We pride ourselves on aligning with trustworthy companies like aRes Travel, who we sell the majority of our theme park tickets through. We sell tens of thousands per year (multiple millions of dollars worth!) and the reason is because the pricing is among the best (the best in the case of my San Diego Zoo and Safari Park deals) and customer service issues are handled expeditiously in my experience.

We have annual passes to most local attractions but when my daughter has an extra friend in tow, I also buy these tickets personally and they’ve been really easy to use.

We’re collecting testimonials and it would be very helpful to us if you would participate by filling out the form below. We’d like to know anything you’re willing to share about your overall experience from how easy they were to scan at the gate to whether you felt like you got a good deal, and anything that might be good for a purchaser to know. We’d appreciate the feedback. And let us know if there’s something you think could be improved about the process as well. All feedback helps us serve our readers better.

If you are new here and unfamiliar with our tickets, most of our discounts and promo codes are listed on this password protected page (password is SAVE).

Thank you!

Katie

I’m keeping an eye on 2023 Black Friday, and Cyber Monday deals in San Diego, at major theme parks, and by other travel brands that you might want to hear about.

We’ll continue to update this list as new deals are released. They’re mostly theme parks right now but that will change as it is still early.

The deals below are live NOW.

You can save on tickets, tours, and hotels through my affiliations. If you make purchases through some links in this post, I may be compensated. Our editorial guidelines.

1. Disneyland Black Friday

While there’s no specific Black Friday Disneyland deal there are still deals to be had.

• KIDS’ SPECIAL OFFER – As low as $50/day for 1-Park ticket for ages 3-9. Save up to $232 per child on Park Hopper® with Genie+ Service. Tickets valid for use January 8–March 10, 2024.
• You can save an extra $5 off already discounted multi-day, nonpromotional, Disneyland tickets with promo code SAVE5. BUY NOW.

2. San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park (BEST FINAL PRICE)

You’re going to see some San Diego Zoo Black Friday deals. All in, my discount is still lower than any of the promo codes you’ll see since taxes and fees are included, which is why I still have to keep it unpublished.

You have a year to use the tickets. Start by requesting the Zoo info below and you’ll see how to get the Safari Park promo code.

3. LEGOLAND California

Save an extra $8-13 off already discounted LEGOLAND tickets.

• Save $8 on 1-Day General Admission with promo code CYBER –> BUY NOW
• Save $13 on LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE® Hopper + 2nd Day FREE with promo code CYBER –> BUY NOW

4. SeaWorld San Diego

You have two choices when it comes to SeaWorld San Diego Black Friday.

• Save $7 on a 1-Day Admission + 1 FREE child ticket with promo code CYBER –> BUY NOW
• Save over $130 on 2-Day ticket + Save an extra $2 on this promo ticket with code CYBER –> BUY NOW
• You can also check their website directly for special Black Friday sales on upgrades, annual passes, and more.

5. Old Town Trolley Tours

Save over $8 on San Diego’s favorite hop on hop off trolley! PLUS, save up to an ADDITIONAL $8 when you use promo code CYBER during checkout! BUY NOW

6. SEAL Amphibious Tour

Save an extra $9 on this fun family tour that starts off on land and drives into San Diego Bay when you use promo code CYBER during checkout! BUY NOW.

7. East Coast Theme Parks

There are too many theme park Black Friday deals to headline individually so here we go…

• Adventure Island Tampa: Save $4 on 1-Day Admission with promo code CYBER –> BUY NOW
• Aquatica Orlando: Save $5 on 1-Day Admission + All-Day Dine with promo code CYBER –> BUY NOW
• Busch Gardens Tampa: Save up to $4 on 1-Day Admission with promo code CYBER –> BUY NOW
• Busch Gardens Williamsburg: Save $5 on 1-Day Admission with promo code CYBER –> BUY NOW
• LEGOLAND Florida: Save $8 on 1-Day Admission with promo code CYBER –> BUY NOW
• LEGOLAND New York: Save $8 on 1-Day admission with promo code CYBER –> BUY NOW
• SeaWorld Orlando: Save $5 on Single-Day Ticket with All Day Dine with promo code CYBER –> BUY NOW

8. CityPASS — Multiple Cities

Save up to an additional $5-15 when using promo code CYBER during checkout on sightseeing passes in these cities:

• San Diego
• San Francisco
• New York
• Dallas
• Tampa Bay

9. Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu

Cyber Sale 20% off – for stays through November 1^st, 2024. Sale ends November 29^th, 2023. You can actually book Turtle Bay through my Virtuoso page but let us check the rates for you as we have great connections at the resort who can help us work magic if necessary. Also – they have availability during winter break! REQUEST RATES

More Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals to come!

San Diego hotel restaurants and their amazing chefs have put together creative menus and even some opportunities to take a prepared feast home with you. The list below includes some great restaurants around town that serve special Thanksgiving dinners and even a cruise option.

I’ll keep this list of where to have Thanksgiving dinner in San Diego updated as I hear about even more great ideas from San Diego restaurants, which I’m sure will be hitting my inbox in the coming weeks.

Where to Have Thanksgiving Day Dinner in San Diego

Make a reservation for Thanksgiving lunch or dinner or, better yet, check in to one of the luxury hotels in San Diego.

Hotel del Coronado

The Hotel del Coronado, a top beachfront hotel in San Diego, is serving a special elegant buffet Thanksgiving dinner.

The resort’s sumptuous Thanksgiving feast will be offered this year in the hotel’s new Southpointe Ballroom at the south end of the resort. The Del will prepare a lavish offering set to feature favorite traditional trimmings from a prix fixe menu.

The hotel’s A Twenties Holiday Affair theme will see the resort decorated in stunning 1920s art-deco style for the holiday season. And they will be celebrating the return of their Skating by the Sea event, along with dazzling holiday decor and thousands of holiday lights.

• Thursday, November 23
• Make reservations online
• Price: $195/adult and $100/children (ages 4-10), children under 3 are complimentary

Pendry San Diego

Chef Brandon Sloan has created a delicious 3-course prix fixe menu at Provisional, the restaurant marketplace inside of Pendry San Diego. For your first course, you can choose Potato Leek Soup, Grilled Romaine, Blue Prawns, or Ricotta Agnolotti.

The main course menu will feature Free Range Turkey, Red Wine Braised Short Rib, Mustard Demi Whole Roasted Branzino, and Roasted Honeynut Squash. Finally, for dessert, you can indulge in Pumpkin Cheesecake, Fig and Walnut Pie, or Spiced Chocolate Cake, all paired with an Espresso Martini.

• Thursday, November 23 (from 2:30–8:30 p.m.)
• Price: $105 per adult and $40 per child
• Wine & Spirits Pairings $45

Rancho Bernardo Inn

Nestled in the secluded rolling hills of North County San Diego, and spanning 265 acres of stunning grounds, this elegant hotel is a great escape for your Thanksgiving feast at one of its two following options:

AVANT

The Inn’s signature restaurant, Avant, is hosting a four-course seasonal feast this year, curated by Chef de Cuisine Sergio Jimenez.

• Thursday, November 23, from 4–8 p.m. Reservations required and can be made through OpenTable.
• Price: $125 for adults and $65 per child.

bernado Ballroom

The hotel will also host a Thanksgiving dinner buffet with cocktails, beer, wine, and soda in their Bernado Ballroom this year.

