Weekend in San Diego
This San Diego weekend itinerary is crafted for local families seeking a blend of exciting, kid-friendly ticketed experiences and engaging free community events. Leveraging the 'Kids Free San Diego' promotion throughout October, we've included major attractions where children can enter for free with a paying adult, balancing the budget without sacrificing big adventures. Expect plenty of outdoor fun, cultural exploration, and opportunities for kids aged 3-12 to learn and play, ensuring a memorable family getaway right in your hometown.
Friday Evening - Spooky Safari Fun
Friday, October 3Balboa Park Play
Kick off the weekend with some free play at one of Balboa Park's excellent playgrounds, such as Pepper Grove Playground.
It's a fantastic spot for kids to burn off energy before the evening's adventure, with climbing structures and swings suitable for various ages.
Perfect for energetic kids aged 3-12. The playground features age-appropriate equipment, open grassy areas, and picnic tables. Restrooms are available nearby, and the area is stroller-friendly. Allow approximately 1.5-2 hours for play.
Ample free parking is available throughout Balboa Park. The Pepper Grove lot is convenient, or families can park along Park Boulevard. Stroller access is easy on paved paths.
HalGLOWeen Zoo Night
Experience the festive HalGLOWeen at the San Diego Zoo, happening every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening in October.
Enjoy musical entertainment, special performances, and appearances by Dr. Zoolittle in a family-friendly Halloween atmosphere. Kids are encouraged to come in costume!
Ideal for children aged 3-12. Kids 11 and younger get free admission with a paid adult during 'Kids Free San Diego' in October. The event is well-staffed, bathrooms are plentiful, and the park is stroller-friendly. Expect a lively, not-too-scary atmosphere. Plan for 2-3 hours of evening fun.
Free parking is available in the large parking lots surrounding the San Diego Zoo. It's easily accessible by car, and paths within the zoo are stroller-friendly.
Saturday - Festival & Wildlife Adventure
Saturday, October 4Mira Mesa Street Fair
Dive into the vibrant 25th Annual Mira Mesa Street Fair.
This free, family-friendly event features live music and entertainment on two stages, a dedicated Fun Zone with inflatables and other attractions for kids and teens, and a diverse international food court.
Perfect for all ages, especially kids 3-12 who will love the Fun Zone and lively atmosphere. Stroller access can be challenging in crowded areas but is generally manageable. Restrooms are typically available through portable facilities. Plan for 2-3 hours of browsing and fun.
Street parking will be available in surrounding areas, but may require a walk. Consider carpooling or arriving early. Public transportation options to the Mira Mesa area may also be available.
Picnic Lunch Park
Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch at a local park after the bustling street fair.
Pack a lunch or grab some fresh treats from the fair. A great spot like Lake Miramar offers open spaces and views, or a smaller neighborhood park for a quieter break.
Kids will appreciate the open space to run and relax. Bathrooms are available at Lake Miramar. Remember to bring a blanket and any outdoor play equipment. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Parking is available at Lake Miramar. Access to picnic areas is easy.
Safari Park Autumn
Head to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park for their Autumn Festival, running every Saturday and Sunday in October.
Enjoy amazing wildlife, special entertainment, and delicious culinary comforts. Activities include Safari Park Radio, scarecrow jugglers, and an 'A-maze-ing Autumn Adventure' walk-through maze for young explorers.
This is a major attraction perfect for kids aged 3-12. During 'Kids Free San Diego,' children 11 and younger enter for free with a paid adult. The park is vast, so comfortable shoes and strollers are recommended for younger children. Plan for 3-4 hours to enjoy the exhibits and festival activities. Restrooms and dining options are plentiful.
Parking is available at the Safari Park for a fee. It's a drive from Mira Mesa, so factor in travel time (approx. 30-40 minutes).
Family Pizza Night
Enjoy a casual and kid-approved dinner at a family-friendly pizza restaurant in the Escondido area before heading home.
Many local pizzerias offer a relaxed atmosphere with options that cater to children's tastes.
A classic kid favorite, allowing for a relaxed end to an active day. Most pizzerias have high chairs and restrooms. Quick service is usually available to get kids fed and ready for bed.
Plenty of free parking available at most strip mall pizzerias.
Sunday - Cultural Festival & Science Exploration
Sunday, October 5San Diego Oktoberfest
Experience an authentic German Oktoberfest, hosted by the German American Societies of San Diego.
This family-friendly festival features traditional German music, folk dancing, delicious German food, a market, and a dedicated kids' zone with plenty of games.
Great for all ages, with specific activities for children aged 3-12 in the kids' zone. Enjoy cultural exposure through music and dance. Restrooms are available. Plan for 2-3 hours to explore and eat.
Parking is available, but may fill up. Arriving early is recommended. It's about a 20-minute drive from central San Diego.
Fleet Science Fun
Engage curious minds at the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park, voted San Diego's Best Museum of 2025.
Explore over 100 interactive exhibits, visit Kid City for younger children, and unleash creativity in StudioX.
Excellent for kids aged 3-12, with many hands-on exhibits perfect for learning and discovery. During 'Kids Free San Diego,' one child (12 and under) receives free admission with one full-price paid adult. Bathrooms are available, and the museum is stroller-accessible. Allow 2-3 hours.
Free parking is abundant in Balboa Park. The Fleet Science Center is easily accessible within the park. Public transportation also serves Balboa Park.
Japanese Friendship Garden
Wind down the weekend with a serene visit to the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park.
While entry normally costs, during Kids Free October, some Balboa Park gardens are included as part of museum deals, but even if not, the entrance fee is modest and the garden offers a peaceful and beautiful setting with koi ponds and waterfalls for a relaxed family stroll.
A calmer activity suitable for all ages, especially good for a relaxed pace after an active day. Kids will enjoy spotting koi fish. Paths are stroller-friendly, and restrooms are available. Duration: 1 hour. Note: Admission may apply, check Kids Free San Diego specific coupons for this garden or if entry is free for kids 12 and under.
Located within Balboa Park, with ample free parking nearby. Easy walking distance from the Fleet Science Center.
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