41 Fun Things to Do in San Diego with Kids (Updated) – 2024
San Diego is a famous family vacation spot.
There is obviously reasoning behind it.
There are endless entertaining activities to engage in San Diego with children.
From toddlers and teenagers to adults, everyone will find thrill and adventure here
If you decide to visit this warm Californian city, we’re pleased to share our recommendations with you.
Let the investigation of ideal things to do in San Diego with kids begin.
Here’s a list of,
Best things to do in San Diego with children
1. Old town San Diego
Old Town San Diego is a journey across time.
It is known as the origin of advanced California.
It is also accurate that Spanish settlers first arrived in the late 1760s.
Why visit?
Currently, the province has over twenty missionaries, the initial of which was constructed here.
Visitors may take a walk through a dozen heritage places.
Besides that, there are various stores where visitors can purchase chocolates, handcrafted lotions, gifts, and so forth.
Heading on to kid-friendly activities.
They will like Whaley House, which has been listed on America’s Most mysterious places list.
Old Town is the original brick building in San Diego and is said to be cursed.
It was formerly also used as a courtroom, school, and theatre.
2. Cabrillo National Monument
Cabrillo National Monument is a great family activity in San Diego that also serves as a history session for children.
It was titled honoring Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who led the first European voyage to the United States West Side in the early 1540s.
Why visit?
The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is an essential attraction.
From 1855 until 1891, it served as a navigational aid for ships approaching the Bay.
The decor and gadgets now provide a glimpse into the lifestyle of the 1800s.
If that isn’t their style, invite them to the Bayside Trail for a trek and a spectacular view of the sea and the town beyond.
3. The New Children’s Museum
The New Children’s Museum is the core of the top kid-friendly activities in the city.
Why visit?
Balboa Park in Gaslamp Quarter features 17 attractions that can entertain the entire family for the entire day.
Age limits apply to events such as Sketch Aquarium and Reuniting with Family.
So double-check before departing.
However, with its seminars and creative pursuits, this museum was created to delight and enlighten children of all age groups.
“Think, Play, Create,” and besides is their motto.
It’s one of the most affordable activities to do for families nowadays, with tickets beginning at just 10 dollars.
On holidays, tickets cost a few extra bucks.
4. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
If you’re searching for family activities in the city, this is the opportunity.
Venture out on one of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve’s nine trekking routes.
Why visit?
The Beach Trail is over a mile stretch and provides a magnificent view of the Pacific Coast.
Guy Fleming is less complex and only around two-thirds of the distance.
Torrey Pines is a beautiful alternative if you are traveling with children.
The Discovery Trail is suitable for individuals of every age group and is handicap and strollers compatible.
It’s roughly a half-mile stretch and includes details about the indigenous flora.
Look for pear cacti, orchids, and other interesting flora.
5. Carlsbad Flower Feilds
This is an additional family-friendly destination in the city of Diego.
Flower Fields will captivate visitors and if one enjoys the scent of ranunculus and or the beauty of sweet peas.
Why visit?
The rainbow-colored blossom beds scattered across 50 acres of the property also offer an excellent background for pictures.
You might also simply buy a carriage and then go.
The sweet peas are located in a passageway that the visitors can navigate at their fingertips.
Alternatively, your adolescents may use stamping machines to fill out printed documents.
Then there’s Santa’s Playground, which has playrooms and giant mushrooms.
This location is generally open from March through May.
6. La Jolla Cove
This small cove is unquestionably on the wishlist of great activities in San Diego
It’s mostly a little seashore encircled by rocky hills.
Why visit?
However, the region offers a range of activities for the entire family.
Visitors will discover a plethora of aquatic life if you enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving.
You may go on a walk and see the California Harbor Seals, whereas the children can swim in the kid’s area.
La Jolla provides a plethora of options for a lovely picnic meal featuring live entertainment or a sophisticated supper.
The variety is astounding, ranging from open pastures close to the beach at Scripps Parkway to fancy stores.