• Thursday, November 23, from 1–4 p.m.
• $135 per adult, $55 per child.

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa capitalizes on its 49 lush acres, beautiful and expansive Croquet lawn, and serene outdoor spaces to host family-style Thanksgiving dinners. A great option for all ages, guests can look forward to crafts for kids, pony rides, a petting zoo, live music, and an exquisite Thanksgiving menu.

• Thursday, November 23, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Price: $195/adult and $55 for children ages 11 and under

Estancia La Jolla Hotel and Spa

If you want to be spoiled away from home rather than host this year, Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa is a great option. The hotel’s Greenfinch Restaurant will be offering a Thanksgiving Day meal from midday till 8 p.m.

The restaurant is a lovely place to enjoy Thanksgiving on a warm day, thanks to its beautiful open-air balcony overlooking the hotel’s Garden Courtyard. Inside, the decor is aviary-inspired while the restaurant’s popular Greenfinch Bar features a botanical theme.

• Thursday, November 23, from 12–8 p.m., at Greenfinch.
• There’s no fixed option for Thanksgiving dinner, but you can view their menu, including prices per dish here.

Park Hyatt Aviara

If you’re looking for Thanksgiving options in North County San Diego, Park Hyatt Aviara in Carlsbad is an exquisite choice. This luxury resort is less than a ten-minute drive from the beach and is set amongst 200 stunning acres of natural beauty overlooking the Batiquitos Lagoon. 

The hotel’s Ponto Lago restaurant is hosting a four-course Chef’s Special Feast menu this year. The entree choices are Wood-fired Recado Negro Turkey Breast, 18oz Prime Rib Eye, Catch of the Day, or the Fall Mushroom Paella. A variety of starters, appetizers, and desserts are included in the fixed menu, making up the four courses.

• Thursday, November 23, 4–8.30 p.m.
• $105 for adults, $45 for children (ages 3–12)

la valencia hotel

Also known as The Pink Lady, La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla is a great option for those celebrating Thanksgiving with loved ones in a luxury boutique setting.

The Valencia’s Chef Fabian curated this year’s 3-course Thanksgiving menu. Guests can choose between Orange Blossom Poached Lobster Tail, Agave Cinderella Pumpkin Bisque, or Burrata to start.

Entree options include Prime Omaha New York Strip, Herb Roasted Diestel Turkey, Delicata Roasted Squash, or a Delicata Roasted Squash vegetarian dish, while Pumpkin Pie or Berry Melange Tartlet make up the dessert choices.

• Thursday, November 23, 12:30–7 p.m.
• $130 for adults, with children’s options from $40–$60.

the lodge at Torrey Pines

If feasting on Thanksgiving dinner while enjoying sweeping views of a world-class golf course sounds tempting, The Lodge at Torrey Pines is the place to be.

The hotel is offering a 3-course prix fixe meal this year in their A.R. Valentien restaurant, which was named after the early 20th-century California artist whose works are exhibited around the restaurant.

After Pumpkin Soup and a choice of four first-course dishes, guests can choose from Roasted Turkey and trimmings, Braised Beef Short Rib, Caramelized Sea Scallops, Crispy Skin Black Cod, or the vegetarian dish Autumn Tabbouleh Filled Delicata Squash.

The meal is completed with either Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Cardamom Pot de Crème, or Pear Sticky Toffee Pudding.

• Thursday, November 23, 12–6.30 p.m.
• $150 per adult and $80 per child (12 and under)

fairmont grand del mar

Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers two Thanksgiving dinner options this year in Amaya Restaurant and the Manchester Salon. Known for its elegance and opulence, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar provides a luxurious option to relax with loved ones over what is sure to be an amazing holiday meal.

Amaya will be serving a three-course tasting menu:

• Thursday, November 23, 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
• $195 per person and $98 per child.

The Manchester Salon will be offering a Thanksgiving Family Style with appetizer and dessert buffet:

• Thursday, November 23, 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm
• $180 per person and $90 per child
• You can reserve online here for both options above, and there’s a $50 deposit per person.

Don’t forget to check out the full list of Fairmont Grand Del Mar holiday events.

manchester grand hyatt

This striking and iconic Manchester Grand Hyatt offers a Thanksgiving menu at its waterfront Sally’s Fish House & Bar. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and San Diego Bay while dining on a menu including Fall Panzanella Salad, Citrus, Garlic and Thyme Brined Turkey with Pan Gravy Maple Bourbon Glazed Ham, Boursin Whipped Potatoes, Herb Bread Stuffing, Heirloom Baby Carrots, and much more.

If you prefer cozy indoor dining, the same menu will also be served at The Landing in the lobby.

• Thursday, November 23, 12–6.30 p.m.
• Sally’s Fish House & The Landing pre-fixe menu costs $56 per person. 

Bleu Boheme

Bleu Boheme is hosting a French-inspired Thanksgiving day dinner. This will be a three-course, prix fixe menu available from 12 noon until 4 p.m.

The menu will feature items such as Pumpkin-Hominy Soup, Fresh Beet Salad, and Crab Croquette for starters. Entrees include Diestel Family Ranch turkey from Sonora, California, Faroe Island Salmon, Beef Short Rib, and Shiitake and Oyster Mushroom Ravioli. Chocolate Mousse, Creme Brulee, and Bread Pudding will round out this exquisite meal.

They will also be serving Pumpkin Pie Martinis for an extra $15.

• Thursday, November 23, 12–4 p.m.
• $75 for adults and $29 for children under 12.

Rustic Root, gaslamp

For a fun city vibe this Thanksgiving, head to Rustic Root in San Diego’s downtown Gaslamp Quarter. This popular restaurant has an intimate dining room setting and a bustling rooftop terrace overlooking the street.

They’ll be serving up holiday classics like herb-roasted turkey breast, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, smoked turkey gravy, and more. 

The Thanksgiving meal costs $32 per guest or you can book a 4-person family pack for $100.

huntress restaurant, san diego

This popular and sophisticated steakhouse is known for its unique pairings and theatrical presentation. This Thanksgiving, you can sample Huntress’ chic spin on the classics including Pumpkin Agnolotti, made with roasted pumpkin, pepita gremolata, sage and brown butter, truffle turkey. Or Turkey Roulade with winter greens, confit turkey leg crepinette with sour cherries, and truffle jus or green bean en croute.

Call Huntress at (619) 329 4868 for pricing and reservations.

paradisaea, bird rock

Paradisaea restaurant is housed within the historic 1949 ‘Piano Building’ in the the vibrant coastal neighborhood of Bird Rock in La Jolla. Known for their thoughtfully crafted seasonal dishes, Paradisaea will offer a traditional—albeit with a California-cool twist—Thanksgiving prix-fixe menu.

Check Paradisaea’s website for their Thanksgiving menu and reservations.

westfield utc Mall

This popular and expansive outdoor mall in La Jolla hosts multiple restaurants, but two popular eateries are offering special Thanksgiving meals this year:

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar is offering a prix-fixe menu with traditional Thanksgiving options, along with Winery favorites. The 3-course meal starts with a choice of roasted butternut squash bisque or pumpkin and ricotta ravioli, and then entree options include traditional maple-glazed free-range turkey, Zinfandel Braised Short Rib or Jumbo Wild White Shrimp. Finish with classic desserts, including streusel pumpkin pie and chocolate cheesecake. 

