10 Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

Looking for things to do in San Diego with kids? Summer is the best time to visit this coastal city, offering endless sunshine and a plethora of activities. From the world-renowned San Diego Zoo to the sun-kissed beaches, there’s something fun and affordable for everyone in the family to enjoy.

What is the best month to visit San Diego?

Is there anything better than summer in San Diego?! There’s always sunshine in America’s Finest City, but everything seems that much better in the summer months. Hiking, swimming, hanging out at the fair—there are so many fun things to do in San Diego from June to August, we thought it’d be fun to create a San Diego summer bucket list for you to tackle this year!

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As a top travel destination in the U.S., San Diego hosts nearly 35.8 million visitors each year.

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San Diego Zoo

It’s world-famous for a reason! The San Diego Zoo offers so many amazing experiences that you couldn’t find anywhere else. Sign up your family for a guided adventure through the park or an early morning cheetah experience. The rest of the zoo is just as spectacular, with a kid’s petting zoo and a Skyfari to take you above the enclosures to go from one side of the park to the other.

USS Midway Museum

San Diego has a rich military history and this interactive museum takes kids aboard a historic aircraft carrier. Learn about naval aviation while the kids explore restored aircraft, take part in flight simulators, and learn from veteran docents who share their personal stories. The flight deck provides spectacular views of the San Diego skyline and harbor, making it a great educational and fun outing for the whole family.

San Diego County Fair

In town from June 8 to July 4, the San Diego County Fair is loved by locals and visitors. There’s a little something for everyone here, with fun rides, cool exhibits, live concerts, and insanely good food (we see you, fried Oreos). This year’s theme is “Heros Reunite,” so be sure to pack your cape and a sidekick!

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The San Diego County Fair, formerly known as the Del Mar Fair, first started back in 1880 as an agricultural fair. Once it planted roots in Del Mar in 1936, the fair as we know it today was born.

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Day Hike at Torrey Pines

One of the most beautiful hikes in San Diego, Torrey Pines is great for a morning or sunset hike with the family. There are a few different trails to choose from with varying lengths and difficulties. Our favorite is the beach trail, which takes you down the side of the cliffs and right down to the shore so you can walk along the ocean on the way back to your car…just make sure to check the tide levels.

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Beach Day in Coronado

Wondering which beach is good for kids in San Diego? Coronado is famous for its long stretches of “glitter” sand, making it one of our favorite spots for a beach day. For an extra full day, consider parking your car in Downtown and taking the ferry over! You can then rent bikes and head straight for the beach. Either way, be sure to swing by the Hotel Del Coronado to refuel after the beach fun.

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Famous movies include the Hotel Del Coronado, most popular is “Some Like It Hot,” the romantic comedy starring Marilyn Monroe, Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis. You can even stay in the room that Marilyn stayed in!

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Drive-In Movie

Sure, you could go to your local movie theater…but why would you when you can go old-school at the drive-in? San Diego has two drive-in theaters, one in South Bay and one in Santee, that both play current and past feature films. Keep a lookout for the calendar to see when they’re playing the next must-see film.

USS Midway Museum

This interactive museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier offers a fascinating look at naval aviation history. Kids can explore restored aircraft, take part in flight simulators, and learn from veteran docents who share their personal stories. The flight deck provides spectacular views of the San Diego skyline and harbor, making it a great educational and fun outing for the whole family.

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Ronald Reagan was the first person to drive across the Coronado Bridge when it opened in 1969.

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Bonfire at the Bay

For an end-of-the-day gathering, head down to Mission Bay to stake out a fire pit for a summer bonfire. Grab some beach blankets, chairs or beach towels, and of course, all the makings for s’mores! Time it right and you may be able to spot the seasonal fireworks over SeaWorld.

SeaWorld San Diego

A must-visit for marine life enthusiasts, SeaWorld offers a combination of thrilling rides, amazing animal encounters, and spectacular shows. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, including touch pools and up-close animal experiences. Don’t miss the iconic orca show and the new Sesame Street Bay of Play area, perfect for younger children.

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Legoland

If you’re looking for fun things to do in San Diego with kids, Legoland California is a no-brainer for families! It has something for kids of all ages, including a Duplo Playtown, perfect for your little ones. Bring the whole family to get in on all the rides, play areas, and shops for a full day of excitement and family bonding.

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Belmont Park’s Giant Dipper roller coaster is the only roller coaster in the country to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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Looking for More Kid-Friendly San Diego Destinations?

• The Best Things to Do in San Diego’s Little Italy
• Surprise Staycation at Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
• Spend a Weekend Exploring San Diego This Fall
• 5 Reasons to Camp at San Diego Zoo Safari Park