San Diego is a vibrant city filled with exciting activities for families. From stunning beaches to interactive museums, here’s your ultimate guide to fun things to do in San Diego with children.
In 2018, LEGOLAND California unveiled the world’s largest LEGO model – a Star Wars X-wing starfighter made from over 5 million LEGO bricks. This massive model weighs nearly 46,000 pounds and took 32 builders more than 17,000 hours to complete, offering children and adults alike a truly awe-inspiring demonstration of what can be achieved with these beloved plastic bricks.
Theme Parks
San Diego Zoo
Renowned as one of the best zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo is a 100-acre wonderland of wildlife, interactive exhibits, and lush botanical gardens. Home to over 12,000 animals representing more than 650 species, the zoo is not just a place to view animals but an immersive experience where conservation meets adventure. Wander through the Lost Forest, where gorillas and hippos thrive, or hop aboard the Skyfari Aerial Tram for a bird’s-eye view of the park. With themed zones like the Arctic-inspired Northern Frontier and the Australian Outback, it’s a magical journey through Earth’s ecosystems.
Fun Fact: The San Diego Zoo pioneered the concept of cageless exhibits back in 1916, revolutionizing how zoos around the world house and display animals.
Price: Tickets range from $69 to $89 for adults, and $59 to $79 for children aged 3–11. Membership packages offer better value for families.
Travel Tip: Arrive early to catch animal feedings and plan your day around the zoo’s free guided bus tour—it’s a great way to orient yourself before exploring on foot.
SeaWorld San Diego
Dive into a day of excitement at SeaWorld San Diego, where marine life and thrilling attractions come together. Meet playful dolphins, awe-inspiring orcas, and cheeky sea lions during up-close encounters or live shows like the popular Orca Encounter. For thrill-seekers, rides such as the Electric Eel and the Emperor, the tallest and fastest dive coaster in California, deliver heart-pounding excitement. Families with younger children will love the Sesame Street Bay of Play, featuring themed rides and interactive play areas.
Fun Fact: SeaWorld is home to one of the largest man-made saltwater pools in the world, originally designed for its orca shows.
Price: Tickets start around $74.99 per person, with seasonal discounts and bundled packages available.
Travel Tip: Bring a change of clothes for the kids if you plan to visit the splash zones, and don’t miss the evening fireworks show during summer months!
LEGOLAND California
Located just 30 miles north of San Diego, LEGOLAND California is a dreamland for young builders and adventurers. Spanning over 128 acres, the park features more than 60 rides, attractions, and shows. Kids can pilot boats in LEGO City, marvel at miniature cities in Miniland USA, or cool off at the LEGOLAND Water Park, which boasts slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. The park’s LEGO Movie World brings favorite characters to life with interactive rides and immersive 4D experiences.
Fun Fact: LEGOLAND’s Miniland USA contains over 32 million LEGO bricks, recreating iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, the Las Vegas Strip, and even a Star Wars galaxy.
Price: Day passes start at $89 for children and $99 for adults. Multi-day and park-hopper tickets, including the water park, are also available.
Travel Tip: Stay at the LEGOLAND Hotel for early access to the park and kid-friendly themed rooms that bring the LEGO universe right to your doorstep.
Beaches and Outdoor Activities
La Jolla Cove
Nestled along San Diego’s stunning coastline, La Jolla Cove is a haven for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. This small, idyllic beach is famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and picturesque sandstone cliffs. It’s part of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park, a protected marine reserve, making it a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors often spot playful sea lions basking on the rocks or swimming nearby, adding a delightful wildlife encounter to the experience.
Fun Fact: La Jolla Cove is one of the most photographed spots in San Diego, thanks to its dramatic sunsets and the iconic seals that make this area their home.
Price: Access to the beach is free, but parking in the area may cost $5–$20 depending on location and season. Snorkeling rentals start around $20.
Travel Tip: Arrive early in the morning to secure parking and enjoy calm waters, perfect for snorkeling before the crowds arrive.
Balboa Park
Stretching across 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is San Diego’s cultural and recreational gem. This urban park is home to 17 museums, multiple theaters, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Families can wander through lush gardens like the Japanese Friendship Garden or marvel at the Botanical Building, one of the largest lath structures in the world. The park’s outdoor spaces are ideal for picnics, kite flying, and leisurely strolls, while kids will adore interactive exhibits at the Fleet Science Center or the playful architecture of the Casa del Prado.
