When looking for family things to do in San Diego, the San Diego Zoo, USS Midway Museum, and San Diego SEAL ToursSM stand out as some of the best tours in San Diego. These attractions cater to families with children, ensuring everyone has a memorable experience.
Best San Diego Tours
Top Picks To Explore the City and Beyond
Discover the captivating city of San Diego with our curated list of the best tours in San Diego. This coastal gem offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical explorations to thrilling outdoor adventures. From the bustling Gaslamp Quarter to serene whale-watching excursions, our guide will help you make the most of your visit with the top San Diego tours available.
San Diego City Tours
Old Town Trolley San Diego
Some of the best San Diego tours are the Old Town Trolley Tours®, which take you through the historic and picturesque neighborhoods of San Diego. Friendly and knowledgeable guides provide live narration, sharing fascinating stories about the city’s rich history. These hop-on, hop-off tours allow you to explore at your own pace, making them ideal for families looking for flexibility. Stop at key landmarks such as Balboa Park and the USS Midway Museum, ensuring you experience the heart of San Diego.
Private Walking Tours
For those who prefer a more intimate exploration, private walking tours offer a personalized experience. Tailor your journey to your interests, whether that means delving into San Diego’s history or discovering its culinary delights. Walking through the charming streets allows you to absorb the culture up close, making it one of the best tours in San Diego for families who enjoy a slower pace and detailed narratives.
Guided Scooter or Segway Tours
Another exciting option for exploring the city is a guided scooter or Segway tour. These tours provide a fun way to cover more ground while enjoying the beautiful scenery. As you glide through the streets, you’ll have the opportunity to see various attractions, parks, and coastal views, making these some of the most enjoyable San Diego tours for families seeking adventure.
San Diego Harbor and Bay Tours
San Diego Harbor Cruise
Taking a San Diego Harbor cruise is a fantastic way to appreciate the city from a different perspective. As you sail through the bay, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the skyline and waterfront attractions. Many cruises offer informative commentary, making them not just a leisurely ride but also an educational experience for the entire family.
Whale-Watching Tours
Mid-December through April, whale-watching tours are among the best tours in San Diego. Witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience that creates lasting memories for families. Knowledgeable guides share insights about the whales and their behaviors, making the journey both exciting and informative.
Sailing and Sunset Cruise
For a romantic and picturesque experience, consider a sailing and sunset cruise. As the sun sets over the Pacific, the sky transforms into a beautiful canvas, providing a perfect backdrop for family photos. With onboard amenities and a relaxing ambiance, this is a must-do tour when visiting San Diego.
San Diego SEAL Tours SM
San Diego SEAL Tours combines sea and land exploration, allowing families to discover the city’s sights in a fun and unique way. Your adventure begins on the road, where you’ll cruise through picturesque neighborhoods before splashing down into the bay. This engaging tour offers captivating insights into San Diego’s rich military history and the marine life that inhabits its waters.
Nature and Outdoor Adventure Tours
La Jolla Kayak Tours
Explore the stunning coastline with La Jolla kayak tours, where you can paddle through the beautiful waters and observe sea caves, marine life, and stunning coastal scenery. This is one of the best San Diego tours for families looking to connect with nature and enjoy an active adventure together.
Torrey Pines Hiking Tours
For families who love the outdoors, Torrey Pines hiking tours offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and unique landscapes. Expert guides lead you through this natural reserve, sharing knowledge about the local flora and fauna, making it an enriching experience for both children and adults.
Coronado Bike Tours
Take a leisurely ride through Coronado Island on a bike tour. Enjoy the scenic paths, beautiful beaches and charming neighborhoods while learning about the area’s history. This family-friendly activity is perfect for creating fun moments together while enjoying the fresh air.
Black’s Beach Hike
Embark on a hike to Black’s Beach, where stunning views and pristine nature await. Known for its rugged cliffs and beautiful shoreline, this hike is an adventurous way to connect with the outdoors, making it one of the must-do San Diego tours for nature-loving families.
Food and Wine Tours Tours
Downtown San Diego Food Tours
Discover the culinary delights of San Diego with a food tour through downtown. Sample local dishes from various restaurants while learning about the city’s food culture. This immersive experience is one of the best tours in San Diego, perfect for families who enjoy trying new foods together.
