San Diego is a popular vacation destination for good reason – there’s something for everyone! If you’re traveling with kids in tow, never fear – there are plenty of great things to do in San Diego that will keep them entertained. From the world-famous San Diego Zoo to SeaWorld and Legoland, here are some of the best things to do in San Diego with kids.
#1: Belmont Park
The historic Belmont Park is a must-visit for any family vacationing in San Diego. The park first opened in 1905 and today, it is home to a variety of amusement park rides, including a roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and carousel. There’s also a beachfront boardwalk where you can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Entry to Belmont Park is free, and you can purchase tickets for rides separately.
#2: Take A Trip To SeaWorld
A world-renowned marine life park, SeaWorld is one of the most popular destinations in San Diego for families. From thrilling rides to up-close encounters with dolphins and whales, SeaWorld has something for everyone.
Your kids will love the live otter, dolphin and sea lion shows, and the chance to get wet and wild on rides like Journey to Atlantis and the Manta roller coaster!
#3: LEGOLAND
If your kids are LEGO fanatics, they’ll go crazy for LEGOLAND California. With more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions, LEGOLAND is the perfect place to let your kids run wild. From the pirate-themed Adventure Land to Miniland USA, a miniature replica of the United States made entirely out of LEGO bricks, there’s something for everyone at LEGOLAND.
#4: Balboa Park
Another must-see for families in San Diego is Balboa Park. With more than 1,200 acres of gardens, museums, and theaters, there’s something for everyone at Balboa Park. Kids will love the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, which is located in the park, and the free museums like the Museum of Man and the Museum of Art.
Be sure to leave time to wander through the beautiful gardens – you may even stumble upon a free concert or festival happening in the park.
#5: Old Town San Diego
For a taste of history, head to Old Town San Diego. This area was the first European settlement in California, and today it is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums.
Kids will love seeing the historic buildings and riding the Old Town Trolley. Be sure to visit the San Diego History Center, which tells the story of San Diego from its earliest inhabitants to the present day.
#6: The New Children’s Museum
If your kids are into art and creativity, they’ll love the New Children’s Museum. This museum is designed specifically for kids, with exhibits that encourage them to use their imaginations.
From hands-on activities to interactive art installations, the New Children’s Museum is the perfect place to let your kids explore and play.
#7: Birch Aquarium
Located in La Jolla, the Birch Aquarium is a must-visit for any family interested in marine life. With more than 60 tanks of fish and other sea creatures, the Birch Aquarium is a great place to learn about the ocean. Kids will love touching stingrays in the tide pool and watching the sharks swim by.
#8: Museum of Making Music
Are your kids into music? If so, the Museum of Making Music is a must-see. This museum tells the story of music from its earliest origins to the present day, with exhibits that let kids experiment with music themselves.
With interactive displays and hands-on activities, the Museum of Making Music is a great place to learn about the history of music and how it is made.
#9: Coronado Central Beach
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the sun, head to Coronado Central Beach. This mile-long beach is one of the most popular in San Diego, and it’s easy to see why.
With beautiful views of the city skyline and the bay, as well as a wide variety of shops and restaurants nearby, Coronado Central Beach is the perfect place to spend a day.
#10: Cabrillo National Monument
For a taste of history, head to the Cabrillo National Monument. This monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European explorer to reach San Diego.
Kids will love seeing the statue of Cabrillo and exploring the tide pools at the monument. Be sure to visit the visitor center, which has exhibits about the history of San Diego.
#11: Carlsbad Flower Fields
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors, head to the Carlsbad Flower Fields. This 50-acre field is covered in a variety of colorful flowers, and it’s a great place to take a nature walk. Your children will love seeing the different kinds of flowers, and they can even pick their own bouquet to take home.
#12: San Diego Botanic Garden
The San Diego Botanic Garden is a great place to explore the beauty of nature. This 37-acre garden has a variety of plants from around the world, as well as a nature trail and a children’s garden. Kids will love exploring the different gardens and learning about the plants and animals that live there.
#13: Fleet Science Center
The Fleet Science Center is a great place to learn about science. With exhibits on everything from space exploration to the human body, the Fleet Science Center is perfect for kids of all ages. Be sure to check out the IMAX theater, which has some of the biggest screens in San Diego.
#14: Take A Drive Up The Coast
One of the best things about San Diego is its beautiful location on the California coast. If you’re looking for a day of fun in the sun, pack up the car and take a drive down the coast.
There are plenty of beautiful beaches to choose from, and you can stop along the way to explore charming towns like La Jolla and Del Mar. Your kids will love getting out and playing in the sand, and you can enjoy the beautiful views.
#15: Take A Cruise On Our Catamaran!
Treat your kids to a fun filled day on the water with our ticketed catamaran cruises or book a private rental to keep all the fun to yourselves. The Triton catamran is the largest in San Diego, with an incredibly friendly staff that will keep your little ones safe and having a fantastic time! Book one of our ticketed cruises or San Diego catamaran rental for an experience they’ll never forget!
Enjoy The Best Things To Do In San Diego With Kids
San Diego is a great place for families, with plenty of things to do for kids of all ages. From beaches and museums to gardens and zoos, there’s something for everyone in San Diego. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
To learn even more about renting a yacht in San Diego, please visit our articles page!