Located in the heart of San Diego, Balboa Park boasts 17 museums, beautiful gardens, and plenty of activities for families to enjoy, including the San Diego Zoo.
Legoland California is a theme park with over 60 interactive rides, shows, and attractions. It’s a great place to spend the day with the family.
Experience the rich history of San Diego at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. It’s home to some of the oldest buildings in California, as well as unique shops, restaurants, and museums.
Enjoy some family-friendly activities at the wineries in Temecula Wine Country, including horseback riding and grape stomping. The adults can also enjoy wine tastings while the kids play.
Take a scenic ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which transports you from the desert floor to an alpine forest. Once at the top, enjoy hiking, dining, and amazing views.
The Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert offers interactive exhibits that promote learning and creativity for children of all ages. It's a great way to spend the day indoors if it's too hot outside.
The Palm Springs Air Museum is home to one of the world's largest collections of flyable WWII aircraft. It's a great place to learn about aviation history and see some amazing planes up close.
Explore the unique landscape of Joshua Tree National Park, which features stunning rock formations, hiking trails, and desert flora and fauna. Don't miss the sunset at Keys View.
The Palm Springs Art Museum features a world-class collection of contemporary and modern art, as well as a sculpture garden and interactive exhibits. It's a great way to spend a relaxing day indoors.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a unique zoo that features desert animals and plants from around the world. It's a great place to learn about conservation and get up close with some amazing creatures.
While many of these locations require a car to get to, there are also options for public transportation, such as the San Diego Trolley and the Palm Springs Buzz. It's important to factor in transportation costs, such as gas, parking, and public transportation fees, when planning the trip. Total travel time between locations may vary based on traffic and other factors.
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Julian, a charming mountain town known for its apple pies. If you have less time, consider skipping some of the museums and spending more time outdoors. Don't forget to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and hats to protect yourself from the sun.
The main airport in the area is San Diego International Airport (SAN), located 3.4 miles from Balboa Park. Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is also an option, located 2.6 miles from the Palm Springs Art Museum. Both airports offer rental cars and public transportation options.