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You’re spoiled for alternative with regards to nice household metropolis breaks in California, however because the state’s second largest metropolis, it’s no shock that there’s a lot to tempt you to San Diego with children.
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Together with nice family-friendly museums and a world-famous zoo, there’s historical past, nice seashores and loads of probabilities to get outdoor too, to not point out some main household sights a brief drive from town itself.
So whether or not you’re stopping as a part of a street journey in California or are spending your complete break in southern California, right here’s my choose of the most effective issues to do in San Diego with children.
MONEY SAVING TIP! Go to San Diego throughout October and you may usually get free admission for teenagers to among the metropolis’s greatest sights as a part of the Youngsters Free San Diego promotion
San Diego Zoo
Need your child to expertise an African rainforest and the Arctic taiga with out having to go away the US? Take them to one of many world’s finest zoos – the San Diego Zoo, which is unfold throughout 100 acres of Balboa Park.
There’s an enormous 3,500 animals to find, together with pandas, polar bears, elephants, meerkats, and flamingos, plus the possibility to see them in a recreated model of their pure habitat – excellent for kindling your youngster’s curiosity.
If the strolling will get an excessive amount of for the youthful ones in your troop, the zoo has you lined with its on-site bus tour that covers round 75% of the location.
Or for one thing a bit extra adventurous, climb aboard the Skyfari Aerial Tram, the zoo’s overhead gondola raise. You’ll be in for a deal with with some wonderful aerial views, adequate for kings and queens of the jungle.Â
Get a reduction on tickets when you e book by way of Tiqets utilizing my code MUMMYTRAVELS6, or you may as well e book a 1-day Any Day Go if you wish to maintain your schedule versatile.
Don’t get this confused with San Diego Zoo Safari Park, which is round half-hour outdoors town – though as one of many largest artifical safari parks on the planet, it’s a incredible time out close to San Diego for households too. It’s also possible to get joint tickets to each the Zoo and the Safari park when you’re visiting San Diego with children who love animals
Balboa Park
A mixture of tradition, science, and nature, Balboa Park is dwelling to over 1,200 acres of parkland with an entire array of museums, theatres, gardens, trails, and different leisure areas to find – there’s even a scavenger hunt that will help you discover all of it.
Begin with a go to to the WorldBeat Cultural Middle’s EthnoBotany Youngsters’s Peace Backyard, which provides children the chance to be taught in regards to the meals they eat day-after-day and the position of crops in society.Â
Try the Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theater too, the longest continuous-running puppet theatre in the USA – children (and oldsters) will love the exhibits, or on the San Diego Mannequin Railroad Museum, the most important such indoor exhibit in North America.
For some extra downtime between sightseeing in Balboa Park, take your children to the world’s first IMAX Dome Theater for instructional exhibits on the Fleet Science Middle. They’ll get to see exhibits comparable to Serengeti, Turtle Odyssey, Historical Caves, and Deep Sky, whisking them from beneath the waves as much as the celebrities, by way of a few of earth’s most fascinating landscapes.
Toddlers will love their time on the centre’s Child Metropolis, with its interactive play areas, though with eight galleries and over 100 interactive science reveals to discover, together with a digital actuality journey simulator and flight simulators, there’s assured to be one thing to maintain the whole household entertained.
The New Youngsters’s Museum  Â
The place are you able to go in case your children should not feeling outdoorsy? The New Youngsters’s Museum in downtown San Diego is jam-packed with actions, excellent for a wet day in San Diego with children.
On the latest addition, No Guidelines….Besides, guests of all ages get to take pleasure in leaping and crawling on greater than 150 mattresses and pillow tyres.
Different reveals embrace Sketch Aquarium, the place children get to scan their sea life drawings right into a digital life-size aquarium, and an entire string of others with attractive names like Wobbleland, The Marvel Sound, Wammock! and lots of extra.
The main focus is on immersing children in artwork and inspiring creativity in all, so it’s a incredible inclusive house too.
San Diego Pure Historical past Museum Â
Your children will love the a whole lot of quirky reveals on the San Diego Pure Historical past Museum, together with the fascinating assortment of dinosaur skeletons on show.
In all, the museum homes a powerful 7.5 million specimens, together with rocks, minerals, fossils, taxidermied animals, and mammals – in addition to interactive reveals unfold throughout 5 flooring, so that you’ll have a lot to see and do at this kid-friendly San Diego attraction.Â
One of many museum’s greatest highlights is the Large Display Theatre, with each 2D and 3D movies to show all in regards to the pure world.
