San Diego Itinerary by Locals for a perfect trip
Plan your perfect San Diego trip with local itineraries and the best things to see and do. Whether you're looking for a day-trip or a week-long adventure, our unique travel guides have got you covered.
Explore San Diego: Attractions, Museums & Hidden Gems
Your personalized San Diego itinerary is just a click away. Choose from our expertly curated options below to start planning your perfect trip.

Sun‑kissed Zoo, Tidepool Play & Taco Trails — San Diego, Family Edition
Perfect for Families
Top San Diego Attractions You Can't Miss
Iconic Sights to Hidden Gems
Short picnic and shade break on the grassy bluff above the cove — great for snack time, diaper changes, and a stroller nap with ocean breezes.
Explore stroller-friendly paths to see pandas (when present), giraffes, and the Children’s Zoo petting yard. Use the guided bus or Skyfari Aerial Tram to save little legs.
Wrap the park day with a short carousel ride — a bright, familiar finish that’s perfect for young kids who like a calm end to an active day.
Wide, sandy beach with gentle shallow water and lifeguards — ideal for sandcastle building, shallow wading, and stroller walks along the shore.
Wander the plazas, let kids see artisans and historical buildings, and enjoy small open spaces where children can run safely.
Hands-on taco flavors with kid-approved quesadillas and simple tacos — quick service for families on a schedule.
Local Tips from the travel experts
Handpicked tips from top-rated activities in San Diego to help you make the most of your visit.
"Age fit: Fantastic for ages 2–10 with hands-on tidepool tanks and kid-tailored exhibits.Strollers: Elevators and ramps make the aquarium stroller-friendly; there's a family restroom with changing tables near the main entrance.Feeding talks: Check the daily schedule at the front desk for short feeding demos — good attention windows for preschoolers."
Birch Aquarium at Scripps — touch pools and tidepool exhibits
"Beach logistics: La Jolla Shores has public restrooms, lifeguards, and a gentle slope — great for families with kids 1–10.Shade & naps: Bring a pop-up tent or umbrella for stroller naps and mid-day shade; parking fills up, so early arrival helps.Gear rental: Kayak and boogie board rentals are available if older kids (6+) want a short, supervised splash."
La Jolla Shores — sand, small waves, and playground-style beach time
"Kids' picks: Order a plain quesadilla or simple carne asada tacos for kids; the kitchen can usually accommodate mild/custom requests.Seating: Outdoor benches are good for strollers; ask for high chairs if you need them.Allergy note: They can often swap ingredients — let staff know allergies up front for safe substitutions."
Taco lunch at The Taco Stand — family-friendly, fast service
"Age fit: Best for ages 3–9 with tactile exhibits and a dedicated toddler-friendly section.Accessibility: Wide exhibit rooms and elevators make stroller navigation easy; there's a nursing room and nearby changing facilities.Quiet strategy: Head to the toddler-friendly exhibits first for calmer play, then circle to busier attractions."
Fleet Science Center — hands-on exhibits for curious hands
"Best for ages: Toddlers through early elementary (2–10). The Children’s Zoo petting area is ideal for 2–6 year olds with gentle animals.Stroller tip: Use the guided bus loop or Skyfari Aerial Tram to cover larger distances — both are stroller-friendly and double as a quiet break.Family facilities: Baby care centers (nursing rooms, changing tables) are at Discovery Outpost and near the West Entrance — plan a feed/diaper stop mid-visit."
San Diego Zoo — family highlights & Children’s Zoo
"Stroller routes: Most main walkways are flat and stroller-friendly, though some historic buildings have steps — plan to admire those from outside.Restrooms: Public restrooms and family changing facilities are available near the central plaza — good mid-visit pit stop.Cultural note: Short folk-dance performances may occur; those are fun for kids but can get loud — pick a side street if you need quiet."
Explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park (plazas & kid-friendly nooks)
"Facilities: Public restrooms are a short walk from the park; changing tables may be limited—plan accordingly.Shade hack: Bring a small pop-up sunshade or umbrella for little ones — November is mild but sunny on the bluff.Nap strategy: The park's steady ocean breeze is soothing for stroller naps; pick a bench facing the water for white-noise comfort."
Snack and relax at Ellen Browning Scripps Park (picnic + shade)
"Kids' menu: Order simple chicken or cheese enchiladas/quesadillas for picky eaters; staff are accustomed to families and quick adjustments.Seating & shade: Outdoor seating under awnings is great for strollers; ask for a booth for extra room with gear.Allergy-aware: If someone in the group has dietary needs, the kitchen is generally flexible — tell the server when ordering."
Taco lunch at Old Town Mexican Cafe — classic family tacos and mild kids' options
"Best ages: Brilliant for 2–8 year olds with lots of hands-on installations and sensory play areas.Stroller & gear: Stroller parking is available; bring a small bag of snacks for in-between if kids need a quick sugar break.Quiet hour: Later afternoon can be quieter — plan your visit to avoid the midday rush if you prefer a calmer experience."
The New Children's Museum — creative, hands-on play for energetic kids