7. Maritime Museum of San Diego
We assure you that this isn’t some typical dull exhibition.
This site is actually pretty enjoyable for children.
Why visit?
For instance, they can act like pirates on the open seas.
This is due to trips on various unusual sailing ships at the naval gallery.
You may tour the gallery’s collection of 9 watercraft, which includes steamships, sailboats, and submarines.
Visitors can also check out the Summer Family Overnight Adventure for some family fun or may stay the night on the Star of India, the world’s oldest operational boat.
8. Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Birch Aquarium is ideal if you’re seeking sedentary activities at a bargain while still being limited in time.
It is located in La Jolla and is especially popular with families looking for toddler entertainment in the city.
Why visit?
It isn’t costly and requires little time.
Its mission is to educate individuals of all ages concerning sustainability.
However, it is not all effort and no fun.
Children may get up close and personal with brilliant moon jellyfish, glittering sardines, predators, and lionfish, among many other aquatic creatures.
During your time there, drop by the Tide Pool Plaza and entertain your children with jellyfish and marine cucumbers.
9. San Diego Botanic Garden
This park spans over 37 acres of land and features more than 25 themed landscapes as well as four kilometers of walkways.
Let us just begin with children’s activities.
Why visit?
For kids in kindergarten & toddlers, visit the Seeds of Wonder Children’s Garden.
Blow bubbles in pools of soapy water using a straw.
They might even go digging for fake dinosaurs or engage in a playroom.
A miniature train track runs through the area as well
The Hamilton Children’s Garden caters to relatively older kids.
A gigantic play of tic-tac-toe is available for the entire clan.
Visitors might also wander through a flower maze or look at the sundial.
To cap it all off, the highlight is the delightful treehouse.
10. San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Zoo safari Park is a massive place with approximately 1800 hectares of land.
The San Diego Zoo, which covers 10 acres, is more well-known but is equally as excellent.
Why visit?
The African Tram is a popular choice for kid’s entertainment.
Visitors travel from an inclusive environment to what appears to be an African Savannah.
Visitors will be able to observe rhinoceros, giraffes, and Cape bison.
On the Caravan Safari, one can get a bit deeper with them if they spend a little more.
Then, proceed to Lorikeet Field to observe the infamous lorikeet parrots.
Remember to bring a bottle of honey for them.
If you’re doing this in the summer season, have the kids get their swimming costumes and take them to the beach.
11. Legoland California
LEGOLAND is an absolute must-see for any family vacation.
The professional gamers will entertain the adults, while the Volvo Driving School will excite the children.
Why visit?
Visitors may rent small automobiles and ride all around streets littered with stop signals and traffic lights.
Kids can undoubtedly construct and battle automobiles out of Legos.
Also, don’t fail to check out the LEGO Mindstorms machines.
Well, it’s not just about the children.
For parents, there’s also the Police & Fire Academy Rescue excursion.
Everybody could hop inside one of these vehicles and fight to extinguish a fire or prevent burglary by pumping the knobs.
12. SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld is the most famous place for those looking to see animal acts.
Dolphins, as well as sea lions, are only the tip of the iceberg.
Why visit?
The exhibits house a range of aquatic species, including a shark tank.
Walk to the Sesame Street Bay of Play if users want to experience any attractions.
Search for Manta and Shipwreck Rapids if you’re looking for some action.
The ‘Dine with Shamu’ lunch and also the Penguin Encounter trip may also be booked as an ‘Elite Experience.’
It includes thrilling excursions and enables up-close interactions with wildlife.
The property also has an oceanarium on the premises.
13. Balboa Park
Balboa is the place where the first ever World’s Fair was held.
We understand you’re thinking of Silvesterstone, but that isn’t the mood here.
Why visit?
It features seventeen galleries, five parks, a circus, and a kid’s railway.
There are also several parks for a lovely walk.
The San Diego Model Railroad Museum is now open for family outings.
It contains a number of the world’s most extensive indoor railway replicas on exhibit.
Kids will learn at the Reuben H Fleet Science Center by pressing every lever and pulling every gear.