• Reservations can be made here. Price: $85 per guest & $30 per child 10 and under.

Seasons 52 is hosting a traditional Thanksgiving meal that comes complete with roasted turkey and savory pan gravy, yukon mashed potatoes, herb stuffing, green beans, and cranberry relish. Dessert includes six mini pumpkin pie indulgences in addition to pumpkin mousse.

• Orders can be placed here for pickup on Wednesday, November 22. 

harrah’s Resort, funner, ca

You can head to the desert to celebrate Thanksgiving among swaying palms at Harrah’s Resort Southern California. This year, the resort offers Thanksgiving dinner options at its three restaurants: Fiore, ‘ritas Cantina, and The Café.

Check here for details and pricing for all three options. The Café’s option includes an a la Carte menu featuring White and Dark Meat Turkey, Mashed Potatoes with Giblet Gravy, Apple-sage Stuffing Glazed Baby Carrots, and more.

city Cruises

For something different, with spectacular views, hop aboard a City Cruises’ boat at their San Diego port for Thanksgiving Day on the water.

They’re offering a two-hour Premier Brunch Cruise option, which includes a menu of freshly prepared Thanksgiving staples and drinks, including unlimited champagne and live music.

• From $80 per person. Board at 10:30 a.m., and the cruise goes from 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Book online
• Board at: Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 North Harbor Drive, San Diego
• Pay-to-park options are available at Grape Street.

Or, in the evening, you can opt for a Thanksgiving Day Dinner Cruise, a two-and-a-half-hour yacht cruise complete with a Thanksgiving dinner and entertainment.

• From $107 per person. Board at 3:30 p.m., and the cruise goes from 4 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
• Book online
• Board at: Pier 1 Hornblower Landing, 1800 North Harbor Drive, San Diego
• Pay-to-park options are available at Grape Street.

Prepared Chef Meals for Dinner at Home

If you prefer to skip cooking this year, have no fear. San Diego chefs will send you home with full Thanksgiving dinners or even just pumpkin pies.

Rancho Valencia Full Meals

Rancho Valencia will also be offering a full a la carte meal prepped, cooked, packaged, and ready to reheat at home. You can pre-order through the resort’s website with pick-up on Wednesday, Nov. 22. The online order form will be available soon. Check here for updates.

little frenchie, coronado

For a French twist on your Thanksgiving meal this year, Little Frenchie, is offering a touch of Parisian café-inspired bistro charm with their to-go menu:

• Thanksgiving Baked Brie en Croûte | Butter Pastry, Cranberry & Honey Confiture, Candied Pecan, Baguette 
  • $85 and serves 8 people
  • Order between Oct. 23–Nov.15 & pickup on Nov. 22 by 4 p.m.
• Thanksgiving Cheese and Charcuterie Boards | add on Little Frenchie’s Petite Baked Brie en Croûte, Cranberry & Honey Confiture, Candied Pecan for +$35
  • Les Amis for 4–6 people: $85, or La Famille for 8–12 people: $125
  • Order between Oct. 23–Nov.15 & pickup on Nov. 22 by 4 p.m.
• Thanksgiving Pies ($45 each)
  • Apple Crumble Pie | Slow Cooked Granny Smith Apples, Salted Cinnamon Crumble, Creme Fraiche Chantilly 
  • Pumpkin Pie | House Roasted Pumpkin, Gingersnap Cookies, Vanilla Bean Chantilly
  • Bourbon Pecan Pie | Milk Chocolate Chunks, Candied Pecans, Salted Chocolate Mousse
  • Caramel Ripple Cheesecake | Shortbread Crust, White Chocolate Mousse, Caramel Drizzle

rancho bernardo inn

The hotel’s Café Granada is offering a special selection of Thanksgiving pies and a cheesecake option that you can pre-order and pick up for your feast at home. You can order here until November 19th, and the options are:

• Traditional Pumpkin Pie with Cinnamon Cream
• Dutch Apple Pie with Caramel Crunch Topping
• Bourbon Pecan Pie with Chocolate Shavings
• Cheesecake with Orange and Cranberry Chef’s Garden Rosemary Compote
• Every option is 9″ wide, and prices start at $35.

Trust me, this list of where to have Thanksgiving dinner in San Diego will grow in the coming weeks. Stay tuned! And, don’t forget that Christmas dinner in San Diego comes next and to also check our list of San Diego holiday events.

The city’s East Village is where you’ll find some of the most popular things to do in San Diego, like visiting Petco Park or discovering the city’s unique street art.

Located between Seventh Avenue and 17th Street in downtown San Diego and spanning over 130 square blocks, the neighborhood is brimming with boutiques, eateries, and urban parks.

An interesting combination of modern skyscrapers with San Diego Bay views and Victorian-style homes make up this eclectic quarter of the city, and I think you’ll love these suggestions I’ve put together on things to do in the East Village.

Let’s dive into the list.

1. Take In a Game at Petco Park

It isn’t only baseball fans who head to San Diego’s famous Petco Park. The home of the San Diego Padres, this spectacular stadium, which seats over 40,000 people, also hosts music concerts and all kinds of interesting events, including science fairs, multiple sporting events, and even a Holiday Market around Christmas.

The stadium is slap bang in the middle of the city, which makes it a fun walk once you park up (check this website for parking options) and head through the streets of the East Village toward whatever fun event you’ve booked.

2. Chill Out at Gallagher Square

Gallagher Square, also known as the ‘Park in the Park,’ is actually inside Petco Park, but it’s a great option for parents who know their kids may squirm around sitting in stadium seats for hours during a game.

The park features a grassy area of almost 3 acres, and it’s a great place to take in the action while also relaxing. You definitely get the stadium vibe, but you can also stretch out a bit more with freedom for the kids to roam. You can watch the game with limited views of the pitch here or on the big screen in the park.

You’ll need to purchase a ticket to enter Gallagher Square during the Padres games, but the ticket gives you full access to walk around the rest of Petco Park.

3. Discover Downtown San Diego Street Art

If you have a budding artist or want to get inspired yourself, the East Village is a great place to inspire young (or old!) minds alike. Stunning murals adorn walls around the neighborhood and be sure to check out the amazing work of Ladies Who Paint, a non-profit organization formed to further the work and recognition of female artists.

Founded in San Diego, LWP’s work features 12 fantastic street murals throughout the East Village. The founders plan to add 12 more murals to the area annually during their annual retreat, where invited artists collaborate and decorate our city with their unique work. 

The murals are usually clustered in small groups so that you can view a few at a time. You can find out more about LWP, plus the locations and samples of the murals, via their Instagram account.

4. Visit San Diego Central Library

The San Diego Central Library is definitely worth visiting, for the building alone. And I mean inside and outside. Located in Downtown East Village, the spectacular 9-story building was designed by local architect Rob Wellington Quigley and only opened in 2013.

The unique architecture includes a steel-and-mesh lattice dome, which presides over a two-story rare-book reading room atop the building.

It’s a great place to take the kids and ride the escalators to marvel at this vast, impressive building.  As well as the library’s massive book collection, visitors can view the second-largest collection of baseball memorabilia in the U.S.

And for those searching for some quiet time, pick a book from the shelves and pull up a chair in one of the library’s eateries or cafes. The library hosts all kinds of interesting events, and you can see their calendar here.

