100 Fun Summer Activities To Do With Your Kids in San Diego

There are so many amazing things to do in San Diego with your kids. This is just a small list of the more popular things to do. I’m sure there is at least one thing here for everyone to enjoy.

1. Go kayaking in La Jolla’s sea caves.  https://www.lajollakayak.com/Explore the breathtaking sea caves of La Jolla by kayak, an adventure that’s perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
2. Visit Legoland California in nearby Carlsbad.  https://www.legoland.com/california/Bring the family to Legoland California, where you can enjoy over 60 rides, shows, and attractions based on the famous toy brand.
3. Spend a day at SeaWorld San Diego.  https://seaworld.com/san-diego/Get up close and personal with marine animals at SeaWorld San Diego, where you can watch shows, ride roller coasters, and learn about conservation efforts.
4. Explore the San Diego Botanic Garden.  https://www.sdbgarden.org/Discover the beauty of nature at the San Diego Botanic Garden, which features over 4,000 plant species and 37 acres of gardens.
5. Take a ride on the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster at Belmont Park.  https://www.belmontpark.com/Experience the thrill of the iconic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster at Belmont Park, a historic beachfront amusement park.
6. Visit the Children’s Pool in La Jolla to see seals and sea lions.  https://www.sandiego.com/listing/childrens-pool-in-la-jolla/78/Witness the adorable seals and sea lions that inhabit the Children’s Pool in La Jolla, a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.
7. Go for a hike at Cabrillo National Monument.  https://www.nps.gov/cabr/index.htmTake in panoramic views of San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean by hiking through Cabrillo National Monument, a historic site that commemorates the arrival of the first European expedition to the West Coast.
8. Attend a summer concert at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay.  https://www.humphreysconcerts.com/Enjoy live music and stunning waterfront views at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, a popular outdoor venue that hosts world-class artists throughout the summer.
9. Enjoy the exhibits at the Fleet Science Center.  https://www.fleetscience.org/Discover the wonders of science through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities at the Fleet Science Center, located in Balboa Park.
10. Go whale watching with a local tour company.  https://sdwhalewatch.com/Experience the thrill of spotting whales in their natural habitat by taking a whale watching tour with a local company, which typically runs from December through April.
11. Visit the New Children’s Museum.  https://thinkplaycreate.org/Engage your child’s creativity and imagination at the New Children’s Museum, which features interactive art installations and educational exhibits.
12. Explore the San Diego Model Railroad Museum.  https://www.sdmrm.org/Step into the world of model trains at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, which boasts one of the largest indoor model railroad displays in the world.
13. Attend a summer event at the Old Globe Theatre.  https://www.theoldglobe.org/Experience world-class theater productions at the Old Globe Theatre, a historic venue that hosts a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.
14. Learn about maritime history at the Maritime Museum of San Diego.  https://sdmaritime.org/Discover San Diego’s rich maritime heritage by visiting the Maritime Museum of San Diego, which features a collection of historic ships and exhibits.
15. Visit the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park.  https://niwa.org/Find tranquility and beauty at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park, a serene oasis that features traditional Japanese architecture and gardens.
16. Take a guided tour of the Hotel del Coronado.  https://hoteldel.com/Step back in time by taking a guided tour of the Hotel del Coronado, a legendary beachfront hotel that has hosted presidents, celebrities, and royalty.
17. Go tide pooling at Cabrillo National Monument.
    https://www.nps.gov/cabr/learn/nature/tidepools.htmExplore the fascinating world of tide pools by visiting the ones at Cabrillo National Monument, home to a diverse array of marine life such as starfish, anemones, and crabs.
18. Visit the Living Coast Discovery Center.  https://www.thelivingcoast.org/Get up close and personal with animals native to Southern California by visiting the Living Coast Discovery Center, a zoo and aquarium located on the San Diego Bay.
19. Explore the San Diego Natural History Museum.  https://www.sdnhm.org/Learn about the natural world and the creatures that inhabit it at the San Diego Natural History Museum, which features interactive exhibits and educational programs.
20. Attend the annual San Diego County Fair.  https://sdfair.com/Experience the excitement of a classic county fair by attending the annual San Diego County Fair, where you can enjoy carnival rides, live music, and fried food.