The facilities are suitable for individuals of all ages, the only exception being the Rose Garden.
14. San Diego Zoo
On the checklist of child-friendly locations to visit, the San Diego Zoo can not be overlooked.
However, being honest, it’s a treat for you as well as your partner.
Why visit?
It is among the country’s greatest zoological sites, covering over a hundred acres.
It is a habitat for over 4000 creatures and 800 different kinds.
There are tigers, leopards, and wolves to be found.
Koalas, mythical komodo creatures, and bunnies may also be found here.
Take the SkyFari Overhead Tram to gain altitude and better view the zoo’s treetops.
There’s also the Fisher-Price Discovery Park, wherein youngsters can engage with gentle animals such as sheep or goats in a pet shelter.
15. Aquatica San Diego Water Park
Aquatica is a real treat for all kinds of surfers or visitors who love swimming.
Why visit?
It features wave pools, a lazy stream, water slide zones, and a lot more.
Visitors may also hire a gazebo and enjoy the water activities (some of which reach heights of appx. 80 feet).
If you head straight to the SeaWorld webpage, you may also be able to receive a bargain.
It’s a terrific place to visit in the summers and on selected evenings in the autumn.
Kindly bear in mind that this amusement park is now being turned into Sesame Place, so you’ll have one final opportunity to experience a number of these great attractions.
16. Belmont Park
Belmont is a Mission beachfront tourist attraction that provides free activities.
Why visit?
The excitement commences with a vintage rollercoaster ride, an arcade, a zip line, and also a laser tag.
It is also regarded to be one of the top teenager diversions.
Keep a lookout for deals on unlimited rides at Costco or Groupon.
There is also a full access combination ticket available.
If you live here or are related to those who do, you also can buy an annual membership.
Mission Beach also boasts a number of excellent eateries for foodies.
Visitors may also stroll along Pacific Beach to Belmont Park.
17. Seaport Village
This is appealing to visitors and residents owing to its coastal amusement alternatives, including fudge and kite stores.
Why visit?
Although, the wide field is an excellent location for kite flying.
There is also an on-the-go theater. The beach vista is unrivaled.
There are over 50 eateries to pick from if you need a sophisticated lunch meal or a snack.
There are also numerous stores if you wish to buy a memento or something.
Visitors can snap some beautiful photos here, in addition to a classic carnival to keep the kids occupied.
18. Fleet Science Center
This is an excellent location for youngsters to combine science and play.
And perhaps you and your partner would also want to test out a few ideas.
Why visit?
There are eight halls with around a hundred hands-on displays for adults and kids to explore.
Visitors may learn about gravitation and the way it behaves.
There are various other places where one may create objects.
Guests might also see a film at the world’s largest dome IMAX theater.
Whatever pastime you select, you will either have a good time or be a party to something significant.
That is an encounter that riches cannot purchase.
19. San Diego Natural History Museum
Directly across the Fleet Science Center is the street from the San Diego Natural History Museum.
So why not combine the two in one evening?
Why visit?
Relics and displays here tell you about geological structures and culture.
Visitors may also go on a treasure hunt.
It was established in the mid-1870s and served as the 2nd largest research organization in southern California & west Mississippi.
Bring your toddlers to the Backyard.
It’s a playground with a section for guardians to relax and keep an eye on their children while sipping coffee.
20. Living Coast Discovery center
Living Coast Discovery Center is your destination if you enjoy flora and wildlife.
This is a prominent pick for student field excursions and is situated in the Sweetwater Marsh Section of the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge in Chula Vista.
Why visit?
This is a one-of-a-kind encounter.
Visitors can feed the bat rays & interact with snakes.
If you review their schedule ahead of time, you may organize a sightseeing tour or bird excursions and recycling lessons.
Numerous additional activities for the whole group combine pleasure with work.
So do not be shocked if you come across sea creatures.
21. Colorado Central Beach
It is located just outside the Hotel del Coronado and is 1.5 miles in length.
