23 of the best things to do in San Diego with kids

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to great family city breaks in California, but as the state’s second largest city, it’s no surprise that there’s plenty to tempt you to San Diego with kids.

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Along with great family-friendly museums and a world-famous zoo, there’s history, great beaches and plenty of chances to get outdoors too, not to mention some major family attractions a short drive from the city itself.

So whether you’re stopping as part of a road trip in California or are spending your whole break in southern California, here’s my pick of the best things to do in San Diego with kids.

MONEY SAVING TIP! Visit San Diego during October and you can often get free admission for kids to some of the city’s biggest attractions as part of the Kids Free San Diego promotion

San Diego Zoo

Want your kid to experience an African rainforest and the Arctic taiga without having to leave the US? Take them to one of the world’s best zoos – the San Diego Zoo, which is spread across 100 acres of Balboa Park.

There’s a huge 3,500 animals to discover, including two giant pandas, plus polar bears, elephants, meerkats, and flamingos. Visitors also get the chance to see them in a recreated version of their natural habitat – perfect for kindling your child’s curiosity.

If the walking gets too much for the younger ones in your troop, the zoo has you covered with its on-site bus tour that covers around 75% of the site.

Or for something a bit more adventurous, climb aboard the Skyfari Aerial Tram, the zoo’s overhead gondola lift. You’ll be in for a treat with some amazing aerial views, good enough for kings and queens of the jungle. 

Get a discount on tickets if you book via Tiqets using my code MUMMYTRAVELS6, or you can also book a 1-day Any Day Pass if you want to keep your schedule flexible.

Don’t get this confused with San Diego Zoo Safari Park, which is around 30 minutes outside the city – although as one of the largest manmade safari parks in the world, it’s a fantastic day out near San Diego for families too. You can also get joint tickets to both the Zoo and the Safari park if you’re visiting San Diego with kids who love animals

Balboa Park

A mix of culture, science, and nature, Balboa Park is home to over 1,200 acres of parkland with a whole array of museums, theatres, gardens, trails, and other recreational spaces to discover – there’s even a self-guided tour to help you explore it all.

Start with a visit to the WorldBeat Cultural Center’s EthnoBotany Children’s Peace Garden, which gives kids the opportunity to learn about the foods they eat every day and the role of plants in society. 

Check out the Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theater too, the longest continuous-running puppet theatre in the United States – kids (and parents) will love the shows, or at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, the largest such indoor exhibit in North America.

For some more downtime between sightseeing in Balboa Park, take your kids to the world’s first IMAX Dome Theater for educational shows at the Fleet Science Center. They’ll get to see shows such as Serengeti, Turtle Odyssey, Ancient Caves, and Deep Sky, whisking them from below the waves up to the stars, via some of earth’s most fascinating landscapes.

Toddlers will love their time at the centre’s Kid City, with its interactive play areas, although with eight galleries and over 100 interactive science exhibits to explore, including a virtual reality adventure simulator and flight simulators, there’s guaranteed to be something to keep the entire family entertained.

The New Children’s Museum   

Where can you go if your kids are not feeling outdoorsy? The New Children’s Museum in downtown San Diego is jam-packed with activities, perfect for a rainy day in San Diego with kids.

And at No Rules….Except, visitors of all ages get to enjoy jumping and crawling on more than 150 mattresses and pillow tyres.

Other exhibits include Sketch Aquarium, where kids get to scan their sea life drawings into a virtual life-size aquarium, and a whole string of others with enticing names like Wobbleland, The Wonder Sound, Wammock! and many more.

The focus is on immersing kids in art and encouraging creativity in all, so it’s a fantastic inclusive space too.

San Diego Natural History Museum  

There are hundreds of quirky exhibits at the San Diego Natural History Museum, including a fascinating collection of dinosaur skeletons on display – perfect for kids.

In all, the museum houses an impressive 7.5 million specimens, including rocks, minerals, fossils, taxidermied animals, and mammals – as well as interactive exhibits spread across five floors, so you’ll have plenty to see and do at this kid-friendly San Diego attraction. 

One of the museum’s biggest highlights is the Giant Screen Theatre, with both 2D and 3D films to teach all about the natural world.

