Exploring One of favourite Family VAcAtion Destinations

                                                                             San Diego                         

                                           "America's Finest City" - so they say!      

 San Diego is a city on the Pacific coast of California known for its beaches, parks and warm climate. Balboa Park is the site of the famous San Diego Zoo, as well as numerous art galleries, artist studios, museums and gardens. Harbor town is home to a large active naval fleet, with the USS Midway, an aircraft-carrier-turned-museum, open to the public.

Whilst I really do love San Diego, having visited twice both Pre and Post Covid upon researching recently I have noticed changes in many admission charges that have slightly blown my mind. Fueling my intentions to note mostly family friendly - BUDGET FRIENDLY recommendations here. 

** Balboa Park **

Location:  1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA
Opening Hours:  Park hours and show schedules are updated periodically. Check out  official website for accurate information.
Price: FREE + attractions ( suggest you consider the combo pass)

LOVE, love this park... it's huge... home to the famous Zoo, offers lots to do for free and can keep you busy all day on very little budget, the flip side to this is you can also spend a few days here, dipping well into the budget. 

An accidental find years ago when searching for ROCKY STAIRS in Phili lead me to a Balboa park link ( I'm thinking Rocky Balboa, sure this seems cool) one quick click and San Diego quickly became part of our Itinerary - need to note we didn't make it to Philadelphia,  we swapped out for San Diego and we are so glad we did. 

What a great place there is an Art museum, open air concert areas (organs that play), orchid house, children's attractions, live acts wondering. It's a feast of Art & Culture - Experiences and attractions - Beautiful parks and themed gardens, it just makes for a perfect day of adventure at whatever pace you choose to take it. Opportunities for family picnics by the lakes or you may choose to dine in at one of the cafe's a full day here is easily suggested.  A must to visit even if it is only for some photos by the fountain's with ample parking and friendly path's a simple stroll to resent will offer a few hours in the outdoors. You may like to consider our combo city pass offering you discounted entry to some of the parks attractions 

** Fleet Science Center ** ( located on the balboa park grounds)

Location:  1875 El Prado, San Diego
Opening Hours:  DAILY 10am - 10pm
Price: $24.95per adult | $19.95 per child  2-12yrs |Senior 65+ $$22.95 UNDER 3 FREE

We had a ball here there was so much to see and do exhibits where bright and inviting for all of us, we spent a good 3+ hours and would say we engaged with almost everything on offer including the fun ball pit!  

I like to make mention this museum is also stepping forward with inclusive opportunities allowing people of all needs and abilities -  a morning documentary once a month in a well lit, low noise environment one hour prior to museum opening (yes you can stay and enjoy the museum also). This science centre also offers Noise-canceling headsets, available for use during your visit. have captioned Screenings and are wheelchair friendly and allow companion cards for international travellers. 

Thumbs up science centre, thank you for welcoming and respecting our families!  

** San Diego Firehouse Museum **

Location: 1572 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States
Opening Hours:  Thu & Fri 10am - 2pm | Sat & Sun 10am - 4pm
Price: $3 adult | $2 per child 

Let's start by Acknowledging this Fire house is 100 years old that in itself is a reason to consider a visit if you are into history and old world Architecture. Add to that the opportunity to view and learn all there is to know about the old school fire days and you are sure to have a great stop here. This stop had me at the horse drawn steamer - I had no idea this even existed  

I do have to say my eldest and I are the geeks of the family when it comes to wanting to learn about the history, so did invest a little more time here than the others.  

** Sea World San Diego  **

Location:  500 Sea World Dr, San Diego
Opening Hours:  Park hours and show schedules are updated periodically. Check out their calendar on SeaWorld’s official website for accurate information.
Price: $69.99per adult | $59.99 per child 

Have a family day out visiting this famous  Sea World park and enjoy its massive array of marine animals including seals, sea lions, polar bears, whales, penguins, bottlenose dolphins and more. I found this to be a fantastic day for our entire family..I mostly enjoyed the fact we were greeted at almost every exhibit by a staff member who was willing to answer questions we may of had - mostly they offered an educational talk on topic that was engaging and fun to listen too. 