The beachfront is extensive and prolonged, the sea is tranquil, and the sand here is white.
Why visit?
This is primarily a location where you can relax.
So, travel to Del Beach & lease a few recliners and covers.
When you feel hungry, stop by Del for a delicious meal.
It is the city’s sole white sand beach.
The northern end is dog-friendly if you’re traveling with a pet dog.
Owing to its mild tides, it’s also an excellent location for surfers.
So put on your swimsuit.
22. Kayak the Sea Caves
If you enjoy kayaking, then definitely visit this location.
You may carry your personal kayak or join a trip if you wish to lease one here.
Why visit?
The La Jolla shoreline is a fantastic spot to embark from and a suitable launching pad for exploring the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Reserve.
The sight of the orange Garibaldi fish & sea lion from the summit is unique and breathtaking.
The ocean caverns will be visible when kayaking.
Request trips that take you via Clam’s cave.
The barking of sea lions is loud here, and this is not a site you would like to visit alone.
23. Snorkel or Swim with Leopard Sharks
If you’re taking a vacation during the summer season, this is where you will discover the country’s most significant concentration of leopard sharks.
They begin to gather in June. However, the numbers actually take off in September and August.
Why visit?
The leopard sharks may be seen in knee-deep waters when you’re snorkeling.
They are a few feet in length &, contrary to tiger sharks, who do not usually attack.
It’s therefore not simply a beautiful view, but also an unforgettable experience for children.
Just don’t bother these sharks since they’re here just to mate & produce eggs.
The hot water is indeed the optimal temperature for incubation.
24. Moonlight Beach
Moonlight Beach, which serves as the state beach, is located slightly north.
It is famous among the nearby hotels because it offers several attractions for families.
Why visit?
Picnic benches, campfire rights, beach volleyball, and rental equipment are all available.
And indeed, the list continues. In reality, the beachfront was given its name by people who would picnic here at night in the late 20th century.
It also features a grassland park that children may enjoy.
There is also some surfing, which is safer due to the beach’s gradient.
There is free parking available, and it’s a pleasant stroll on a sunny day.
25. Legoland Water Park
There is no way your kids won’t absolutely love this waterpark. Usually, waterparks have next to no kids’ slides. But this one is completely filled with adrenaline excursions for guests of all ages.
Why visit?
They have uniquely designed animal-shaped fountains that are loved by children. Separate water playgrounds and mellow slides as well as multiple wave pools. They have full-sized excursions for adults. Make sure every age group has to splash fun and truckloads of memories.
26. Sesame palace San Diego
In March 2022, a completely new amusement park was launched in the city of San Diego. The Aquatica San Diego theme park has been replaced with Sesame Place San Diego, the West Coast’s first amusement park themed solely on Sesame Street.
Why visit?
Several of Aquatica’s aquatic activities were reinvented, and seven broad dry coasters and an immersive acoustic children’s play were added. The site also has an engaging Sesame Street Community with the famous 123 Stoop, live comic entertainment, a daily procession, picture ops, plus, obviously, everybody’s beloved characters.
27. Museum of Making Music
This is a beautiful San Diego museum for kids and those with an interest in songs or popular music. But before that, let us explain why you should attend when the children are small.
Why visit?
Children may not always understand which instruments they want to take up. They must occasionally select one of these for a school music course. Often, families urge their children to study instruments in order to extend their horizons.
The equipment area, where you may choose up and start playing from the many choices present. They have hundreds of instruments from around the globe, a significant attraction of the Museum of Making Music. It’s enjoyable for the entire family and allows children to experience how it feels to play an acoustic guitar, saxophone, or flute.
28. Del Mar Beaches
The Del Mar beachfront around 15th and 29th streets is pretty attractive, particularly during the warmer months. You can wander to some of Del Mar’s finest top restaurants, the L’Auberge Del Mar Hotel, and the few modest inns.
Why visit?
Torrey Pines State Beach, located near the famed state preserve, is another lovely length of Del Mar beach. The federal park system manages this. Thus, visitors must pay for parking at a kiosk.
