28 Fun Things To Do in San Diego With Kids in 2025
Looking for things to do in San Diego with kids that won’t make you count down the hours till bedtime? This city’s got options: sunny, splashy, silly and seriously fun. If your crew loves wild animals, hands-on exhibits or just running around with snacks in hand, San Diego delivers.
You’ll find kid-friendly things to do in San Diego in December all the way through November. We’re talking aquarium tunnels, sky-high Ferris wheels, tide pool treasures and some truly epic tacos. And, yes, free things to do in San Diego with kids are very real and very good. Ready to plan a day everyone actually enjoys? Let’s go.
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- Unique Things To Do in San Diego With Kids
- Free Things To Do in San Diego With Kids
- Things To Do in San Diego With Teens
- Kid-Friendly Things To Do in San Diego
- Things To Do in San Diego With Kids FAQs
Unique Things To Do in San Diego With Kids
Sure, San Diego has beaches and parks but what about the offbeat, the unexpected, the stuff your kids will talk about for weeks?
These unique things to do in San Diego with kids showcase the city's creative side, natural wonders and cultural richness without the overwhelming crowds of larger attractions. Discovering these special spots gives children authentic experiences that combine fun with genuine local flavor.
1. Pet a Kangaroo at the Children’s Nature Retreat
Located just outside the city, this hands-on animal sanctuary lets kids feed and interact with exotic creatures in a calm, open space. Less crowd, more connection. The retreat is run by the Children's Nature Retreat Foundation, a nonprofit organization that prioritizes animal welfare and aims to nurture wonder for the natural world among adults and children alike.
2. Explore the Magic of Miniature Engineering at the Model Railroad Museum
Step into a miniature world at the world's largest indoor Model Railroad Museum in Balboa Park. Kids marvel at tiny trains navigating detailed landscapes complete with mountains, towns and realistic scenery. The interactive elements allow children to trigger animations throughout the displays, creating an engaging experience that fascinates both train enthusiasts and casual visitors.
3. Hunt for Hidden Gnomes at Queen Califia’s Magical Circle
This mosaic wonderland in Kit Carson Park is a kaleidoscope of color, mystery and whimsy. It’s one of the true hidden gems in San Diego for families who love art and surprises.
4. Try an Intro Dance Class That Doesn’t Feel Like School
Keep the energy high and the rhythm flowing with kid-friendly dance classes in San Diego. Many spots offer drop-ins and themed sessions — ideal for kids who need to move.
5. Take a Mural Walk Through Barrio Logan
Introduce kids to bold colors and big stories with a walk through Chicano Park, home to the largest collection of outdoor murals in the U.S. The towering art beneath the bridge sparks curiosity, conversation and plenty of photo ops. It’s a vibrant way to blend culture, creativity and movement into your day.
6. Make Giant Bubbles by the Bay
Head to Seaport Village with a DIY bubble wand (or find a pro bubble artist) and fill the waterfront with floating magic. Consider this a low-cost, high-delight experience.
7. Support a Small-Batch Ice Cream Store
Support local and make your little one happy with a few scoops of wildly creative flavors at Stella Jeans. For aspiring little chefs, combine a visit to the ice cream factory with a San Diego cooking class where they learn to make their own ice cream!
8. Stargaze at the Fleet Science Center
When night falls, the dome theater at the Fleet Science Center comes alive. Catch a cosmic show, then step outside and point out constellations together. This is one of those perfect experience gifts in San Diego that doubles as a kid-friendly thing to do at night.
Free Things To Do in San Diego With Kids
Big fun doesn’t have to mean big spending because San Diego delivers plenty of budget-friendly adventures that don't compromise on fun or memorable experiences. These free things to do in San Diego with kids prove that some of the city's greatest treasures come without admission fees.
Families can explore stunning natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and community events that showcase the region's unique character without spending a penny on tickets or entry fees.
9. Hit the Beach With Buckets in Hand
Build sandcastles, chase waves or start a seashell collection. Try La Jolla Shores for wide-open space and calm surf that’s kid-approved. Stroll down to the Children’s Pool in La Jolla to see sea lions basking in the sun. It’s wild, weird and way more entertaining than you’d expect.
10. Hunt for Sea Glass at Coronado Beach
Explore the sparkling shoreline of Coronado Beach, where children transform into treasure hunters searching for smooth, colorful sea glass polished by ocean waves. The wide, flat sand provides plenty of space for families to spread out while the gentle waves make it ideal for younger children.
11. Score a Free Museum Day
Many museums offer free admission on select Tuesdays each month. The list includes the San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Air & Space Museum, Japanese Friendship Garden and many more. Check the websites, pick your day and plan a culture crawl with snacks.
12. Catch the Sunset at Scripps Pier
This view is straight-up cinematic. Pack a blanket, grab some fruit or crackers and turn golden hour into your new favorite family tradition.
13. Hike the Hidden Trails at Mission Trails
Fewer crowds, more nature. Mission Trails is home to a range of beautiful walking trails. Choose an easy route and keep eyes peeled for lizards, birds and cool rocks. A top pick for free things to do in San Diego with kids who like to roam. If you're up for a challenge, give the San Diego River Crossing trail a whirl; you won't be disappointed.
Things To Do in San Diego With Teens
Too old for puppet shows, too cool for playgrounds, but still craving fun. Sound familiar? These picks hit the sweet spot between grown-up and goofy, with just enough thrill to keep everyone off their phones (for a minute). Great for visitors or locals looking for things to do in San Diego with kids this weekend — teens included.