The exhibits themselves are amazing the details created a real feel for each animal its by far one of the better sea worlds Ive visited. I guess if the exhibits have worn thin ... up the pace and take on some rides & rollercoasters if you dare. The collection of rides on offer have something for everyone from Aqua Scout which caters for the little members to the Emperor that would be best described as suiting the dare devils of the family. 

Of cause you have a selection of dining options from sit down all you can eats to quick snacks on the go like pretzels but what we were most excited to see whats the Electric Eel Bar

the perfect way to quench your thirst with these frozen cocktails including frozen Jack & Coke®, craft beers, and other spirits. Its a YES from me! 

Be sure to take a peek on the sea world website to see what festivals or events may be hosting around the time of your trip Sea world has loads of fun inclusive seasonal festive celebrations that set the tone for travels during Halloween, Christmas, summer and many more! 

** Little Italy **

Location:  India Street, San Diego
Opening Hours:  Store operating hours vary
Price: FREE + Attractions & Shopping

Tucked away not that far off the water or from downtown you will find this sweet Little community dedicated to all that is Italy! With its abundance of authentic restaurants, fresh food markets, gelato's, fab open park spaces to enjoy and its very own Landmark sign! 

A great way to spend a few hours especially if you happen to be around when the markets are  - one of the best i have seen here to be honestly they are bursting with vendors offering fresh produce from Breads, sweets Fruits and yoghurts a real delight for those wanting to enjoy some fresh food items - more on the markets in our blog post. 

From Galleries (over six)  to churches, fountain and more, whatever brings you to Little Italy I assure you there is an abundance of choice for Shopping, dining, entertainment and simply exploring! 

** Carlsbad Flower Fields ** 

Location:  5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad,  
Opening Hours:  SEASONAL March 1 - May 21 

 DAILY 9am - 6pm
Price: $23.00per adult | SENIOR $21.00|$12 per child | Seasonal pass available

+ attractions/purchases

If you are around the time of this spectacular event and do love a stroll amongst the blooms,  I would highly recommend you stop by.  Jump onboard a tractor ride and set yourself up for a journey of the senses as you travel through the rows and rows ...and rows of petals. You may choose to enjoy the inspiring displays found in The Artist Gardens sweetly complimented by the chirps and chatter of the Bird Aviaries.

Whats a flower field visit without a stop by the Orchids?... Be sure to take a wonder through the Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse and once you have completed that exhibit, you might like to pick your own blueberries on the way out. Before you do leave check your camera roll and be sure you didn't miss the the amazing American Flag Display.

This brilliantly designed American Flag waves in the wind!!!!!! It's Red, white and blue petunias - all strategically planted on a 300 by 170-foot hillside paying tribute to the United State and making a great holiday snap! 

Children are not forgotten here in fact you could spend a lot of time just enjoying the imaginative play of Santa's playground - with its cute  playhouses and gigantic mushrooms. Children love the  ‘Guard Shack’, ‘Doll House’, ‘Crooked Treehouse’ and colourful mushrooms and don't get me started on the Photo opportunity here. Once you are ready to move on stop and follow the kids through the beautifully fragrant sweet Pea maze! 

I can see how a good few hours could be filled here so much to see and do and at a pace that you decide I would say this attraction has good bang for its buck if you have timed your visit right! 

* NOTES TO MENTION - Tractor ride for 2023 is payable once onsite - no online purchasing this year.

** FRED free rides in San Diego **

Location:  ON CALL
Opening Hours: DAILY 7am -PM times vary check app
Price: COMPLETELY FREE - tips are welcome  

We love this service and do use it each time in San Diego even though we have a car! 

Zipping around downtown San Diego has become a whole lot easier not only for locals but its a huge welcomed relief for us tourists also! 

Thanks to the brand-new ( well its been around a while ) service for the city called FRED, which stands for “Free Ride Everywhere Downtown.” A fleet of electric shuttles gives up to five passengers the option of circumventing downtown’s parking headaches to reach restaurants, boutiques, parks, theatres, and other attractions—quick, convenient, and free!

Shut up and take my money - NO wait - its FREE! 

You request a ride on a FRED shuttle via your smartphone using “The Free Ride” app.

