Safe, Sunny, and Socially Distanced Family Fun
These days, it can feel like the whole world is closed for business. Being responsible and stopping the spread of COVID-19 has us all scratching summer activities off of our to-do lists — not because they’re done, but because they seem to be off the table.
But all is not lost. San Diegans always know how to have summertime fun, even if the circumstances are less than ideal. Let’s take a look at some of the ways you and the whole crew can enjoy yourselves during your SoCal getaway.
Animal Adventures
The San Diego Zoo was recently voted the #1 zoo in the world by TripAdvisor. Once you visit, it’s not hard to see why. The zoo has been delighting visitors of all ages since 1916 and is currently home to more than 3,700 animals encompassing more than 650 species! Be sure to visit, but bear in mind that the zoo is complying with all mandated safety practices stipulated by the state of California, including the wearing of masks and maintaining best social-distancing practices.
Big Day at Belmont
Belmont Park offers the sort of timeless boardwalk theme-park experience only Southern California can really deliver. Activities, games, and other fun distractions can easily fill a days’ worth of sun-filled fun. Don’t miss the tiki mini-golf, climbing wall, and sky ropes course. Step right up for a big day out! (Note: some rides may be closed — be sure to check in advance of your visit by clicking here.)
A Walk in the Park
Beautiful Balboa Park is adjacent to San Diego Zoo and represents a fantastic opportunity to experience the best of the city. As the country’s largest urban cultural park, Balboa hosts a collection of public art, recreational activities, and world-class museums (such as the Fleet Science Center and San Diego Natural History Museum; both of which are offering virtual visits). You won’t even need to leave the park when it’s lunchtime, as specialty restaurants and refreshment kiosks dot the green space.
Under the Sea
The Birch Aquarium at Scripps is a public education center offered by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Kids and parents alike will enjoy interactive displays, a tide-pool exhibit, and the 60-plus habitats housing a variety of fascinating and colorful sea life. The aquarium also offers seasonal whale-watching tours and snorkeling classes.
Fun Frolic Among the Flowers
San Diego Botanic Garden offers visitors more than two dozen themed gardens over 37 colorful acres. The Seeds of Wonder Children’s Garden delights younger guests with giant soap bubbles, a kid-sized railroad, and playhouse to explore. Older kids will enjoy Hamilton Children’s Garden, where they can play a giant game of tic-tac-toe, navigate a labyrinth, and learn how sundials work.
Nurturing Nature
If your crew is made up of outdoorsy types, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is the place to go. The rare Torrey pine tree that grows here gives the park its name, and you’ll spot these botanical treasures along several miles of kid-friendly hiking trails. The reserve also offers some of the most stunning ocean views available anywhere in Southern California, so don’t miss the sunset!