Explore San Diego with the Whole Family
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A Family Guide to San Diego’s Must-Visit Attractions
San Diego is a destination built for family adventures, where ocean views, incredible wildlife and interactive attractions come together in one easygoing trip. When creator @alexandra_lourdes visited with her family, they packed their itinerary with experiences that kept both kids and adults entertained.
From giraffes roaming wide-open habitats to hands-on marine exhibits and a scenic trolley ride through the city, each stop offered something memorable. Below, explore the places they visited, plus the resort that served as the perfect home base for their San Diego getaway.
Where They Stayed
Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Where: 5300 Grand Del Mar Ct, San Diego, CA 92130
Tucked into the scenic coastal canyons of North County Coastal San Diego, Fairmont Grand Del Mar feels like stepping into a storybook. With grand architecture, lush gardens and sweeping views, the resort offers a peaceful escape while still being within easy reach of San Diego’s top attractions. Kids love the open space to explore, from horseback riding to playing by the pool, while adults can enjoy the tranquil spa and the adults only golf course. It’s the kind of stay where the stay becomes part of the adventure.
Where They Explored
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Where: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027
A visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park feels like embarking on a real safari. Expansive habitats allow animals to roam across wide landscapes, creating a more immersive wildlife experience than a traditional zoo. The giraffes and rhinos are often the stars of the visit, but the park is home to hundreds of species from around the world; including the recently opened Elephant Valley! With walking trails, wildlife encounters and incredible scenery, it’s an adventure that captivates visitors of all ages.
Old Town Trolley Tours
Where: Multiple stops throughout San Diego
One of the easiest and most entertaining ways to explore San Diego is aboard the Old Town Trolley. The hop-on, hop-off tour travels through many of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods while sharing stories and history along the way. For families, it’s a fun way to see more of the destination without worrying about driving or parking. Kids stay engaged, parents learn about the city and everyone gets a new perspective on San Diego.
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Where: 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
Perched above the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla, Birch Aquarium pairs sweeping coastal views with interactive marine exhibits that are perfect for curious young explorers. Hands-on displays and vibrant aquarium tanks introduce visitors to ocean life from around the world, while the outdoor spaces offer breathtaking views of the coastline. It’s a place where learning and exploration come together in a uniquely San Diego setting.