Looking for up-to-date fun things to do in San Diego with kids in 2025? This guide has you covered. From iconic spots like the San Diego Zoo and LEGOLAND to hidden gems perfect for family adventures, discover the top activities that will make your family trip unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
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Balboa Park is a must-visit for families, featuring 17 museums, gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo, especially on free admission Tuesdays.
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LEGOLAND California and SeaWorld San Diego offer thrilling experiences for kids, with interactive attractions and educational shows that make for memorable family outings.
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San Diego’s diverse beaches and outdoor parks like Mission Bay Park and La Jolla Cove provide fun activities for families, from picnicking to snorkeling and whale watching.
Explore Balboa Park
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Balboa Park stands out as one of San Diego’s premier attractions, offering a rich cultural experience amidst its 17 museums, lush gardens, and theaters. This iconic park is a must-visit for families looking to immerse themselves in San Diego attractions’ vibrant arts and cultural scene. Whether you’re strolling through the meticulously manicured gardens or exploring the interactive exhibits in the museums, there’s something to captivate every member of the family.
Balboa Park’s rotating free admission to over 10 museums on Tuesdays makes it an affordable and enriching outing for families.
Don’t forget to stop by the world-famous San Diego Zoo, located right within the park, for an unforgettable encounter with wildlife.
Visit the San Diego Zoo
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The San Diego Zoo is a world-renowned haven for animal lovers, sprawling over 100 acres and home to more than 3,700 animals. It’s a place where kids can marvel at exotic creatures, from towering giraffes to playful pandas. The zoo offers an array of engaging activities, such as the Skyfari Aerial Tram, which provides a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the entire park.
Families can enjoy animal feeding tours and wildlife presentations for a more immersive experience, gaining fascinating insights into various species. The zoo also features a 4D theater, where films like ‘Animal Kingdom 4D: The Wild Awaits’ bring the animal kingdom to life in spectacular fashion.
Enjoy Belmont Park
Belmont Park is a historic theme park that’s perfect for family fun. Located by the beach, it offers a variety of rides and games, including the legendary Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, Beach Blaster, and bumper cars. The park is open until 8 p.m., giving families plenty of time to enjoy the attractions at theme parks.
What’s even better is that walking around Belmont Park is free, with no admission fee, making it a budget-friendly outing. Dining options abound, from kid-friendly restaurants to ice cream parlors, ensuring that everyone leaves with a smile on their face.
Discover Old Town San Diego
Step back in time and discover the rich heritage of Old Town San Diego. This historic area is brimming with authentic Mexican cuisine, unique shops, and historic buildings that tell the story of San Diego’s past. Families can engage in living history demonstrations, where traditional crafts and performances bring history to life.
The Old Town Trolley Tours is a convenient way to explore the area, offering a continuous loop connecting major attractions. Kids aged 12 and under can ride for free, making it an ideal option for families. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the free museums and outdoor exhibits that showcase the region’s cultural heritage.
Relax at La Jolla Cove
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La Jolla Cove is a gem of natural beauty, renowned for its stunning views and diverse marine life. Families can enjoy kayaking tours above the La Jolla Underwater Park, providing a unique perspective of the marine environment. For a more hands-on experience, snorkeling at La Jolla Shores Beach offers the chance to swim with leopard sharks.
During low tide, the La Jolla Tide Pools become a fascinating exploration area, teeming with anemones, crabs, and other marine creatures. Open spaces like Ellen Browning Scripps Park and playgrounds at Kellogg Park make it a perfect spot for picnics and family fun.
Spend a Day at LEGOLAND California
Designed for children aged 2 to 12, LEGOLAND California is a dream destination for young LEGO enthusiasts. The park boasts over 60 interactive play areas, including exciting rides, creative LEGO building stations, and engaging shows. Miniland USA, with its miniature replicas of famous landmarks made entirely from LEGO bricks, offers a visual feast for the eyes.
Kids can unleash their creativity at the building stations, constructing their own LEGO masterpieces. Themed areas and characters from popular movies recreated with LEGO bricks add to the magical experience, making it a must-visit for families.
Experience SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego is a blend of thrilling rides, interactive animal experiences, and educational shows that cater to the entire family. New attractions like the manta roller coaster, Emperor, and Arctic Rescue provide heart-pounding excitement for adventure seekers. Meanwhile, interactive animal experiences allow visitors to get up close and personal with marine life, creating unforgettable memories.
Families can enjoy fun and educational shows featuring dolphins, whales, and sea lions, presented throughout the day. Special events and seasonal activities, such as the Summer Spectacular, add an extra layer of entertainment, making SeaWorld a fantastic all-day outing for families.
