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  • Top 10 family things to do in San Diego

Top 10 family things to do in San Diego

Published 12/14/09
Family taking a photo in front of Legoland entrance, San Diego
Photo by Joanne DiBona, courtesy of the San Diego Conventions & Visitors Bureau

Book a San Diego hotel for a vacation and see killer whales, miniature trains and endangered species. Flying kites or just relaxing on a cruise around the harbor is a fun way to enjoy a vacation with your family in San Diego.

More about San Diego

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Useful links

  • San Diego Travel Resource
  • San Diego Metropolitan Transit System

Monkeying around at the San Diego Zoo

There are lions and tigers and bears, oh my! But the monkeys steal the show. Take the Monkey Trail and visit the Lost Forest from 9-11 a.m. to catch the primates eating breakfast, while for your little primates monkey around.

2920 Zoo Drive in Balboa Park 92101
San Diego Zoo Website

Breakfast with Shamu at Sea World

Have breakfast with San Diego's favorite killer whales. The entire family can enjoy some wet, close time with the sea creatures and their trainers, while fueling up with a buffet breakfast.

500 SeaWorld Drive in Mission Bay 92109
SeaWorld Website

Flying kites at Seaport Village

The staff at Kite Flite will help you choose a kite that’s just right for your afternoon enjoyment. Step right out the door and start flying your new kite in the ocean wind.

839 W. Harbor Drive in Seaport Village 92101
Kite Flight Website

The Giant Dipper in Belmont Park

Originally built in 1925, this old-fashioned roller coaster, one the last ones on the coast, still delights thrill-seekers of all ages. Just make sure the kids don’t fill up on cotton candy and funnel cakes before the ride.

3146 Mission Blvd., Mission Bay 92109
Belmont Park Website

Play and create at the New Children's Museum

Kids of all ages can roll up their sleeves and create. Each studio has its own trained professional artist, but you don't need to be one to make your own masterpiece.

200 W. Island Ave., Downtown 92101
New Children's Museum Website

Snorkeling in La Jolla

The clear waters of La Jolla Cove are an ideal spot for viewing the underwater wildlife. Rent some snorkeling gear and view the bright orange Garibaldi fish or the beautiful coral.

La Jolla Website

Cruise around the harbor

The best view of the San Diego skyline is from the water on a one- or two- hour cruise. Enjoy the ocean air and rest your tired feet while cruising around the harbor.

1050 N. Harbor Drive, Downtown 92101
San Diego Harbor Excursion Website

Miniatures at the Model Railroad Museum

Some of the best things in life are free as is the entrance to the museum for those under 15 accompanied by an adult. It's the detail of the trees and towns that make this museum a worthwhile visit.

1649 El Prado, Balboa Park 92101
San Diego Model Railroad Museum Website

Drive the mini city at LEGOLAND

Adults will be too tall to ride, but the wee ones can enjoy driving their own little cars around the Minicity in LEGOLAND. Parents will get a kick out of the detailed models sculpted with the building block of childhood.

1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad 92008
LEGOLAND Website

Mexican food in Old Town

Billed as California’s first permanent Spanish settlement, Old Town is a place the whole family can enjoy, whether on a walking tour of Old Town State Historic Park or eating fresh tortillas handmade by colorfully dressed señoritas.
Old Town Website

Get out and enjoy the top 10 family things to do in San Diego with one of Hotels.com’s San Diego hotels San Diego hotels

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