The area nearest to Torrey Pines Road is among the most family-friendly destinations. Facilities, restrooms, and lifeguards are available here. Children enjoy playing in the tiny area where the water of the shallow ocean flows into the Pacific Ocean.
29. Mission Bay Beaches
Mission Bay is the Country’s most incredible man-made marine park, and it’s a haven for ocean sports fans and family fun. Traders located in front of the Mission Bay resorts lend sailboats, canoes, stand-up surfboards, aqua bikes, speedboats, and other watercraft.
Why visit?
Since there are no tides on bay sites, they are popular with young families. Water sports are popular here for older children. However, visitors can also hire a bicycle and pedal around the bay on the low, simple paved road.
The beach is smooth, and the sea is tranquil, albeit murky in places. Visitors can reach Mission Bay’s most excellent beachfront from a variety of locations and hotels, but Sail Bay Beach on Pacific Shore, close to Fanuel Park, is a classic.
30. Whale watching in San Diego
Most cruise ships leave from San Diego’s downtown area, Mission Bay, or Seaside.
Whale viewing is possible in San Diego for around 9 months a year. The sorts of whales seen here on these cruises vary according to the time of the year.
Why visit?
Every year, over twenty thousand gray whales migrate from Alaska to the tropical waters of Mexico for childbirth. The gray whale period runs from mid-December through March.
Early in the summer, when whales swim nearer to the coast on their route to Mexico, the chances of viewing them from shore are better. you can choose Torrey Pines or Cabrillo national monument as they are outstanding sites for the same. When they return north carrying their babies, they swim farther away from the beach.
Blue whales are one of the most significant species on the planet, and they may be seen around mid-June till September. A number of nearby businesses provide whale viewing trips, with some departing from midtown, Mission Bay, and Seaside in County.
31. San Diego Missions
Learning about United States history is a common cause for a San Diego family holiday, particularly for youngsters who reside in the region and are trying to plan for the fourth-grade History report.
Why visit?
The initial of the 21 California Missions was San Diego de Alcala. It began in Old Town San Diego, but due to poor ground, it was relocated 6 miles southeast into Marina Del Rey in the mid-1770s.
Mission San Luis Rey in Carlsbad is well worth a trip as it is the biggest of the California Missions. Both of those are accessible to the general public on a daily basis.
32. The Stuart Collection at UC San Diego
UC San Diego’s property is dotted with a variety of eye-catching art installations. The Stuart Collection includes 20 giant pieces of art installations, varying from an existing home falling off the face of an Engineering Building (Fallen Star by Doh Ho Suh) to Niki de Saint Phalle’s Sun God.
Why visit?
Grab the guide, and then use your imagination to turn touring the collection into a fun treasure hunt for youngsters to discover these buried treasures (most of them are not so hidden). Allow the artworks to function as something fascinating to look at while exploring the property with a prospective student.
33. Petco Park Baseball Game and Tour
Even when the San Diego Padres are not even in town, visitors can enjoy a behind-the-scenes experience of Petco Park. The excursions last about 80 minutes and encompass roughly 1.5 miles of walking around the pitch, on the upper deck, and elsewhere. The cutting-edge, open-air stadium offers panoramic vistas of the city center, the Gaslamp Quarter, and far beyond.
Why visit?
Whereas if a team is playing, you should get tickets to a match. Petco Park has arguably one of Major League Baseball’s top vantage points. A day match is a favorite family activity in San Diego throughout the season.
34. Snorkel or swim with Leopard Sharks
Although this may not appear to be on a checklist of the most significant activities to do when visiting San Diego with children, we residents put our children into the ocean with the leopard sharks. It’s entertaining! They do not even bite, either.
Why visit?
La Jolla Shores Beaches is host to the world’s most significant concentration of leopard sharks. They begin to appear in June, but the population peaks in September and August. They can be seen in knee-deep waters, but primarily during snorkeling (visitors are advised to swim slowly to prevent scaring them).
