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Monday, November 25, 2024

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 seaside metropolis for a few years and returns recurrently together with her brood, I’m excited to share the perfect issues to do in San Diego with youngsters based mostly on my household’s experiences and data of our former hometown. There are plentiful actions to maintain all ages content material, from theme parks and animal adventures to nature play and museums. Check out greater than 40 kid-friendly San Diego points of interest!

San Diego Bay and San Diego Skyline
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 checklist of San Diego points of interest for youths to discover a particular San Diego low cost only for Journey Mamas readers!

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

Journey Mamas and Grownup Getaways typically obtain compensation and/or hosted journey and pattern merchandise associated to weblog posts. This story might embrace affiliate hyperlinks for which we obtain a small fee at no additional price to customers. As an Amazon Affiliate, we earn cash from qualifying purchases.

1. The Seaside

When contemplating the perfect San Diego points of interest for youths, the seaside all the time tops the checklist. This well-liked California trip vacation spot is famend for its lengthy sandy seashores and surfable waves. The truth is, 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 season, youngsters can construct sandcastles and splash within the waves. Lively households will get pleasure from collaborating in water sports activities like browsing classes, boogie boarding, or a sea-kayaking tour.

Cooler spring and fall temperatures imply more room to loosen up and unfold out a seaside blanket or go for a stroll alongside the shore. 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. These visiting San Diego in winter are sometimes stunned to search out the seashores too chilly for swimming. However wetsuits can be found from surf retailers for die-hard ocean lovers.

San Diego beach at sunsetSan 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 youngsters, close to Belmont Park Amusement Park)
  • La Jolla Shores Seaside (lovely crescent-shaped seaside)
  • Coronado Island Seaside (immaculate seaside close to the Lodge Del Coronado)
  • Kids’s Pool Seaside (artifical breaker protects from massive waves, positioned in La Jolla Cove)
  • Fletcher Cove in Solana Seaside (smaller seaside with playground)
  • Pacific Seaside and Ocean Seaside (bustling boardwalk, plenty 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 ConservatoryBalboa Park Lily Pond and Conservatory
Balboa Park Lily Pond and Conservatory (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

2. Balboa Park

The placement of the first-ever World’s Truthful, Balboa Park is unquestionably top-of-the-line issues to do in San Diego with youngsters. Take pleasure in free admission to this spacious park, which you may be stunned to be taught is twice as massive as New York Metropolis’s Central Park. Some points of interest and actions require a charge.

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

Prime Issues to Do at Balboa Park

  • Take heed to stay music on the world’s largest outside organ at Spreckels Organ Pavillion.
  • Go to the world well-known San Diego Zoo.
  • Play the Brass Ring Sport on the Balboa Park Carousel for an opportunity to win a free spin.
  • Wander via 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 Heart.
  • Experience the Balboa Park Miniature Practice.
  • Take pleasure in quite a few picnic areas and playgrounds.
  • Watch stay theater performances at The Outdated Globe Theatre.
  • Take part in a Balboa Park Scavenger Hunt.
  • 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 (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

Free Balboa Park Museums (Donation Advised)

  • 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?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’ll be able to’t go to San Diego with youngsters with out visiting its famend zoo. Broadly considered top-of-the-line zoological facilities on the earth, the San Diego Zoo wows animal lovers. This zoo’s focus is on the conservation of endangered animals and educating the general public in regards to 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, and plenty of different animals certain to fascinate guests. As soon as residence to massive pandas on mortgage from China, guests can nonetheless see pink pandas on the San Diego Zoo.

Youngsters will get pleasure from 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 benefiting from 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 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 it’s loads of floor to cowl with little legs!

The African Tram is the park’s king attraction. It transports guests via 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 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 scorching days, deliver swim gear for youngsters to chill off within the animal-shaped fountains on the Savannah Cool Zone. (At all times my youngsters’ favourite a part of the park!) Purchase your San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets now!

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.

Legoland California theme parkLegoland 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, youngsters drive pint-sized vehicles round streets dotted with cease indicators and dealing stoplights. Youngsters may construct and race LEGO autos and even program computerized LEGO Mindstorms robots.

The Police and Fireplace Academy Rescue experience will get Mother and Dad concerned. Riders pile into a hearth truck or police automotive. Then they energy it 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 DiegoBelmont Park in San Diego
Large 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 truffles, and greater than a dozen enjoyable rides.

Admission is free at this well-liked San Diego attraction. Pay as you go to experience and play. For limitless entry to 13 rides and included parking, buy a Belmont Park Experience & Play Move.

The star attraction at Belmont Park is the Large Dipper Curler Coaster. This historic wood curler coaster was initially in-built 1925 and has been restored to your rickety driving pleasure. Heads up: this can be a very jerky experience. (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 (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 seaside close to Kids’s Pool Seaside. 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 (Photograph 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 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 Road Bay of Play offers candy rides for younger youngsters, 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 kidsScripps 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 offers a worthwhile various to SeaWorld San Diego. It’s an ideal place for households on a decent funds or with restricted time. The main focus 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 youngsters like to get an up-close view of tanks full of fish. Get your fill of glowing moon jellies, lovely lionfish, silvery sardines, sharks, and different sea creatures.