Try the San Diego Go Metropolis Go which provides you entry to as much as 7 sights, together with the Pure Historical past Museum, or the San Diego Go Metropolis All-Inclusive Go with entry to as much as 50 sights and excursions
San Diego Air and House Museum
In case your children have an curiosity within the universe and every thing past our planet, the San Diego Air and House Museum will take you on a journey by house, from the planets and stars all the best way out to the sting of the identified universe.
You’ll be able to find out about every thing from historical astronomy to trendy house exploration, and there’s even a piece devoted to UFOs!
Whether or not you’re a seasoned house buff or simply beginning your journey of cosmic discovery, put in your rocket scientist hat and prepare for an out-of-this-world expertise!
Maritime Museum of San Diego
House to the USS Halfway Museum, the most important naval vessel on the planet open to the general public, the Maritime Museum of San Diego showcases maritime historical past and tradition in its fleet of eight vessels.
In addition to providing a captivating glimpse into life on a US plane provider, there’s a lot extra to maintain children entertained, from interactive reveals to plane simulators.
For teenagers (and oldsters), there’s an opportunity to find extra from the educated guides too, who present historic and army commentary.
It’s also possible to tour the Star of India, the oldest lively crusing ship, and even keep aboard throughout particular household in a single day adventures in the summertime. Purchase tickets with free cancellation.
Coronado Central Seaside Â
Set simply over the bridge from San Diego, Coronado’s seven miles of shoreline is dotted with 5 most important seashores so it’s superb when you’re in search of a household day by the coast.
The preferred alternative for households on Coronado Island is Central Seaside – though all the seashores other than South Seaside have lifeguards and restrooms – proper within the coronary heart of city, and only a brief method away from eating places and different sights.
For a change from museums and sightseeing, it couldn’t be simpler to search out someplace to construct sandcastles and splash within the calm waters when you’re in search of an opportunity to loosen up and revel in San Diego seashores.
Should you’re in search of extra lovely seashores in San Diego, there’s loads of alternative, together with Mission Seaside, and the Ocean Seaside and Pacific Seaside areas – some are extra family-friendly than others, relying when you’re visiting with teenagers or toddlers although
Outdated City Trolley ExcursionsÂ
In case your youngster loves historical past and listening to tales, then the Outdated City Trolley Excursions is the proper method to uncover extra in regards to the metropolis, whereas getting an opportunity to see the sights too.
Whereas the drivers share thrilling details in regards to the metropolis’s historical past and structure, additionally they always work together with children and maintain them engaged so it’s additionally a terrific method to see among the hottest San Diego sights in a single go.
They’re hop on hop off excursions as effectively, so it’s a enjoyable method to get from A to B, in addition to having the possibility to stretch your legs in case your children want a break.
Discover Outdated City San Diego
The situation of the primary European settlement in California, it’s the oldest neighborhood in San Diego and a fantastic place to wander round.
There’s an opportunity to find extra in regards to the origins of California right here on the Junipero Serra Museum, though you’ll be able to consider the entire district as a kind of residing museum as you wander previous the colorful boutiques between the historic buildings – be careful for the haunted Whaley Home Museum!
Should you love Mexican meals, you could find among the metropolis’s finest right here as effectively – don’t be stunned to come back throughout stay mariachi performers as you stroll.
And whereas it’s just a little method from most of San Diego’s different vacationer attraction, the trolley excursions cease right here so it’s straightforward to hop off and discover.
Bike Excursions of San Diego with childrenÂ
If you wish to see as a lot as attainable and time is brief, it’s laborious to beat a motorbike tour – and an e-bike tour are nice if not everybody needs to place in a number of effort!
Rent your individual and discover at your individual tempo, with each bikes and ebikes to hire, plus children’ bikes, toddler trailers and tagalongs
Or for households with teenagers, hop on an e-bike to find the most effective of San Diego in a 2 1/2 hour tour of town.
This two-hour electrical bike tour of La Jolla is appropriate for teenagers aged 12+, visiting La Jolla Cove and the coast, recognizing seals and fancy mansions alongside the best way.
Go Whale Watching
San Diego is a superb place to observe whales and dolphins as they swim off the California coast, so that you’ll discover a alternative of whale-watching boat excursions to select from for households.
In summer season, you could be fortunate sufficient to identify Blue Whales feeding offshore, whereas from winter to spring, Grey Whales migrate from Alaskan waters to their calving lagoons in Baja California.
Metropolis Cruises runs a four-hour whale watching tour, with an opportunity to identify dolphins, seals and sea lions alongside the best way, or Flagship Cruises have professional guides offering commentary as you sail.