21. Take a family surf lesson at a local beach.  https://sandiegosurfingschool.com/Learn to surf or improve your skills by taking a family surf lesson with a local surf school, which offers lessons for all ages and skill levels.
22. Go for a hike in Mission Trails Regional Park.  https://mtrp.org/Experience the natural beauty of San Diego by hiking through Mission Trails Regional Park, which features over 60 miles of trails and stunning views of the city.
23. Visit the Museum of Photographic Arts.  https://mopa.org/Explore the art of photography by visiting the Museum of Photographic Arts, which features a collection of over 9,000 photographs from around the world.
24. Explore the San Diego Air & Space Museum.  https://sandiegoairandspace.org/Discover the history of flight and space travel at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, which features a collection of aircraft and space artifacts.
25. Take a San Diego trolley tour.  https://www.trolleytours.com/san-diegoSee the city’s top attractions and landmarks by taking a trolley tour of San Diego, which provides a convenient and fun way to explore the city.
26. Visit the San Diego Automotive Museum.  https://sdautomuseum.org/Explore the history of automobiles and their impact on American culture at the San Diego Automotive Museum, which features a collection of over 80 vintage and classic cars.
27. Explore the San Diego History Center.  https://www.sandiegohistory.org/Discover the rich history of San Diego by visiting the San Diego History Center, which features exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
28. Attend a summer movie night in a local park.
    https://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/centers/recctr/carmelvalley/special-eventsEnjoy a movie under the stars by attending a summer movie night in a local park, which offers a fun and affordable family-friendly activity.
29. Take a nature walk through the Tijuana River Estuary.  https://trnerr.org/Experience the beauty and diversity of the Tijuana River Estuary by taking a guided nature walk, which offers a chance to see migratory birds and other wildlife.
30. Visit the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park.  https://mingei.org/Explore the art of folk and craft traditions from around the world at the Mingei International Museum, which features a collection of over 26,000 objects.
31. Explore the Museum of Making Music in Carlsbad.  https://www.museumofmakingmusic.org/Discover the history and evolution of musical instruments and the music industry at the Museum of Making Music, which features interactive exhibits and educational programs.
32. Attend a summer event at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.  https://spreckelsorgan.org/Listen to the beautiful sounds of the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, which hosts free concerts throughout the summer.
33. Visit the Timken Museum of Art.  https://www.timkenmuseum.org/Explore the world of fine art by visiting the Timken Museum of Art, which features a collection of European and American masterpieces from the 14th through the 19th centuries.
34. Explore the Veterans Museum at Balboa Park.  https://veteranmuseum.org/Learn about the experiences of American veterans and their contributions to the country by visiting the Veterans Museum at Balboa Park, which features exhibits and educational programs.
35. Take a family yoga class at a local studio or park.  https://www.yogajournal.com/teaching/family-yoga-for-all-agesPractice mindfulness and relaxation by taking a family yoga class, which offers a fun and healthy activity for all ages.
36. Attend the annual Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off.  https://oceanbeachsandiego.com/special-event/ob-street-fair-chili-cook-off-festivalExperience the eclectic culture and cuisine of Ocean Beach by attending the annual Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off, which features live music, food vendors, and local crafts.
37. Go on a family-friendly ghost tour of Old Town San Diego.  https://www.gaslampquarter.org/tours/haunted-old-town-san-diego/Explore the spooky side of San Diego by going on a family-friendly ghost tour of Old Town, where you can hear tales of hauntings and paranormal activity.
38. Visit the San Diego Museum of Man.  https://www.museumofman.org/Learn about the cultural diversity of humanity by visiting the San Diego Museum of Man, which features exhibits on human evolution, ancient civilizations, and cultural anthropology.
39. Participate in a family art workshop at the San Diego Museum of Art.  https://www.sdmart.org/Unleash your creativity by participating in a family art workshop at the San Diego Museum of Art, which offers a variety of hands-on art activities for all ages.
40. Attend the annual San Diego Comic-Con International.  https://www.comic-con.org/Join the world’s largest celebration of comics, movies, TV shows, and pop culture by attending the annual San Diego Comic-Con International, which attracts fans from around the world.
