San Diego

Every once in a while, we like to feature a vacation destination we've enjoyed and think you might, too. This time, our featured city is sunny San DIego, California. We've compiled a list of favorite spots for everyone to enjoy if you decide to visit.

5 Days In San Diego

5 days in San DIego is a nice amount of time to visit most attractions without feeling too rushed. We've put together a sample itinerary, which includes several "must sees" when traveling with kids.

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Day 1

San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. Arrive early and prioritize the Skyfari Tram, Elephant Odyssey, Wildlife Explorer's Base Camp and the giraffes. To keep things easy, have lunch in the zoo or grab something to go and have a picnic in beautiful Balboa Park (the zoo is located in Balboa Park). A carousal ride and a stroll around the gardens of the park are a nice way to wind down in the afternoon.

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Day 2

Spend today in LaJolla visiting the BIrch Aquarium, beach and the Ellen Browning Scripps Pier. Birch Aquarium is an excellent venue for kids and adults alike. With tide pools, seahorses, and a shark and ray exhibit to name a few, it's an interactive way to spend 2-3 hours that will fly by. After lunch, spend some time at LaJolla Shores Beach. Gentle waves and a wide, sandy beach make this a great choice for a little relaxing time at the shore with children. Malke sure to see the sea lions in La Jolla Cove while you're here, and round out the day with a short, scenic walk on the Ellen Browning Scripp's Pier, a beautiful spot for a family photo and for watching the sunset.

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Day 3

Legoland! This is a full day activity. There's plenty to do here, from rides to a water play area to shops. Kids will be exhausted when you get back to the hotel.

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Day 4

San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This is not the zoo! And it's also an all day activity. The exhibits here are open air, with animals in natural habitats. Take the tram. feed the giraffes and plan on tired kids again at the end of the day.

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Day 5

Mission Bay and Mission Beach. Wrap up your time in San DIego with a fun day at the beach. This area has a playground, and a small amusement park. There's the option to kayaking or paddleboard in the calm waters, have a picnic, enjoy an ice cream cone and watch the sunset at the end of the day.

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Some money saving tips include the CItyPASS Bundle, which includes discounts for many attractions. If you're planning a trip in the month of October, look in to Kids Free October. Many attractions, restaurants and hotels offer kids free promos with a paying adult.