Check out the San Diego Go City Pass which gives you entry to up to 7 attractions, including the Natural History Museum, or the San Diego Go City All-Inclusive Pass with access to up to 50 attractions and tours

San Diego Air and Space Museum

If your kids have an interest in the universe and everything beyond our planet, the San Diego Air and Space Museum will take you on a journey through space, from the planets and stars all the way out to the edge of the known universe.

You can learn about everything from ancient astronomy to modern space exploration, and there’s even a section dedicated to UFOs!

Whether you’re a seasoned space buff or just starting your journey of cosmic discovery, put on your rocket scientist hat and get ready for an out-of-this-world experience!

Maritime Museum of San Diego

Home to the USS Midway Museum, the largest naval vessel in the world open to the public, the Maritime Museum of San Diego showcases maritime history and culture in its fleet of eight vessels.

As well as offering a fascinating glimpse into life on a US aircraft carrier, there’s plenty more to keep kids entertained, from interactive exhibits to aircraft simulators.

For teens (and parents), there’s a chance to discover more from the knowledgeable guides too, who provide historical and military commentary.

You can also tour the Star of India, the oldest active sailing ship, and even stay aboard during special family overnight adventures in the summer. Buy tickets with free cancellation.

Coronado Central Beach  

Set just over the bridge from San Diego, Coronado’s seven miles of coastline is dotted with five main beaches so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a family day by the coast.

The most popular choice for families on Coronado Island is Central Beach – although all of the beaches apart from South Beach have lifeguards and restrooms – right in the heart of town, and just a short way away from restaurants and other attractions.

For a change from museums and sightseeing, it couldn’t be easier to find somewhere to build sandcastles and splash in the calm waters if you’re looking for a chance to relax and enjoy San Diego beaches.

If you’re looking for more beautiful beaches in San Diego, there’s plenty of choice, including Mission Beach, and the Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach areas – some are more family-friendly than others, depending if you’re visiting with teens or toddlers though

Old Town Trolley Tours 

If your child loves history and hearing stories, then the Old Town Trolley Tours is the perfect way to discover more about the city, while getting a chance to see the sights too.

While the drivers share exciting facts about the city’s history and architecture, they also constantly interact with kids and keep them engaged so it’s also a terrific way to see some of the most popular San Diego attractions in one go.

They’re hop on hop off tours as well, so it’s a fun way to get from A to B, as well as having the chance to stretch your legs if your kids need a break.

Explore Old Town San Diego

The location of the first European settlement in California, it’s the oldest neighborhood in San Diego and a great place to wander around.

There’s a chance to discover more about the origins of California here at the Junipero Serra Museum, although you can think of the whole district as a sort of living museum as you wander past the colourful boutiques between the historic buildings – watch out for the haunted Whaley House Museum!

If you love Mexican food, you can find some of the city’s best here as well – don’t be surprised to come across live mariachi performers as you stroll.

And while it’s a little way from most of San Diego’s other tourist attraction, the trolley tours stop here so it’s easy to hop off and explore.

Bike Tours of San Diego with kids 

If you want to see as much as possible and time is short, it’s hard to beat a bike tour – and an e-bike tour are great if not everyone wants to put in a lot of effort!

Hire your own and explore at your own pace, with both bikes and ebikes to rent, plus kids’ bikes, toddler trailers and tagalongs

Or for families with teens, hop on an e-bike to discover the best of San Diego in a 2 1/2 hour tour of the city.

This two-hour electric bike tour of La Jolla is suitable for kids aged 12+, visiting La Jolla Cove and the coast, spotting seals and fancy mansions along the way.

Go Whale Watching

San Diego is a great place to watch whales and dolphins as they swim off the California coast, so you’ll find a choice of whale-watching boat tours to choose from for families.

In summer, you can be lucky enough to spot Blue Whales feeding offshore, while from winter to spring, Gray Whales migrate from Alaskan waters to their calving lagoons in Baja California.

City Cruises runs a four-hour whale watching tour, with a chance to spot dolphins, seals and sea lions along the way, or San Diego Whale Watch has expert guides providing commentary as you sail.

