Top 20 Things to do with kids in San Diego
"San Diego, a coastal paradise, offers a plethora of family-friendly activities. From exploring the world-renowned San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park to building sandcastles on the picturesque beaches, there are countless 'Things to do with kids in San Diego'. Don't forget to visit the historic USS Midway Museum and Legoland, where imagination comes to life!"
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- 1. The New Children’s Museum
- 2. Belmont Park
- 3. San Diego Natural History Museum
- 4. USS Midway Museum
- 5. Living Coast Discovery Center
- 6. Waterfront Park
- 7. Sesame Place San Diego
- 8. Balboa Park Carousel
- 9. San Diego Children’s Park
- 10. San Diego Air & Space Museum
- 11. Balboa Park Miniature Railroad
- 12. Cabrillo National Monument
- 13. San Diego Zoo
- 14. Inflatable World
- 15. The SUP & Saddle — Coronado Bike Rentals and Tours
- 16. Gaslamp Quarter
- 17. Desert Garden
- 18. Kid Ventures Preschool Academy
- 19. Skytower
- 20. Children’s Museum Park
1. The New Children’s Museum
Dedicated to engaging children in arts and creativity
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The museum offers a wide range of interactive activities for children to enjoy, making for a fun and educational experience. Among the popular attractions is a clay molding area, where young visitors can get creative and learn about different art forms. For those who enjoy physical activities, there are various structures available for climbing and exploring.
Overall, the museum is an excellent destination for families looking to spend quality time together while learning something new. Parents can take advantage of the hands-on activities to engage with their children and foster a love for art and creativity. With so many engaging exhibits, a family day out at this museum is sure to be an enjoyable and memorable experience.
The museum offers a wide range of interactive activities for children to enjoy, making for a fun and educational experience. Among the popular attractions is a clay molding area, where young visitors can get creative and learn about different art forms. For those who enjoy physical activities, there are various structures available for climbing and exploring.
Overall, the museum is an excellent destination for families looking to spend quality time together while learning something new. Parents can take advantage of the hands-on activities to engage with their children and foster a love for art and creativity. With so many engaging exhibits, a family day out at this museum is sure to be an enjoyable and memorable experience.
2. Belmont Park
Belmont Park - a historic seaside amusement park in San Diego.
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Belmont Park is an excellent destination for families, particularly those with children. The park offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to both children and adults, including various rides and an assortment of food options. Its location near the ocean and across the street from the bay ensures a cool breeze, making it a comfortable place to spend the day without worrying about the heat.
The park was impressive and offered great value for money. Those who purchase the combo pass from Costco can enjoy every ride in the park, and the staff are friendly and helpful. The park is well-maintained, and visitors will not have to wait in long lines, allowing for more time to enjoy the various attractions. Furthermore, the food in the park is delicious, making it possible to spend an entire day at Belmont Park without getting tired of the offerings.
Belmont Park is an excellent destination for families, particularly those with children. The park offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to both children and adults, including various rides and an assortment of food options. Its location near the ocean and across the street from the bay ensures a cool breeze, making it a comfortable place to spend the day without worrying about the heat.
The park was impressive and offered great value for money. Those who purchase the combo pass from Costco can enjoy every ride in the park, and the staff are friendly and helpful. The park is well-maintained, and visitors will not have to wait in long lines, allowing for more time to enjoy the various attractions. Furthermore, the food in the park is delicious, making it possible to spend an entire day at Belmont Park without getting tired of the offerings.
3. San Diego Natural History Museum
Only museum dedicated to natural history in San Diego
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The San Diego Natural History Museum in Balboa Park is an excellent destination for families with children. The exhibits are designed to be interactive and educational, providing a fun and engaging learning experience. One of the most popular exhibits is the one featuring dinosaur fossils, which kids find fascinating. Another must-see is the hands-on activities that allow children to explore and learn in a hands-on way.
