San Diego with Kids

Parks

Balboa Park - named after the first European to see the Pacific Ocean, Vasco Nunez de Balboa. Built to host the Panama-California Exposition in 1915-16 and the California Pacific International Exposition in 1935-36, this city park is home to numerous attractions suitable for the entire family. Visit the San Diego Zoo with its new Base Camp area built with kids in mind. Explore the Fleet Science Center or the San Diego Natural History Museum among the 17 different museums located within Balboa Park. Don't miss strolling through the park to admire the architecture, ponds, and gardens. Enjoy free concerts at the outdoor Organ Pavilion on Sundays at 2pm.

Waterfront Park - Pair this park with a visit to the USS Midway or Maritime Museums. Enjoy this waterfront park with a great playground and a large grassy area perfect for a picnic while watching the ships come and go from the port. There is a fun water splash pad suitable for toddlers and adults to have fun and make memories.

Civita Park - A hidden gem for visitors and locals alike, this massive park hosts a splash pad and a game plaza featuring cement ping pong tables and a giant chess board. The park has a large playground split into two levels to help separate the littlest of kids, picnic tables, and a large sun shade to provide shade. Keep your eyes out for the hidden rabbits and little creatures placed throughout the park.

Beaches

Coronado Beach - Located on Coronado Island, this beach offers a perfect stretch of beautiful calm water and great views. Don't forget to check out the historic Hotel Del Coronado while you're there and enjoy a bite to eat on Orange Ave or the surrounding streets. You can also catch a stunning view of downtown San Diego and take a ferry across to enjoy the view from the water.

Ocean Beach - This beach provides a laid-back hippie beach vibe and is popular with locals. Experience the coastal neighborhood's charm and find locals and professionals playing beach volleyball or surfing. After a day at the beach, head over to Sunset Cliffs to catch the sunset.

Moonlight Beach - Located in Encinitas, Moonlight Beach is a favorite for families, surfers, and locals alike. With a beach-themed playground, grass area, and a large stretch of sand, Moonlight is a perfect spot to enjoy a day at the beach. Afterward, explore the beach neighborhood of Encinitas, filled with great food, shopping, and coffee.

Boat Museums

USS Midway - Take a tour and explore the USS Midway, a retired aircraft carrier transformed into a captivating museum. Learn about naval history, explore different parts of the ship, and even try out flight simulators. Nearby, you'll find the Star of India, the world's oldest active sailing ship.

Maritime Museum - Explore 11 historic ships, including the Star of India, a B-39 Submarine, and the USS Dolphin Submarine. The Star of India is open for the public to explore. If you want to sail on a replica of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo's ship, the San Salvador, be sure to book the 4-hour sailing adventure to experience what it was like aboard these magnificent ships.

Cabrillo National Monument - Located on the southern tip of Point Loma, enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. During low-tide in the fall and winter, explore the amazing tidepools. Visit the old, historic Point Loma lighthouse and learn about the history of San Diego while taking in the coastal environment.

Sporting Events

San Diego is home to multiple professional teams for you to cheer on:

Catch a game at Petco Park and cheer on the San Diego Padres, named the best MLB ballpark by USA Today in 2023. Enjoy the best ballpark food, a large grass area for kids to run around, and a playground. The park also offers an incredible Nursing Suite to care for your smallest children.

If soccer/futbol is more your thing, San Diego is home to a NWSL team, a USL team, and a new MLS team starting in 2025. Catch a San Diego Wave FC match at Snapdragon Stadium or San Diego Loyal at Torero Stadium.

Rugby - Cheer on San Diego's professional rugby team, SD Legion, at a match in Snapdragon Stadium. Rugby is an exciting sport that combines elements of your favorite sports.

Coffee Shops

When you need that caffeine fix, this is just a small sample of the many coffee shops San Diego has to offer.

Communal Coffee - known for a trendy atmosphere, flower shop, and events with three locations throughout San Diego county.

Moinker General - located in Liberty Station and with the tagline "A Home for Elevating Everyday Moments," Moinker General has everything you might need from coffee, snacks, and a craft cocktail bar. You are sure to find a drink to enjoy while strolling through the retail shop.

James Coffee Co. - Located in Little Italy, this trendy shop serves up excellent brews with a cool industrial vibe.

Bird Rock Coffee Roasters - a local favorite with multiple locations. You will find high-quality coffee beans and a fun, friendly atmosphere.

Brick and Bell - in the heart of La Jolla Village, this little red brick building is well-known by residents. Serving up treats, coffee drinks, and fresh-baked scones and other pastries, this local hotspot is sure to impress.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat

Liberty Station/ Liberty Public Market - San Diego's first indoor food market and art and culture hub located in Point Loma. It was once the Naval Training Center from 1923-1997. You will find nods to its history throughout. The Market offers food stands where you can all pick your favorite and enjoy outdoors at a table. If you prefer a sit-down location, there are multiple restaurants to choose from. After enjoying your meal, walk around and enjoy the views of planes landing and taking off at the airport, or relax in the large grass area for a game of tag or to sit and read a book under the tree.

One Door North - Do you want to eat inside a tent without being outdoors, but still feeling like you are? One Door North gives a glamping campfire-inspired meal while still feeling upscale. With a dedicated kids menu, you are sure to find something to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Station Tavern - a longtime favorite of locals located in South Park, this burger spot is sure to be a hit. With a kid and pet-friendly patio featuring a fun outdoor play area, you are able to enjoy a laid-back meal and the wonderful San Diego weather.