Some boats go from San Diego harbor, not far from Broadway Pier and Navy Pier, to take you out into San Diego Bay, others direct from Mission Bay.

San Diego SEAL City tour

For a boat tour with a difference, climb aboard the San Diego SEAL City tour to explore the city by land and sea.

Starting with a drive through the San Diego streets, you’ll pass a string of landmarks including the Embarcadero, as well as the USS Midway, as well as learning more about the importance of the military in the city.

Then the hybrid bus-boat heads straight into Big Bay where you can cruise past more ships, as well as passing Shelter Island to hear stories of early sailors and spot the seals hanging out. Easily one of the most fun things to do in San Diego with kids.

Kayak in the La Jolla Caves  

Less than a 20-minute drive from San Diego itself, it’s easy to get out an explore the California coast, including the chance for older kids to explore the sea cliffs and La Jolla Caves by kayak.

You can rent kayaks and embark on your own adventures as a family or spot sealife on a two-hour cave tour led by a professional guide. With double kayaks, it’s suitable for kids aged 5+.

And once you’ve had your adventure out on the waves, save some time to relax on the sandy La Jolla Shores beach as well – also a great option for younger kids to play while any older ones head out to sea.

Birch Aquarium At Scripps   

While in La Jolla, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps is another great option for a family day out. Best known for its sea dragons (properly known as weedy seagragons!), there are also penguins, turtles, sharks, octopus and a whole shoal of different fish.

The Hall of Fishes features more than 60 habitats that span from the Pacific Northwest to the tropical oceans, while you can also get up close and personal with sea stars, hermit crabs, sea cucumbers, lobsters, and other sea creatures at the Tide Pool Plaza. 

Part of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, entry is included in the San Diego City Pass, which also means you can visit without prebooking.

If you’re reading this list and think I’ve forgotten all about Seaworld San Diego in Mission Bay, it’s a deliberate choice on my part – while it’s a major family attraction, I choose not to recommend anywhere which keeps orcas in captivity

Belmont Park

If you’re looking for theme parks, the closest thing on the list is Belmont Park – this amusement park is a historical gem with plenty of rides and games to keep kids entertained.

With 22 fun rides and attractions to enjoy in addition to carnival-style games, you can enjoy it all while being surrounded by beautiful views and amazing oceanfront scenery.

If you’re looking for thrills, ride the Giant Dipper (a vintage wooden roller coaster originally built in 1925) at speeds over 45 mph, while little ones can enjoy the carousel and rides like Tilt-A-Whirl and Dip & Dive.

Check out the San Diego Go City Pass which gives you entry to up to 7 attractions, including a Belmont Park Ride and Play Pass, or the San Diego Go City All-Inclusive Pass with access to up to 50 attractions and tours

Waterfront park 

Not far from the Maritime Museum, Waterfront Park is a great place for kids to let off some steam, with plenty of play equipment as well as spray fountains to splash in on a sunny day.

There are often special events taking place here, including farmers markets (so you could pick up something delicious to eat at the park’s picnic tables) as well as family friendly festivals.

You’ll find a bike path through the park as well if you’ve hired your own bike for the day, and you’re not far from Little Italy where you can pick up some great ice cream before you hit the park.

Eat at Corvette Diner 

You won’t be short of great places to eat in San Diego with kids, but Corvette Diner is a kid-friendly space with a difference.

This classic diner has 50s-styled staff waiting tables and singing, while the menu has shakes and burgers, among other classic diner dishes plus a soda fountain. The Dante’s Inferno cheeseburger has an added kick, or with bacon and peanut butter, the Rory would get Elvis’s seal of approval.

With an arcade, a magician at the table and vibrant decor, this 50s-themed family friendly attraction in San Diego might be kitsch but when it comes to kid-friendly restaurants, this is definitely one to remember.

Legoland California

Embark on a memorable adventure with your family at Legoland California, where imagination comes to life for kids of all ages – around a 30-minute drive from San Diego, it’s one not to miss while you’re visiting the city.

With over 60 rides, shows, and attractions where kids can take the lead, this San Diego family theme park is geared to kids aged between 2 and 12. The Heartlake City section features an interactive build area, Castle Hill is a medieval adventure with knights and dragons, and the Imagination Zone is a must-visit for creative little ones.

