San Diego! My family and I enjoyed exploring this coastal gem. We discovered a world where sandy beaches meet vibrant neighborhoods, and where fun is woven into the very fabric of the city. From charming neighborhoods to thrilling attractions, here’s a glimpse into our family vacation through this vibrant Californian city and my list of some of the best things to do in San Diego with kids.
Hotel: Grand Hyatt at Manchester Downtown
Our family embarked on a thrilling adventure in San Diego, and our home base was the Grand Hyatt at Manchester Downtown. No, I do not work for Hyatt, but enjoy this Hotel brand. The hotel boasts two fantastic pools—a family pool with two hot tubs and an adult pool. The rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views, but remember, it’s a kid-free zone after 5 PM. Conveniently located next to Seaport Village, USS Midway, and the ports for boat tours, it made exploring a breeze. Just a 2.9-mile hop from the airport, the hotel was a perfect selection.
Getting Around: Public Transit Fun!
Contrary to popular belief, we successfully used public transit in San Diego! Armed with Google Maps and the PRONTO CARD PASS, we hopped on buses and trolleys with ease. The longest we waited was just 10 minutes, and our hotel was a mere 5-minute walk from the bus station. From Balboa Park to Old Town and even La Jolla, public transit was a safe and efficient way to explore the city.
Unmissable Activities with the Go City Pass
Our secret weapon for attractions? The Go City Pass! It saved us time and money, allowing us to pay for two attractions and get the third for free. Balboa Park was a treasure trove with the zoo and various museums, offering a free tram for easy exploration. The San Diego Zoo, Fleet Science Center, Air and Space Museum, and the USS Midway Museum were just a few highlights.
San Diego Zoo: A Day in the Wild
Comparable to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the San Diego Zoo is a vast wonderland that can’t be conquered in a single day. With a double-decker bus tour and a skyline to transport you across the expansive grounds, you’ll encounter a variety of themed food options to keep you fueled.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
This expansive wildlife sanctuary takes you on a journey through various habitats, allowing you to observe animals in settings closely resembling their natural environments. The Safari Park’s tram and safari tours provide an up-close encounter with a variety of wildlife, making it an educational and thrilling experience for kids of all ages.
SeaWorld San Diego:
Dive into aquatic excitement at SeaWorld San Diego. The park offers a mix of marine life exhibits, thrilling rides, and entertaining shows. From getting splashed by Shamu to exploring underwater tunnels at the Ocean Explorer exhibit, SeaWorld promises a day filled with oceanic wonders and family fun. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch the various live shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and killer whales.
The New Children’s Museum
Dive into the world of imagination and creativity with a visit to The New Children’s Museum where hands-on learning takes center stage.
LEGOLAND California Resort
Located just north of San Diego in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND California Resort is a paradise for LEGO enthusiasts. From thrilling rides to awesome LEGO creations, this theme park offers a day of imaginative play. Don’t forget to explore SEA LIFE Aquarium and the LEGOLAND Water Park for even more family fun.
Fleet Science Center: Hands-On Science Exploration
Perfect for curious minds, the Fleet Science Center is a hands-on museum that captivated our kids. Spend 2 to 4 hours navigating through interactive exhibits that make learning a blast.
Air and Space Museum:
If you have little ones who dream of planes and space exploration, this museum is a must-visit. With simulators and some additional attractions at an extra charge, you can explore the wonders of aviation in a family-friendly environment.
USS Midway Museum
One of the trip’s highlights, the USS Midway Museum, offers a unique experience on a fighter jet carrier with a rich history. Interactive tours allow kids to touch everything, and there’s even a restaurant on-site for snacks or meals.
Balboa Park
Conveniently located near our hotel, Balboa Park is a sprawling oasis with something for everyone. Home to the San Diego Zoo and various museums, it offers a free tram to help you explore its beauty. You can also stroll through the park, enjoying street food vendors that only accept cash or Venmo.
San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
Located in Escondido, the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum is perfect for hands-on learning. Interactive exhibits cover science, art, and world cultures, providing a dynamic and engaging experience for children of all ages.
Belmont Park
Head to Belmont Park for classic seaside amusement park fun. Located in Mission Beach, this historic park boasts the Giant Dipper roller coaster, carnival games, and the iconic beachfront boardwalk. Whether you’re riding the historic carousel or testing your skills at the arcade, Belmont Park offers a nostalgic yet vibrant atmosphere perfect for a day by the beach.
La Jolla Cove
For a day of sun and sea, head to La Jolla Cove. Explore the tide pools, watch the seals and sea lions bask in the sun, and take in the stunning coastal views. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for family-friendly swimming and snorkeling
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Discover the wonders of the ocean at Birch Aquarium at Scripps. From seahorses to sharks, the diverse marine life on display captivates visitors of all ages. Interactive exhibits and daily programs enhance the educational experience.
Seaport Village
A beautiful place to wander, Seaport Village is lined with boutique stores and restaurants. Located near the ports, it’s a convenient starting point for boat tours and the ferry to Coronado. Keep an eye out for seals during your visit!
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve & State Beach
For a dose of outdoor adventure, explore the trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Hike along the cliffs with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and keep an eye out for unique plant and animal life. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the beauty of nature.
Whale Watching Tour
While our reserved whale watching tour got canceled, it’s a thrilling 4-hour experience if weather conditions cooperate. Spotting majestic whales in their natural habitat adds an extra layer of excitement to your San Diego adventure.
Restaurants
Our taste buds were treated to a variety of culinary delights.Puesto in Seaport Village served up mouthwatering tacos, while Spill the Beans and Margaritas Kitchen and Cantina were breakfast and dinner favorites. Check out Corvette Diner, where the ’50s come to life with retro décor and classic American fare. Head to Little Italy and savor the flavors of Italy at Nonna’s, where traditional recipes and warm ambiance create a perfect family dining experience. Yo could also transport yourselves to Old Town San Diego for a taste of history and authentic Mexican cuisine at the Old Town Mexican Cafe. The Grand Hyatt’s breakfast buffet also earned our family’s stamp of approval.
In conclusion, San Diego’s family-friendly charm, diverse attractions, and pleasant weather were a perfect mix for our family getaway . We loved San Diego so much that we had to plan another family getaway! Check out the 2nd blog post on things to do in San Diego with kids!
