ntripntrip logo

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.

See San Diego things to do
Itinerary image 1

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.

3 Days
Sun‑kissed Zoo, Tidepool Play & Taco Trails — San Diego, Family Edition
Sun‑kissed Zoo, Tidepool Play & Taco Trails — San Diego, Family Edition

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

Snack and relax at Ellen Browning Scripps Park (picnic + shade)

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.

San Diego Zoo — family highlights & Children’s Zoo

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.

Balboa Park Carousel ride — short, delightful experience

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.

La Jolla Shores — sand, small waves, and playground-style beach time

Wide, sandy beach with gentle shallow water and lifeguards — ideal for sandcastle building, shallow wading, and stroller walks along the shore.

Explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park (plazas & kid-friendly nooks)

Wander the plazas, let kids see artisans and historical buildings, and enjoy small open spaces where children can run safely.

Taco lunch at The Taco Stand — family-friendly, fast service

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