San Diego For Families: What To See & Do
Nestled on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, San Diego is one of the most enigmatic and visually appealing city break destinations in the US. Boasting a dazzling array of attractions suited to kids of all ages, it’s a wonderful base to explore California and see amazing sights while enjoying rest and relaxation at the beach. In this guide, we’ll take a look at what to see and do if you’re planning a family-friendly itinerary in America’s Finest City.
Getting around
Before we explore the must-sees and must-dos, it’s worth thinking about how to get around and the best ways to travel from A to B during your stay. San Diego is not the biggest city in the US, but it covers a wide area and offers an abundance of fantastic day trips and excursions outside of the center. Renting a car is a brilliant way to see more and enjoy flexibility to roam at your leisure. Alternatively, you can drop your bags at luggage storage in Downtown San Diego and take a stroll or use public transport, including buses and the MTS Trolley light rail service. If you have older kids, cycling is an excellent way to discover the city’s many parks and green spaces. It’s also very easy to access ride-share services and flag cabs.
Top attractions for families
If you’re an animal lover, or you have an interest in wildlife, there’s every chance that you’ve heard of San Diego Zoo. One of the most famous zoos in the world, it’s home to more than 600 species and subspecies. As well as providing unrivaled access to incredible animals, it’s also a beautiful spot to meander through gardens, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy stunning views. Covering over 100 acres, it is located in Balboa Park, the jewel in San Diego’s crown. You can easily spend a whole day here, and there are options to enhance your trip with VIP experiences and wildlife adventures, including walking tours with bears and pandas.
The aforementioned Balboa Park is a must-visit for travelers of all ages. A sprawling park and ornamental garden, it is characterized by different zones and a diverse range of architectural and design influences. A tour will catapult you to different countries and time zones, treat you to an exploration of weird and wonderful plant species, and take you back in time. Highlights include California Tower, Cabrillo Bridge, the Botanical Building and lily pond, Alcazar Garden, and the San Diego Museum of Art.
No trip to California is complete without a day at the beach. You’ll be spoiled for choice when staying in San Diego, but it’s tough to beat nearby La Jolla. A bijou resort town just a stone’s throw away, it offers golden sand, turquoise waters, and the opportunity to see sea lions basking in the sunshine. La Jolla Cove is one of the best spots to see colonies up close. It’s also famed for its clear water and striking cliff formations.
City breaks may not be your first thought when planning a vacation with kids, but there are so many reasons to consider locations like San Diego. This California gem offers everything you could wish for, whether you have young children or teens. From wildlife adventures and vibrant green spaces to glistening golden sands, San Diego is a fantastic option for families.