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Top 10 Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

San Diego is undoubtedly one of the best family-friendly destinations in the country for various reasons. The city on California’s Pacific Coast boasts great sunny weather and beautiful sandy beaches and that’s not all. It is home to a plethora of sights ideal for all groups, including kids and teens.

Is San Diego worth a visit?

From the impressive Balboa Park which is home to over 15 museums, art galleries, and the iconic San Diego Zoo, to artsy neighborhoods, eateries, and a rich naval history, you’re about to get spoilt for choice. La Jolla offers you cool marine sightings, including sea lions that come out to sunbathe at the Cove. Tidepooling, kayaking, boat rides, and other water activities are just some of the numerous outdoor treats that your family will enjoy.

Have a look at; Where to stay in San Diego:  The Ultimate Area Guide.

To get around most parts of the city outside Downtown, consider renting a car or using Uber. Public transport may be insufficient. Parking fees in downtown and most touristy areas are also pricey, and you’ve got to budget for that should you consider driving yourself around.

Looking to travel to San Diego soon with your young ones? We’ve picked the top 10 things to do with kids in the city.

1. Visit the USS Midway Museum

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If your kids are lovers of naval history and ships, they will have a blast with this one. The USS Midway is one of the oldest naval aircraft carriers, and it floats over the Pacific in San Diego, offering its visitors an experience like no other. Travel back in time and explore its incredible history, while marveling at its impressive, massive interior. The museum is right there, housing a wide collection of aircraft. The USS Midway hosted over 200,000 sailors during its active operation years. Explore over 60 locations with a self-guided audio tour, including the sailors’ quarters, the engine room, the bridge and so much more. Ensure you’re all wearing comfortable shoes for easy and safe navigation of the rooms. Half a day is recommended to get the most out of your visit.

ADDRESS: 910 N HARBOR DR, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101, UNITED STATES

CALL: + 1 619 544 9600

OPEN: 10 AM TO 5 PM

2. Don’t miss out on the most visited zoos in the country; San Diego Zoo

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You probably already knew that the San Diego Zoo is widely considered one of the largest, most important zoos, and the best in the world. It houses over 4,000 animals, and most of them are endangered species. Here, you’ll find some of the rarest animals, including exotic wild birds. The grounds are vast, and should you skip the bus tour, you’re in for a lot of walking. The place has a botanical garden, and a kids’ playground area too making it ideal for a family visit. Spare about half a day to explore the zoo at your own pace, wear comfortable shoes for walking and carry a water bottle. It’s accessible by either public transport or car.  You can find parking in Balboa Park, in case you miss a spot in front of the zoo. Find directions from major entrance points depending on where you’re coming from

ADDRESS: 2920 ZOO DR, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101, UNITED STATES

CALL: + 1 619 231 1515

OPEN: 9 AM TO 6 PM DAILY

TICKETS FOR A 1 DAY PASS: $ 69 FOR ADULTS, $ 59 FOR KIDS

3. Family fun at the Belmont Amusement Park

It’s all fun and games at the beachfront amusement park near Mission Beach. Find a variety of games and other fun-filled activities for all ages. There’s something for everyone, and you could easily spend a full day just exploring what to do. If you’re lucky, you can attend fun events that are regularly held here. There are lots of eatery joints around, so you don’t have to worry about where to eat when you’re all tired and craving a bite. Ice cream, tacos, burgers, name it! Immerse yourself in rope courses, vintage games, laser tags, escape rooms, bumper cars, and other fun options for your preferred kind of activity. Entrance to the park is free, but you’ll pay for most of the activities available here. Take a stroll along the boardwalk when the sun isn’t too hot, and savor the views.

Need a hearty meal at the end of the day? Check out the 10 Best Buffet Restaurants in San Diego.

ADDRESS: 3146 MISSION BLVD, SAN DIEGO, CA 92109, UNITED STATES

CALL: + 1 858 488 1549

OPEN: SUNDAY-THURSDAY 11 AM TO 8 PM, FRIDAY & SATURDAY 11 AM TO 10 PM

4. Drive over to LEGOLAND

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Take a short trip to LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad. Ideal for younger kids of up to 10 years of age, the place is an amazing world of everything LEGO. It has a theme park, water park, a Lego-themed aquarium, a miniland, and more. The designs and general layout of the place are incredibly done, and most visitors review this quite positively. The kids will enjoy the smooth and fun rides, and exploring all the Lego stuff around. A day pass is recommended, and tickets will vary depending on the package. Heads up though, it’s a bit on the higher side, with the lowest package going for $ 89 per person. Check out the website for more information.

