Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in San Diego | Family Fun Guide
San Diego is one of the best cities in California for families. With its sunny weather, kid-friendly attractions, and endless outdoor fun, there’s always something to do. Whether your kids love animals, rides, beaches, or hands-on learning, San Diego has it all.
To help you plan your family adventure, here are the top 10 things to do with kids in San Diego.
1. Pet Animals at Surfside Ranch – Best for Animal Lovers
Kids love animals, and Surfside Ranch is the perfect place to meet them. Along with horses, you’ll find alpacas, llamas, goats, chickens, and even pigs. Children can feed, pet, and learn about the animals up close. Families can also enjoy trail rides or strolls along the beach.
- Cost: Paid entry
- Best for: Ages 3+
- Website: surfsideranch.com
2. Explore Museums in Balboa Park – Fun and Educational
Balboa Park is home to many kid-friendly museums. Try the Fleet Science Center for hands-on experiments or the San Diego Air & Space Museum for planes and rockets. With gardens, playgrounds, and food spots, you can spend a whole day here.
- Cost: Some free, most paid
- Best for: All ages
- Website: balboapark.org
3. Paddle and Explore with Kayaking in La Jolla
La Jolla Shores is a great place for a family kayaking trip. Local tours provide all the gear, so beginners can join easily. Paddle through caves, spot sea lions, and see harmless leopard sharks and bright reef fish.
- Cost: Paid tours
- Best for: Ages 7+ with parents
- Website: lajollakayak.com
4. Discover Wildlife at the Living Coast Discovery Center
Located on San Diego Bay, this center lets kids learn about local animals and ecosystems. They can touch rays, meet sea turtles, and see birds of prey up close. The trails also give great views of the water.
- Cost: Affordable entry fee
- Best for: Ages 4+
- Website: thelivingcoast.org
5. Watch Movies on the Beach at Hotel del Coronado
For a magical evening, head to Hotel del Coronado for Movies on the Beach. Families can sit on the sand, grab snacks, and even book a private bonfire with s’mores. Watching a film under the stars is a memory kids won’t forget.
- Cost: Paid packages available
- Best for: All ages
- Website: hoteldel.com
6. Play, Ride, and Eat at Belmont Park
Belmont Park in Mission Beach is a classic family stop. It has rides like the Giant Dipper roller coaster, plus bumper cars, mini golf, laser tag, and arcade games. Don’t miss grabbing a Dole Whip or funnel cake before heading to the beach.
- Cost: Free entry, pay per ride
- Best for: Ages 5+
- Website: belmontpark.com
7. Visit the San Diego Zoo – A Must-See Attractio
The world-famous San Diego Zoo has over 3,500 animals and 700,000 plants across 100 acres. Kids can see elephants, lions, and rare species like Komodo dragons and hummingbirds. It’s both educational and fun.
- Cost: Paid entry
- Best for: All ages
- Website: zoo.sandiegozoo.org
8. Take a Family Hike at Mission Trails Regional Park
If your kids love the outdoors, Mission Trails offers easy hikes like the Grasslands Loop Trail. With over 8,000 acres of nature, it’s a great place to spot wildlife and enjoy the fresh air.
- Cost: Free
- Best for: Ages 5+
- Website: mtrp.org
9. Spend a Day at LEGOLAND California
A trip with kids isn’t complete without LEGOLAND. With rides, shows, and amazing Lego creations, it’s perfect for young builders. The water park and aquarium add even more fun for the whole family.
- Cost: Paid entry
- Best for: Ages 2–12
- Website: legoland.com/california
10. Have a Picnic and Play at Waterfront Park
Sometimes simple is best. Waterfront Park has wide open grass, splash pads, and a play area that kids love. Bring snacks, games, and a blanket for a relaxing family day in the sun.
- Cost: Free
- Best for: All ages
- Website: sdparks.org
Final Thoughts
From thrilling rides at LEGOLAND to quiet picnics at the park, these are the top 10 things to do with kids in San Diego. Families can choose from beaches, zoos, hikes, and hands-on learning adventures. Whether you’re visiting or you live here, San Diego is packed with fun for kids of all ages.
FAQs:
What is free to do with kids in San Diego?
Some of the best free activities include a picnic at Waterfront Park, hiking at Mission Trails, and exploring Balboa Park’s gardens and playgrounds. Many beaches are also free and great for families.
What is the best activity for toddlers in San Diego?
The Living Coast Discovery Center and Waterfront Park are toddler-friendly. Both offer safe spaces where little ones can play, explore, and learn without being overwhelming.
Is San Diego Zoo worth it for kids?
Yes! The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous in the world. Kids can see animals they won’t find anywhere else, and there are kid-friendly play areas, shows, and interactive exhibits.
What is the best theme park for kids in San Diego?
LEGOLAND California is perfect for ages 2–12, while Belmont Park works well for older kids and teens who love rides and games.
What are some indoor activities for kids in San Diego?
On hot or rainy days, try The Fleet Science Center, Children’s Discovery Museum, or indoor trampoline parks like Sky Zone.
