Top 5 places in San Diego for the whole family

Posted by David Rozul

Parental neglect towards children is the number one form of child abuse. Don’t forget to spend time with your kids, and do something you will both enjoy together. Get out of the house and go have an exciting and enjoyable day!

We thought we would get you started with our top five places to go:

5. San Diego Zoo-  The San Diego Zoo continues to transform itself with new and eye popping exhibits and animals.  The brand new exhibit "Panda Trek" brings your kids face-to-face with Giant Pandas from the forests of China. As you walk through the park enjoy picturesque walkways decorated with over 6,500 plant species from around the globe. You may have to spend the extra dollar to visit, but it’s worth the time and money, to see animals from across the world right here in our San Diego backyard.

http://www.sandiegozoo.com/

4. New Children’s Museum – Let your child’s imagination run wild, with endless possibilities through three floors of active exhibits and play areas. Let your children play on wheels, slide down mattresses and make sculptures. Allow them to stimulate their creative minds in a fun and friendly environment.  There is even a toddler’s area with soft grass and forest area perfect for lying down and hide and go seek. Best part is every second Sunday of every month it’s free!

http://www.thinkplaycreate.org/

3. Birch Aquarium - Greeted by the life size 40-foot sculptures of a whale family at the museums entrance, the Birch Museum has a variety of things to keep your kids interested. See the creatures of the deep, get engaged in the world of flippers and fins, and watch sharks and jelly fish swim right by you. With an array of hands on exhibits, don’t miss the new “Boundless Energy” exhibit, it’s sure to keep your children active in  fun and innovative ways as they learn about “the forces we use to power our lives”.

http://aquarium.ucsd.edu/

2. Balboa Park- Balboa Park offers a wide range of things to do for no or little cost to you. Take in the fresh outdoor air and have a picnic, walk around the botanical garden and make a wish in the water fountains. There are photo opportunities everywhere you turn so be sure to bring your camera. While in Balboa Park, don't forget to visit the museums for a great educational expereince with your kids. There are a variety of exhibits that are offered free every week of the month and a free organ concert at the Spreckels Organ Pavillion, every Sunday!

For a complete list of free Exhibits click this link:

http://www.sandieg.gov/park-and-recreation/parks/balboa/free.shtml

1. Mission Beach Board Walk- What is San Diego without beaches? So get out the sunscreen and make your way to Mission Bay. Mission Bay has a variety of things to do for your kids’ ever changing moods. Everything from lying around in the sun, tossing a frisbee, and flying a kite allow suitable options for every member of the family. If you get tired of the sand you can enjoy an evening of walking the board walk, or renting a bike or kayak from any of the several shops nearby.

Whatever you choose to do, go at your own pace and just enjoy your time with your family!