The museum also offers unique opportunities to observe scientists at work in the Demonstration Lab, where visitors can watch as they prepare and study specimens. The Living Lab is another exhibit that is sure to captivate, with a variety of creatures such as rattlesnakes, arachnids, frogs, and centipedes. For younger kids aged five and under, The Backyard exhibit is a perfect space just for them to play and explore.
The San Diego Natural History Museum in Balboa Park is an excellent destination for families with children. The exhibits are designed to be interactive and educational, providing a fun and engaging learning experience. One of the most popular exhibits is the one featuring dinosaur fossils, which kids find fascinating. Another must-see is the hands-on activities that allow children to explore and learn in a hands-on way.
The museum also offers unique opportunities to observe scientists at work in the Demonstration Lab, where visitors can watch as they prepare and study specimens. The Living Lab is another exhibit that is sure to captivate, with a variety of creatures such as rattlesnakes, arachnids, frogs, and centipedes. For younger kids aged five and under, The Backyard exhibit is a perfect space just for them to play and explore.
4. USS Midway Museum
Historic aircraft carrier transformed into a museum
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The USS Midway Museum is an exciting and educational destination for families with children. The museum's flight simulators and aircraft exhibits were a major draw for our kids, who spent hours engrossed in the interactive exhibits. The Junior Pilot Program was a standout activity, providing our children with a fun and engaging way to learn about aviation history.
A visit to the USS Midway Museum offers a unique opportunity for families to explore military history in a hands-on way. Our kids were captivated by the museum's artifacts and exhibits, which brought to life the stories of the men and women who served on the ship. The museum's educational programs and activities made for a well-rounded and enjoyable learning experience for the whole family.
The USS Midway Museum is an exciting and educational destination for families with children. The museum's flight simulators and aircraft exhibits were a major draw for our kids, who spent hours engrossed in the interactive exhibits. The Junior Pilot Program was a standout activity, providing our children with a fun and engaging way to learn about aviation history.
A visit to the USS Midway Museum offers a unique opportunity for families to explore military history in a hands-on way. Our kids were captivated by the museum's artifacts and exhibits, which brought to life the stories of the men and women who served on the ship. The museum's educational programs and activities made for a well-rounded and enjoyable learning experience for the whole family.
5. Living Coast Discovery Center
Only outdoor aquarium in San Diego with a focus on local marine life and environmental conservation.
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The Living Coast Discovery Center provided an exciting experience for children. One of the highlights was the bat ray touch pool, where they enjoyed interacting with the marine life. The center also included a variety of other attractions that captured the kids' attention, such as birds of prey and a shark tank.
The Living Coast Discovery Center provided an exciting experience for children. One of the highlights was the bat ray touch pool, where they enjoyed interacting with the marine life. The center also included a variety of other attractions that captured the kids' attention, such as birds of prey and a shark tank.
6. Waterfront Park
A scenic location with beautiful views of the San Diego Bay
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An amazing and memorable experience was had by a family at a splash park in San Diego, brought there by their sister who lives in the area. The splash park offered a wide range of water play activities that kept the children endlessly entertained. The park also featured a large playground, which had numerous exciting elements for children to explore.
An amazing and memorable experience was had by a family at a splash park in San Diego, brought there by their sister who lives in the area. The splash park offered a wide range of water play activities that kept the children endlessly entertained. The park also featured a large playground, which had numerous exciting elements for children to explore.
7. Sesame Place San Diego
One of the few theme parks specifically designed for young children
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For children under 36", Sesame Place offers several dry rides, including Abby's Fairy Flight, Sunny Days Carousel, Elmo's Rockin' Rockets, Rub-A-Dub Sub, and Sesame Street Soar & Spin. The park also features a parade, character Meet & Greets, and Rosita's Harmony Hills. Overall, the rides and attractions cater well to young children and toddlers, with many requiring adult supervision.
For children under 36", Sesame Place offers several dry rides, including Abby's Fairy Flight, Sunny Days Carousel, Elmo's Rockin' Rockets, Rub-A-Dub Sub, and Sesame Street Soar & Spin. The park also features a parade, character Meet & Greets, and Rosita's Harmony Hills. Overall, the rides and attractions cater well to young children and toddlers, with many requiring adult supervision.
