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San Diego's Kids Free Month: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Guide for Parents

Writer's picture: Vanessa CastellonVanessa Castellon
Children playing with some toys, sitting in front of a statue at the Mingei Museum in San Diego during Kids Free San Diego.
Source: San Diego Museum Council

San Diego transforms into a paradise for families every October with the annual "Kids Free" promotion. These month-long offers include incredible savings on attractions, meals, and experiences throughout the city, making it the perfect time to explore America's Finest City with your little ones without breaking the bank. Check out our recommendations to enjoy Kids Free San Diego!


Unlocking the Fun with Kids Free

San Diego Wave Player Dahlkemper is shown about to kick the soccer ball at the Wave game at Snapdragon Stadium..
Source: San Diego Wave FC

The Kids Free San Diego program partners with over 50 museums, attractions, and tours, allowing children aged 12 and under to enter for free with a paying adult. From world-famous landmarks like the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park to interactive museums and exciting day trips, there's something for every kid's interest.


Children ages 11 and younger receive free admission. Each ticketed supervising adult may bring up to five kids free!

Kids free admission is valid for children ages 3-9 only. One free child admission per purchase of a full-paid adult ticket 

Get a Free Child Ticket with a paid Hopper Ticket! Enjoy more than 60 rides and attractions for kids 2-12

Get ready to splash and play with Kids Go FREE (one free child with one full-priced paid adult ticket) to Sesame Place San Diego. Kids free admission is valid for children ages 3-9 only.


  • Kids Go Free to San Diego Museums!

Explore San Diego Museums like Marston House, Mingei International Museum, the Museum of Us, and the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum. Each museum has its respective age and ticket restrictions. Check out the San Diego Museum Council to look over which museums are participating! 


  • Kids Go Free to Explore San Diego!

Enjoy various sightseeing excursions, including the Old Town Trolley Tour, City Cruises, San Diego Speed Boat Adventures, Corporate Helicopters, and The Gondola Company. Each tour company has its respective age and ticket restrictions.


Cheer on the San Diego Wave against Houston Dash on Saturday, October 13 at Snapdragon Stadium! Get a free child ticket with a paid adult ticket, 200-level only.


Need the Perfect Place to Stay?

Children in the pool, smiling at the camera with sunglasses on and flowers in their hair.
Source: Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa

Choosing the right hotel is essential to planning a family vacation to San Diego. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here are our recommendations:

Kids 12 and under can enjoy a free breakfast with one paying adult.

Enjoy up to 25% off your stay, a free kid's meal at Dockside 1953, and a complimentary rental from Bahia's on-site partner Action Sport Rentals.

Every child who stays at the San Diego Mission Bay Resort will receive a backpack filled with everything they need to enjoy their stay: a snack, water, a scavenger hunt to keep them busy as they wander throughout the property, a beach ball, and a game to take home. Plus, enjoy one free kid's meal with one paying adult at Covewood Restaurant.

Kids 12 and under can enjoy a free breakfast with one paying adult.


Making the Most of Your Kids Free Adventure


A wet mother and her child walking along the shore in wetsuits, mother holding a surfboard.
Source: Visit San Diego

Here are some tips to maximize your fun during San Diego's Kids Free month:

  • Plan your itinerary: Browse the official Kids Free San Diego website to explore the full list of participating locations and plan your activities in advance. Consider your children's interests and age groups when making your selections.

  • Review approved gear: Read our other blogs (like Everything You Need To Know About Petco Park (and other San Diego Venues) With Kids and What Can I Bring? Ultimate Guide to San Diego Attractions with Kids!) to make sure you’re bringing in approved items before entering different attractions and venues.

  • Book your tickets: While many attractions offer free entry for children, some may require reservations or timed ticketing. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

  • Gear up for adventure: With all the exploring you'll be doing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and hats are essential. Depending on your chosen activities, you might also want to pack snacks, water bottles, and a change of clothes for the kids.


Destination Baby Co: Your Partner in San Diego Fun

Parents walking along the beach with their baby in a wonderfold wagon.

Planning a trip to San Diego with kids can involve a lot of gear – strollers, car seats, high chairs, the list goes on! Fortunately, we can help you lighten the load– we offer a wide variety of high-quality baby gear rentals at affordable prices, delivered directly to your hotel or vacation rental. This allows you to pack light and avoid the hassle of bringing bulky equipment on your trip. 


Let's Make Memories in San Diego!

San Diego's Kids Free is a fantastic opportunity to create lasting memories with your family. With Destination Baby Co by your side, you can experience all the wonder San Diego has to offer without the stress of lugging around a ton of baby gear.


Ready to start planning your San Diego adventure?

Browse our extensive selection of baby gear rentals online or contact us today to learn more about how we can help make your San Diego trip a breeze!

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