14. Snap Moody Photos at Cabrillo National Monument
Lighthouse, ocean cliffs, wildflowers and fog? Feels like a moody album cover. Enjoy the beautiful scenery while your teen makes the most of the dramatic landscape and lighting. This is a great spot to practice the skills they learned during photography classes in San Diego.
15. Check Out the Walls at Art Galleries
Edgy, modern, colorful. San Diego art galleries aren’t just for grown-ups. Hit Barrio Logan or North Park for mural walks and local exhibits, teens won’t eye-roll.
16. Navigate Nighttime Kayaking with Bioluminescence Tours
Paddle through Mission Bay's calm waters after dark to witness the magical glow of bioluminescent organisms that light up with movement. This unique nighttime adventure feels distinctly grown-up and special, perfect for teens who crave experiences different from typical tourist activities.
17. Tackle the Surfing Academy at Mission Beach
Book a family surf lesson where teenagers can channel their inner California cool while mastering a challenging new skill. Professional instructors, such as those at San Diego Surf School, tailor the experience to different ability levels, ensuring everyone rides at least a few waves by the end of the session. The physical challenge, combined with plenty of laughing wipeouts, creates perfect bonding moments.
18. Hike Torrey Pines
The views are unreal and the trails feel just adventurous enough. Ideal for cooler days when you’re looking for things to do in San Diego with kids in December that don’t involve malls.
19. Book an Aerial Obstacle Course
Zip through treetop challenges at an adventure playground like Zip Zoom Ziplines. Yes, teens will pretend not to be impressed. Yes, they’ll be secretly loving it.
Kid-Friendly Things To Do in San Diego
Young children need experiences that combine entertainment with age-appropriate activities that respect shorter attention spans and higher energy levels. These kid-friendly things to do in San Diego cater specifically to the younger set with hands-on exhibits, interactive play spaces, and environments designed with small explorers in mind.
From toddlers to early elementary ages, these destinations understand what makes younger children tick while still providing enjoyment for accompanying adults.
20. Play Farmer for a Day at City Farmers Nursery
This hidden gem offers chickens to feed, gardens to explore and plenty of dirt to dig in. It’s a low-key, high-fun way for little ones to connect with nature right in the city. City Farmers Nursery has been family-owned since 1972 and is a locally adored example of sustainable farming practices and positive community engagement.
21. Climb, Slide and Zoom at Waterfront Park
This downtown spot brings playgrounds to the next level with splash pads, climbing walls and city views that wow. Waterfront Park can also accommodate events, so this might be just the spot if you're looking for somewhere to host a fun get-together.
22. Meet a Giraffe Face-to-Face at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Skip the usual zoo visit and take a safari truck through the open-range exhibit. At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, you'll get to see fascinating animals free to roam and express themselves naturally. It’s wild in the best way.
23. Say Hello to Tide Pool Critters
During low tide, head to Cabrillo or Shell Beach and gently explore the rocky pools. Crabs, sea stars and anemones await.
24. Get Hands-On at The New Children’s Museum
Build, jump, splash and paint. The New Children's Museum brings art back to its essence, letting kids' imaginations run wild without even realising that they're learning. No hushed voices or velvet ropes here, just full-on creative chaos.
25. Ride the Giant Slide at Cesar Chavez Park
This hilltop playground near the bay has one of the longest slides in the city and a view that hits just right at sunset.
26. Go Wild at Liberty Station
Grab lunch and enjoy the open space. There's plenty of room to fly a kite and then hit the grassy fields or open-air art walk. Liberty Station is a one-stop shop for chill parents and playful kids.
27. Catch a Puppet Show at Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theater
Located in Balboa Park, this charming little theater was made for tiny audiences. Short shows, big characters and lots of silly giggles. Perfect for younger kids who love a story that talks back.
28. Pop Into Any Art Class
Come together in a creative way when you craft your new favorite candles. With candle-making classes in San Diego, the kiddos will be guided by an artisan extraordinaire in the art of wax, wicks and fragrances. Bring your creations home and light them up around the house to create a sense of calm after a busy day.
Things To Do in San Diego With Kids FAQs
Planning a family trip can feel like juggling sunscreen, snacks and a thousand tiny opinions. But the good news is that being in San Diego makes it easier. With endless sunshine, easy-to-navigate attractions and activities for every age, it’s a top spot for memory-making without the meltdowns (hopefully).
Still figuring out what’s worth your time? These FAQs cover some of the top things to do in San Diego with kids, plus smart tips to help you plan a trip that’s fun, flexible and actually relaxing.
What Is the Cheapest Month To Go to San Diego?
Budget travelers should hit San Diego in January. Fewer crowds, lower prices and still plenty of fun mean you get all the cool experiences without breaking the bank. Ideal for families planning a trip that’s both smart and memorable.
What Are the Top 10 Things To Do in San Diego for Families?
Here’s a quick-hit list of family favorites that deliver every time:
1. San Diego Zoo
2. Balboa Park
3. USS Midway Museum
4. La Jolla Shores Beach
5. The New Children’s Museum
6. San Diego Zoo Safari Park
7. Seaport Village
8. Birch Aquarium
9. Liberty Station
10. Waterfront Park
Splash fountains, play zones and skyline views. It’s the perfect place to let kids run wild while you relax under a palm.
San Diego isn’t just kid-friendly. It’s memory-making, mood-lifting, and full of surprises for every age. The city balances educational experiences with pure entertainment, outdoor adventures with cultural enrichment, and budget-friendly options with special splurges.
What makes San Diego truly exceptional for families is how genuinely enjoyable these activities are for all ages. Parents find themselves having just as much fun as their children. With consistent, beautiful weather and the natural beauty of coastal Southern California as a backdrop, families create connections and memories that last far longer than the vacation itself.
For even more fun things to do in San Diego, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
