San Diego may be known for its sunshine, but when the summer heat rolls in, finding an air-conditioned oasis with the kids becomes a MUST. We’ve compiled fantastic indoor options that are perfect for keeping cool and having fun.
Here are 5 air-conditioned spots to enjoy with your children:
1. Explore the Public Libraries
Your local libraries aren’t just for quiet study time, they’re a treasure trove of fun and learning! San Diego County’s public libraries offer a cool and enriching environment for the whole family. From storytimes to educational programs, there’s always something exciting happening. Plus, you can borrow books, movies, and even video games for entertainment at home!
San Diego Public Library
Check out their website for upcoming events categorized by age group (Babies/Toddlers, Preschoolers, Elementary School Age). Their programs provide a variety of educational and fun activities for your little ones.
SD County Libraries
Explore their “Summer at Your Library” programs across the county!
Chula Vista Library
Bilingual storytimes, playtimes, crafts, and more can be found on their event calendar!
2. Catch a Movie at the Theater
Take the family to the movies for an escape from the heat. There’s something for everyone to enjoy on the big screen!
AMC Theatres
Enjoy discount matinees every day before 4pm! Movie tickets are up to 25% off the evening base ticket prices.
Regal Cinemas
Crown Club Members can get tickets to any standard movie on Tuesdays for $5–$8! Also, enjoy Regal’s Summer Movie Express on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 11am. Every week, you can get Summer Movie Express tickets for just $1. All Summer Movie Express guests can purchase a specially priced $5 Snack Pack, which includes a junior-sized drink, snack-sized popcorn, and fruit snacks.
Reading Cinemas
On Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 11am, enjoy $1 movies during the Reel Kids Summer Series!
Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas
On Mondays, enjoy discount kids tickets and half off candy! On Tuesdays, tickets are half price.
3. Storytime at Barnes & Noble
Beat the heat and spark a love of reading at Barnes & Noble! Their bookstores across San Diego County make the perfect spot to cool off, and even host a variety of age-appropriate story times throughout the week, perfect for all ages.
Weekly on Tuesdays
6pm at Otay Ranch
Weekly on Fridays
7:30pm at Santee Trolley Square
Weekly on Saturdays
11am at Carmel Mountain Ranch
11am at Escondido
11am at Encinitas
11am at Oceanside
12pm at Mira Mesa
First Saturday of every Month:
11am at Hazard Center
Check individual store listings to confirm specific dates and times.
4. Journey Through Museums
San Diego boasts world-class museums that are perfect for entertaining and igniting a child’s curiosity. Embark on a learning adventure!
San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum | Escondido
Engage in imaginative play and discovery! Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Admission prices range from $1 to $11.50. Children under 12 months have free admission.
The New Children’s Museum | San Diego
Spark creativity with playful exhibits and hands-on activities! Open Monday and Wednesday to Sunday from 9am to 4pm. Admission prices range from $2 to $24. Children under 12 months have free admission.
San Diego Natural History Museum | San Diego
Uncover the wonders of the natural world! Open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 7pm, Friday from 10am to 10pm, and Weekends from 10am to 5pm. Admission prices range from $14 to $24. Children ages two and under have free admission.
Living Coast Discovery Center | Chula Vista
Learn about local wildlife and ecosystems! Open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Admission prices range from $15 to $20. Children ages two and under have free admission.
Fleet Science Center | San Diego
Explore interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring science shows!. Open daily from 10am to 6pm. Admission prices range from $19.95 to $24.95. Children ages two and under have free admission.
Birch Aquarium | La Jolla
Explore the underwater world and its fascinating creatures! Open daily from 9am to 7pm. Admission prices range from $24.95 to $29.95. Children ages two and under have free admission. (Important Note: Reservations are required!)
Local Tip! Have a San Diego Public Library card? Take advantage of their Discover & Go program for free or discounted entry to some of San Diego’s biggest attractions.
5. Cool Off at an Indoor Playground Paradise
Let your little ones burn off energy in a safe and air-conditioned environment at San Diego’s fantastic selection of indoor playgrounds.
Play City | Chula Vista
Open Sunday to Thursday from 10am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 9pm. Admission prices range from $10 to $30 depending on the child’s age and the day of the week.
Toucan Play | Chula Vista
Open Wednesday to Monday from 10am to 6pm, with Drop-In Hours on Saturday from 10am to 2pm. Admission prices range from $14 to $40 depending on parental supervision or drop-in care.
FUNbelievable Play | Lakeside
Open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 6pm, Friday from 10am to 8pm, Saturdays and Sundays depend on the party schedule. Admission prices range from $10 to $20 depending on the child’s age.
Play Kingdom | Oceanside
Open Friday and Saturday from 9am to 5pm, Sunday from 1pm to 5pm, Monday from 9am to 5pm. Admission prices range from $10 to $13 depending on the day of the week.
Baby Hop Playground | Carlsbad
Open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8pm, Sunday from 11am to 6pm. Admission prices range from $15.99 to $20.99 depending on the child’s age.
The Playground | La Mesa
Open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 6pm, Friday and Saturday 10am to 8pm, Sunday from 11am to 6pm. Admission price is $22.
So, the next time the San Diego sun is blazing, don’t worry! These indoor activities offer the perfect blend of fun, learning, and cool comfort for you and your kids. Enjoy creating lasting memories on your San Diego adventures! If you know other air-conditioned spots that aren’t on this list, let us know in the comments.
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