22 Family-Friendly Activities in San Diego

With beautiful weather year-round, gorgeous beaches, and plenty of things to do for all ages and interests, San Diego is a fantastic destination for all kinds of travelers. This city is particularly great for families, featuring attractions such as museums, hiking trails, amusement parks, and various activities that provide both learning and fun. Whether you prefer to stay downtown, near the beach, or conveniently close to Balboa Park, San Diego has a variety of accommodations available, catering to different price ranges.

Spot wildlife on a coastal hike

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers a variety of hiking trails along with a glimpse into the geology and human history of the area. The reserve is home to endangered native plants as well as habitats for shorebirds, quail, mule deer, coyotes, and bobcats.

Find the perfect beach for swimming, surfing, or sunbathing

With more than 70 miles of coastline, San Diego has a beach for everyone, including many that welcome furry friends. At Mission Bay, there’s kayaking, water skiing, sailing, kite surfing, and boating. On the shore, visitors can picnic, barbecue, or enjoy a bonfire.

Watch Major League Baseball or tour Petco Park

Home of the San Diego Padres, Petco Park offers guided tours that include behind-the-scenes locations like the press box, luxury suites, and Padres Hall of Fame. During the season, enjoy a game and feast on nachos, burgers, pizza, ice cream, and, of course, hot dogs.

See model trains from California’s past

Model train fans will enjoy the exhibits at the Railroad Museum. The Cabrillo Southwestern and the San Diego & Arizona Eastern railroad models represent California in the 1950s, while the Pacific Desert Line shows the original 1855 planned route—be sure to look closely for hidden surprises.

Learn something new at Fleet Science Center

At the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park, interactive activities teach fascinating lessons covering everything from optical illusions to electricity, solar power, and nanotechnology. Visitors ages five and under can explore Kid City and the Little Learner’s Lab.

Visit Old Town to learn about San Diego history

Take a one-hour guided walking tour to learn about Old Town, the site of California’s first European settlement. After your history lesson, stop for a snack, listen to strolling mariachis, or browse through Old Town’s eclectic shops.

Ride a Lego-themed roller coaster at Legoland

More than 60 Legoland rides, shows, and attractions are geared toward families with children between the ages of two and 12. Experience a factory tour to see how Lego bricks are made.

Shop and eat your way through Seaport Village

Shop for souvenirs, pick up a kite to fly on the beach, and grab an ice cream or an adult beverage at Seaport Village. If it’s time for lunch or dinner, enjoy a meal with a view of the boardwalk or bay.

Marvel at marine life at Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Take a private tour, offered daily, to explore the fascinating world of seahorses, or discover tide pools with a naturalist for a real-life outdoor learning adventure.

Tour San Diego on land and sea in an amphibious vehicle

On a SEAL Tour, you wind through the city’s streets before splashing into San Diego Bay to cruise among seals, sea lions, pelicans, and other wildlife, led by experienced guides.

Paddle along the La Jolla Sea Caves

Visitors ages six and up can take a kayak tour to explore the La Jolla Sea Caves and Ecological Reserve. A two-hour guided tour offers the chance to spot local sea animals and enjoy breathtaking scenery up close.

Explore the San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is one of the best in the U.S., making it a popular stop for families. Explore the park and see your favorite animals among the exhibits. Consider taking a guided bus tour or the Skyfari Aerial Tram for a unique view.

Ride a classic wooden roller coaster at Belmont Park

This vintage amusement park features bumper cars, a carousel, and various attractions. Spend a fun day and stay to watch the sun set over the ocean.

Get creative at The New Children’s Museum

Engaging exhibits, colorful interactive play areas, and hands-on art installations offer fun for young kids, along with family-friendly weekend activities.

Ride around Mission Bay on two wheels

Car-free paved bike paths offer great sightseeing through Pacific Beach, La Jolla, and Ocean Beach. The 12-mile Mission Bay Bike Route is perfect for wildlife lovers and those who want to soak in the scenery.

Go for a hike at Cabrillo National Monument

At Cabrillo National Monument, enjoy scenic views, hike a two-mile trail, and partake in Junior Ranger activities. Explore the Visitor Center for fascinating exhibits about California history.

Visit Sesame Place for story time with Big Bird

Located on 17 acres, Sesame Place features several rides, a dance party, and character meet and greets. Dining options are available in the park, allowing for a fun-filled day.

Stay at the legendary Hotel Del Coronado

More than just a resort, Hotel Del Coronado is a historic property that originally opened in 1888. Offering a range of accommodation options, it features stunning beach access, multiple pools, and the Ocean Explorers program for kids.

Watch scientists at work at the San Diego Natural History Museum

The San Diego Natural History Museum enables visitors to witness scientists as they prepare specimens in the Demonstration Lab. The Living Lab features exhibits for all ages, including a play area designed for young children.

Check out Liberty Public Market

Located in Point Loma, Liberty Station is home to Liberty Public Market. Visitors can enjoy a walking tour, explore public art, or shop for local artisan food and crafts.

Watch sea lions lounge on the beach

At La Jolla Cove, you can observe sea lions as they lounge on the beach. Enjoy the coastal views while exploring shops and dining options in the charming coastal area.

Walk among the colorful murals of Chicano Park

Chicano Park hosts a remarkable collection of murals and sculptures dedicated to Mexican-American cultural heritage. Don’t forget to relish the neighborhood’s authentic Mexican food, coffee, and craft brews.