1-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in San Diego, California

Day 1: Adventure and Fun

San Diego, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Cottage, known for its delightful “French Toast” and healthy options like the 'Breakfast Burrito'.
Located in the coastal neighborhood of La Jolla, this is a perfect place to fuel up before a day of adventure.
USD18, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the San Diego Zoo

Spend the morning exploring the San Diego Zoo, home to over 3,700 animals and renowned for its naturalistic habitats.
It's a short 20-minute drive from The Cottage to the zoo's entrance.
USD60 per adult, USD50 per child, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Prado

After the zoo, head to The Prado located in Balboa Park, which offers delicious family-friendly options such as pizzas and sandwiches with a lovely view of the park.
A quick 10-minute drive will get you to The Prado.
USD60 for the family, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Balboa Park

Post-lunch, you can stroll around Balboa Park, visiting its gardens and enjoying the playgrounds perfect for kids.
The park is just steps away from the restaurant, making it very accessible.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Fleet Science Center

Continue the fun with a trip to the Fleet Science Center, where interactive exhibits engage kids and adults alike.
It’s only a 5-minute walk from the gardens in Balboa Park.
USD20 per adult, USD16 per child, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Harbor House

Wrap up your day with a seaside dinner at Harbor House, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the bay.
It’s approximately a 10-minute drive from Balboa Park.
USD80 for the family, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll at the Beach

End your family adventure with a relaxing stroll along the beach, soaking in the ocean breeze and perhaps catching some evening beach activities.
A short 15-minute drive will take you to the beach from Harbor House.
Free, 1 hour
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