Fun Summer Activities for Kids in San Diego

Summer break is in full swing! Get your kids to unplug this summer and take advantage of all that San Diego has to offer. With so many fun summer activities to do throughout the county, is easy to find adventures to satisfy everyone in your family. We’ve rounded up a list of summer activities for kids in San Diego to help you plan your day.

1. Visit a museum

Take advantage of the long list of incredible museums in San Diego and visit one with your family. Museums promote self-reflection, a deep understanding of history, and acceptance of cultures, imagination, and innovation.  Check each museum’s event calendars for upcoming events.  Here are five San Diego museums to explore with your family:

• The New Children’s Museum, located in downtown San Diego
• The San Diego Museum of Art, located in Balboa Park
• The San Diego Natural History Museum, located in Balboa Park
• San Diego Museum of Us, located in Balboa Park
• USS Midway Museum, located in downtown San Diego

2. U.S. Olympic Training Center

Take your little ones on a tour of the U.S. Olympic Training Center, where you’ll learn facts about athletes and get a sneak peek behind the scenes at the strength and conditioning center. General public tours are given on a walk-in basis and guided tours are subject to availability between 9am – 5 pm.  They offer different levels of how in-depth the tours are — if you choose the Gold tour, you can eat at the buffet just like the athletes do! For more information, visit their website.

3. Summer Concerts

There is no better way to spend your summer nights than listening to live music while spending time with loved ones. With so many concerts offered throughout the county, a simple internet search will help you find a something near you.

4. Nighttime Zoo

Experience the San Diego Zoo in a whole new light! The zoo is celebrating summer by staying open later and offering live music, entertainment, delicious grub. For more information, visit the San Diego Zoo’s website.

5. Bonfires

Pleasant nighttime weather and a great beach is all you need for a perfect summer bonfire! Get ready for a night filled with s’mores and good company. Here are a few tips to consider before you go:

• Arrive early. Bonfires are popular during the summer and are only available on a first come, first served basis.
• Only wood, charcoal or paper products can be used as fuel.
• Make sure to put out the fire before leaving.
• Bring towels, chairs, and your coolers packed with your favorite goodies.

6. Mission Beach & Belmont Park

Spend a day playing in the sand with your little ones at Mission Beach and head to the beachfront amusement park, Belmont Park. Before you head out for your day trip, make sure you’re protecting your family from the sun’s harmful rays. Check out our article for tips on how to choose the right sunscreen for your family.

7. Padres Game

Batter up! Cheer for the San Diego Padres and enjoy a game with your little ones this summer.  Every Sunday day game at Petco Park is KidsFest, offering kid-friendly activities like bounce houses and face painting!

8. Day Trip to Julian

From hiking trails to historical museums to picnic sites, a day trip to Julian is the ultimate summer must-do! Julian offers a variety of activities that will satisfy everyone in the family. Check out their calendar  for upcoming special events and live entertainment.

9. Volunteer as a Family

Volunteering as a family is something that will help teach your little ones the importance of giving back. Volunteering brings a different experience as it promotes positive values and a sense of connection to their community. We’ve compiled five family-friendly places you can volunteer:

• I Love a Clean San Diego
• San Diego Surfrider Foundation
• Father Joe’s Village
• Wild Willow Farm
• Feeding San Diego

10. Grunion Run

It’s grunion season! For a fun nighttime activity, take your kids  grunion hunting at one of San Diego’s local beaches. Remember, you must have a fishing license to catch grunion. If you do not have a license, you cannot pick up or touch the fish. For more information predicted dates and times, check out the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s calendar.

We hope that our list of fun summer activities creates great memories for you and your family! Remember, with the little ones out of school for the summer, now is the perfect opportunity to make doctor’s appointments. No matter what kind of appointment you need,  Scripps Affiliated Medical Groups has you covered.