24 Fun Things To Do In San Diego With Kids

Looking for some fun things to do in San Diego with your kids?

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

In this blog post, we will share 24 awesome activities that will keep your little ones entertained in San Diego.

From visiting the zoo to playing at the beach, there is something for everyone on this list.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure!

#1. Aquatica San Diego Water Park

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Aquatica San Diego is a water park like no other, offering something for everyone in the family. The little ones will love splashing around in the kiddie pools, while the more adventurous can take on the water slides.

For those who really want to make a splash, there’s even a place to surf. And when it’s time to take a break from all the fun, there are plenty of places to relax, including a lazy river and a beach area.

With so much to do, Aquatica San Diego is the perfect place to spend a day with the kids.

#2. Balboa Park

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Whether your kids are into animals, trains, or exploring different cultures, they’re sure to find something to love at Balboa Park.

Home to the San Diego Zoo, the park also features a miniature railroad, several museums, and lush gardens. The Spanish Village Art Center is a great place to explore different art forms, while the Japanese Friendship Garden is perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Kids will also enjoy watching the street performers in the Plaza de Panama. And when lunchtime rolls around, there are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants to choose from.

From its many kid-friendly attractions to its beautiful setting, Balboa Park is a great destination for families looking to have some fun in San Diego.

#3. Belmont Park

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When it comes to family-friendly attractions, San Diego’s Belmont Park is hard to beat.

Located in the historic Mission Beach neighborhood, Belmont Park is home to an amusement park, a water park, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

The best way to experience all that Belmont Park has to offer is with an all-day wristband, which gives you unlimited access to the rides and attractions.

Some of the most popular rides include the Giant Dipper roller coaster, the Tilt-A-Whirl, and the Wave House surfing simulator. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the park also offers a carousel, a Ferris wheel, and a merry-go-round.

And don’t forget to stop by Ruby’s Diner for a delicious milkshake! With so much to do, Belmont Park is sure to keep the whole family entertained.

#4. Birch Aquarium at Scripps

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Birch Aquarium at Scripps is one of the most popular attractions in San Diego for kids. Located in La Jolla, the aquarium is home to more than 60 tanks of colorful fish, including clownfish, seahorses, and sharks.

In addition to the main exhibit area, the aquarium also has a touch tank where kids can get up close and personal with stingrays and other sea creatures.

The highlight of the aquarium is the three-story kelp forest tank, which is inspired by the kelp forests off the coast of Southern California. Visitors can take a glass-bottom boat ride through the tank or explore it from a suspended walkway.

With so much to see and do, Birch Aquarium at Scripps is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

#5. Cabrillo National Monument

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Cabrillo National Monument is a must-see for anyone visiting San Diego with kids. The monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European explorer to set foot on the west coast of present-day America.

Visitors can take a ranger-led tour of the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, explore the tide pools at low tide, or hike one of the many trails that wind through the park.

The highlight for many kids is the bison herd that lives on the grounds. These massive animals are often seen roaming near the visitor center and are sure to make a lasting impression.

With so much to see and do, Cabrillo National Monument is a great place to spend a day with the family.

#6. Carlsbad Flower Fields

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If you’re looking for a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy, look no further than the Carlsbad Flower Fields.

Located just a short drive from downtown San Diego, the Carlsbad Flower Fields offers an up-close look at some of the world’s most beautiful flowers.

Best of all, the fields are open to the public from mid-March through early May, making it the perfect place to enjoy a spring day. In addition to admiring the flowers, kids will also enjoy exploring the nearby Butterfly Garden and picnicking in one of the many scenic areas.

With so much to see and do, the Carlsbad Flower Fields are sure to be a hit with everyone in the family.

#7. Coronado Central Beach

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If you’re looking for a fun-filled day at the beach with your kids, look no further than Coronado Central Beach in San Diego. This beautiful beach is located on Coronado Island, just a short drive from downtown San Diego.

The island is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, as well as the famous Hotel del Coronado. Central Beach is the perfect place to spend a day swimming, playing in the sand, and building sandcastles.

There are also a number of tide pools to explore, and the gentle waves make it ideal for body surfing and boogie boarding. If you get hungry, there are plenty of food options nearby, or you can enjoy a picnic lunch right on the beach.

With so much to do, Coronado Central Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a day with your family.

#8. Fleet Science Center

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The Fleet Science Center is a great place to take kids in San Diego. It has over 100 hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater. The hands-on exhibits are especially fun for kids because they can learn by doing.

They can experiment with light and sound, put together puzzles, and press buttons to make things happen. The planetarium shows are also very popular with kids.

They can learn about the stars and planets, and see them up close on the big screen. The IMAX theater is another big hit with kids. They can watch movies about nature, space, and other fascinating topics.