FRED shuttles are available seven days a week: 7 AM to PM Monday through Thursday, 7 AM to midnight on Friday, 8 AM to midnight on Saturday, and 9 AM to 9 PM on Sunday.

Again, these are completely free, although FRED encourages tipping if you enjoy your ride.

Side trivia - The service is supported by parking-meter revenues, now you know!

** Seal Tours**

Location:  Seaport village -825 West Harbor Drive., San Diego
Opening Hours: 10am - 5pm DAILY 
Price: $46.55 per adult | $27.55per child 4-12yrs  |UNDER 3 FREE

If you have ever been on the Aqua Duck whilst on the gold coast you will have some sense of what to expect here. Expect Road tour come harbour cruise, simply put this vehicle is both roadworthy and aquatic allow you to travel universally over the two. 

I love this option for families, and as a travelling family myself in most cases, we do tend to favour activities that allow us to see as much as possible in the least amount of time.

Enjoy pretty much all that San Diego has to offer on this adventure  it is quite informative as well as relaxing - Albeit  you are onboard to see the sea lions right!

Hear the importance of the tuna industry and the presence of military in San Diego, pass by mansions, submarine base of cause the beautiful bay home to the resident seal lions and other marine life  just to tease you a little! 

Again we found children enjoy this adventure as much as adults, The Seal Tour is another great way to see San Diego if you do not have a private car. 

** Waterfront park **

Location: 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA
Opening Hours:  6am -10pm
Price: FREE

A fun location thats close to some main attractions and visitor centre and a trolly stop.

We have found this a super handy park for some time out with grass areas & play equipment catering the children's needs and its perfectly placed within walking distance to the USS midway and harbour surrounds. with seasonal festivities and a water area to play on hot days this really makes for some serious consideration as a base for the day! Also has parking if needed. 

** Altitude Sky Lounge - Gaslamp Quarter**

Location:  San Diego Marriott Gaslamp Quarter, K Street, San Diego, CA,
Opening Hours: 
Price: per menu

It's not often I get the opportunity to enjoy a roof top experience, but when i do i hope that its all I imagine it to be. Safe to say Attitude is if not the best, one of the best I have experienced so far!  

I guess the trick is to find a seat prior to nightfall and enjoy the view. Before long the sun starts to set and the crowd comes to enjoy the spectacular view. I would say this is when the bar becomes somewhat a swanky kinda club with the atmosphere shifting to suit those out for a little fun.

 No complaints here It's mumma's night off, I'm here for the works!

 I'll just top and settle in by the fire pit for all this rooftop has to offer. 

Offer it does..... views are truely amazing from all angels. Taking it all in - Coronado Island, Coronado Bridge, Point Loma, and even Petco Park this would make a great birds eye view on game day , Go Padres!!!!!! I can see why everyone was talking about needing to visit here - Its a yes from me! 

** Kansas city Barbeque**

Location:  600 W. Harbor Drive San Diego, CA
Opening Hours:  11am -11pm
Price: Menu & Bar  

If you've not quite lost that lovn' feeling for San Diego just yet - then I suggest you make a stop at the famous Kansas City Barbeque located just outside the downtown Gaslamp quarter! 

Located across from the new children's museum area and within walking distance of many public transport options, this Top Gun movie set turned themed bar is still inviting fans through their doors today, you really need to get yourself there if you are a fan of the movie. 

A visit during happy hours brings a fun atmosphere from 3.30-6.30pm when ordering up some great balls of fire and sipping on discounted drinks allows you to experience all this fun bar has to offer.   

See more in our Top Gun Trail Blog

** Sesame Place **

Location:   2052 Entertainment Cir, Chula Vista, CA
Opening Hours:  10am -6pm WEEKENDS ONLY
Price: $89per Person (2+)  

I build my reputation on honesty, so this one may be a little hard to read - Yes I suggest you visit especially if you have little ones and if you are around when the water park is open. All other times I thinking this price is excessive.

 There are so many pro's and Con's to this park that I am really finding it difficult to find a fair balance. Being a disability mum this park popped up on my radar a few years back when i noticed it thriving in Philadelphia - further updates pointed me to San Diego.