8. Balboa Park Carousel
Located in the heart of Balboa Park
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A visit to the Zoo must include a ride on the Carousel, which is an excellent value for the cost at $3 per adult with toddlers allowed to ride for free. The Carousel ride lasts for approximately 5 minutes, and children especially enjoy it. This historic Carousel, which has been lovingly restored, stands out with three rows of animals, the innermost two being elevated higher than the outer row. The Carousel features various hand-carved animals and is run by passionate individuals who maintain its traditional operation.
An antique kiddie ride is available next to the Carousel, adding to its appeal. The band organ provides a pleasant soundtrack, and guests can still reach for the brass ring, an exciting feature of the ride. The Carousel has unique animals, and the attention to detail is remarkable, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Zoo. The affordable pricing and the small, antique kiddie ride nearby make it a great spot for families with young children.
A visit to the Zoo must include a ride on the Carousel, which is an excellent value for the cost at $3 per adult with toddlers allowed to ride for free. The Carousel ride lasts for approximately 5 minutes, and children especially enjoy it. This historic Carousel, which has been lovingly restored, stands out with three rows of animals, the innermost two being elevated higher than the outer row. The Carousel features various hand-carved animals and is run by passionate individuals who maintain its traditional operation.
An antique kiddie ride is available next to the Carousel, adding to its appeal. The band organ provides a pleasant soundtrack, and guests can still reach for the brass ring, an exciting feature of the ride. The Carousel has unique animals, and the attention to detail is remarkable, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Zoo. The affordable pricing and the small, antique kiddie ride nearby make it a great spot for families with young children.
9. San Diego Children’s Park
Includes a miniature railroad and a historic boat pirate ship
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The reimagined Children's Play Area is the heart of the park, featuring vibrant structures that encourage children to indulge in imaginative play. The play area promotes a sense of community, bringing families together to create cherished memories under the San Diego sun.
This park is an appealing destination for families with its varied features designed for children of all ages. Although not very spacious, it offers a nearby parking lot. However, parking fees may apply during peak times.
The reimagined Children's Play Area is the heart of the park, featuring vibrant structures that encourage children to indulge in imaginative play. The play area promotes a sense of community, bringing families together to create cherished memories under the San Diego sun.
This park is an appealing destination for families with its varied features designed for children of all ages. Although not very spacious, it offers a nearby parking lot. However, parking fees may apply during peak times.
10. San Diego Air & Space Museum
Honors aviation pioneers and space exploration
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The San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park features an extensive collection of aircraft, including fighters and biplanes, some of which allow visitors to go inside. The sheer size and presence of these airplanes can be inspiring, particularly for young children with dreams of becoming pilots. The museum also offers a space collection, housing the actual Apollo 9 Command Module and a piece of moon-rock, which are popular attractions.
If you're interested in aviation and space, the San Diego Air & Space Museum is an ideal place to visit. It boasts an impressive array of aircraft, from jets and retro planes to a massive helicopter. Suitable for children who are enthusiastic about the subject, the museum offers a unique and educational experience. Notable exhibits include the Apollo 9 command module and a real moon-rock, making this location a must-see for any space enthusiast.
The San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park features an extensive collection of aircraft, including fighters and biplanes, some of which allow visitors to go inside. The sheer size and presence of these airplanes can be inspiring, particularly for young children with dreams of becoming pilots. The museum also offers a space collection, housing the actual Apollo 9 Command Module and a piece of moon-rock, which are popular attractions.
If you're interested in aviation and space, the San Diego Air & Space Museum is an ideal place to visit. It boasts an impressive array of aircraft, from jets and retro planes to a massive helicopter. Suitable for children who are enthusiastic about the subject, the museum offers a unique and educational experience. Notable exhibits include the Apollo 9 command module and a real moon-rock, making this location a must-see for any space enthusiast.
11. Balboa Park Miniature Railroad
Scenic train ride through Balboa Park's lush landscapes
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San Diego is a great destination for families, especially with young children. One must-do activity is the train ride, which is a fun and exciting experience for kids. The park where the train is located also provides ample space for children to explore and run around freely, making it an ideal location for families to spend the day.