All in all, the Fleet Science Center is a great place to take kids in San Diego. They’ll have a blast learning about science while having lots of fun at the same time.

#9. Kayak the Sea Caves

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San Diego is a great place to take the kids for a vacation. There are plenty of things to do that will keep them entertained, including visiting the zoo, going to the beach, and kayaking the Sea Caves.

The Sea Caves are a must-see for any family visiting San Diego. Located just off the coast of La Jolla, the Sea Caves offer a chance to see some of the most beautiful scenery in California.

And, best of all, kids of all ages can enjoy paddling through the caves in a kayak. Just be sure to bring along a camera to capture the memories!

#10. La Jolla Cove

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La Jolla Cove is one of the most popular attractions in San Diego, and for good reason. The sparkling water and gentle waves make it a perfect spot for swimming, bodyboarding, and kayaking.

The nearby Children’s Pool is another great place to take a dip, and the La Jolla Tide Pools offer a chance to explore some of the marine life that call this area home.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there’s plenty to do as well. The La Jolla Cave Store offers an educational look at the caves and cliffs that line the coast, while the nearby SEAL Tours provide a unique opportunity to see these creatures in their natural habitat.

No matter what your interests are, La Jolla Cove has something for everyone.

#11. LEGOLAND California

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LEGOLAND California is a theme park dedicated to the popular building blocks. The park is located in Carlsbad, just north of San Diego. It features over 60 rides, shows, and attractions, making it the perfect destination for a family day out.

Highlights include Miniland USA, where iconic landmarks are recreated out of LEGO bricks, and LEGO Ninjago The Ride, where riders use their hand motions to control the spin of their vehicles.

LEGOLAND California also has a water park, an aquarium, and a hotel on-site, making it the perfect place to stay for a vacation. With so much to see and do, LEGOLAND California is sure to keep the whole family entertained.

#12. Living Coast Discovery Center

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The Living Coast Discovery Center is a great place to take the kids in San Diego. Not only will they be able to learn about the local ecosystem and see some cool animals, but they’ll also have a ton of fun.

The Discovery Center has two main areas: the Exhibit Hall and the Wildlife Habitat. In the Exhibit Hall, kids can see a variety of animals up close, including stingrays, sharks, sea turtles, and fish.

They can also touch a starfish in the tidepool area. And in the Wildlife Habitat, they can check out some of the birds that call San Diego home. The Discovery Center also offers a variety of activities and programs for kids, such as arts and crafts, behind-the-scenes tours, and Junior Ranger workshops.

So whether your kids are interested in animals or just want to have a good time, the Living Coast Discovery Center is sure to please.

#13. Maritime Museum of San Diego

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The Maritime Museum of San Diego is a great place to take kids for a day of fun. They can learn about the history of maritime travel and explore the different types of ships that have been used over the years.

There are also interactive exhibits where kids can dress up in period costumes and pretend to be pirates or sailors. Best of all, the museum is located right on the waterfront, so kids can explore the dockyards and watch the boats come and go.

After a fun-filled day at the Maritime Museum, kids will have a better understanding of the role that maritime transportation has played in shaping our world.

#14. Moonlight Beach

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Nestled in the town of Encinitas, Moonlight Beach is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. This picturesque spot offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is perfect for a day of swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing on the sand.

Plus, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained, from building sandcastles to exploring the tide pools. For those looking for a little more adventure, there’s also a basketball court, a volleyball court, and a playground.

And when you’re ready to refuel, there are several restaurants and cafes nearby. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled day at the beach or simply a place to relax and take in the beautiful California coastline, Moonlight Beach is sure to please.

#15. Old Town San Diego

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Old Town San Diego is a great place to take kids for a day of fun. There are a variety of shops and restaurants to explore, as well as a number of historic sites.

One of the most popular attractions is the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, where kids can learn about the history of the area. They can also explore the old adobe buildings and see how early Californians lived.

Another popular attraction is the Whaley House Museum, which is said to be one of the most haunted houses in America. Kids will love exploring the dark rooms and learning about the ghost stories associated with the house.

For a truly unique experience, kids can also take a ride on the Old Town Trolley, which gives a tour of the area while riding in an old-fashioned trolley car. With so much to see and do, Old Town San Diego is a great place to bring the whole family for a day of fun.

#16. San Diego Botanic Garden

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The San Diego Botanic Garden is a great place to take kids of all ages. With nearly four miles of trails, it’s perfect for a family hike. Or explore the gardens and get up close to some of the rare plants from around the world.

The Garden also has an interactive children’s garden, where kids can get their hands dirty and learn about planting and gardening. And don’t forget to stop by the butterfly pavilion to see hundreds of beautiful butterflies fluttering around.

The San Diego Botanic Garden is a great way to spend a day outdoors with the whole family.

