Are you planning a family vacation to San Diego but tired of the usual tourist attractions? Look no further! In this article, we’ll share some fun and secret landmarks for kids that will make your trip to San Diego unforgettable. These hidden gems are perfect for families wanting to get off the beaten path and create unique memories together.
Whaley House: A Spooky Adventure for Kids
If your kids love a good thrill, the Whaley House is a must-visit landmark. The Whaley House, situated in the Old Town of San Diego, is a historical residence notorious for being regarded as one of the most haunted sites across the United States. Also, the house has been featured on numerous ghost-hunting shows and is known for its eerie creaks and unexplained noises.
While the Whaley House might not be suitable for very young children, older kids will love exploring the house and hearing about its spooky past. The house offers guided tours that take you through the different rooms and tell the story of the Whaley family and their tragic history. While you’re there, be sure to keep an eye out for any strange happenings!
Children’s Pool: A Unique Beach Experience
If you’re looking for a beach experience that’s a little different from the norm, Children’s Pool is the place to go. Located in La Jolla, Children’s Pool is a small, protected cove that’s home to a colony of harbor seals. Kids will love watching these adorable creatures basking in the sun and playing in the water.
While it’s not allowed to swim in the cove (to protect the seals’ habitat), kids can still enjoy playing on the beach and exploring the tide pools. The cove is also a great spot for a family picnic, with stunning ocean views and plenty of benches and tables.
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge: An Exciting Adventure for Kids
If your kids love heights, they’ll love the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge in Bankers Hill. This pedestrian bridge spans a deep canyon and offers a thrilling adventure for kids who dare to cross it. The bridge is located in a residential area and can be a bit tricky to find, but it’s worth the effort.
The bridge is suspended 70 feet above the canyon floor and sways slightly as you walk across it, providing an exciting challenge for kids. It’s important to note that the bridge can get crowded, so it’s best to visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Balboa Park Carousel: A Vintage Ride for Kids
For a fun and nostalgic experience, take your kids to the Balboa Park Carousel. This vintage carousel is located in the heart of Balboa Park and offers beautifully decorated horses and other animals to ride. The carousel was built in 1910 and has been a beloved landmark in San Diego ever since.
The Balboa Park Carousel is a great spot for younger kids, but older kids will also enjoy the classic charm of the ride. Afterward, make sure to explore the other attractions in Balboa Park, including museums, gardens, and more.
Mount Soledad Cross: Breathtaking Views of San Diego
For stunning panoramic views of San Diego, take your family to Mount Soledad Cross. The cross is a towering structure located at the top of Mount Soledad and offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. The cross has been a landmark in San Diego for over 100 years and is a great spot for a family picnic or a scenic drive.
In addition to the views, Mount Soledad also offers hiking trails that are suitable for kids of all ages. The trails vary in difficulty, so be sure to choose one that’s appropriate for your family. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air.
The Unconditional Surrender Statue: A Fun Photo Opportunity
The Unconditional Surrender Statue is a 25-foot-tall statue of a sailor kissing a nurse located on the downtown San Diego waterfront. The statue was inspired by the iconic photograph taken in Times Square on V-J Day in 1945. Kids will love taking pictures with this statue and reenacting the famous kiss.
The statue is located near the USS Midway Museum, a great attraction to visit with older kids. The museum offers a unique look at the history of aircraft carriers and their role in the U.S. Navy. Kids will love exploring the various exhibits and learning about the different aircraft on display.
Sunny Jim’s Cave: A Natural Wonder to Explore
For a unique and educational experience, take your kids to Sunny Jim’s Cave. The cave is a sea cave located in La Jolla and is accessible through a hidden tunnel in a souvenir shop. The tunnel is small and narrow, so it’s not suitable for very young children or anyone who’s claustrophobic.
Once inside the cave, kids will be amazed by the natural rock formations and the different colors and textures. The cave is also home to a colony of sea lions, so keep an eye out for them as you explore. Make sure to bring a flashlight, as the cave can be quite dark.
The San Diego Zoo’s Elephant Odyssey: A Journey Through Time
The San Diego Zoo is a must-visit attraction for families, but one exhibit that often gets overlooked is the Elephant Odyssey. The exhibit takes kids on a journey through time to learn about the prehistoric animals that once roamed Southern California, including mammoths and saber-toothed cats.
Kids will love seeing the different animals up close and learning about their history and evolution. The exhibit also includes a replica of a 19th-century gold mining town, complete with a saloon and other period-appropriate buildings. Afterward, make sure to explore the rest of the zoo, including the polar bear exhibit and the koala exhibit.
Torrey Pines Gliderport: A Thrilling Sight to See
For a thrilling and unique experience, take your family to Torrey Pines Gliderport. The Gliderport is a cliffside launch site for hang gliders and paragliders in La Jolla. Kids will love watching these daredevils take off and soar over the Pacific Ocean.
The glider port is also home to a café and a gift shop, so it’s a great spot to grab a snack and souvenirs. The views from the glider port are stunning, so make sure to bring your camera.
Final Thoughts
San Diego is a city full of fun and unique landmarks for kids. From haunted houses to sea caves to vintage carousels, there’s something for everyone. We hope this has inspired you to explore some of San Diego’s lesser-known attractions and create unforgettable memories with your family. Don’t forget to pack your camera and a sense of adventure!