5. Take a Bike Tour

You can swap four wheels for two for a more adventurous way to explore the East Village and downtown. The San Diego County Bicycle Coalition offers fun group bike rides led by certified tour guides that cover around 6-7 miles of the city.

The 4-hour ride both begins and ends at Broadway Pier, and the route takes in the East Village, Petco Park, the Gaslamp District, and passes by the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier and Seaport Village. You’ll also stop off to eat and drink along the way.

It’s a great deal at $25 per adult and $15 per child.

6. Go Bowling

Tavern+Bowl in East Village is a great place to take the kids in the day, where you can enjoy a family bowl on one of their 12 lanes. There are also other games and pool tables.

But you’ll want to stick to adults-only in the evening when the party atmosphere is in full swing. The rules state you must be 21+ to enter the venue after 9 p.m.

The food menu features all the usual suspects, like burgers, tacos, flatbreads, salads, and great appetizers. They also have a kids menu and a weekend breakfast option.

Prices for bowling start at $30 per hour Sunday – Thursday and $35 on Fridays & Saturdays. Each lane takes up to 6 players. Shoe and sock rental costs extra. You can call (619) 677 2695 to book lane reservations.

7. Check Out The Quartyard

The Quartyard is a unique urban park in East Village, which was constructed from repurposed shipping containers. It’s a live music venue, art space, coffee shop, and beer garden all rolled into one. What more could you want?!

The Quartyard’s atmosphere is intimate, given its space, but definitely fun and laid-back. And another one for the grown-ups only.

Their live music calendar celebrates the diversity of the surrounding neighborhood, and the venue also features rotating art installations from local and international artists. Visitors can kick back at SeaHorse Coffee, munch on nachos or tacos, and sip on cocktails or over 20 tap brews on tap at the Quartyard Craft Beer Garden.

For something different, grab a group of friends and try out their Twisted Trivia nights– a combo of trivia, Family Feud, and… a beer chugging contest. Check out the latest events and happenings on their website.

8. Sip Cocktails at You & Yours Distilling Co.

You & Yours Distilling Co. is a great date night option or place to impress friends visiting from out of town. Nestled in the East Village, this is definitely a treat for cocktail lovers.

The bar has a full production distillery onsite, a tasting room where you can sip on spirits they produce in-house, and its world-class cocktail menu comprises various gin and vodka concoctions.

The bar has a warm urban décor, and you can sink into one of their plush velvet couches and enjoy a Rhubarbie’s Dream House, Follow The Yellow Gin Road, or even a Basically Vitamins (which it’s definitely not).

Children under 13 are allowed, but I say, get a babysitter and enjoy this one with friends!

9. Enjoy Live Music at Moonshine Flats

If country music is your thing, a trip to Moonshine Flats in the East Village is a must. Another one for the adults only, this live music venue attracts some of country music’s hottest acts.

Spanning 18,000 sq ft over two floors, Moonshine Flats has a spacious lounge alongside its massive dancefloor and stage area.

Get your boots on for line dancing lessons on Thursdays from 8 p.m. There’s a Happy Hour all night, and once you’ve learned the new moves, you can practice from 10 p.m. till closing time with the Late Night DJ.

You can also feast on a traditional BBQ menu and play giant beer pong or cornhole at the adjoining outdoor eatery, The Deck. Check out their upcoming gigs and events.

10. Get your Game On at Punch Bowl Social

Another fun option if you love bowling is Punch Bowl Social, which is located in the Makers Quarter area of East Village. The venue is actually Inside the Coliseum Athletic Club, which was once a famous boxing marquee.

You can take the kids or have a night out with friends there, thanks to its plethora of activities in addition to bowling. There’s shuffleboard, bocce ball, Giant Jenga, ping pong, a vintage games arcade, and even karaoke. Plus a great pub-style menu, of course.

La Jolla tide pools are among the best in town, as we have multiple spots to visit along our 7-mile coastline. One of the many great things about them is that they never look the same. Tides change, and sea life moves from one habitat to the next. I’m a huge advocate of going to the beach when they are visible, whether you’re a resident or a tourist.

What you’ll find in this post is a mix of tide pooling topics: where to go tide pooling in La Jolla, a preview of sea life typically seen, tips for best tide pooling practices, and other helpful advice you will want to read before heading out yourself.

My sources include information gathered from my own experiences (including a tide pooling adventure tour with Birch Aquarium) and an interview with Danny Beckwith, an Education Specialist at Birch Aquarium when I first published this article.

See also: Best Tide Pools in San Diego

When Is the Best Time to Visit La Jolla Tide Pools?

While tide pooling is a popular thing to do in winter, I’m getting tons of questions about it year-round due to an increased interest in ways to get outside in San Diego.

Danny says, “Typically, we start seeing good times [for tide pooling] starting in late October, going all the way to March.” The moon’s gravitational pull (the sun has a smaller tidal effect, too) on the Earth as it rotates causes lower tides to fall during daylight throughout this season.

California experiences two high tides and two low tides per day, unlike the Gulf Coast and other parts of the Earth that experience one low tide and one high tide per day.

Where Are the Best La Jolla Tide Pools?

1. Dike Rock
2. La Jolla Shores Beach
3. La Jolla Cove
4. Shell Beach
5. South Casa Beach
6. Between Wipeout Beach and Hospital Point
7. Windansea Beach
8. False Point
9. Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Most access points to La Jolla beaches will have tide pools if there is a minus tide. Some access points are tucked away in residential neighborhoods, while others are easily accessible from Coast Blvd. or La Jolla Shores Beach.

However, the best tide pools in La Jolla to check out for people unfamiliar with the area are listed below.

1. Dike Rock

Dike Rock is located just to the north of Scripps Pier. This is where Birch Aquarium hosts tide pooling tours because it’s one of the best tide pools in La Jolla.

Danny says, “Dike Rock is interesting because it’s more of a sandy habitat interspersed with big rock formations.” The sand draws juvenile fish, blind gobies, and different shrimp.

The kids loved carefully climbing over the rocks here during our tour. Every little pool was home to a different plant or animal. The benefit to tide pooling in a group is that there are more eyeballs to spy different animals—I can’t recommend it enough.

And, of course, the Birch Aquarium guides are fun to explore the tide pool ecosystems with because they know exactly where to look. When we visited, huge sea hares were out in abundance laying eggs.

Directions: It’s easiest to park in the La Jolla Shores Beach parking lot. You’ll walk onto the sand and head north toward Scripps Pier. Pass the pier, walk a few hundred yards, and you’ll see the rocky area at low tide.

You can also find closer Dike Rock parking along El Paseo Grande Street and use the cement stairway to the beach just south of Caroline’s Seaside Cafe. You’ll see Scripps Pier to the right and will keep walking to Dike Rock.

You will see some parking lots in this area but note that they are UC San Diego parking lots, and permits may be required.

2. La Jolla Shores Beach (South of The Marine Room Restaurant)

I’ve been told that high numbers of baby sea hares have recently been spotted here at low tides. This reef formation is also fun to explore for the usual marine life, like hermit crabs, tube snails, sea cucumbers, and more.

If the tides are low, exploring this area and Dike Rock on the same visit would be easy. It’s probably a 20-minute walk on the sand between these two best tide pools in La Jolla. And La Jolla Shores is one of my favorite sandy beaches in the entire San Diego area.