#17. San Diego Natural History Museum

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San Diego’s Natural History Museum is a great place to take kids of all ages. The museum offers a variety of exhibits on local animals, plants, and geology, as well as a hands-on Discovery Room where kids can touch and explore real specimens.

In addition, the museum offers a number of educational programs, including workshops, guided tours, and films. Best of all, the museum is located in Balboa Park, one of San Diego’s most beautiful parks.

The park also offers a variety of kid-friendly activities, such as playgrounds, gardens, and a petting zoo. So whether your kids are interested in animals, plants, or just getting outside to play, the San Diego Natural History Museum is sure to please.

#18. San Diego Zoo

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The world-famous San Diego Zoo is one of the best things to do in San Diego with kids. With over 3,700 animals representing more than 650 species, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Kids will love getting up close to giraffes, monkeys, and elephants, while adults will appreciate the zoo’s dedication to conservation. The zoo is also home to some of the world’s rarest animals, including giant pandas and komodo dragons.

In addition to the animals, the San Diego Zoo also offers a variety of shows and educational programs. The zoo is open every day except Christmas Day, making it a great option for a rainy day or a weekend outing.

#19. San Diego Zoo Safari Park

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The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a great place to take kids of all ages. Located in Escondido, the Safari Park is home to more than 3,500 animals from over 650 species.

Visitors can see everything from African lions and elephants to Australian kangaroos and Tasmanian devils. The Safari Park also offers a variety of educational programs and keeper talks, making it a great place to learn about the natural world.

And for those looking for a little adventure, the Safari Park offers a variety of safari tours, where visitors can get up close and personal with some of the park’s most popular residents.

Whether you’re looking to learn about wildlife or just have a fun day out, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is sure to please.

#20. Seaport Village

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San Diego’s Seaport Village is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun. With its quaint shops and restaurants, the village provides a glimpse into San Diego’s maritime history.

Kids will love exploring the tall ships moored at the docks, and they can even take a ride on a replica of a 19th-century sailing vessel. After working up an appetite, families can enjoy a meal at one of the village’s waterfront cafes.

Seaport Village is also home to a carousel and several other family-friendly attractions. Best of all, it’s just a short walk from San Diego’s Historic Gaslamp Quarter, making it the perfect place to spend a day exploring everything that this vibrant city has to offer.

#21. SeaWorld San Diego

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SeaWorld San Diego is one of the most popular attractions in the city, and it’s also a great place to take kids. With rides, shows, and exhibits featuring marine life, there’s something for everyone at SeaWorld.

One of the most popular rides is Journey to Atlantis, which takes riders on a thrilling journey through waterfalls and white-knuckle turns. For a more relaxing experience, visitors can take a leisurely boat ride around the park on the Skytower Ride.

And no visit to SeaWorld would be complete without seeing a live show. The park’s signature show, Shamu Adventure, features killer whales performing tricks and interacting with trainers.

Other popular shows include Sea Lion Live, Dolphin Discovery, and Orca Encounter. With so much to see and do, SeaWorld San Diego is a great place to take the whole family.

#22. Snorkel or Swim with Leopard Sharks

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San Diego is a great place to take your kids for a swim or snorkel with leopard sharks! These shy, but beautiful creatures are usually found in shallow water near the shore, making them easy to spot.

However, they are also known to swim in deeper water, so keep an eye out for them even if you’re not in the shallow end. In addition to being fun, swimming or snorkeling with leopard sharks can also be educational for your kids.

They will have the opportunity to observe these animals up close and learn about their behavior and ecology. Swimming or snorkeling with leopard sharks is a great way to spend a day in San Diego with your kids!

#23. The New Children’s Museum

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San Diego is a great place for families to visit, and there are plenty of fun things to do with kids. One of the best places to take kids is the New Children’s Museum.

The museum is designed for children ages 0-10 and their families, and it features interactive exhibits that encourage creativity and exploration.

Kids can build towering structures in the Construction Zone, experiment with light and sound in the Media Lab, or explore their artistic side in the Art Studio.

There’s also a rooftop garden where kids can run and play. And if they get hungry, there’s a café on site serving up healthy snacks and meals. The New Children’s Museum is the perfect place to spend a day with kids in San Diego.

#24. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

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Located in the northern part of San Diego, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a must-visit for any family looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

The reserve offers miles of hiking trails, spectacular views of the coastline, and a chance to see some of the rarest plants in the world. Kids will love exploring the many tide pools, which are teeming with colorful sea creatures.

And be sure to keep an eye out for the resident wildlife, including foxes, squirrels, and rabbits. For a truly memorable experience, take a sunset hike to the top of one of the reserve’s towering cliffs.

With its natural beauty and endless opportunities for exploration, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.