41. Explore the California Surf Museum in Oceanside.  https://surfmuseum.org/Learn about the history and culture of surfing in California by visiting the California Surf Museum in Oceanside, which features exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
42. Attend a summer event at the Star of India.  https://sdmaritime.org/visit/the-fleet/star-of-india/Step aboard the world’s oldest active sailing ship by attending a summer event at the Star of India, which offers a chance to experience life on the high seas.
43. Visit the San Diego Art Institute.  https://www.sandiego-art.org/Discover contemporary art from around the world by visiting the San Diego Art Institute, which features exhibitions, artist residencies, and educational programs.
44. Take a scenic drive along the Sunset Cliffs.  https://www.sandiego.org/articles/beaches/sunset-cliffs.aspxEnjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean by taking a scenic drive along the Sunset Cliffs, a popular destination for surfing, hiking, and picnicking.
45. Visit the Women’s Museum of California.  https://womensmuseumca.org/Learn about the contributions of women throughout history by visiting the Women’s Museum of California, which features exhibits, events, and educational programs.
46. Attend the annual Pacific Beachfest.  https://www.pacificbeachfest.org/Celebrate the vibrant culture and community of Pacific Beach by attending the annual Pacific Beachfest, which features live music, food vendors, and local crafts.
47. Explore the WorldBeat Cultural Center.  https://www.worldbeatcenter.org/Experience the diversity of world cultures by visiting the WorldBeat Cultural Center, which features exhibits, performances, and educational programs.
48. Participate in a family beach cleanup.  https://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/centers/recctr/oceanbeach/special-eventsGive back to the community and protect the environment by participating in a family beach cleanup, which offers a fun and rewarding activity for all ages.
49. Attend a family event at the San Diego Central Library.  https://www.sandiego.gov/public-library/central-libraryExplore the world of books and learning by attending a family event at the San Diego Central Library, which offers a variety of programs and activities for all ages.
50. Explore the San Diego Hall of Champions.  https://www.sdhoc.com/Celebrate the history and achievements of San Diego’s sports teams and athletes by visiting the San Diego Hall of Champions, which features exhibits and interactive displays.
51. Attend the annual ArtWalk San iego.  https://www.artwalksandiego.org/Experience the vibrant art scene of San Diego by attending the annual ArtWalk, which features over 350 artists showcasing their works in a variety of media.
52. Visit the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum.  https://www.sdchm.org/Learn about the history and culture of the Chinese-American community in San Diego by visiting the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum, which features exhibits and educational programs.
53. Take a family sailing lesson.  https://www.sailusa11.com/Learn how to sail and navigate the waters of San Diego by taking a family sailing lesson, which offers a unique and exhilarating experience for all ages.
54. Explore the Adobe Chapel Museum.  https://www.oldtownsandiegoguide.com/adobe-chapel-museum/Discover the history and architecture of San Diego’s oldest standing church by visiting the Adobe Chapel Museum, which features exhibits and educational programs.
55. Attend a family workshop at the Lux Art Institute.  https://www.luxartinstitute.org/Experience the world of contemporary art by attending a family workshop at the Lux Art Institute, which offers a variety of hands-on art activities and exhibitions.
56. Explore the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum.  https://www.craftsmanshipmuseum.com/Marvel at the intricate details and craftsmanship of miniature machines and models by visiting the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum, which features a collection of over 4,000 pieces.
57. Visit the Creation and Earth History Museum.  https://creationsd.org/Explore the intersection of science and religion by visiting the Creation and Earth History Museum, which offers exhibits and educational programs on creationism and the Bible.
58. Take a family pottery or painting class.  https://www.paintnvineyard.com/Unleash your creativity by taking a family pottery or painting class, which offers a fun and relaxing activity for all ages.
59. Attend a free outdoor movie night in a local park.  https://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/centers/recctr/cityheights/special-eventsEnjoy a movie under the stars by attending a free outdoor movie night in a local park, which offers a fun and affordable family-friendly activity.
60. Go indoor rock climbing at a local gym.  https://mesarim.com/Challenge yourself and stay active by going indoor rock climbing at a local gym, which offers a safe and controlled environment for climbers of all levels.
