As you’re thinking about traveling with your family during the fall and winter, or maybe even planning a trip for next summer, you might happen upon San Diego, CA. Although I’ve never been myself, I hear very good things. And for families, it has a whole lot to offer. So enjoy today’s post and let it inspire you!

San Diego is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the grand state of California and with good reason. It has some of the best weather you could ask for, year round. You have access to great beaches, loads of natural beauty, and all the trappings of an urban cosmopolitan area, from cultural activities to amazing restaurants. If you are taking a family vacation, have no fear about finding family-friendly activities and sights. There is no shortage from which to choose. Here is just a sampling of the best of kid-friendly San Diego:

Balboa Park

Balboa Park has a little bit of everything. Take a stroll around the beautiful gardens, or indulge in some of its 14 museums. Some of the top ones include the San Diego Natural History Museum, the San Diego Air and Space Museum and the Reuben H. Fleece Science Center, which has lots of kid-friendly hands-on exhibits.

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is actually part of Balboa Park but deserves a section all its own because it is considered not only one of the top attractions in the area, but one of the best zoos in the country, perhaps the world. Here you will find over 4,000 animals in nine habitats. Catch some pandas, watch a rhino paint and check out unusual creatures like the binturong.

There is also the Safari Park, where you will feel like you are traveling through the wilds of Asia and Africa. This large expanse of wildlife preserve is home to lions, giraffes, zebras and other fascinating creatures.

If you feel so inclined, you can buy a pass that gives you one-time admission to the zoo and each of the museums for a whole week.

LEGOLAND

About a 45-minute drive from San Diego, LEGOLAND is not to be missed if you have kids. It is one of the most popular attractions in the area, and draws millions of people from all over the globe. It has more than 50 rides designed just for kids, but fun for the whole family. Do not forget to check out Miniland USA, where 20 million Legos were used to recreate seven areas of the US. If you would like to spend the night there, consider booking a room at the LEGOLAND California Resort .

Belmont Park

This beachfront amusement park is one of the most popular family attractions in the city. Here you will find a great blend of contemporary and traditional attractions and rides. There are plenty of rides for kids and adults alike, and other fun activities such as glow-in-the-dark miniature golf.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

The Birch Aquarium is the perfect blend of education and entertainment. Here your kids can explore the world of the water with over 60 habitats. They are full of fascinating creatures like sharks and sea horses. You can also see beautiful displays of coral reef. It also has an amazing ocean view that will be worthy of a few pictures.

New Children’s Museum

Located in downtown San Diego, the New Children’s Museum is chock-full of dynamic hands-on activities. There are always a variety of workshops so check online to see what is available during your visit. Some of the popular activities include making their own audio and video soundtrack with 3-D sequences and building a birdhouse at the Paint and Clay Studio.

This is just a small sampling of all the awesome things you can do with kids in this wonderful city. There is so much more, you probably won’t be able to fit it all in, so do your homework and plan accordingly!

Have you ever been to San Diego? If so, what was your favorite thing? And if not, what would you like to visit?

cc photo credit: Justin in SD, Justin in SD, San Diego Shooter, San Diego Shooter and San Diego Shooter