Tour the USS Midway Museum
Embark on a journey through naval history with a visit to the USS Midway Museum. This floating museum, located on the waterfront near Seaport Village, is America’s longest-serving aircraft carrier. With over 60 exhibits and 29 restored aircraft, the museum offers a hands-on opportunity to learn about naval aviation.
Children will love exploring the ship’s interior, from the control room to the mess halls, simulating life aboard. The USS Midway Museum spans nearly 10 acres, with interactive displays that make it an educational and exciting experience for the whole family.
Visit Seaport Village
Seaport Village is a charming waterfront destination that spans 14 acres and features over 50 unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Families can enjoy a variety of activities, including:
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Shopping
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Dining
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Face painting
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Balloon art
The historic carousel is a hit with kids, and special events like Surfin’ Santa during the holiday season add to the festive atmosphere.
For a leisurely evening, consider taking a sunset cruise on the Bahia Belle, which includes snacks and activities for families. Stunning views of the San Diego Bay make Seaport Village a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.
Explore Cabrillo National Monument
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Cabrillo National Monument, located on the Point Loma Peninsula, commemorates the 1542 landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. This historical site offers breathtaking scenic views and a range of amenities, including a visitor center, bookstore, and small museum.
Visitors can explore the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and its tide pools, making it a fascinating destination for families interested in history and nature. Just a short drive from downtown San Diego, it’s an easy addition to your itinerary.
Play at Mission Bay Park
As the largest human-made aquatic park in America, Mission Bay Park is a prime spot for outdoor family fun. The park offers a variety of activities, including swimming, kayaking, biking, and playing at the beach.
Families can enjoy picnicking on the grassy lawns and beaches, often spotting dolphins in the bay. With playgrounds and safe beach areas featuring calm water, it’s an ideal location for families with young children.
Check Out the New Children's Museum
The New Children’s Museum in downtown San Diego is a haven for creativity and learning, designed for kids aged 0-10. The museum offers a range of hands-on art workshops and interactive installations that encourage children’s creativity. Interactive exhibits allow kids to engage with art and sensory experiences, fostering a love for learning.
Special programs like Toddler Time provide structured play and early learning opportunities, making it a fantastic destination for young families.
Go on a Whale Watching Cruise
Whale watching cruises in San Diego operate from December through April, offering families the chance to witness the magnificent gray whale migration from Alaska to Mexico. These cruises often provide opportunities to see dolphins, adding to the excitement.
The gray whales’ 10,000-mile migration journey is a spectacular sight, and a whale watching cruise is an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike. Be sure to bring your camera to capture these incredible moments.
Stroll Through Coronado Island
Coronado Island is a picturesque destination featuring beautiful beaches and the iconic Hotel del Coronado. Families can enjoy the calm waters at Coronado Central Beach and participate in activities like sandcastle classes, perfect for outdoor bonding. Arriving early during the summer is recommended to avoid traffic and make the most of your day on the island.
Whether you’re exploring the charming village or relaxing on the sandy shores, Coronado Island offers a serene escape for families.
Visit Birch Aquarium
Birch Aquarium offers an engaging and accessible experience for all guests, making it a perfect family outing. The aquarium showcases around 60 habitats of fishes and invertebrates, including unique species like Little Blue Penguins and Weedy Seadragons.
Visitors can touch and learn about tide pool creatures at the Tide Pool Plaza, enhancing the educational experience. The aquarium’s gift shop offers a range of marine-themed items, providing fun souvenirs for all ages.
Hike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a haven for family-friendly outdoor adventures, offering breathtaking ocean views and unique coastal landscapes. The reserve features various hiking trails suitable for all skill levels, allowing families to explore together.
Hiking at Torrey Pines provides a rewarding experience that combines physical activity with stunning natural beauty. It’s a perfect opportunity for families to bond while enjoying the great outdoors.
Explore the Fleet Science Center
Located in Balboa Park, the Fleet Science Center is a hub of interactive science exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages. The center features 100 hands-on exhibits, allowing kids to explore science in a fun and engaging way.
Kid City, a special attraction designed for younger kids, offers a safe and stimulating environment for the littlest scientists. The Fleet Science Center is a must-visit for families looking to spark their kids’ curiosity and love for science.
Enjoy Waterfront Park
Waterfront Park is the primary green space in downtown San Diego, featuring expansive lawns and the landmark County building. Located across from the Maritime Museum of San Diego, it’s an ideal spot for families to relax and play.
The park includes a designated play area for children and several picnic spaces, making it perfect for family outings. The interactive water park fountains add an extra element of fun for kids.