Directions: Park in the La Jolla Shores Beach parking lot and walk south on the sand past our two La Jolla beach hotels. You can also park on the surface streets near The Marine Room restaurant and use the public beach access on the south side of La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club to access the tide pools and gorgeous views at this very popular San Diego beach.

3. La Jolla Cove

If it’s low tide at La Jolla Cove, many of the La Jolla sea lions and seals will head out to little rock islands in the ocean. This means you might be able to walk out onto the big flat rocky area called Point La Jolla between Boomer’s Beach and La Jolla Cove, where they would normally hang out.

I say might because this point is slated for year-round closure starting in November 2023, so I’m not exactly sure what your ability to explore tide pools will be like when walking onto the rocks here is prohibited. The sea grass and rocks in view during low tides are stunning, and even if you’re on the boardwalk or at adjacent Ellen Browning Scripps Park, you might see some crabs and a few sea anemones but not much else.

Your best bet is to take the stairs down to the sand to explore the small cave and rocky areas accessible from La Jolla Cove beach. This little spot and the Point La Jolla area are usually what people refer to when they mention La Jolla Cove tide pools.

The other good news is that you can start here and walk south down the boardwalk to several of the other tide pooling spots listed below. This beach is a great place for swimming because waves typically don’t break here, and it’s an entry point to the underwater park where you’ll see even more sea life snorkeling or scuba diving.

Directions: Find La Jolla Cove tide pools parking along Coast Blvd or nearby residential streets. During peak busy days (weekends during tide pooling season), you may want to consider a paid lot along Prospect Street. The closest is in the La Jolla Financial Building. I have written in detail about La Jolla Cove parking.

4. Shell Beach

Shell Beach is a great little place for tide pooling and one of my favorite hidden gems. The last time we visited, visible marine life included lots of hermit crabs, limpets, small fish, and a few sea anemones. The Shell Beach tide pools sometimes reveal themselves in the summer, which, as mentioned earlier, is not the normal tide pooling season.

The cement stairway to the sand can be blocked at the base by big rocks washed up by the ocean. You’ll need to tread carefully over them.

Directions: The stairway to Shell Beach is adjacent to Ellen Browning Scripps Park on the south side, so you’d park your car as if you were visiting La Jolla Cove.

5. South Casa Beach

Keep walking south from Shell Beach toward Children’s Pool Beach. South Casa Beach is behind the Children’s Pool sea wall and lifeguard station (Children’s Pool is where the La Jolla harbor seals hang out). This is another tide pooling gem with easy access via a stairway. This tends to be an easy spot for kids to explore as there is sand to walk on in addition to rocks.

Directions: You can park at La Jolla Cove. Alternatively, there is street parking on Coast Blvd or nearby residential streets.

6. Between Wipeout Beach and Hospital Point

Walk a few minutes further south from South Casa Beach to Wipeout Beach. From here to Hospitals, passing Whale View Point is one of our favorite tide pooling spots.

If you’re a photography buff, Hospitals is where these little round and curved pools reveal themselves (they are incredibly popular on Instagram and Pinterest) during low tides.

Here, you’ll find mostly rocky bluffs with little pockets of sand. Over time, we’ve spotted crabs, limpets, sea anemones, fish, sea slugs, urchins, and more. Stay for the sunset.

Directions: Wipeout Beach is roughly where Coast Blvd and Coast Blvd South temporarily merge into Coast Blvd South before splitting again. You can find street parking on any of these streets. You’ll see a little grass strip called Coast Boulevard Park, and Hospital Point is right below it.

7. Windansea Beach

The waves surfers rave about here are due to underwater reefs. Some reveal themselves during low tide.

It tends to be a little less crowded here, though it’s mostly a sandstone landscape (that you’ll have to scramble down a little) versus actual sand. Sea anemones and various small crabs seem most commonly seen here.

Directions: Windansea Beach is roughly at the intersection of Nautilus Street and Neptune Place.

8. False Point

False Point is a good option for those living in or staying in the Bird Rock neighborhood. Its draw is that there are lots of rocks to navigate, many of which are loose.

This also means that you need to be very careful when walking on the rocks and keep an eye on small children here as the tide pools and rocks are particularly slippery.

The good news is that flipping them over (remembering to put them back) can reveal various sea creatures. (This is also where Birch Aquarium used to lead tours, but they have mostly been at Dike Rock recently.)

Directions: You’ll find these Bird Rock tide pools at Sea Ridge Drive and Linda Way, where there is residential parking. Take the stairs down to the beach from Sea Ridge Drive.

ANOTHER NEARBY SPOT

If you follow Sea Ridge Drive north, it turns into Calumet Avenue. You’ll see a small grassy park called Calumet Park. Below the park is a tide pool area. It’s a little small and I wouldn’t go out of my way to only visit it but it’s a 5-minute walk from False Point.

9. Birch Aquarium at Scripps

When you visit this San Diego aquarium, head out to Tide Pool Plaza for one of the best views in San Diego and to see the tide pools. No, this isn’t the beach, but they have built a rocky intertidal zone filled with sea life that you would see in La Jolla tide pools.

What is also neat about Tide Pool Plaza is that docents are present to answer questions and help people touch where appropriate. You can check the schedule also to see when tide pool feedings are happening during your visits.

This is where I send people to see tide pools when no daylight low tides are happening during their visit. Birch Aquarium should be on the San Diego itinerary of anyone with kids who are aspiring marine biologists or are interested in the environment.

Directions: The address is 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037. They offer free three-hour parking in their main lot.

What Lives in La Jolla Tide Pools?

It’s incredible to think that an animal must be able to tolerate currents, sun, and sometimes hours in the air to survive life in tide pool habitats.

“A lot of animals can feel you are walking on the rocks or sense chemicals in the water, and they’ll hide for a little bit,” Danny adds. “If you’re just quiet and watching the tide pool for a moment, those animals will start revealing themselves. It really is a type of magic.”

This is by no means a complete list of animals, but these are the most commonly seen in La Jolla tide pools and San Diego tide pools across the county.

Sea Anemones

Did you know that sea anemones can live 50 years or longer and that there are over 1000 varieties found at different depths worldwide? Sea anemones are my favorite tide pool creatures.

We have mostly two types here in San Diego. The first is the solitary sea anemone, which I’ve always been particularly fond of. Their tentacles range from a pale green to a blueish-green color.

To survive in the air or when disturbed, they curl their tentacles inward to reveal a soft brown exterior dotted with broken shells. When submerged in water, their tentacles are typically open.

The other type of sea anemones most commonly seen are smaller, less colorful (or brown, really), and live in groups. Sea anemones can also slowly change location, too.

Crabs

Our little tide pool crabs are small and fast, scurrying sideways over tide pools with their little pinchers. Fun to watch; they’re able to hide in little crevices and pretty much eat whatever they can grab. They can split time above and below the water.

Limpets and Chitons

While they don’t move around as you’re watching, I personally love finding chiton and limpets stuck to rocks. They’re quite common in all of our tide pools.

Hermit Crabs

Always a source of entertainment, hermit crabs can be found in abundance. I’ve seen them scurrying around in various sizes and underneath a variety of shells every single time I’ve been tide pooling in La Jolla.

(To help kids fight the temptation to take shells from the beach, tell them that the hermit crabs need them for housing.)

Two-Spot Octopuses

While I have yet to see an octopus in a San Diego tide pool, Danny vividly remembers his first sighting.