Each depart from San Diego harbor, not removed from Broadway Pier and Navy Pier, to take you out into San Diego Bay.
San Diego SEAL Metropolis tour
For a ship tour with a distinction, climb aboard the San Diego SEAL Metropolis tour to discover town by land and sea.
Beginning with a drive by the San Diego streets, you’ll cross a string of landmarks together with the Embarcadero, in addition to the USS Halfway, in addition to studying extra in regards to the significance of the army within the metropolis.
Then the hybrid bus-boat heads straight into Large Bay the place you’ll be able to cruise previous extra ships, in addition to passing Shelter Island to listen to tales of early sailors and spot the seals hanging out. Simply one of the vital enjoyable issues to do in San Diego with children.
Kayak within the La Jolla Caves Â
Lower than a 20-minute drive from San Diego itself, it’s straightforward to get out an discover the California coast, together with the possibility for older children to discover the ocean cliffs and La Jolla Caves by kayak.
You’ll be able to hire kayaks and embark by yourself adventures as a household or spot sealife on a two-hour cave tour led by knowledgeable information. With double kayaks, it’s appropriate for teenagers aged 5+.
And when you’ve had your journey out on the waves, save a while to loosen up on the sandy La Jolla Shores seashore as effectively – additionally a fantastic possibility for youthful children to play whereas any older ones head out to sea.
Birch Aquarium At Scripps  Â
Whereas in La Jolla, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps is one other nice possibility for a household time out. Finest identified for its sea dragons (correctly often called weedy seagragons!), there are additionally penguins, turtles, sharks, octopus and an entire shoal of various fish.
The Corridor of Fishes options greater than 60 habitats that span from the Pacific Northwest to the tropical oceans, whereas you may as well rise up shut and private with sea stars, hermit crabs, sea cucumbers, lobsters, and different sea creatures on the Tide Pool Plaza.Â
A part of the Scripps Establishment of Oceanography, entry is included within the San Diego Metropolis Go, which additionally means you’ll be able to go to with out prebooking.
Should you’re studying this listing and suppose I’ve forgotten all about Seaworld San Diego in Mission Bay, it’s a deliberate alternative on my half – whereas it’s a significant household attraction, I select to not suggest anyplace which retains orcas in captivity
Belmont Park
Should you’re in search of theme parks, the closest factor on the listing is Belmont Park – this amusement park is a historic gem with loads of rides and video games to maintain children entertained.
With 22 enjoyable rides and sights to take pleasure in along with carnival-style video games, you’ll be able to take pleasure in all of it whereas being surrounded by lovely views and wonderful oceanfront surroundings.
Should you’re in search of thrills, experience the Large Dipper (a classic picket curler coaster initially in-built 1925) at speeds over 45 mph, whereas little ones can benefit from the carousel and rides like Tilt-A-Whirl and Dip & Dive.
Try the San Diego Go Metropolis Go which provides you entry to as much as 7 sights, together with a Belmont Park Journey and Play Go, or the San Diego Go Metropolis All-Inclusive Go with entry to as much as 50 sights and excursions
Waterfront parkÂ
Not removed from the Maritime Museum, Waterfront Park is a superb place for teenagers to let off some steam, with loads of play tools in addition to spray fountains to splash in on a sunny day.
There are sometimes particular occasions going down right here, together with farmers markets (so you would choose up one thing scrumptious to eat on the park’s picnic tables) in addition to household pleasant festivals.
You’ll discover a bike path by the park as effectively when you’ve employed your individual bike for the day, and also you’re not removed from Little Italy the place you’ll be able to choose up some nice ice cream earlier than you hit the park.
Eat at Corvette DinerÂ
You received’t be in need of nice locations to eat in San Diego with children, however Corvette Diner is a kid-friendly house with a distinction.
This basic diner has 50s-styled workers ready tables and singing, whereas the menu has shakes and burgers, amongst different basic 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 on the desk and vibrant decor, this 50s-themed household pleasant attraction in San Diego is perhaps kitsch however with regards to kid-friendly eating places, that is positively one to recollect.
Legoland California
Embark on a memorable journey with your loved ones at Legoland California, the place creativeness involves life for teenagers of all ages – round a 30-minute drive from San Diego, it’s one to not miss whilst you’re visiting town.
With over 60 rides, exhibits, and sights the place children can take the lead, this San Diego household theme park is geared to children aged between 2 and 12. The Heartlake Metropolis part options an interactive construct space, Fortress Hill is a medieval journey with knights and dragons, and the Creativeness Zone is a must-visit for artistic little ones.
