Family — and Budget — Friendly San Diego

San Diego is synonymous with fun in the sun. With its blue skies and sandy beaches, it is an ideal vacation destination for families, but when you add free to the equation, it becomes a no-brainer! During the month of October, attractions all over the city are sweetening the deal by giving kids free or discounted admission to some top attractions.

The San Diego Zoo, one of the most beloved family attractions in San Diego, is offering free admission to kids all month long. Adults purchasing a full-price ticket can bring up to 10 children under the age of 11 for no additional cost.

Located near downtown San Diego, families can enjoy exploring the 100-acre zoo, home to more than 650 species of animals and more than 700,000 exotic plants. Visitors can walk the zoo or take the skyfari car over the zoo to enjoy amazing, one-of-a-kind views, and guests with disabilities are encouraged to use the free shuttle bus service that operates within the grounds to get around with ease.

© Lawrence Weslowski Jr | Dreamstime

Sea World and Legoland are each offering similar deals, letting parents plan fun vacations that will make a lifetime of memories without breaking the bank. The inner child in all of us can have a blast exploring Sea World’s spectacular animal shows and resident sea life, as well as Legoland’s fun and interactive rides and attractions made from one of the most beloved toys of all time.

Kids can have a ball exploring some of the San Diego area’s best kid-centric museums on the house this month. The New Children’s Museum and the Living Coast Discovery Center, just to name a few, are giving free admission to children under 12 with the Museum Council’s Kids Free Coupon, available online. These museums offer fun, educational and interactive experiences for kids, making learning fun and easy.

Restaurants like Humphrey’s Kitchen, Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen and many more are extending the savings to meals so families can continue to rake in the savings during their San Diego stay in October.

Newport Landing is offering free kids tickets for whale and dolphin watching cruises, while H&M Landing is offering a free half-day of fishing for one child with a paid adult ticket.

© Susanne Neal | Dreamstime

All month long, kids 12 and under can ride for free on the Old Town Trolley Tours, letting families enjoy these detailed and informative tours of San Diego without having to worry about traffic or parking.

All of these great deals and more are available all month long in October, making your family vacation affordable and fun for everyone. The activities and accommodations listed here are just the tip of the iceberg as San Diego is rolling out the red carpet for your little ones. Visit to take advantage of dozens more opportunities to save big bucks while your family enjoys the wonders of San Diego.