“I got really lucky when I pulled up this turban snail shell,” he says. Turban snail shells are commonly found around La Jolla tide pools and are about the size of your fist. He saw a little arm and tentacles scrunched up inside and realized it was an octopus using the shell as a hiding spot. He put it in one of their bins and out came a 2-foot long octopus.

“It just blows your mind because this animal is just scrunched up in there like a cool, neat little hiding place,” Danny says. Octopuses have no bones, so they can fit into any space the size of their beak, a neat adaptation for living in tide pools.

Sea Stars

Environmental changes impact the number of sea stars seen in local tide pools. We were lucky to see two during our Birch Aquarium tide pooling tour at Dike Rock.

One of our Birch Aquarium guides spotted a brittle star and scooped it up with water into a bin for us to see (in addition to this little sea slug).

The kids loved watching our guides and volunteers try to identify what kind of starfish the one pictured below was.

It was neat to see the starfish move around this pool!

Spanish Shawl

Tide poolers in La Jolla can usually spot two types of sea slugs. This first is a Spanish Shawl. It’s only 2-3 inches long, but its neon purple and orange gills are quite striking against the tide pool landscape.

Sea Hares

On the other side of the sea slug spectrum, sea hares grow to about a foot long. Sensors that look like rabbit ears on their head sense chemicals in the water.

Did you know that you can tell what a sea hare has been eating by its color? If they’re eating red algae, they turn red. If they’re eating dark green algae, they turn black or green. Sea hares will also emit a dark purple ink if stressed.

Barnacles

If there are tide pools, there will most likely be a variety of barnacles. You’ll see the regular variety that grows in clusters on rocks and piers, in addition to larger gooseneck barnacles.

Very Important Tide Pool Etiquette

Good tide pooling etiquette is necessary to protect these gems. Take only pictures, leave only footprints is a good mantra to keep in mind when you go.

Due to people spending more time in outdoor attractions, our tide pools are receiving more traffic than normal, and it’s actually worrying environmentalists and residents.

1. Much of La Jolla’s coastline is in the La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve. This means that you may not remove any marine objects, whether living or dead, from these areas. This includes the area roughly between La Jolla Cove beaches and La Jolla Shores beach.
2. Watch out for algae-covered rocks as you explore the tide pools. If it’s green, brown, or black, avoid stepping on it or tread lightly.
3. Whatever you bring in, take back out. If you move anything like a rock, put it back. An animal might be using it for a habitat.
4. Never turn your back on the ocean. It’s easy to get excited and not see a wave coming.
5. If you’re going to touch something, exercise caution. Be aware of what might be on your hands, like hand sanitizers or other chemicals that may be harmful to animals. If you’re unsure of what something is, the best practice is not to touch it. Always rinse your hands off first and only touch for only a few seconds.

This graphic is fantastic to discuss with kids and whomever you’re going tide pooling with. Please save it to Pinterest or print out a PDF here: Birch Aquarium Tide Pooling Tips.

Good tide pool etiquette can also be practiced at home. Danny points out that the tide pools are the first interface between land and water so that any runoff will hit them first.

This means anything entering our storm drains—litter, chemical fertilizers, oil, grease, and more—can impact our tide pools. Did you know that one of the many jobs our tide pools perform to protect us includes slowing down water before it erodes our cliffs?

They’re important. Let’s protect them.

What Should I Bring Tide Pooling?

The following advice is what I have found handy while tide pooling with kids in tow.

Sturdy Shoes

Footwear is incredibly important. Shoes or boots with a good grip that can get wet are ideal. Flip-flops are not advised because algae that cover rocks are very slippery when wet.

It is also wise to keep a change of shoes in the car if you’re headed elsewhere after a tide pooling adventure. Your shoes will get sandy, wet, and dirty.

Pocket Guide

(As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.) If not on a tour where you have people helping you identify sea life, we like the California Seashore Life Pocket Guide, which identifies local birds, crabs, fish, clams, mussels, sea urchins, and other sea critters you might see in or near a tide pool area (sea slugs are oddly missing from it).

Light Stick

If there is seagrass in an area, it is helpful to bring a light stick to gently brush it away as it floats over water. However, skip the stick if you or the kids can’t resist the temptation to poke animals or hidden areas where there might be sea creatures.

Clear Container

A clear container helps kids see small animals like hermit crabs if you happen to catch one. The naturalists at Birch Aquarium place water in a container and drop small animals into it for quick viewing before gently releasing them back into the same pool they were found in.

In light of increased traffic to our tide pools, please minimize or resist picking up marine life.

Plastic Bag

You may see little pieces of micro trash or trash as you comb through the rocky intertidal zone and enjoy the beach. If you have a small bag with you, it’s good tide pooling or beach etiquette to pick it up.

We personally participate in beach clean-ups, and you’d be surprised by what washes up on shore that threatens the animals in our tide pools and can even be hazardous to beachgoers.

See also: Best Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

Enjoy our tide pools throughout the season and, as Danny says, “Pass along the word of what’s the best way to interact with this habitat.”

Be sure to check out Birch Aquarium’s tide pooling tours and other outdoor adventures. You can also read my other list of best tide pools in San Diego, which includes other popular spots like Cabrillo National Monument, Swamis in Encinitas, and Tourmaline Beach in Pacific Beach.

Frequently Asked Questions About La Jolla Tide Pools in San Diego

Visiting tide pools in San Diego is a hot topic lately to hit my inbox, as more people prefer outdoor activities. Here are a few tips and some answers to FAQs.

Can I see La Jolla tide pools in the summer?

It takes a little bit of effort and luck to see La Jolla tide pools in the summer when the tide is low mostly at night. You can check the tide charts and go during the lowest possible time. You might see an occasional hermit crab, mussels, barnacles, or a sea anemone or two, but it wouldn’t nearly be in the type of volume we’re used to in the winter.

You could start at the La Jolla Cove tide pools and wander down to South Casa Beach to take a peek in these rocky zones. Even if you see nothing, it’s a beautiful walk. You’ll likely see our seals and sea lions along the way, another must-see for marine life enthusiasts and families.

There are still minus tides, but they’re happening at night. Occasionally, they happen in the early morning hours before sunrise, so it’s possible, if you’re an early bird, that you could catch some tide pools in view at the crack of dawn.

Or, better yet, head to Birch Aquarium to see their human-made tide pools.

Are dogs allowed at La Jolla tide pools?

Dogs are not allowed on San Diego beaches, boardwalks, and adjacent parks from November 1 – March 31 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. They are now allowed on San Diego beaches between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. from April 1 to October 31.

La Jolla is a part of the City of San Diego, so we adhere to these same laws. So, what this means is that you can bring your dog to La Jolla beaches outside of these banned hours.

However, it’s best practice to keep your dog away from any tide pool areas, as dogs and marine life typically don’t mix well.

Are the La Jolla tide pools open?

The beach here is always open, so our tide pools are always open. We have three permanent lifeguard stations in La Jolla at La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Shores Beach, and Children’s Pool Beach. Lifeguard hours are usually from 9 a.m. to dusk.

What time is low tide at La Jolla tide pools?

Check an online tide calendar to see when the best time to go tide pooling is. Even if your San Diego vacation is planned months ahead, these calendars will accurately tell you what the tides will be like.