Don’t miss a visit to Legoland’s Sea Life Aquarium whilst you’re there, to move your children into the depths of the ocean. Youngsters will get to see marine life galore together with sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, sea stars, sea horses, jellies, and hundreds of colourful fish within the 20,000-square-foot indoor aquarium!Â
Subsequent to the aquarium is the Legoland Water Park, one other cool spot to spend a few hours with the children. There are slides, rides and wave pool for the entire household, such because the Duplo Splash Safari space and Craggers Swamp space. E book tickets for Legoland California right here.
Carlsbad Flower Fields
A bouquet’s throw from Legoland California, The Carlsbad Flower Fields are one of the vital uncommon issues to see with children in San Diego County.
The fields come alive each spring like a trapped rainbow as 50 acres of flowers bloom in each conceivable shade, in addition to some enjoyable household actions.
Tiptoe by the maze of candy peas, fill out passport papers at stamp stations, and admire the Large Tecolote Ranunculus, in addition to studying about recycling and composting.
The most effective time to see the fields is often mid-March by early Could, however examine the web site for up to date data on blooming occasions.
Seaside Hike At Torrey Pines Pure ReserveÂ
Not removed from La Jolla, Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve is likely one of the finest household sights in San Diego. With over eight lovely trails to discover, that is the proper place to expertise a few of California’s pure magnificence.Â
An effective way to soak up the view from above is to observe the Man Fleming Path, a largely flat 0.8-mile loop excellent for little toes. 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 while you want a break, there are benches the place you’ll be able to sit again and take within the coastal surroundings.Â
Mission Trails Regional Park
Mission Trails Regional Park is one other excellent spot for households in search of some out of doors journey, with an opportunity to having fun with picture-perfect views of San Diego’s cityscape within the background.
With greater than 65 miles of trails and eight,000 acres of hills and canyons to discover, together with different out of doors actions, there’s one thing for everybody at this city park.
Climbing and biking trails wind by the park’s pure areas, whereas playgrounds, grassy areas with picnic tables, and fishing spots are excellent for a day within the nice outdoor.
And the most effective issues about Mission Trails is that it’s solely a brief drive from downtown San Diego – so it’s straightforward to get to!
Cabrillo Nationwide Monument
A go to to the Cabrillo Nationwide Monument brings historical past to life, with loads of actions for teenagers on this enjoyable household time out.
On this website again in 1542, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo climbed out of his boat and stepped into historical past as the primary European to set foot on what’s now the West Coast of the USA.
In addition to uncover extra about sixteenth century exploration, you’ll be able to go to Outdated Level Loma Lighthouse, been refurbished to showcase life within the 1800s with interval furnishings in addition to exploring the park itself.
Comply with the Bayside Path for a spectacular panoramic view of the ocean and town beneath. Mid-January is peak time for recognizing whales right here, however you’ll be able to generally see them in migration season from mid to late December by March. Be sure you cease by the tide swimming pools too whilst you’re there too, to see what’s revealed at low tide.
San Diego Botanic Backyard
For a enjoyable and fascinating day journey with your loved ones, the San Diego Botanic Backyard is unquestionably price contemplating – regardless of the identify it’s not within the metropolis itself, nevertheless it’s straightforward to succeed in by automobile.
With greater than 37 acres of gardens, crops, and nature trails to discover, there’s one thing for everybody to take pleasure in too. Themed gardens embrace a Japanese backyard, rose backyard, succulent backyard, and several other gardens made particularly for youngsters.
The Seeds of Marvel Youngsters’s Backyard is designed for households to attach with nature and is ideal for preschool-age children. It includes a dinosaur-themed backyard, playhouse, topiary, and miniature railroad. Throughout most months, it additionally hosts weekly actions in partnership with SAPLinGS – Science Artwork & Play In Floor House Saves (a program that promotes artistic studying).
The biggest kids’s backyard on the West Coast, the Hamilton Youngsters’s Backyard supplies a wealth of studying alternatives for teenagers. Right here, kids may have enjoyable exploring the Unbelievable Edibles part, taking part in large tic-tac-toe, drawing on an enormous chalkboard, studying about sundials, or climbing an elaborate treehouse.
The San Diego Botanic Backyard can be dwelling to a wide range of fascinating crops and animals, so you should definitely maintain your eyes peeled!
For concepts of extra issues to do on the California coast, try our 10-day Pacific Coast Freeway Itinerary, in addition to concepts for San Francisco with children and visiting Northern California with children
Disclosure: This submit comprises affiliate hyperlinks – any purchases you make are unaffected however I’ll obtain a small fee
Photos courtesy of Depositphotos
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