Fun Fact: Balboa Park was built for the 1915–16 Panama-California Exposition, and many of its original structures still stand today, showcasing ornate Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.
Price: Entry to the park is free, though museums and certain attractions charge admission ($10–$25). Day passes for multiple attractions start around $46.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a map—it’s easy to lose track of time while exploring this massive park! Check the event schedule for free outdoor concerts and performances.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
For families who love the outdoors, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers a perfect mix of adventure and serenity. This protected coastal reserve spans 2,000 acres of unspoiled land, featuring rare Torrey pine trees, rugged cliffs, and panoramic ocean views. The hiking trails vary in difficulty, making them suitable for all ages. Trails like the Guy Fleming Trail and Razor Point Trail offer breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and seasonal wildflowers. After a hike, head down to Torrey Pines State Beach to relax by the waves.
Fun Fact: The Torrey pine is one of the rarest pine species in the world, growing naturally only in this reserve and on Santa Rosa Island off the California coast.
Price: Parking fees range from $12 to $25 per vehicle. Entry to the reserve is free for hikers.
Travel Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset for cooler temperatures and extraordinary photo opportunities. Don’t forget water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes!
Indoor Activities for Rainy Days
New Children’s Museum
The New Children’s Museum in San Diego is not your typical museum—it’s a creative wonderland designed to ignite children’s imaginations. From giant climbable sculptures to interactive art installations, this space encourages hands-on exploration and artistic expression. The exhibits are constantly evolving, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit. Parents can join in the fun or relax at the on-site café while the kids unleash their creativity through painting, building, or crafting.
Fun Fact: The museum’s building is a work of art itself, designed by renowned architect Rob Quigley. Its sustainable features, like natural ventilation and rainwater harvesting, make it as eco-friendly as it is innovative.
Price: General admission is $15–$20 per person, with discounts for seniors and military families. Children under one year old enter for free.
Travel Tip: Plan your visit around one of the museum’s workshops or family programs to enhance your experience. Bring a change of clothes for messy art activities!
Reuben H. Fleet Science Center
For young scientists and curious minds, the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park is a playground of discovery. With over 100 interactive exhibits, kids can experiment with physics, biology, and technology in engaging and unforgettable ways. Highlights include the Tinkering Studio, where creativity meets engineering, and the Kid City area, perfect for toddlers. The center also features Southern California’s first IMAX Dome Theater, showing stunning educational films that immerse viewers in the wonders of science and nature.
Fun Fact: Opened in 1973, the Fleet Science Center was the first science museum in the U.S. to combine interactive exhibits with a planetarium-style IMAX theater.
Price: Tickets cost $20–$25 for adults and $15–$20 for children, including access to one IMAX film.
Travel Tip: Reserve IMAX seats in advance, as popular films often sell out. If you’re traveling with younger kids, focus on hands-on areas like the Tinkering Studio.
Belmont Park
Rainy days can’t dampen the fun at Belmont Park, a historic indoor amusement park located along Mission Beach. Originally opened in 1925, the park is famous for its Giant Dipper, a classic wooden roller coaster that’s as thrilling today as it was nearly a century ago. Inside, you’ll find arcade games, mini golf, laser tag, and even a rock-climbing wall. The mix of retro charm and modern attractions makes it a favorite for kids and nostalgic parents alike.
Fun Fact: The Giant Dipper roller coaster is a National Historic Landmark and one of only a handful of wooden coasters still operating in the U.S.
Price: Entry is free, but rides and attractions range from $5 to $15 each. Unlimited ride wristbands cost about $40.
Travel Tip: Spend time in the arcade, where you can collect tickets to redeem for prizes—kids love the challenge, and it’s perfect for rainy day entertainment.
Other Attractions
USS Midway Museum
Explore a historic aircraft carrier turned museum. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and the chance to see real aircraft up close.
San Diego Model Railroad Museum
One of the largest model railroad museums in the world. Fascinating for children and adults alike.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Step back in time and explore historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. Educational and fun for the whole family.
San Diego is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide variety of activities that cater to all interests and age groups. Whether you’re exploring theme parks, relaxing on the beach, or engaging in indoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.