Older youngsters additionally get pleasure from viewing marine life and exploring hands-on reveals. They will even gently 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 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 (Photograph 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 considered one of my private 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 get pleasure from making bubbles with tubs of soapy water and wands. Then, dig up buried plastic dinosaurs. A toddler-sized playhouse is all the time a success for fake play. Better of all is the mannequin railroad observe with trains that chug via the backyard.

Hamilton Kids’s Backyard

In the meantime, Hamilton Kids’s Backyard appeals to larger youngsters. Households can begin by enjoying a large recreation of tic-tac-toe. Subsequent, wander via a labyrinth fabricated from feathery crops. Kids can be taught to learn a sundial and climb the centerpiece treehouse, too. Throughout scorching summer season months, youngsters 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 evaluate.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in San Diego CountyTorrey 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 desert brush, prickly pear cactus, wildflowers, and different native crops. 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 seaside cliffs.

My most popular path is the Seaside Path, which descends over 3/4 of a mile from the ocean cliff to the seaside and offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean alongside the best way. The two-1/2-mile loop Man Fleming Path is a simple path for households with younger youngsters. Everybody, together with these in wheelchairs or strollers, can benefit from the 1/2-mile Discovery Path close to the Torrey Pines Lodge, which options data markers about native crops.

Old Town San Diego 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 now, vacationers and locals wander via 15 historic buildings in Outdated City San Diego. Store a wide range of shops peddling souvenirs, home made soaps, candies, and extra.

The actual motive my household loves Outdated City? The meals! With over 25 eateries inside a one-mile radius, you’re certain 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 DiegoThe 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 17 museums at Balboa Park, it’s straightforward to overlook this good spot for youngsters within the coronary heart of San Diego’s Downtown Gaslamp Quarter. This museum was designed to encourage youngsters 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 House for ages 6+. Different areas have interaction youngsters throughout age teams. It’s the right place for folks to relaxation a bit whereas the youngsters play.

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

14. Cabrillo Nationwide Monument

Deliver the youngsters to Cabrillo Nationwide Monument for a San Diego historical past lesson. Then hike alongside the Bayside Path to soak up beautiful panoramic views of the ocean and metropolis under. You might 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 america.

Old Point Loma LighthouseOld 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 now, guests get a glimpse of life within the 1800s via 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 (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

16. LEGOLAND Water Park

For water lovers, LEGOLAND Water Park is unquestionably one of many prime issues to do in San Diego with youngsters. This aquatic heart 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 CaliforniaWhale watching in Southern California
Whale watching in Southern California (Photograph 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 possible spot dolphins, too, throughout your San Diego whale-watching journey. Ebook your San Diego whale-watching tour now with our accomplice, GetYourGuide!

My daughter and I typically endure from seasickness, however we each fared nicely 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 (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 youngsters aged 3 to 10. Anticipate stay exhibits, parades, kiddie rides, water slides, and photograph ops with beloved characters like Elmo, Abby Cadabby, and Cookie Monster.

Sesame Place Rides

  • Abby’s Fairy Flight (swing experience)
  • Cookie Climb (tower drop experience)
  • Elmo’s Rockin’ Rockets (round experience)
  • Rub-A-Dub Sub (vertical circle experience)
  • Sesame Road Soar & Spin (offers 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 get pleasure from amusements like Elmo’s Foolish Sand Slides and The Rely’s Splash Fort. Larger youngsters can be excited to search out thrilling water slides, too. For instance, Cookie’s Monster Mixer is a 4-story raft experience that sends households on a swirling, swishing journey.

Sunset Cliffs in San DiegoSunset 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 recurrently since I used to be a child and lived right here for 15 years, however till 2024, 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 soak up 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, with climbing trails and quite a few lookout factors to soak up the fantastic thing about the Pacific Ocean. For security’s sake, preserve an in depth maintain of youngsters and canine.

Old Town Trolley Tour 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. Ebook a 1- or 2-day journey aboard this cheery orange car. It’s a enjoyable strategy to discover the town at your individual 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 VillageSeaport Village
Seaport Village (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

21. Seaport Village

Wander via quirky boutiques and memento retailers on the waterfront Seaport Village purchasing and leisure complicated. It’s located beside San Diego Bay close to downtown San Diego. This is among the finest locations to soak up bay views over a restaurant meal. Youngsters will particularly benefit from the Historic Carousel, sweets retailers, and darling Gepettos 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 wonderful photograph alternatives amongst 1000’s of blooms. Experience a tractor-pulled wagon via greater than 50 acres of rainbow-colored rows of flowers. Then, tiptoe via a maze fabricated from candy peas.

At Santa’s Playground, youngsters 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 positioned in Lake Arrowhead from 1955 to 1998 earlier than being relocated to the flower fields.

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad are sometimes open from March via Mom’s Day annually. Learn my recommendation for visiting the Carlsbad Flower Fields with youngsters.

