Things to do with Kids and Dogs in San Diego
Looking for fun things to do with kids in San Diego? Also looking for San Diego dog activities? San Diego, with its sunny skies and vibrant culture, is a treasure trove of family-friendly adventures that are perfect for both kids and pets. From sprawling parks and dog-friendly beaches to interactive museums and outdoor festivals, the city offers a plethora of activities that cater to every member of the family. Whether you’re looking to splash in the waves, explore scenic trails, or enjoy a picnic outside, San Diego creates an inviting atmosphere where every day can be a new discovery. This guide will help you uncover the best things for families to do in San Diego, allowing for lasting memories with both your children and your four-legged friends.
Outdoor Adventures
It’s no secret that most kids and dogs love to play outside. Luckily, San Diego’s mild climate and expansive outdoor spaces provide the perfect opportunity for adventures the whole family can enjoy. If you’re looking for places for dogs to play with your kids, some great outdoor activities include:
Visiting Dog-Friendly Beaches
San Diego is home to some of the best dog-friendly beaches in the world, where families can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf together. Some of the most notable locations include:
- Coronado Dog Beach: Located on the island of Coronado, this dog friendly beach is a popular spot where you can build sandcastles with your kids while your dogs roam freely beside you.
- Fiesta Island Park: Situated in the middle of Mission Bay, this park offers a vast off-leash area on its beach, perfect for a game of fetch in the water or a family swim.
- Ocean Beach Dog Beach: Right along the Ocean Beach jetty, this local favorite spot is one of the best year round off leash dog parks, making it ideal for everyone to splash around and have fun under the San Diego sun.
Exploring Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails
San Diego’s natural landscapes provide the perfect setting for family and pet-friendly hiking adventures. Some of the most popular trails include:
- Cowles Mountain: A moderate hike with rewarding panoramic views at the summit. A great choice for families with older children and energetic dogs.
- Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail: An easier, flatter terrain that is ideal for younger children and smaller pets, with plenty of shade and streams along the way.
Remember, when hiking with kids and pets, always carry enough water for everyone, keep dogs on a leash where required, and stick to trails that match your group’s fitness level to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Enjoying Parks and Playgrounds With your Pet
San Diego is home to numerous parks that cater to both playful pups and adventurous kids. Some of the fan favorite parks around SD include:
- Kate Sessions Park: This family-friendly park not only offers stunning views of the city, but also features expansive grassy areas for dogs to run and play structures for children to explore. A local favorite spot for all types of pet owners, don’t be surprised if you see a pet bunny or cat enjoying the day from the comfort of a backpack!
- Balboa Park: The city’s iconic cultural hub, includes multiple dog-friendly areas and a myriad of family-oriented activities and play areas, along with numerous picnic spots under shady trees.
- Waterfront Park: Another favorite with its interactive fountains, modern play equipment, and well-maintained lawns perfect for a family picnic or a spirited game of frisbee.
Community Events
San Diego is home to lively, animal-loving community members that enjoy planning events that cater to both kids and dogs. Throughout the year, you can find a variety of different events for the whole family to enjoy.
Attending Dog-Friendly Events and Festivals
San Diego is home to a variety of annual events that are perfect for families and their furry companions. Some of the stand-out community gatherings include:
- Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon: Held at Del Mar Dog Beach, this event for the Helen Woodward Animal Center showcases dogs competing in surfing heats. It’s a fun and festive day at the beach that raises money for animal welfare.
- San Diego Pet Expo: This popular event features a wide array of activities and stalls catering to both pets and children. Attendees can explore booths offering the latest in pet health products, toys, and gourmet treats, while kids can enjoy games, face painting, and interactive educational sessions about pet care.
- Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade: Every December, the historic Gaslamp Quarter hosts a pet parade where dogs and their owners dress up in festive attire. The event includes a pet expo and ends with an awards ceremony for the best-dressed pets.
- Pooch Party at Waterfront Park: This event includes a day of outdoor activities for dogs and their owners, featuring obstacle courses, a doggie pool, and lots of treats. It’s a great way to enjoy San Diego’s beautiful scenery and socialize with other dog lovers.
- Bark at the Park: Presented by Petco for 4 different home games this season, this event gives you the chance to enjoy a Padres game from Gallagher Square with your favorite canine. The whole family can enjoy the beauty of San Diego baseball, as well as Petco’s expert Dog Trainers giving out training tips, tricks, and exclusive giveaways just for Bark at the Park attendees.
Enjoying Outdoor Concerts and Movies
San Diego offers an array of outdoor concerts and movie screenings that are perfect for families and their pets, like the Summer Pops series at Embarcadero Marina Park and outdoor films at Liberty Station. These events typically provide a relaxed atmosphere where you can spread out a blanket, enjoy a picnic, and take in a show under the stars. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable evening, bring along water and snacks for both kids and pets, some toys or activities to keep children entertained, and make sure your dog has a leash and some comforts like a portable bed or favorite chew toy. Checking ahead for pet-specific amenities or any restrictions can also help in planning the perfect family outing. Many outdoor concert venues, like the Rady Shell, have specific times and areas for pets that aren’t certified service animals.