Don’t miss a trip to Legoland’s Sea Life Aquarium while you’re there, to transport your kids into the depths of the sea. Children will get to see marine life galore including sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, sea stars, sea horses, jellies, and thousands of colorful fish in the 20,000-square-foot indoor aquarium! 

Next to the aquarium is the Legoland Water Park, another cool spot to spend a couple of hours with the kids. There are slides, rides and wave pool for the whole family, such as the Duplo Splash Safari area and Craggers Swamp area. Book tickets for Legoland California here.

Carlsbad Flower Fields

A bouquet’s throw from Legoland California, The Carlsbad Flower Fields are one of the most unusual things to see with kids in San Diego County.

The fields come alive every spring like a trapped rainbow as 50 acres of flowers bloom in every imaginable shade, as well as some fun family activities.

Tiptoe through the maze of sweet peas, fill out passport papers at stamp stations, and admire the Giant Tecolote Ranunculus, as well as learning about recycling and composting.

The best time to see the fields is typically mid-March through early May, but check the website for updated information on blooming times.

Beach Hike At Torrey Pines Natural Reserve 

Not far from La Jolla, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is one of the best family attractions in San Diego. With over eight beautiful trails to explore, this is the perfect place to experience some of California’s natural beauty. 

A great way to take in the view from above is to follow the Guy Fleming Trail, a mostly flat 0.8-mile loop perfect for little feet. As you and your little explorers traverse the well-maintained path, you’ll be rewarded with fabulous views of the dramatic cliffs and the Pacific Ocean.

And when you need a break, there are benches where you can sit back and take in the coastal scenery. 

Mission Trails Regional Park

Mission Trails Regional Park is another great place for families looking for some outdoor adventure, with a chance to enjoying picture-perfect views of San Diego’s cityscape in the background.

With more than 65 miles of trails and 8,000 acres of hills and canyons to explore, along with other outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone at this urban park.

Hiking and biking trails wind through the park’s natural areas, while playgrounds, grassy areas with picnic tables, and fishing spots are perfect for a day in the great outdoors.

And one of the best things about Mission Trails is that it’s only a short drive from downtown San Diego – so it’s easy to get to!

Cabrillo National Monument

A visit to the Cabrillo National Monument brings history to life, with plenty of activities for kids on this fun family day out.

On this site back in 1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo climbed out of his boat and stepped into history as the first European to set foot on what is now the West Coast of the United States.

As well as discover more about 16th century exploration, you can visit Old Point Loma Lighthouse, been refurbished to showcase life in the 1800s with period furnishings as well as exploring the park itself.

Follow the Bayside Trail for a spectacular panoramic view of the ocean and the city below. Mid-January is peak time for spotting whales here, but you can sometimes see them in migration season from mid to late December through March. Make sure you stop by the tide pools too while you’re there too, to see what’s revealed at low tide.

San Diego Botanic Garden

For a fun and interesting day trip with your family, the San Diego Botanic Garden is definitely worth considering – despite the name it’s not in the city itself, but it’s easy to reach by car.

With more than 37 acres of gardens, plants, and nature trails to explore, there’s something for everyone to enjoy too. Themed gardens include a Japanese garden, rose garden, succulent garden, and several gardens made especially for children.

The Seeds of Wonder Children’s Garden is designed for families to connect with nature and is perfect for preschool-age kids. It features a dinosaur-themed garden, playhouse, topiary, and miniature railroad. During most months, it also hosts weekly activities in partnership with SAPLinGS – Science Art & Play In Ground Space Saves (a program that promotes creative learning).

The largest children’s garden on the West Coast, the Hamilton Children’s Garden provides a wealth of learning opportunities for kids. Here, children will have fun exploring the Incredible Edibles section, playing giant tic-tac-toe, drawing on a giant chalkboard, learning about sundials, or climbing an elaborate treehouse.

The San Diego Botanic Garden is also home to a variety of interesting plants and animals, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled!

For ideas of more things to do on the California coast, check out my 10-day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary, as well as ideas for San Francisco with kids and visiting Northern California with kids

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Images courtesy of Depositphotos

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