The miniature train ride is a standout attraction at this park in San Diego. Little ones, in particular, will enjoy this short yet enjoyable ride. As a great place to take the kids, this location offers a perfect opportunity for families to spend quality time together while keeping the young ones entertained. The train ride is just one of the many highlights that this park has to offer.
San Diego is a great destination for families, especially with young children. One must-do activity is the train ride, which is a fun and exciting experience for kids. The park where the train is located also provides ample space for children to explore and run around freely, making it an ideal location for families to spend the day.
The miniature train ride is a standout attraction at this park in San Diego. Little ones, in particular, will enjoy this short yet enjoyable ride. As a great place to take the kids, this location offers a perfect opportunity for families to spend quality time together while keeping the young ones entertained. The train ride is just one of the many highlights that this park has to offer.
12. Cabrillo National Monument
Offers panoramic views of San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean, and is home to the Cabrillo National Monument commemorating Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo's 1542 landing
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Consider the Junior Ranger activities for children when planning your visit to the Cabrillo National Monument in California. Before you go, check the day's weather forecast and low tide times to make the most of your trip. Take some time to examine the California relief map and learn about other National Parks in the state.
During your visit, families can enjoy easy walks and exploring the tidepools. The park is an excellent place to soak up the San Diego sunshine on a nice weather day. This beautiful and educational destination has something for everyone to enjoy.
Consider the Junior Ranger activities for children when planning your visit to the Cabrillo National Monument in California. Before you go, check the day's weather forecast and low tide times to make the most of your trip. Take some time to examine the California relief map and learn about other National Parks in the state.
During your visit, families can enjoy easy walks and exploring the tidepools. The park is an excellent place to soak up the San Diego sunshine on a nice weather day. This beautiful and educational destination has something for everyone to enjoy.
13. San Diego Zoo
Home to over 3,500 animals representing more than 650 species
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The San Diego Zoo is a must-visit destination for families, known for its beautiful grounds and well-maintained animal exhibits. Visitors can expect to learn something new and possibly encounter exotic animals they haven't seen before. One popular attraction for children, particularly toddlers and preschoolers, is the flamingos near the zoo entrance.
For a memorable family experience at the San Diego Zoo, consider following this one-day itinerary. Start by checking out the flamingos, then make your way to the children's zoo, where kids can enjoy interactive exhibits and up-close animal encounters. When it's time for a break, head to one of the zoo's several dining options, such as Albert's Restaurant or the Hua Mei Café. The San Diego Zoo also offers various extras, such as animal shows and guided tours, which can make your visit even more special.
The San Diego Zoo is a must-visit destination for families, known for its beautiful grounds and well-maintained animal exhibits. Visitors can expect to learn something new and possibly encounter exotic animals they haven't seen before. One popular attraction for children, particularly toddlers and preschoolers, is the flamingos near the zoo entrance.
For a memorable family experience at the San Diego Zoo, consider following this one-day itinerary. Start by checking out the flamingos, then make your way to the children's zoo, where kids can enjoy interactive exhibits and up-close animal encounters. When it's time for a break, head to one of the zoo's several dining options, such as Albert's Restaurant or the Hua Mei Café. The San Diego Zoo also offers various extras, such as animal shows and guided tours, which can make your visit even more special.
14. Inflatable World
Unique and exciting destination for family fun and entertainment
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Inflatable World is a spacious venue ideal for children's birthday parties. One of the most impressive aspects of this location is its cleanliness, which is a top priority for parents. Children are big fans of Inflatable World and can spend hours playing there. The cost is $15 per child, encouraging parents to make the most of their visit. This venue is also a great place for playdates with other children and parents.
As a mom, the cleanliness of Inflatable World was a standout feature for me. My kids never get enough of this place and can play for hours on end. The affordable price of $15 per child makes it easy to justify a long visit. Inflatable World is not only a great place for birthday parties but also an excellent spot for playdates with other families.