35. Winter Tide Pooling
You will enjoy this exquisite activity with your children unless someone in the family is hydrophobic.
Why visit?
Tide dipping season starts in November and lasts through March, while waves are at their lowest in the daytime. These tidal currents show a plethora of aquatic critters in the tide pools, featuring marine invertebrates, echinoderms, horseshoe crabs, octopus, marine mammals, seahorses, and much more.
Birch Aquarium offers tidal pool excursions near Scripps Pier at La Jolla Shores Beach during the tidal cycle.
36. Old Town Trolley Tours
The open-air tangerine and green Visitors can jump on and out of the Old Town Trolley Tours carriages at numerous stations around the city. This entertaining company may remove the necessity for a San Diego automobile rental.
Why visit?
Try out the trolley’s infographic map for details on connections, tourism attractions, and restaurants in San Diego around trolley stations, among other things. Make absolutely sure you go on the appropriate trolley ride because not all of them travel as far north as La Jolla Cove. The regular hop-on, hop-off trip traverses midtown, Long Beach, Old Town, and Coronado Channel districts.
37. Junior Golf
San Diego is the ideal location if your kid has ever desired to play golf or wants to improve their skills.
Why visit?
Browse out the fantastic junior golfing courses at Torrey Pines Golf Course, Omni La Costa, Aviara Golf Academy (opposite Park Hyatt Aviara & Four Seasons Aviara), and other locations.
When staying at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, children ages Twelve but under enjoy free tee times & club rentals while escorted by a qualified parent.
38. Bayside Summer Nights Concerts
While the San Diego Symphony schedule should be checked all year, its outdoor event music festival is one of the best holiday activities to do in San Diego with children.
Why visit?
Suppose you decide to have a picnic on the lawn with your kids (carry extra light sticks) and otherwise buy a champagne bottle at a designated table. In that case, you’ll be treated to fantastic live entertainment linked to the occasion. There is always a Harry Potter-themed performance on the program and others based on well-known movies and television series.
39. Patriot Jet Boat
If you’re looking for entertaining San Diego playdates for adolescents and teenagers, then Patriot Jet Boat is the place to go!
Why visit?
It’s a half-hour trip to San Diego Bay in a motorboat that can reach speeds as high as fifty miles an hour. They’ll like the changes in direction as well as the loud popular music.
It’s reminiscent of a thrilling water-based adventure. However, you may view several places and experience our sunlight in a relatively short time. Visitors could (or will) get soaked! Patriot Jet Boat Groupons are frequently available.
40. Speed Boat Adventures
Visitors can operate these even if one has never steered a boat before. Speed Boat Expeditions boats are 13-foot compact pace boats with silent, environmentally friendly engines that can accommodate a maximum of three persons (however, kids and small children can be seated in the center).
Why visit?
The ships include a two-way transmitter that allows visitors to hear the guide’s commentary. It’s a fantastic way to explore San Diego’s harbor scenery. Sunset trips are also available. Your teens will absolutely love the Instagram-worthy view, and you will be in awe of the serene beauty.
41. San Elijo Lagoon
San Elijo Lagoon, roughly spread over a thousand hectares, is among San Diego’s most delicate diversified coastal habitats. Try whether you can spot any of the approximately thousand different types of bird, fish, reptile, and wildlife species that live in this region.
Why visit?
Visit their website ahead of time for special programs (and route diversions if it has recently poured) that everyone in the group will enjoy. Since the trekking paths are suited for small kids, this is one of the exciting activities to do in San Diego for children outdoors.
Conclusion
Families have a great time in San Diego, whether they enjoy amusement parks, recreation areas, or water parks, making sandcastles or beachside bonfires, touring kid-friendly galleries, or walking trails. It’s no surprise that San Diego is frequently named among the Top Family Attractions in California.
This list will guide you through the best of what San Diego has to offer. The best places to take your kids for fun or the most feasible spots near you. These are the best things to do in San Diego with kids, and you will experience absolute joy while doing so.