 A BRAND NEW Sesame Place opening in 2022, Great! I was heading there late 2022 Lets go!  

I was disappointed - on many levels! - see my blog post for the truthfully underwhelming experience had here. 

** Legoland **

Location:  One Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA
Opening Hours:  10am -5pm weekend till 6pm
Price: $94per Person (3+)  

PLUS PARKING

Lego, It's been a universal household activity for many of us since our own childhood and that's what makes lego land such a catch especially to todays families consisting of younger children. 

Lego Land offers a great variety of rides (60+), shows, and attractions for kids in my opinion from ages 2 -12, it’s hard to beat. That's before we even consider the onsite Accomodation options. We always travel outside of peak seasons let me tell you this by no means reflect parks are less crazy in fact I think people are catching on and crowds are building anytime of the year - it could be the excitement of the freedom post covid - time will tell.

The park has a fun opportunity for the kids to collect whats called pop badges - again this has been a huge hit since socials boasted its existence. These Little badges that feature assorted characters and themes can be found at various locations onsite here at Lego Land, by asking team members or just being observed as doing something nice during your visit! 

They also offer the GOLDEN envelope - this is hidden in the park daily Families go bonkers looking for this i had no idea how obsessed they really are its a thing! This envelope can hold a variety of rewards including A nights all inclusive stay at one of the hotels so I can see why its so appealing. This would be the perfect opportunity for you to keep then kids focuses on the day!

Rides, Food, Shows all of high praise here exhibits and hands on activities cater well to this age group with offerings of stools and inclusion of disability. 

Rides have clear signage indicating the accessibility option. 

A good day can be spent here no troubles. 

Seasonal events like the halloween Brick or treat offer a nighttime party thats both fun and friendly celebrating all the festivities of halloween. Day time visits during halloween offer the locals the opportunity to win prizes in the fancy dress parade. All Visitors  can enjoy the HUGE trick or treat stations through the park simply follow the Halloween map for all station locations (each offers different lego items and lollies). we had a ball and did purposely build out last adventure to coincide with halloween. 

**TAKE NOTE- Prizes are only granted to residents in the USA, its still fun for the kids to participate. ( we were so sad to learn this during judging as we were in the final running But unable to receive a major prizes).

Legoland hotel did not disappoint filled with themed activities and fun events during the night for guests to enjoy prior to bedtime. Find more in our blog!

**Harbour Surry Ride **

Location:  central Harbor Drive., San Diego
Opening Hours: 10am - 10pm DAILY 
Price: advised on ride - customisable 

Another fun family adventure that offers Bang for its Buck is a ride on the local Surry's. 

We flagged down an empty cart and off we went. We got lucky  - managed to secure a great driver who was willing to customise our ride with both time and locations - this was so cool we hired for a full hour @ around $60us -  we did also try to tip again at the end (the driver refused) because he was a fantastic guide full of knowledge and offered a fun experience with the kids just beautiful- he selected fun tunes for the kids to sing and enjoy as we rode along the harbour past the monuments and sites into Gas Lamp around little Itay and other areas that I still don't know how to get back to!  

Total for 2x adults/ 2x children was around $12 each I would pay that again tomorrow for this experience. 

The atmosphere along India street in Little Italy was electric!  The smells softly dancing in the night air had our senses fully reloaded. There was just a really safe feel about this little adventure that we all still talk about from time to time.

I highly recommend  this option for everyone! We seen so so much of San Diego's down town and by choosing a ride on nightfall the back ground was only enhanced by the lights and sounds  that flowed into the streets. 

we really had ran the kids ragged this day and I thought we would be stretching it yet it thankfully was the perfect way to finish off a great day. 

** La Jolla Seals & Sea Lions **

Location:  850 Coast Blvd La Jolla, CA
Opening Hours:  ALWAYS
Price:FREE

This has to be one of the most loved stops our family makes when visiting San Diego, we can spend a good hour+ just watching the seals enjoy their habitat. 

We do prefer to park (parking is a nightmare) and enjoy the views & seals mostly from the Coastal walk that takes us around 20 mins. The views are stunning and the atmosphere is light and exciting, you may catch a market stall on the day you visit thats always a nice touch to set the scene as this being a good choice for tourists to view the seals.  