Inflatable World is a spacious venue ideal for children's birthday parties. One of the most impressive aspects of this location is its cleanliness, which is a top priority for parents. Children are big fans of Inflatable World and can spend hours playing there. The cost is $15 per child, encouraging parents to make the most of their visit. This venue is also a great place for playdates with other children and parents.
As a mom, the cleanliness of Inflatable World was a standout feature for me. My kids never get enough of this place and can play for hours on end. The affordable price of $15 per child makes it easy to justify a long visit. Inflatable World is not only a great place for birthday parties but also an excellent spot for playdates with other families.
15. The SUP & Saddle — Coronado Bike Rentals and Tours
Situated in the heart of Coronado, providing breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline and the Pacific Ocean.
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Exploring the beautiful Coronado, our family rented bikes, including our kids, for a whole day of fun and adventure. The bike rental staff were courteous and helpful, ensuring we had all necessary equipment for an enjoyable outing.
If you're looking for a family-friendly place to rent bikes and paddleboards, Coronado is the perfect spot. The staff went above and beyond to guarantee our kids' safety and enjoyment. They come highly recommended for a memorable family day out.
Exploring the beautiful Coronado, our family rented bikes, including our kids, for a whole day of fun and adventure. The bike rental staff were courteous and helpful, ensuring we had all necessary equipment for an enjoyable outing.
If you're looking for a family-friendly place to rent bikes and paddleboards, Coronado is the perfect spot. The staff went above and beyond to guarantee our kids' safety and enjoyment. They come highly recommended for a memorable family day out.
16. Gaslamp Quarter
Historic area with unique architecture and vibrant nightlife
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The Gaslamp Quarter is a wonderful destination for families with children. One of the highlights is the Gaslamp Artisan Market, where visitors can explore a variety of local goods. Historical walking tours are also available, providing an educational experience for children to learn about the area's past. Additionally, there is no shortage of family-friendly restaurants to choose from, offering diverse menu options for every taste preference.
During our visit to the Gaslamp Quarter, we had an incredible time. Our family was particularly captivated by the stunning rooftop views from STK, which offered a unique perspective of the city. Another hit with our children was the exciting escape room experience at The Escape Game San Diego. This activity provided an engaging and challenging opportunity for our family to work together and have fun.
The Gaslamp Quarter is a wonderful destination for families with children. One of the highlights is the Gaslamp Artisan Market, where visitors can explore a variety of local goods. Historical walking tours are also available, providing an educational experience for children to learn about the area's past. Additionally, there is no shortage of family-friendly restaurants to choose from, offering diverse menu options for every taste preference.
During our visit to the Gaslamp Quarter, we had an incredible time. Our family was particularly captivated by the stunning rooftop views from STK, which offered a unique perspective of the city. Another hit with our children was the exciting escape room experience at The Escape Game San Diego. This activity provided an engaging and challenging opportunity for our family to work together and have fun.
17. Desert Garden
Home to over 1.3 million plants, showcasing desert landscapes from around the world
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San Diego is an excellent destination for families looking for fun and entertainment. While well-known attractions like the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and Legoland are popular choices, the city also offers lesser-known gems that are worth exploring.
One such spot is Balboa Park, which houses 19 gardens, including the Desert Garden, Japanese Friendship Garden, and Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the natural beauty of these gardens. Additionally, there are several eateries located within the park, such as The Prado Restaurant, where families can grab a bite to eat. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that Balboa Park is a must-visit destination in San Diego.
San Diego is an excellent destination for families looking for fun and entertainment. While well-known attractions like the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and Legoland are popular choices, the city also offers lesser-known gems that are worth exploring.
One such spot is Balboa Park, which houses 19 gardens, including the Desert Garden, Japanese Friendship Garden, and Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the natural beauty of these gardens. Additionally, there are several eateries located within the park, such as The Prado Restaurant, where families can grab a bite to eat. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that Balboa Park is a must-visit destination in San Diego.
18. Kid Ventures Preschool Academy
19. Skytower
20. Children’s Museum Park