61. Visit the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum.  https://flyingleathernecks.org/Learn about the history and technology of military aviation by visiting the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum, which features exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
62. Explore the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum.  https://agsem.com/Discover the history and engineering of antique machinery and vehicles by visiting the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, which features a collection of over 1,000 pieces.
63. Visit the San Diego Archaeological Center.  https://sandiegoarchaeology.org/Learn about the prehistoric and historic archaeology of San Diego County by visiting the San Diego Archaeological Center, which features exhibits and educational programs.
64. Participate in a family-friendly outdoor fitness class.  https://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/centers/recctr/oceanbeach/special-eventsStay fit and active by participating in a family-friendly outdoor fitness class, which offers a fun and healthy activity for all ages.
65. Attend a summer event at the San Diego Civic Theatre.  https://sandiegotheatres.org/venues/san-diego-civic-theatre/Experience the excitement of live theater and performing arts by attending a summer event at the San Diego Civic Theatre, which features a variety of shows and performances.
66. Visit the San Dieguito Heritage Museum.  https://sdheritage.org/Learn about the history and culture of the San Dieguito River Valley by visiting the San Dieguito Heritage Museum, which features exhibits and educational programs.
67. Take a guided nature walk at the San Elijo Lagoon.  https://www.sanelijo.org/nature-centerDiscover the natural beauty and diversity of San Diego’s wetlands by taking a guided nature walk at the San Elijo Lagoon, which offers a chance to see a variety of wildlife and plants.
68. Attend the annual Carlsbad Village Faire.  https://www.carlsbad.org/event/carlsbad-village-faire/Experience the vibrant community and culture of Carlsbad by attending the annual Carlsbad Village Faire, which features over 800 vendors, live music, and entertainment.
69. Explore the Chula Vista Heritage Museum.  https://www.chulavistaca.gov/departments/recreation/heritage-museumLearn about the history and culture of Chula Vista by visiting the Chula Vista Heritage Museum, which features exhibits and educational programs on local history.
70. Visit the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum in Escondido.  https://www.sdcdm.org/Spark your child’s curiosity and creativity by visiting the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum in Escondido, which offers hands-on exhibits and activities for children of all ages.
71. Attend a family-friendly summer event at Liberty Station.  https://libertystation.com/eventsExperience the vibrant community and culture of Liberty Station by attending a family-friendly summer event, which features live music, food vendors, and entertainment.
72. Participate in a family volunteer opportunity with a local organization.  https://www.handsonsandiego.org/Give back to the community and teach your children the value of service by participating in a family volunteer opportunity with a local organization, which offers a chance to make a difference in the lives of others.
73. Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.  https://www.mcasd.org/Discover the cutting-edge art and culture of the 21st century by exploring the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, which features exhibitions, events, and educational programs.
74. Visit the Bonita Museum and Cultural Center.  https://bonitamuseum.org/Learn about the history and culture of Bonita and South Bay by visiting the Bonita Museum and Cultural Center, which features exhibits and educational programs.
75. Attend the annual Fiesta del Sol in Solana Beach.  https://fiestadelsol.net/Celebrate the vibrant culture and community of Solana Beach by attending the annual Fiesta del Sol, which features live music, food vendors, and local crafts.
76. Visit the National City Railroad Museum.  https://www.ncrm.org/Learn about the history and technology of railroads in California and the West by visiting the National City Railroad Museum, which features exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
77. Explore the Olaf Wieghorst Museum and Western Heritage Center.  https://wieghorstmuseum.org/Discover the art and culture of the American West by exploring the Olaf Wieghorst Museum and Western Heritage Center, which features a collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.
78. Attend a family-friendly summer event at the San Diego Symphony.  https://www.sandiegosymphony.org/events/list/Experience the excitement and beauty of classical music by attending a family-friendly summer event at the San Diego Symphony, which features a variety of performances and concerts.
79. Visit the Water Conservation Garden.  https://thegarden.org/Learn about sustainable gardening and water conservation by visiting the Water Conservation Garden, which features exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations on sustainable practices.