From here pending the pedestrian traffic we will opt for a lower view of the seals lounging around up a little closer from the sea wall (be warned its old and children need to be watched if they are climbers) but don't let that put you off - its also a fab viewing platform for a more personal experience. 

Our VIP lounge offers some further information for your consideration. 

** Old Town Trolly**

Location:  500 Sea World Dr, San Diego
Opening Hours: DAILY 9am - 5pm
Price: $46.55 per adult | $33.25 per child (consecutive day tickets available)

** note prices fluctuate according to days **

Find tickets here 

I know this can be a chunk out of the budget especially from a family point of view however this trolly pass  really did offer us a great way to see everything we wanted to see and then some, we chose the all day pass.

I just feel this offers a broad overview of where you are visiting, helps you to get your thoughts together, consider your base location and best manage the places of interest you may wish to revisit.

It works for us as a family in other ways also. most importantly It offers a trolly ride when things need to slow down a little and the children need a rest/sleep. If they fall asleep its a win, win! 

WIN= The journey continues for you, you are not really missing anything continue to enjoy the ride and sights without the distraction you may need to come back to a stop of interest but it sure beats waking up an exhausted chipmunk right?

WIN= they wake up rested and ready to go!  

We find we always learn & find something new and as a family really enjoy the interaction and vibe just by being on the trolly ride. Get your tickets here      

**  San Diego Zoo**

Location:  2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA
Opening Hours: DAILY 9am - 7PM
Price: ADULTS $71Per person | CHILD $61 Per Person

Our highlight here was the Guided bus Tour took aprox 40 minutes and I have to say what a great way to see San Diego Zoo with or without children this double decker bus has fantastic views and offers additional bars ( for us parents with kids that like to test our nerves).

Offering the opportunity to get an idea of where things are outside of the park map navigating (that I am terrible at) also appealed to me.  First in First served as they say in America - so be sure to allow some waiting time here as no bookings are available. 

Your entry ticket includes the Guided Bus Tour, it also allows a free ride on the Kangaroo Express Bus, Skyfari Aerial Tram, and all the traditional shows regularly scheduled,  ALL FREE with your entry so be sure to enjoy these opportunities. 

I was prepared for just another Zoo visit - I was so wrong this place offers so, so much. 

If you are considering the extra payable experiences then you really do become engaged in this visit with up close encounters and VIP experiences all on offer daily. 

Our visit was 1st thing in the morning let me say I would highly recommend to get your day started as early as possible - Animals are up and ready for breakfast! Not only do they engage well with the excitement of the morning routine you also get to watch the behaviours over a meal time and really take in each of the enclosures dynamics. Another bonus is the crowds are only just filtering in so you have a little more space to enjoy also. 

Prioritise - this zoo is large we did not get to see everything spite spending almost all day here. 

Take a peek at the map prior to arrival and select your favourite animals to see - here is where the Kangaroo bus comes in handy - Its a hop on hop off bus, its also a non-narrated transportation service however there is a driver on board - so your map will come in handy here when looking for the stopping points (the yellow Kangaroo's)!  

*Side notes -

* For the parents - you can take a fold up stroller onboard if space permits 

* Entry on and off  the bus is by stairs so consider your mobility for this one too! 

*Last pick up from stop #1 is 30 minutes prior to closing

  Let me acknowledge the consideration placed on servicing the disability spectrum - AMAZING! 

Another well established attraction that has you covered.  Providing a seperate guided shuttle that tours aprox 1/2 the zoo for those with mobility restrictions, they also offer hearing devices and you can even organise a translator!! 

 What really blew my mind was the opportunity AT ANY TIME during your visit to call a service shuttle My mind quickly shifted to the elderly when seeing this offering them in my opinion the opportunity to remain as independent as they feel yet the option to call in a shuttle to bring them back to a base point - I LOVE IT - heck after the day we had I could have used this myself a few times!  The list of ways Inclusion has been embraced continues in my VIP section. You may also like to consider our recommended explorer pass offering discounts to top attractions like the zoo.