ADDRESS: ONE LEGOLAND DR, CARLSBAD, CA 92008, UNITED STATES

CALL: + 1 888 690 5346

OPEN: 10 TO 5 PM DAILY

5. Enjoy the summer vibe at Mission Beach

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San Diego offers its visitors several great choices when it comes to beaches. Each beach has its unique features and crowd, and Mission Beach is one of the best family-friendly beaches. It has that laid-back feel and slow-paced atmosphere to it. You’ll see kids running around in their little swimsuits, as parents sunbathe and take in the views over a drink.  When the summer feels get to you, get your swimsuits on and hit the shores! You could also engage in a watersport, or sit and watch your young ones play with the sand.

6. Catch a baseball game at Petco Park

If you love baseball, then Petco Park is where you want to go to catch a game in San Diego. It is home to the San Diego Padres of Major League Baseball. The fan base here is pretty energetic, and what other better way to buoy everyone’s spirits than cheer the home team on a fine evening? Check out season games on their website. There are numerous food options, although prices are high just like in most stadiums. Purchasing tickets online might save you the long wait at the two ticket booths on site. There’s paid parking.

ADDRESS: 100 PARK BLVD, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101, UNITED STATES

CALL: + 1 619 795 5025

7. Attend a San Diego Symphony Concert at the Rady Shell

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You don’t have to be a fan of Beethoven to enjoy the mellow symphony creations as they do at Rady Shell. The other thing about music; even toddlers know when that chord strikes a nerve! Enjoy beautiful orchestra sounds with your family from the San Diego Symphony. It offers live concerts at this open-air music venue once in a while. Rady Shell is located in the San Diego Bay in Marina District and can sit up to 10,000 people. Check out upcoming shows on their website below, and buy your ticket. Food and drinks are available upon pre-order. Find instructions on the same on the venue’s .

ADDRESS: LOCATED IN EMBARCADERO MARINA PARK SOUTH, 200 MARINA PARK WAY, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101, UNITED STATES

8. An interactive learning session at the Fleet Science Center

For lovers of science with kid-oriented exhibits, the Fleet Science Center offers a fantastic experience for children. There are numerous interactive exhibits to ensure your kid learns a thing or two while having fun. The place has multiple rooms, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater. Adults will hardly feel left out either, with over 100 interactive science exhibits in 8 galleries. Check out regular events on their website and add to the experience. You can access the venue by car or public transport. Find detailed directions

ADDRESS: 1875 EL PRADO, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101, UNITED STATES

CALL: + 1 619 238 1233

OPEN: 10 AM TO 5 PM

9. Give them a foodie treat at Liberty Public Market

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The expansive food hall welcomes you to a foodie adventure like no other. Explore the numerous eateries and pick whatever ticks your palate. There’s a lot to choose from, including craft sandwiches, crepes, steak, seafood, California burritos, and other delights. Get together with your kids over savory treats on a cool day in the city, then head out and explore more of what the area has to offer. It’s an indoor court, which makes it convenient regardless of the weather. Parking is limited especially on weekends.

Read also; 30 Best Cafes and Coffee Shops in San Diego.

ADDRESS: LOCATED IN LIBERTY STATION, 2820 HISTORIC DECATUR RD, SAN DIEGO, CA 92106, UNITED STATES

CALL: + 1 619 487 9346

10. Sweet tooth delights at Extraordinary Desserts

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Bend the rules and let everyone satisfy their sweet tooth at this popular joint. It is well known for its vast variety of dessert treats. Whether they prefer pastries or specialty cakes, the extensive menu offers you lots of options to choose from. The indoor sitting area is spacious, and you can also enjoy your treat on the outdoor patio. A locals’ favorite joint hardly disappoints, and this is one of them. You can also order takeaways to enjoy when you get home.

ADDRESS: 1430 UNION ST, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101, UNITED STATES

CALL: + 1 619 294 7001

OPEN SUNDAY-THURSDAY 10 TO 9 PM, FRIDAY & SATURDAY 10 AM TO 10 PM

Read more on; 60 Fun & Best Things to do in San Diego.

The city has numerous things to do, and perfectly suited for family time. Whether you’re with your toddler, young kid, or teen, there is something fun and interactive for all. You only have to look around! We’ve given you 10, and that’s just a tip of what San Diego has to offer! As always, happy and safe travel.