80. Participate in a family-friendly art walk in a local neighborhood.  https://www.sandiego.org/articles/arts-culture
81. Explore the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House.  https://www.gaslampfoundation.org/Learn about the history and architecture of the Gaslamp Quarter by exploring the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House, which features exhibits and educational programs.
82. Visit the San Diego Model Boat Pond.  https://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/centers/recctr/morena/boatingExperience the fun and excitement of remote-controlled boating by visiting the San Diego Model Boat Pond, which offers a unique and entertaining activity for all ages.
83. Take a family paddleboarding lesson in Mission Bay.  https://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/centers/recctr/morena/boatingEnjoy the beautiful scenery of Mission Bay by taking a family paddleboarding lesson, which offers a fun and challenging activity for all skill levels.
84. Attend a summer event at the San Diego Repertory Theatre.  https://www.sdrep.org/Experience the excitement and creativity of live theater by attending a summer event at the San Diego Repertory Theatre, which features a variety of productions and performances.
85. Explore the Museum of the Living Artist.  https://www.sandiego-art.org/Discover the diverse and dynamic art scene of San Diego by exploring the Museum of the Living Artist, which features a collection of contemporary art and exhibitions.
86. Visit the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center.  https://www.aguahedionda.org/Learn about the ecology and biodiversity of the Agua Hedionda Lagoon by visiting the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center, which features exhibits and educational programs.
87. Take a family photography workshop in Balboa Park.  https://www.balboapark.org/photography-classesImprove your photography skills and capture the beauty of Balboa Park by taking a family photography workshop, which offers a fun and educational activity for all ages.
88. Attend a summer event at the La Jolla Playhouse.  https://lajollaplayhouse.org/Experience the excitement and creativity of live theater by attending a summer event at the La Jolla Playhouse, which features a variety of productions and performances.
89. Visit the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve.  https://trnerr.org/Learn about the ecology and conservation of the Tijuana River Estuary by visiting the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, which features exhibits and educational programs.
90. Explore the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages in Balboa Park.  https://www.balboapark.org/house-of-pacific-relations-international-cottagesExperience the diverse and vibrant cultures of the Pacific Rim by exploring the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages in Balboa Park, which features a variety of exhibits, events, and programs.
91. Visit La Jolla Cove and explore the tide pools.  https://www.lajolla.com/guides/tide-pools/Explore the beautiful tide pools at La Jolla Cove, home to an array of marine life including crabs, sea anemones, and starfish.
92. Spend a day at the famous San Diego Zoo.  https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/Discover over 3,500 animals and 650 species at the San Diego Zoo, one of the largest and most diverse zoos in the world.
93. Explore Balboa Park and its many museums.  https://www.balboapark.org/Immerse yourself in culture and history by visiting one of the many museums located in Balboa Park, such as the San Diego Museum of Art or the San Diego Natural History Museum.
94. Go for a family bike ride along the Mission Beach Boardwalk.  https://www.sandiego.org/explore/things-to-do/beaches-bays/mission-beach.aspxEnjoy the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean while biking along the Mission Beach Boardwalk, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
95. Visit the USS Midway Museum.  https://www.midway.org/Experience the life of a sailor aboard the USS Midway, one of America’s longest-serving aircraft carriers.
96. Explore Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.  https://torreypine.org/Hike through the beautiful Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, which features stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and unique geological formations.
97. Take a harbor tour of San Diego Bay.
    https://www.flagshipsd.com/cruises/san-diego-harbor-tourSee San Diego from a different perspective by taking a harbor tour of the bay, where you can enjoy the sights and learn about the city’s rich history.
98. Relax at Mission Bay Park with a family picnic.  https://www.sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/parks/regional/missionbayEnjoy a family picnic at Mission Bay Park, a beautiful park that features 27 miles of shoreline and plenty of recreational activities.
99. Attend a San Diego Padres baseball game at Petco Park.  https://www.mlb.com/padres/ballparkCatch a game at Petco Park, home to the San Diego Padres and one of the most iconic ballparks in Major League Baseball.
100. Visit the Birch Aquarium at Scripps.  https://aquarium.ucsd.edu/Discover the wonders of the ocean at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, which features over 60 habitats and 5,000 fish and invertebrates.