Dining Out
Man enjoying a pint along with his pup
San Diego is a melting pot of cultures, which means a huge variety of different cuisines are at your family’s fingertips. What’s more, with San Diego’s great weather, many restaurants have great outdoor seating options that are welcoming to furry friends.
Dining at Pet-Friendly Restaurants
There are a plethora of options for dining with the whole family across San Diego county. These eateries not only welcome dogs but also cater to children with kid-friendly menu options, crayons, and activity sheets to keep the little ones engaged. This welcoming approach allows parents and pet owners alike to enjoy a stress-free meal in some of San Diego’s most charming neighborhoods. A few standout pet friendly places in San Diego include:
- Second Nature (Pacific Beach): Offers a bright, lively ambiance and a diverse menu that includes both classic and vegan options.
- Station Tavern (South Park): Features outdoor seating perfect for dogs and a casual menu with burgers and craft beers, making it a favorite among locals.
- Brockton Villa Restaurant (La Jolla): Known for its beautiful ocean views and a friendly spot for dogs. They serve great breakfast and brunch options.
- Café 21 (Gaslamp Quarter): Uses locally sourced ingredients and offers a vibrant atmosphere with a pet-friendly patio.
- Home & Away (Old Town): A sports bar with plenty of outdoor space for dogs, known for its laid-back vibe and tasty pub grub.
- Park & Rec (University Heights): A fun and lively place with a spacious patio where dogs can hang out while their owners enjoy live music and drinks.
- Pandora Pizza (Encinitas): Quick and easy pizza joint with delicious slices and outdoor patio section for furry friends.
Certain establishments around San Diego even organize pet and family specific events. For example, Helen Woodward Animal Center partners with The Original 40 Brewing Co. for the annual Puppy Prom, as well as with AleSmith Brewing for the annual Pawmicon. These pet-centric family events are great opportunities for a memorable outing all together.
Educational Experiences
San Diego is not only a playground of beaches and parks but also a vibrant center for educational experiences. Engaging museums, historic sites, and nature centers offer a plethora of learning opportunities that are both fun and informative for the whole family. Whether you’re exploring the interactive exhibits around Balboa Park or walking through the living history at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, these educational outings can enrich the minds of young and old alike. And with many venues offering pet-friendly outdoor exhibits or special events, your four legged friend can join in on the discovery.
Visiting San Diego Zoo and Safari Park
Visiting the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a fantastic way for families to explore and learn about wildlife, although pets are not permitted inside to ensure the safety of the zoo animals and guests. For families with pets, several nearby facilities offer dog boarding services, ensuring your pets are well cared for while you enjoy the zoo. Inside the parks, children can delight in kid-friendly exhibits like the Panda Canyon and Elephant Odyssey, and even partake in interactive animal encounters designed to educate and inspire young minds. To enhance the experience, plan your visit around scheduled feedings and educational talks, making the outing both enjoyable and enriching for kids.
Exploring Outdoor Museums and Gardens
Exploring outdoor museums and gardens in San Diego offers a unique blend of education and natural beauty that can be enjoyed with the whole family, including pets on designated days. Places like the San Diego Botanic Garden host pet-friendly days, allowing your furry friend to join in as you stroll through diverse plant collections and thematic gardens. These outings provide an excellent opportunity for kids to engage directly with nature, fostering a sense of wonder and offering hands-on learning experiences about the environment and plant life. By visiting these serene settings, families can enjoy the tranquility of nature while educating themselves on the importance of conservation and botanical diversity.
Experiencing Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park offers a family-friendly glimpse into San Diego’s rich history, where both kids and leashed dogs are welcome to explore together. This lively park recreates life in the Mexican and early American periods, offering educational tours, live demonstrations, and period-dressed docents that bring history to life. The park’s spacious outdoor areas are perfect for dog owners looking to get their pets outside while the whole family enjoys the historical buildings, artisan shops, and traditional Mexican eateries. It’s an ideal spot for an educational outing where every family member, including the furry ones, can enjoy a day steeped in culture and history.
Tips for a Successful Outing
If you’re going to have a successful family outing, thoughtful preparation and consideration of each member’s needs are key. No matter where you’re headed, make sure you pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats for hydration, energy, and sun protection throughout the day. For your dog, a sturdy leash, waste bags, portable water bowl, and plenty of treats are a must. Be sure to educate yourself on local regulations regarding leashes and pet access areas, and take every opportunity possible to teach your kids the importance of respecting wildlife and the local ecosystem. By modeling responsible pet ownership and an eco-conscious attitude for your children, you’ll not only ensure a smooth outing but also instill valuable lessons in animal care in San Diego’s next generation.
Final Thoughts
San Diego is the perfect city to explore with your whole family. With world-class weather and attractions for people and pets alike, there’s a reason that so many families flock to this beautiful city. Enjoying San Diego’s vast array of outdoor activities provides an excellent opportunity for families to bond and create lasting memories with both their children and pets. The city’s pet-friendly beaches, parks, and events not only enrich the family experience but also promote a healthy, active lifestyle surrounded by nature. If you’re looking to add a new furry member to your family, visit Helen Woodward Animal Center to learn more about opportunities to adopt or foster pets in need.
