Summer 2017 is here for San Diego! It’s time to get out and enjoy the warmth and sunshine with your friends and family. Don’t worry about bringing your wallet as these activities are free! Pack the car and enjoy mixing fun with education.
Natural Wonders
- La Jolla Cove. Families can enjoy the natural beauty of a breathtaking sunset at the cove. If you show up early, explore the caves and coves you can access via steps from the beach. This would also be a great place to do stargazing activities with the family.
- The scenic drive from the coastline into and through the city. It gives you a unique view of the city and culture you are a part of every day.
- Bird watching. Grab the binoculars and some notepads. Enjoy the city parks while watching for different species of birds in the area.
- Point Loma. Explore some of the water life living on the coast by visiting Point Loma and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.
- Take a Hike. There are many kid friendly hikes in San Diego. We have even put together a post to make your hiking adventure fun, safe,
and enjoyable: 5 Tips for Hiking with your Kids in San Diego
Museums
San Diego is home to a diverse array of museums. Take the family to enjoy many of them on their free days.
- The Barona Cultural museum is “San Diego County’s first museum on an Indian reservation dedicated to the perpetuation and presentation of the local Kumeyaay-Diegueño Native culture.”
- The Museum of Making Music allows your family to understand the process of making a variety of music.
- The Children’s Museum lets the kids have fun while they are learning!
- The Palomar Mountain Observatory is a perfect way to explore the sky together as a family.
Parks
Get to know “America’s Finest City” by exploring it’s many parks. Here are a few options to include in your summer vacation plans:
- Mission Trails Regional Park. Start at the visitor’s center! Bring your bikes out for a ride along the more than forty miles of trails in the park.
- Balboa park is San Diego’s crown jewel. Voted “as one of the six best public spaces in America”, this 1,200-acre space has many things to offer your family. You can enjoy a variety of museums as well as park tours.
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. “is the largest state park in California. Five hundred miles of dirt roads, 12 wilderness areas and many miles of hiking trails provide visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to experience the wonders of the California Desert.”
Festivals and Fairs
Another way to enjoy the outdoors is exploring the area’s many festivals.
- Summer Organ Festival. This international festival brings together the best organists from around the world. It takes place at the Spreckles Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. The music runs on Mondays from June 26 to August 26.
- Summer Shakespeare festival. Enjoy classic works will getting some fresh air during this family friendly event.
Go Camping
Unplug from the electronic world, go camping and enjoy the outdoors! There are a variety of campgrounds in the area to visit with the family.
- Santee Lakes. You can choose between a traditional campsite and cabins at this location. This location is also pet friendly so don’t forget Fido and his leash.
- Palomar Mountain. Extend your trip to the observatory by staying in the state park. Do not bring oak with you! Instead of packing your firewood, buy it at the park. Pack your hiking boots to enjoy the many trails in the park. The park is also home to some historical locations.
Enjoy the summer and don’t forget the camera to capture the memories!
