San Diego is the perfect destination for families. It features pleasant all-year-round weather, amazing public parks, stunning beaches, and a selection of family-friendly museums. Whether you want to take some time out splashing away by the water, watching animals at the zoo, or explore other top destinations, then this southern California destination is the place to be. Here are some of the things to do in San Diego with kids.
1. San Diego Zoo
Visiting the San Diego Zoo should be at the top of your list of things to do in San Diego with Kids. There are over 3700 animals and a stunning display of 700,000 rare plants in 100 acres. The zoo is dedicated to the conservation of endangered animals in cageless exhibits that try to replicate the natural habitat of the animals. Some of the key exhibits include the Polar Bear Plunge, Skyfri tram, pandas, Africa Rocks, and Children’s Zoo. Make a point of going when in the morning when it opens since the weather is cool and the animals are having their breakfast. Some of the animals you’ll see include gorillas, tigers, eagles, Asian leopards, sun bears, reptiles and birds.
2. LEGOLAND California
This is a resort that consists of SEA LIFE Aquarium, LEGOLAND Water Park, LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, and LEGOLAND Hotel. If you are pressed for time and need somewhere where you can hang out with the whole family for half a day, then the LEGOLAND California theme park is the perfect spot. It is ideal for kids aged between 2 and 12. For teens, it would help if they’re die-hard LEGO lovers as the rides may be too young for them. Exploring SEA LIFE Aquarium would normally take around 45 minutes. You can have meals at the LEGOLAND California resort.
3. SeaWorld San Diego
This destination draws tourists from all over the world to experience up-close interactions with animals, get educated and enjoy the myriad of rides available. With the special behind-the-scenes guided tours, the whole family will get an opportunity to learn about dolphins, rays, penguins, sea otters, and other aquatic creatures. Young kids can enjoy climbs and mild rides at the Sesame Street Bay of Play. Older kids and teenagers can have the time of their life on the Manta roller coaster and the Electric Eel roller coaster. You can spend the entire day at SeaWorld without getting bored.
4. Aquatica San Diego Water Park
This is the only water park in San Diego and it features a variety of attractions for swimmers of all levels. They have wave pools, water slides, lazy river, private cabana rentals, eateries, play areas and so much more. You can purchase tickets directly via SeaWorld. The park is usually open during summer and fall. Make sure to confirm the dates before going.
5. Belmont Park
This is an amazing seaside amusement park located on Mission Beach. If you’re having a good time at the beach with your kids, you can always take a break by popping into the amusement park. You’ll find an arcade, roller coaster, zip line, laser tag, and other exciting rides. You can also buy your kids giant scoops of ice cream. They’ll love it. There are some good restaurants located right on the beach if you need a bite.
6. Old Town San Diego
This is the birthplace of California. It’s a great place to run around. There are plenty of restaurants and shops, a lovely park, and amazing historic sites. One of the most popular haunted houses in the US, Whaley House, is found in this part of San Diego. If your kids have an interest in history, you can take them to the Serra Museum, where they’ll see Mexican, Spanish, and Kumeyaay Indian exhibits from the 1700s. You’re bound to see mariachis, people dressed in costumes, and plenty of live entertainment as you explore Old Town.
7. Seaport Village
Visiting this touristy spot is one of the best things to do in San Diego with kids. This fun seaside entertainment spot is a favorite among locals and visiting families. It features a fudge store, a kite store, Frost Me Gourmet cupcakes, roaming entertainment, dining experiences, and dashing ocean views. It is the perfect destination for taking photos and is only a walking distance from the amazing selection of hotels dotting downtown San Diego. Make sure your kids give the historic carousel a shot. It’s tons of fun especially for younger kids.
8. Balboa Park
This is the largest urban cultural park in the US. It has 16 museums, lush gardens, restaurants, performing arts venues and is home to the San Diego Zoo. It’s free to access the park but you’ll have to pay to enter the museums. The museums include Fleet Science Center, San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Model Railroad Museum, San Diego Air and Space Museum, and Museum of Man. You can get a Balboa Park Explorer pass for the whole family. This gives you a pass to all museums and an option to include the San Diego Zoo.
9. San Diego Botanic Gardens
Located in Encinitas, these gardens are the perfect place to spend your day with the kids in the great outdoors. The San Diego Botanic Gardens feature more than 30 themed gardens, The Hamilton Gardens are particularly popular with the kids. They have tons of fun activities for the little ones. There are also tours for both adults and kids ranging from bird watching to walking.
10. Coronado Central Beach
Fancy some fun in the sand? You might want to give the Coronado Central Beach a shot. The flat, sandy beach is expansive and beautiful. It’s calm and makes for a great place to chill out with the whole family. It’s just behind the Hotel Del Coronado so you won’t have a problem grabbing a meal. The hotel even rents out their chairs and umbrellas to beach users.