Take a Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour
The San Diego Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour offers a narrated ride with 11 stops, allowing families to explore the city’s top attractions at their own pace. This convenient mode of transportation makes it easy to see everything from Old Town San Diego to the Maritime Museum.
Kids 12 and under can ride for free, and you can use the discount code SAVEMORE for additional savings. The trolley tour is a fun and flexible way to discover San Diego’s highlights.
Explore the San Diego Air and Space Museum
The San Diego Air and Space Museum is situated in Balboa Park. It highlights the intriguing history of flight, covering everything from early balloon ascents to space exploration. The museum offers interactive exhibits and flight simulators that engage visitors of all ages.
With over 50 aircraft on display and special exhibits like ‘Da Vinci’s First Flight’, the museum is a captivating destination for families. It’s a place where kids can dream big and learn about the wonders of aviation.
Visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego
The Maritime Museum of San Diego focuses on historic sailing vessels, offering a unique glimpse into maritime history. Visitors can climb aboard the ships to explore and participate in activities like walking the plank and testing the anchor.
The museum is well-suited for preschoolers and older kids, making it an inclusive and educational outing for families.
Attend Seasonal Events
San Diego hosts a variety of seasonal events that are perfect for families, encompassing fairs, concerts, and community celebrations. Balboa Park is a hotspot for annual family-friendly events, including special exhibitions and performances, making it an ideal destination for a San Diego family vacation.
Specific events like the San Diego County Fair, Comic-Con International, and the Big Bay Boom fireworks show provide extra fun and excitement for families throughout the year in north San Diego county. These events offer unique experiences that make San Diego even more special.
Check Out the San Diego Natural History Museum
The San Diego Natural History Museum, located in Balboa Park, offers engaging exhibits and hands-on activities that make it a perfect family destination. Exhibits include fossils, local geology, ecosystems, and history, promoting curiosity about the natural world through interactive experiences at the San Diego museum.
The Backyard play area is ideal for young kids, providing a fun and educational environment for outdoor activities. Interactive programs like ‘Boarded!’ allow kids to engage in a pirate show, adding an element of adventure to the visit.
Enjoy a Day at Petco Park
Petco Park, located in downtown San Diego near the Gaslamp District, is home to the San Diego Padres and features modern amenities for families. Families can enjoy cheering on the Padres, indulging in ballpark treats, and taking behind-the-scenes tours.
Evening baseball games provide a unique nighttime activity, while summer day games are particularly popular for family outings. Petco Park offers an engaging and fun experience for sports fans of all ages.
Explore San Diego Beaches
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San Diego’s beaches each offer their own unique charm, ensuring that there’s something for every visitor. Coronado Beach is known for its soft sand and picturesque view of the historic Hotel Del Coronado, making it a favorite among families.
Del Mar beach, particularly the area closest to Torrey Pines Road, is family-friendly with amenities like bathrooms, showers, and lifeguards. Arriving early, especially on weekends and during the summer, helps secure a good spot.
Whether you’re building sandcastles or taking a dip in the Pacific Ocean, San Diego’s beaches are a must-visit.
San Diego offers a remarkable variety of family-friendly activities, from cultural experiences in Balboa Park to thrilling adventures at theme parks. Whether you’re exploring the wonders of the San Diego Zoo, enjoying the scenic beauty of La Jolla Cove, or taking a leisurely stroll through Seaport Village, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with kids.
With its perfect blend of outdoor activities, educational attractions, and seasonal events, San Diego is an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in America’s Finest City!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some free activities to do with kids in San Diego?
You can have a blast with the kids by exploring Balboa Park’s beautiful gardens on free Tuesdays, checking out the historic vibes in Old Town San Diego, or just hanging out at Mission Bay Park for some fun in the sun.
When is the best time to go whale watching in San Diego?
The best time to go whale watching in San Diego is definitely from December to April, when you can catch the gray whales making their epic journey from Alaska to Mexico. You won't want to miss it!
Are there any budget-friendly attractions in San Diego for families?
Absolutely! Belmont Park is fun with free entry and low-cost rides, and the New Children's Museum is great for hands-on art at a budget-friendly rate.
What family-friendly events are held in San Diego throughout the year?
San Diego is loaded with fun family-friendly events all year round, like the San Diego County Fair, Comic-Con, and the Big Bay Boom fireworks show, plus cool seasonal activities at SeaWorld. There's always something exciting happening for everyone!
What are some of the best beaches in San Diego for families?
Coronado Beach and Del Mar Beach are perfect for families, with soft sand and safe swimming spots. You'll love the amenities they offer too!
