San Diego Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in San Diego
This itinerary balances free public parks and beaches with moderately priced, interactive children's attractions. Families can enjoy splash pads, diverse playgrounds, scenic walks, and hands-on learning experiences across different neighborhoods of San Diego, with a focus on minimizing travel time between activities within each day. Pack swimsuits, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes!
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, March 6Waterfront Park Play
Start the weekend at San Diego's Waterfront Park, featuring expansive civic green lawns, reflecting pools with interactive spray fountains, and a modern children's playground.
Kids can splash in the fountains (weather permitting) and enjoy the unique play structures.
Ideal for all ages, especially 3-12. The park has restrooms, picnic areas, and diverse play equipment. Reflecting pools are generally open until 7 PM.
Paid underground parking is available at the County Administration Building (approx. $10 on weekends/evenings). Street parking may be metered. The San Diego Trolley also stops at the park.
Old Town Exploration & Dinner
Immerse your family in California's birthplace.
Wander through historic buildings, browse unique shops, and enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at one of Old Town's many family-friendly Mexican restaurants. The area is free to explore and offers a vibrant atmosphere.
Suitable for all ages. Kids will enjoy the historic ambiance and lively shops. Many restaurants offer children's menus. Plan for about 1.5-2 hours, including dinner.
Free parking lots are available throughout Old Town, though they can fill up quickly. Public transit (trolley and bus) serves Old Town. Strollers are manageable on sidewalks.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, March 7Birch Aquarium Discovery
Explore the wonders of the ocean at Birch Aquarium at Scripps.
This public aquarium features interactive exhibits, diverse marine life including seadragons and Little Blue Penguins, and touch pools where kids can feel sea anemones and sea stars.
Great for ages 3-12. Allow 2-3 hours. The aquarium offers engaging, hands-on exhibits and educational talks. Restrooms and a gift shop are on-site.
Paid parking lot available on-site. The aquarium is situated on a hill with views of La Jolla Shores.
La Jolla Shores Beach Fun
Enjoy the wide, sandy expanse of La Jolla Shores Beach.
Its calm waters are perfect for young children to play in, and Kellogg Park, adjacent to the beach, offers a fantastic playground. Pack a picnic to enjoy beachside.
Excellent for all ages, especially 3-12. The beach has lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and a playground at Kellogg Park. Dogs are not allowed on the beach between 9 AM and 6 PM in March.
Free parking lot and free street parking are available, but it can get busy. Stroller-friendly paths connect the parking to the beach and park.
Balboa Park Gardens & Play
Head to Balboa Park, a cultural gem.
Explore the beautiful free gardens, such as the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden or the Alcazar Garden. Let the kids burn off energy at Pepper Grove Playground, one of the park's largest playgrounds with structures and swings.
Suitable for all ages. Pepper Grove Playground is ideal for kids 3-12. Many gardens are stroller-friendly. Allow 2-3 hours.
Plenty of free parking is available throughout Balboa Park. The park is large, so consider using the free tram service if available (check park website for current info).
Coronado Island Stroll
Drive across the iconic Coronado Bridge to Coronado Island for a relaxed evening stroll.
Enjoy the gentle waves at Coronado Central Beach, known for its sparkling sand, or visit Spreckels Park, which offers a shaded playground and open grassy areas for kids to play.
Perfect for families. Coronado Central Beach has restrooms and lifeguards. Spreckels Park is great for younger children. Enjoy sunset views from the beach.
Free street parking is available on Coronado, but can be limited. Consider parking further away and walking or biking. The drive across the bridge offers scenic views.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, March 8Hillcrest Farmers Market
Discover local produce, artisanal foods, and unique crafts at the lively Hillcrest Farmers Market.
Enjoy live music and sample diverse prepared foods. It's a great spot for a casual brunch or to grab some gourmet snacks.
Engaging for all ages. Kids can enjoy the music and various food options. The market is temporarily located on University Ave.
Free parking is available on surrounding streets and in nearby lots (DMV, USPS). Public transportation is also an option.
Children's Museum Play
Unleash creativity at The New Children's Museum in downtown San Diego.
This innovative museum offers hands-on, art-based installations and interactive exhibits designed to spark imagination and encourage creative play for children.
Best for ages 3-12. Allow 2-3 hours. The museum focuses on art and creative expression through play. Check website for current exhibits and any special programs.
Paid street parking and paid on-site parking are available. It's walkable from many downtown locations.
Mission Bay Park Relax
Wind down the weekend at Mission Bay Park, the largest aquatic park of its kind.
Enjoy the open grassy areas, walk or bike along the paths, and let the kids play at one of the many children's playgrounds. It's a serene spot for some relaxed family time.
Excellent for all ages, especially 3-12, with plenty of space for running and playing. Restrooms and showers are available.
Numerous free parking lots are available throughout Mission Bay Park, but can fill up. Accessible by car.
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