If a tide hovers around zero or shows a minus, that’s your cue to go to the beach. If you see a negative one or lower tide during daylight, you really need to go. It’s just a beautiful sight, even if you have no intention of searching for creatures.

Can I Take Shells from Tide Pools in La Jolla?

It depends. If you visit tide pools in the Ecological Reserve, like at La Jolla Cove, you may not remove anything other than trash from the beaches. This includes shells, rocks, and even sticks or seaweed.

These items serve as homes or protection for wildlife in these tide pools or play an important role in the area’s ecosystem. Even with all of the pockets and small crevices in these tidal zones, animals still battle to find places to settle. The more we take, the fewer habitats they have. So, even at beaches where you can legally take shells, like Shell Beach, you may want to consider leaving them.

Do Periwinkles Live in La Jolla Tide Pools?

Yes! Periwinkles are small welks or sea snails that live in the supratidal zone, receive splashes from waves, and are rarely submerged. This means that you can actually see them more often than other animals. Their little turban shells often serve as homes for hermit crabs.

Can You Give Me Directions to the Best La Jolla Tide Pools?

It’s a little hard to guide you to exactly where the tide pools are at the beach. I would set your GPS for La Jolla Cove and park along Coast Blvd. If it’s low tide, you can not miss the tide pools (you’ll see lots of green sea grass) between the Cove and south of the Children’s Pool.

You can also set your GPS for La Jolla Shores Beach to view the tide pools south of The Marine Room restaurant or Dike Rock. Set your GPS for Caroline’s Seaside Cafe to get closer to Dike Rock and use street parking. Take the stairway down to the sandy beach and walk north.

Which La Jolla tide pools are your favorites? What have you seen?

One of our favorite San Diego luxury hotels, Fairmont Grand Del Mar, celebrates the holiday season in grand style with a host of festivities this year. From Thanksgiving to New Year — and plenty of Christmas events in between — the Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a fantastic place to enjoy the holidays in San Diego.

Whether it’s ice skating, a Nutcracker Tea with the kids, or a sophisticated New Year’s Eve party for just the adults, the hotel has something for everyone during the holidays.

Here are some of the many things you can do here, whether you’re a San Diego resident or hotel guest.

1. Celebrate Thanksgiving in Style

The Fairmont Grand Del Mar kicks off the holiday season with two separate Thanksgiving options in their renowned restaurants, Amaya and the Manchester Salon.

Amaya

A festive but traditional Thanksgiving feast will be served in the hotel’s elegant Amaya restaurant. Featuring a three-course tasting menu, this gourmet all-day event will include the unique flavors of autumn. Each booking includes a glass of sparkling wine or cider.

The celebrations take place from 12– 8 p.m. Tickets cost $195 per adult and $98 per child and can be purchased online.

Manchester salon

A great option for families, this Thanksgiving appetizer and dessert buffet in The Grand’s Manchester Salon is a great way to gather and give thanks to the whole family.

The event lasts from 12 p.m.–6 p.m. Tickets cost $180 per adult and $90 per child and can be purchased online. For both the Manchester and Amaya bookings, a $50 per person is required, and a 72-hour cancellation fee applies.

2. Skate Outdoors on the Glice Ice Skating Rink

The Grand’s popular holiday ice skating experience is back. The outdoor Glice Skating Rink is a family favorite for locals and tourists alike, and it’s a great reason to visit the hotel in the holidays.

After zooming around the ice, you can opt to reserve a rink-side cabana, complete with a fire pit, to rest your weary feet. You can purchase holiday-themed beverages and treats and, of course, roast the obligatory s’mores.

Glice Skating can be booked on November 22–26, and then December 1– 4, 8–10, 15–17, and Dec 22–Jan 14, 2024. Times are Monday–Saturday: 4–10 p.m. & Sundays 3–8 p.m.

Tickets cost $35 per adult and $17 per child and can be purchased online.

3. Enjoy Festivities at the Annual Tree Lighting

The Fairmont’s spectacular 25-foot Christmas tree will come alive in a stunning lighting ceremony on Monday, December 4. You can watch the tree illuminate at 6.30 p.m. in the hotel’s Grand Social area.

Special holiday treats and drinks can be purchased, and the Glice Skating Rink will be open for business.

General admission to the tree lighting costs $20 per person. In addition, from 4–9 p.m., you can reserve a Cabana for an extra $300 or a Fire Pit reservation for $150.

4. Enjoy a Holiday Afternoon Tea

The Fairmont’s elegant Lobby Lounge will host a special festive tea on select dates in December. The delectable menu includes sweet treats, scones, and delicious sandwiches, all served in the lobby’s sophisticated setting.

The tea takes place every Saturday and Sunday in December, plus weekdays from 18– 22 December, from 12– 4 p.m. Tickets cost $125 for adults and $65 per child. A $25 deposit per person is required, and a 24-hour cancellation policy applies.

5. Book a Nutcracker Holiday Tea

Another delicious – and unique – way to get in the holiday spirit is with a special Tea and performance of the timeless Christmas classic, ‘The Nutcracker,’ at the Manchester Salon.

The package includes a delicious afternoon tea of traditional holiday favorites, after which guests will be treated to a special narrated, abridged performance of The Nutcracker, performed by the Scripps Performing Arts Youth Academy.

The Nutcracker Holiday Tea is available on December 17 and 23. The tea starts at 2 p.m., and the ballet performance begins at 3:30 p.m.

Tickets cost $170 per adult, and $88 per child, and you can order free-flowing bubbles for an extra $20. You can pre-purchase tickets here, but note there is a 72-hour cancellation policy.

6. Book a Grand Christmas Brunch

The Amaya hosts a luxurious festive brunch every weekend in December. The restaurant exudes style and sophistication for this special event, and the menu features delectable holiday-inspired classics, both sweet and savory.

The Brunch takes place every Saturday and Sunday throughout December from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased here.

7. Dine at Amaya on Christmas Eve

The Amaya is also the venue for the hotel’s Grand Feast this Christmas Eve. The spectacular festive dinner comprises a four-course tasting menu inspired by the festive season and will be served from 5 p.m.–10 p.m.

You can buy tickets for this December 24 event online here, and they cost $205 per adult and $98 per child. Note the required $50 deposit per person and the 72-hour cancellation policy.

8. Enjoy a Spectacular Festive Dinner on Christmas Day

Amaya

If you want to forgo cooking the family feast and eat out on the big day instead, The Fairmont Del Mar Grand is a great option at the luxurious end of the price scale. The culinary festivities in the hotel’s Amaya restaurant feature a four-course tasting menu among elegant and festive surroundings. The event runs from 12–8 p.m., so there’s no rush!

Tickets are priced at $225 per adult and $115 per child. A $50 deposit per person is required, with a 72-hour cancellation policy. Tickets can be purchased online.

manchester salon

Over at the Manchester Salon, another option to sample the hotel’s culinary delights is a festive buffet, which will be served while guests enjoy live entertainment. A great family event, the meal features an appetizer and dessert buffet, and each guest will receive a glass of sparkling wine or sparkling cider.

Tickets are priced at $190 per adult and $95 per child. A $50 deposit per person is required, and there’s also a 72-hour cancellation policy. You can book online.

9. Ring in 2024 at the New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Amaya

You can bid farewell to 2023 in sophisticated style at the hotel’s Amaya restaurant (again!). Their New Year’s Eve party promises a celebration oozing opulence and elegance and an exclusive five-course tasting menu.

