Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

Beth Wood said:  Old Town San Diego is a historically and culturally rich area within San Diego that offers dining, eclectic shopping, historical buildings and sites, state parks, picnic areas, sprawling greens and more. It's a great area to walk around and explore. Top recommended spots include the Visitor's Center, The Whaley Museum, Casa Guadalajara, State Historic Park, Presidio Park, Mormon Battalion Historic Site, Cygnet Theatre and more. Special events and festivals occur throughout the year around Old Town to add to your visit. Click Here for a map of Old Town with list of attractions.

Beth Wood said:  Step back in time and see what life was like in San Diego from 1812 - 1872. The Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is a historical cultural site that features guided tours, historic buildings, interpretive exhibits, museums, picnic areas, retail shops, restaurants, hiking trails, family programs and much more. Special events are held throughout the year that are both educational and full of family fun. For parking options, check out the map.

Cost: FREE

Beth Wood said:  Step back in time to the 1950's at the Corvette Diner! This soda shop themed restaurant is a must visit! Waitresses dressed in poodle skirts and bouffant hairdos will serve and entertain you during your visit. Take in the 1950's memorabilia and decor while you dine on soda shop favorites like burgers, fries, shakes, sundaes and more. The on-site Gamer's Arcade Garage features over 64 classic and new arcade favorites including skee ball, air hockey, pinball machines and more. There's also a prize counter where you can cash in your tokens. Click Here for menu. They have gluten-free options too!

Serves lunch and dinner

Beth Wood said:  SeaWorld San Diego is a theme park featuring animals, aquatic life, marine mammals, aquariums and more. Explore the park exhibits and aquariums featuring fish, killer whales, sea lions, penguins, dolphins, sharks, otters, turtles, walruses and beluga whales. Take in entertaining live shows, ride amusement park style rides and coasters, see the Sesame Street themed parade featuring your children's favorite characters, take a special tour or in-water program, grab a bite to eat at numerous dining locations, shop at park gift shops and more during your visit.

Cost: 1 Day Ticket Start at $59.99

Beth Wood said:  The Birch Aquarium is the public outreach center and aquarium for the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego. Guests can wander the museum and aquarium exhibits where they can see over 60 different habitats featuring 5,000 fish, explore interactive activities, learn more about oceans, see a feeding and much more during their visit. Grab a bite to eat at the Splash Cafe and shop for souvenirs at the Gift Shop. Click Here to purchase tickets.

Cost: $14 Youth 3-17, $18.50 Adult, FREE 2 & Under

Beth Wood said:  Located just North of San Diego, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and Beach features over 1,500 protected acres offering breathtaking coastal views, miles of hiking trails, lagoons, beach areas and numerous wildlife viewing opportunities. The visitor center and museum shop feature educational nature exhibits and souvenirs for all ages. Free guided walks are offered at the Visitor Center on weekends beginning at 10 AM & 1 PM. Parking is available at the North Beach and South Beach entrances and top of the Mesa.

Cost: Hourly Rate North Beach Only $3-$15, Day Rate South Beach $10-$20 per car

Beth Wood said:  Cabrillo National Monument is located in Point Loma and overlooks downtown San Diego and the Bay. Guests get an amazing panoramic view of the San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge, harbor and shipyards. A Visitors Center, nearby Old Point Loma Lighthouse, Jr. Ranger Program for kids, tide pools that you can explore, hiking trails and more make this a great destination when visiting San Diego.

Cost: $15 per vehicle

Beth Wood said:  The San Diego Botanic Garden features over 4,000 different plant species. It sits on 37 acres with 29 specialty-themed gardens. The popular Hamilton Children's Garden features hands-on exhibits and experiences including Toni's Treehouse, Spell & Smell Gardens, Earth Builders, Art Garden, Birds & Butterflies, Quail Haven, Mountain Stream, Scavenger Hunt and more. Guided and self-guided youth and adult tours are available daily at the gardens. An on-site gift shop sells unique gifts and decor for the garden and home.

Cost: $8 Youth 3-12, $14 Adult, FREE 2 & Under, $2 parking

Beth Wood said:  La Jolla is a quaint oceanside town just North of San Diego that offers visitors breathtaking coastal views year round. La Jolla Cove is famous for the sea lions that call it home. Be sure to catch a close-up glimpse of the animals in their natural habitat. Enjoy outdoor activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding (SUP) and bicycling at the numerous rental spots around the area. Family-friendly activities include visiting the local tide pools, a children's beach, Ellen Scripps park and family-friendly dining throughout the La Jolla area.

Beth Wood said:  Legoland is located just North of San Diego in Carlsbad. Featuring three different parks and a resort, you'll find something everyone in the family will enjoy here! Legoland amusement park features rides, coasters, lego displays, characters, shows and more. Legoland Water Park features water slides, rides and pools for loads of water play. Sea Life Aquarium features interactive exhibits, shows and animal experiences. Two LegoLand hotels offer guests accommodations adjacent to the Legoland parks. See website for park tickets & hotel reservations.

Cost: Start at $89 Youth, $95 Adult 13+

Beth Wood said:  The Flower Fields is a 50-acre flower farm located just North of San Diego in Carlsbad. The farm is open to the public while it's crop of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus bloom in bright and bold colors during a six to eight-week window from early March to May each year. Walk along the designated paths or ride on the antique tractor wagon to see the beautiful blooms. Stop by the Armstrong Garden Center Gift Shop to purchase cut flowers, bulbs and other potted plants. Food trucks are on-site on weekends and guests are also encouraged to bring a picnic lunch or snacks.

Cost: $8 Youth, $16 Adult

March - May