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

23. Petco Park

One of many coolest locations within the nation to look at a baseball recreation 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. Absorb views of downtown whereas cheering on the house staff, the San Diego Padres. Plus, there are many locations to discover proper earlier than or after the sport.

Petco Park can also be the one main league baseball stadium with a lodge straight 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 lodge to the stadium! Search for particular baseball packages on the Omni Lodge San Diego.

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

24. Lodge del Coronado

Sure, it’s a lodge. However the Lodge Del Coronado can also be a vacationer attraction in its personal proper. Many individuals come to this well-known resort only for the day.

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

The Lodge 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 checklist of the finest seaside lodges 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 lodge friends alike can take a spin on the oceanside outside ice skating rink. In summer season, there’s a curler rink as a substitute.

Coronado Ferry Landing in San DiegoCoronado Ferry Landing in San Diego
Coronado Ferry Touchdown (Photograph 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 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 strategy 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 prone to hear stay music enjoying as you wander. From right here, it’s also possible to hire bicycles, surreys, kayaks, and jet skis. There’s additionally a small seaside that’s well-liked with native households for its mellow waves, good for younger youngsters.

Little Italy San Diego 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. It is a tremendous enjoyable place to walk via artwork galleries and darling retailers, however the principle draw is the scrumptious Italian delicacies. From gelaterias and pasta retailers 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 prospects ready for a desk. And the pizza? Fugheddaboudit!

Reuben H. Fleet Science CenterReuben 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 may have a lot enjoyable turning knobs and urgent buttons, they received’t notice they’re studying about science. My youngsters 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 MuseumThe 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 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. Youngsters get a kick out of pretending they’re pirates on the excessive seas on this spectacular previous ship.

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

29. USS Halfway Museum

Not removed from the Maritime Museum, seafarers and army buffs will respect the USS Halfway 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 AquariumSEA LIFE Aquarium
SEA LIFE Aquarium (Photograph credit score: SEA LIFE Aquarium)

30. Sea Life Carlsbad Aquarium

Guests get a glimpse of what it’s prefer to stay 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 positioned at LEGOLAND California. Be taught 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 ParkInez 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, this can be a favourite particularly for younger youngsters. There isn’t any entrance charge for this or the Desert Backyard proper subsequent door.

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

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

This is among the few carousels on the earth that also affords the brass ring recreation. Massive youngsters and adults who need to play ought to select an outdoor 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 experience!

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

33. Balboa Park Railroad

Climb aboard a miniature practice positioned simply exterior the San Diego Zoo’s entrance. It takes 3 minutes to chug via Balboa Park’s grassy panorama and an extended tunnel. Hold your eyes peeled for humorous Burma Shave indicators planted alongside the observe. The practice sometimes runs daily throughout summer season and spring break however solely on weekends low season.

If sharing a practice experience with a gaggle of school-aged youngsters, beware that field-tripping youngsters scream in unison via the tunnel. It’s finest to attend for the following practice.

San Diego Model Railroad MuseumSan 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

Bought 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 the earth. 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 MuseumSan 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 get pleasure from 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 DiegoUnconditional Surrender Statue in San Diego
Unconditional Give up Statue (Photograph credit score: Colleen Lanin)

36. Unconditional Give up

In entrance of the USS Halfway 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 may be stunned by simply how massive this statue is in particular person — I do know I used to be!

It’s based mostly 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. Quite, 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 (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 sometimes runs from early June via 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 stay 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 deal with. Deep-fried treats and frybread tacos are all the time a success, too. Dad and mom might need to swing by the beer backyard for an grownup beverage to clean all of it down.

Whaley House in Old Town San DiegoWhaley 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 get pleasure from a tour of Whaley Home. This supposedly haunted constructing was featured on the Journey Channel’s America’s Most Haunted. 

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

San Diego Air and Space MuseumSan 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 well-liked 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 approach past.

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

San Diego SEAL Tour 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 in regards to the historical past of the 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 DiegoKids 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

Wish to lower your expenses on the enjoyable issues to do in San Diego with youngsters? After all you do!

Get Away Right now

Use low cost code TravelMamas to get $10 off any two-night or longer Southern California package deal (lodge and two-ticket minimal) once you ebook via our accomplice, Get Away Right now. 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 a good way to save lots of a bunch and offers households an excellent motive to move to San Diego low season. Have a look at which points of interest, lodges, and eating places are providing freebies to households.

Go San Diego Card

It’s nicely 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 test 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 videoExpedia Kids in the City San Diego video

Be taught 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 mission 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 wonderful San Diego trip requires fabulous lodging. Check out my picks for finest lodges for youths in San Diego. (I’ve personally stayed at each lodge!)

 

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

Top Things to Do in San Diego with KidsTop Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

Hold These San Diego Household Sights

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

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

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

Journey Mamas was compensated by Expedia for collaborating within the Youngsters within the Metropolis mission when this story launched in 2012. This weblog put up is up to date recurrently to mirror San Diego’s present choices for households. 

 

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