San Diego is a great destination for families looking for fun no matter what time of year it is, but this fall, there is plenty to do for everyone — even when you have a budget. Thanks to year-round sunshine, the best way to explore this city is by heading outdoors and enjoying the beautiful weather.
Balboa Park is always a great place. This complex of museums, gardens, restaurants and attractions is home to the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Natural History Museum and the Botanical Building with its picture-perfect lily pond. While some attractions at the park require admission fees, a large portion of the park is occupied by beautiful gardens and iconic sites free to enjoy and perfect for a day of outdoor exploration.
Wander the park’s EthnoBotany Children’s Peace Garden, the 1935 Cactus Garden or the Spanish Village Art Center to get a feel for the city, its history and its Spanish architecture. The “El Cid” statue, the Cabrillo Bridge and the California Tower are San Diego landmarks and must-sees for anyone visiting the city. For just $3 per person, the family can enjoy a ride on the Balboa Park Carousel, an original 1910 carousel in beautiful condition.
To truly enjoy San Diego and its great weather, head to Waterfront Park right along the harbor. This local hangout is a great way to spend a day with the family as the kids will love playing in the interactive water fountains. There is also local artwork on display, picnic areas and grassy areas for relaxing and taking in the sun. The park is open 6 a.m.–10 p.m. daily and, with no entrance fees, your day of fun won’t break the bank.
San Diego Waterfront Public Park. Photo: F11photo | Dreamstime.com
For $45 per person head to the beach to explore the coastline and the local sea caves with the La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour. An expert guide will help you navigate the coastline while you learn all about the local ecology and marine life.
To see more of the beautiful coastline without getting wet in the process, take the San Diego Harbor Cruise starting at just $28 per person. There are two cruises to choose from, either a one-hour or a two-hour excursion through San Diego Bay while you take in the beautiful San Diego skyline and the sites of the bay like the USS Midway and the Coronado Bridge.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / Europe
May 19, 2026Sleep Like Royalty in These 4 Real Royal Castles in Europe
Watch your kids’ eyes pop when you tell them they’ll be staying in a real castle on the next family trip to Europe. Ireland, England, Germany and Italy all offer castles with glamour, a history — and guestrooms. Make your kids’ fairy-tale dreams come true at one of these.
Sponsored Content
Best of Both Worlds
Enjoy the best of both worlds when you fly with TAP Air Portugal thanks to the Portugal Stopover program. With the program, TAP passengers, whether traveling for business, leisure or both, can stop in Portugal for up to 10 days at no additional airfare on the way to their final destination. What does this mean for travelers wishing to explore by both land and sea? It means after flying to Portugal with TAP and experiencing the country in an entirely new way, travelers can then embark on scenic river and ocean cruises from Portugal’s port cities, or fly with TAP to another European destination.
Destinations
May 19, 20263 Destinations for Sea Turtle Release Experiences
Sea turtle nesting season takes place between May and October, making summer the perfect time to plan family travel to one of these destinations with turtle release experiences.
Travel Goods
May 19, 20264 Disney Baby Strollers for Little One’s First Trip to Disney
Disney parents preparing for the upcoming summer travel season to Disney World and Disneyland have much to plan before the trip because, let’s face it, it can be stressful getting everything together, especially with little ones in tow. And when it comes to maneuvering the crowds and parks, having the proper stroller can make or break the day.
Hotels
May 18, 2026Experience the Magic of Mermaids in Orlando This Summer
Orlando is known for its iconic theme parks, but that isn’t the only place to find magic this spring and summer. Orlando World Center Marriott offers an experience that will bring magic to life for the little ones with Mermaid & Glow parties at the pool.
Hotels
May 18, 2026Marriott Opens Boise’s Largest Hotel, First Dual-Branded Property
Family travelers have new options in Idaho. Last week Pennbridge Hospitality opened AC Hotel Boise Downtown and Element by Marriott Boise Downtown, the largest and first dual-branded property in Boise, Idaho.
ShareThis