Looking for things to do with kids that won’t break the bank? We found six free things to do in San Diego on your next weekend getaway or family vacation.
Spreckels Organ Pavilion at Balboa Park in San Diego, CA.
Hear Heavenly Tunes
Spreckels Organ Pavilion features one of the largest pipe organs in the world and has been a San Diego landmark since 1914. The pavilion hosts free organ concerts every Sunday at 2 p.m. In the summer, Coronado is home to free Sunday concerts, as well.
San Diego Museum of Art
View Contemporary Art
Free entry is offered at San Diego’s Museum of Contemporary Art the third Thursday of each month from 5 to 7 p.m., including its locations in downtown San Diego and La Jolla.
Hotel Del Coronado
Explore The Del
Coronado Beach’s iconic Hotel Del has welcomed movie stars and dignitaries for generations, serving as an oft-photographed backdrop. You can stroll the grounds of the hotel and see some of its interior, without having to stay or eat at the beautiful resort.
Enjoy a Scenic Drive
San Diego’s 59-mile scenic drive showcases the best of San Diego, from downtown to La Jolla to Pacific Beach to Point Loma. Stopping for photos along the way, the drive will take your family about three hours and just requires gas money.
The Plaza de Panama in Balboa Park
Stroll Balboa Park
Balboa Park is a must-visit for all first-timers to San Diego. Although its museums and the zoo require entry fees, there are many trails, gardens and sites to explore across the 1.875-square-mile park to entertain your kids.
San Diego Zoo
Kids Free October
Every October, San Diego offers its special Kids Free promotion where all museums and most attractions across the greater San Diego area allow free admittance for children, with full price for parents. It’s not entirely free for the family, but a great savings, nonetheless.
Written by Lissa Poirot