider these options the next time you feel like taking your family to San Diego.
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