Little Italy Food Tours
Experience the flavors of Little Italy on a guided food tour that highlights the best eateries in the neighborhood. Enjoy delicious Italian cuisine while exploring the area’s rich history and vibrant culture. This family-friendly tour is a great way to bond over shared culinary experiences.
San Diego Winery and Brewery Tours
For families who enjoy local brews and wines, consider winery and brewery tours that showcase the region’s best. Many of these tours offer family-friendly options, including nonalcoholic beverages for the kids, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
Cultural and Historical Tours Tours
Gaslamp Quarter Walking Tours
Explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter with a walking tour that reveals the area’s rich history and architecture. Families will appreciate the engaging stories shared by knowledgeable guides, making it an enjoyable way to learn about San Diego’s past.
Historic Old Town San Diego Tours
Discover the roots of California at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Family-friendly tours guide you through restored buildings, museums and shops that celebrate the city’s history. This is one of the best San Diego tours for families who want to explore the state’s cultural heritage.
USS Midway Museum Tours
Take a guided tour of the USS Midway Museum, where families can learn about naval aviation and explore the aircraft carrier. Engaging exhibits and veteran docents provide insights into life aboard the ship, making it a fascinating educational experience.
Cabrillo National Monument Tours
Cabrillo National Monument offers tours that highlight the historic landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo. Families can learn about the early exploration of California while enjoying stunning views of San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
Heritage Park Victorian Village Tours
Visit Heritage Park’s Victorian Village, where families can wander through beautifully restored Victorian-era homes. Guided tours provide a glimpse into the lives of early San Diego settlers, making it an enriching experience for children and adults alike.
Cultural and Historical Tours Tours
San Diego Zoo Tours
The San Diego Zoo offers guided tours that allow families to explore the vast collection of animals in one of the world’s most famous zoos. Knowledgeable guides share interesting facts about the animals, ensuring an educational experience for visitors.
Safari Park Tours
At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, families can embark on guided tours that showcase the park’s expansive habitats and diverse wildlife. This is an excellent way to connect with nature and learn about conservation efforts in a family-friendly setting.
Bird-watching and Eco Tours
Bird-watching and eco tours provide families with an opportunity to observe local wildlife in their natural habitats. Expert guides lead these tours, sharing insights about various species and the importance of environmental conservation.
Unique and Off-the-Beaten-Path Tours
Ghosts & Gravestones® San Diego
For families intrigued by the supernatural, the Ghosts & Gravestones San Diego tour offers a unique experience. Explore haunted sites and hear chilling tales that bring the city’s history to life. This is a fun and spooky way to discover a different side of San Diego.
Whaley House Tour
The Whaley HouseSM is known as America’s Most Haunted House®, making it a thrilling stop for families interested in ghosts and history. Guided tours reveal the stories behind the hauntings, providing an exciting blend of education and entertainment.
Paranormal Investigation Tours
Families can join paranormal investigation tours that delve into the mysteries of haunted locations. These tours offer a unique and engaging way to learn about the supernatural, perfect for adventurous families.
History of Prohibition Underground Tours
Underground tours on the history of Prohibition take families through the hidden stories of San Diego during the Prohibition era. Learn about speakeasies and underground culture in a fun and informative way that brings history to life.
Brewery Art Walk Tours
Experience the creative side of San Diego with Brewery Art Walk tours. Families can explore local breweries that double as art galleries, showcasing works from talented artists while sampling unique brews. This combination of art and craft beer creates an enjoyable experience for all.
FAQs
The best time to embark on San Diego tours is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. This allows families to enjoy attractions without the long wait times often seen during the peak summer tourist season.
Many museums in San Diego offer interactive exhibits and family-friendly programs. The San Diego Museum of Art, the New Children’s Museum and the USS Midway Museum are all excellent choices for families seeking educational and engaging activities.
La Jolla Cove is one of the best San Diego tours for families, offering stunning views, tide pools to explore, and opportunities to see sea lions. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and picnicking.
The San Diego SEAL ToursSM provide families with a unique opportunity to see marine life up close. This engaging tour combines a land and sea experience, making it an exciting choice among family things to do in San Diego.