Family Memories Start in San Diego

San Diego Zoo and Safari Park
Start your trip at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where open-air habitats let you get remarkably close to giraffes, rhinos, elephants and more than 3,000 animals from around the world. Upgrade your visit with a safari experience for an even more unforgettable day.

Insider Tips  

• Book safari experiences in advance. Caravan Safaris and other specialty tours often sell out, especially during weekends and holidays.
• Ride the Africa Tram. It's included with admission and gives you a great overview of the park.

Coastal Views & California History
Spend the morning discovering colorful marine life at Birch Aquarium before grabbing lunch overlooking the Pacific in La Jolla. Time your visit around some of the aquarium's daily experiences, including penguin feedings, kelp forest presentations and animal encounters. The aquarium's bluff-top location also offers some of the best coastal views in La Jolla. 

In the afternoon, explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, where historic buildings, local shops and authentic Mexican cuisine make it easy to spend the rest of the day. If you're looking for a stress-free way to explore more of San Diego, hop aboard the Old Town Trolley Tour. You can hop on and off throughout the city without worrying about downtown parking. 

Insider Tips 

• Visit the Tide Pool Plaza before leaving Birch Aquarium. Kids can gently interact with sea stars and anemones while enjoying incredible ocean views.
• Free parking lots surround Old Town, but they fill quickly on weekends. Arriving earlier in the afternoon to ensure you can get a close spot. 

Bonus Tip 

• Planning to visit multiple attractions during your trip? Check out the discount passes linked below, they can help you save up to 45% on admission to some of San Diego's most popular attractions, making it easy to see more while spending less..

Beach & Baseball
Slow things down with a morning on Mission Bay. Rent paddleboards or kayaks from Action Sports Rentals, build sandcastles or simply relax by the water. Grab lunch at one of Mission Bay's waterfront restaurants before heading downtown. It's an easy way to enjoy the views without rushing to your next stop. 

Later, make your way downtown to explore the Gaslamp Quarter before catching a Padres game at Petco Park if they're in town. Even if baseball isn't your thing, the stadium is one of San Diego's most iconic experiences. 

Insider Tips 

• Arrive in Mission Bay before 10 a.m. for easier parking and quieter beaches.
• Bring bikes or rent one nearby to cruise the miles of scenic waterfront paths.
• The behind-the-scenes Petco Park tour is worth doing even on non-game days and includes access to areas fans normally never see.
• Skip standard stadium food and try one of the many local San Diego restaurants featured inside the ballpark.
• Take the San Diego Trolley into downtown to avoid postgame traffic. 

Bonus Tip 

• Arrive an hour or two before first pitch to explore Gallagher Square, where kids can run around while adults grab food or a local craft beer before the game begins.

Balboa Park 
Wrap up your trip with one last adventure at Balboa Park. Wander through gardens, museums and beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture and enjoy lunch at Artifact or Panama 66. Be sure to stroll through the Spanish Village Art Center, where local artists work inside colorful studios. It's a great place to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir before heading home. 

Insider Tips

• Start your morning at the Botanical Building before the crowds arrive, it's one of the most photographed spots in the park.
• Not every museum is a full-day commitment. Even visiting one or two gives you a great taste of Balboa Park. 

Bonus Tip

• Make the most of your visit with a Balboa Park Explorer Pass, which lets you experience multiple museums for one discounted price, perfect if you're planning to spend the day exploring the park.