Guests will feast on a gourmet culinary journey with the specially crafted menu, and each booking includes a glass of Champagne or sparkling cider.

The party goes from 5–11 p.m., and tickets cost $295 per adult and $147 per child. A $50 deposit per person and a 72-hour cancellation policy are required. You can book online.

lobby lounge

Over in the Lobby Lounge, guests can enjoy live music and plenty of ambiance from 5 p.m.–1 a.m. You can countdown to midnight and welcome in the new year in style in the lobby’s warm atmosphere.

Guests can either opt for open seating in the Library and Lobby Bar areas, or tables with a view of the band can be pre-booked from 8 p.m. Each table costs $100.

10. New Year’s Day Champagne Brunch

Start the new year in glorious style with a sumptuous brunch in Amaya. The three-course tasting menu will be fabulous, and each booking will include a glass of sparkling wine.

You can enjoy the brunch from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Tickets are priced at $125 per adult and $63 per child, and you can prebook online.

11. Stay Overnight — With VIP Benefits

You can save on tickets, tours, and hotels through my affiliations. If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated.

Fairmont Grand Del Mar is one of the hotels that I recommend when people ask me where to stay in San Diego.

The best way to enjoy their holiday activities is to check in as an overnight guest. We can book you in with value-added amenities at no cost to you that include:

*When searching rates, do not input children ages 17 and under as they will be priced as adults. I’m notified when you book and will add them after I contact you about your reservation.

It may be San Diego, but remember, it does get chilly in the evenings, especially for those on the outdoor ice skating rink. Remember to bring layers! See what to pack for San Diego and San Diego in December if you need more advice.

The seasons change in San Diego without a lot of fanfare. We have year-round sunny and mild weather, so most of the trees don’t shed their leaves in the fall and you won’t actually need to put on your favorite flannel-checked scarf. We make up for what we lack in autumn weather, however, with a lot of seasonal activities, festivals, and fall fun.

There are plenty of fall activities in San Diego, so if you’ll be visiting and looking for seasonal activities in September, October or November, grab a pumpkin spice latte and check out this list.

You can save on tickets, tours, and hotels through my affiliations. If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated.

1. Take Advantage of Kids Free San Diego (TOP PICK)

Kids Free San Diego is one of the best annual events in San Diego. For the whole month of October, kids get free admission (with a paying adult) to 50+ museums, plus San Diego theme parks, tours, and attractions — including our major theme parks.

There are also restaurant discounts and hotel discounts, making October the ideal time to visit San Diego with kids. 

Residents should also take advantage of these Kids Free San Diego deals as well. When it comes to our attractions, some will require a qualifying ticket, which you can get (at a discount, too) over at aRes Travel. Learn more about San Diego in October.

2. Peep Fall Foliage at the Japanese Friendship Garden

Visiting the Japanese Friendship Garden is one of my favorite things to do in Balboa Park. It’s especially beautiful in autumn, and it’s one of the best places to see some fall colors near downtown San Diego.

The Japanese maple trees turn brilliant shades of red at this time of year, and you’ll see other trees and shrubs turning bright orange and yellow. Kids love the koi fish, too.

3. Celebrate Halloween at LEGOLAND Brick-Or-Treat

This includes LEGOLAND®’s Brick or Treat Party Nights. Most of the theme parks decorate and weave in some seasonal fun.

4. Or, at SeaWorld San Diego Spooktacular

SeaWorld San Diego hosts their annual Halloween fun-fest SeaWorld Spooktacular on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 29. The fun, family-friendly event is included with your park admission ticket and is well worth a visit.

Children can get in the Halloween spirit by participating in a costume party or joining the Halloween Dance Party. They can also enjoy safe trick-or-treating along the park’s Candy Trail, wander through the Hay Maze, go on a Pumpkin Hunt, or check out the new O.P. Otter’s Spooktacular Surprise show at the park’s Mission Bay Theater.

In addition, guests will encounter SeaWorld’s many outdoor and indoor animal exhibits, marine life animal presentations, and crowd-favorite shows, including Dolphin Adventures, Sea Lion & Otter Spotlight, and the Orca Encounter.

There’s also the scarier evening Howl-O-Scream event that’s for the older teens and adults. A separate ticket is required.

Speaking of tickets, you can read my guide for buying discount SeaWorld San Diego tickets. Annual Pass and Fun Card holders receive free entry. But you can choose a Dine + Drink option that includes meals all day long as well as other upgrades.

5. Visit Bates Nut Farm

One of San Diego’s favorite family-owned farms, Bates Nut Farm, hosts its annual Pumpkin Patch and fall activities through October 31. Go shopping for delicious nuts and candy, but also pick out your Halloween pumpkin among the fall foliage, all in one fun place.

Guests can enjoy hay rides, face painting, bounce and slides, rock climbing, balloon art, pony rides, and the farm’s popular petting zoo. There’s even a mechanical bull for those brave enough! Activity tickets are sold in $2 increments and can be used towards each attraction’s requirement.

The farm’s Fall Friday Festival takes place on October 13, 20, and 27 this year and includes all the activities above, plus live music from 3:30–6:30 p.m.

In addition, guests can also enjoy live entertainment every Saturday and Sunday throughout October at the farm, plus select dates in November. You can check their event calendar for details, and you’ll also find the event’s opening hours here.

Other fall special events include the 32nd Annual Scarecrow Contest on October 7. Design and build a scarecrow to exhibit at the farm throughout October, and you’ll get a jack-o-lantern pumpkin for your efforts, plus there are cash and gift card prizes for the winning entries. But be warned, Bates Nut Farm owns all scarecrows once entered to add to their famous collection! Get the entry details.

There’s also a Howl-o-Ween Doggie Costume Contest & Parade on October 21 and the Annual Costume Contest & Parade for the whole family on October 22. All the details are included in the farm’s event calendar.

Parking is free at the farm from Monday–Friday but costs $10 per vehicle on weekends in October.

6. Go Camping at San Diego Zoo Safari Park

When fall comes around, so does the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s unique Roar and Snore Safari. This sleepover adventure occurs on most weekends in October, November, and December.

Various safari options can be enjoyed by children and their families, and even an adults-only option. All sleepovers include guided after-hours wildlife walks, camp activities, s’mores around the fire, dinner, and breakfast.

Guests can upgrade to the Supreme Roar & Snore Safari package, where you’ll soar through the park on a zipline ride, grab binoculars for a Night Vision Safari through the Africa and Asia wildlife sections, enjoy a VIP viewing of wildlife encounters over breakfast, and experience an up-close Wildlife Safari into the park’s savanna habitats in an open-air safari truck.

Tent options range from basic (bring your own sleeping bags) to luxurious (wood floors, outlets, a fan and heater, a queen bed with linens, and two cots).

Whether you prefer to rough it or “glamp” in style, this is a memorable way to spend a night in San Diego with your family. Prices per person start from $155 up. The Supreme Roar & Snore Safari package starts at $315 per person.

Roar and Snore runs through December 31, 2023, and includes this year’s special themed sleepover options, Creepy Camp and Holly Jolly Jungle.

7. Explore Carlsbad Village and Beach

Fall is a great time to visit this beautiful coastal town in North County San Diego. The summer crush is gone, and you can enjoy the miles of sandy beaches with many more parking opportunities. Look out for dolphins, too, as they are often spotted in the ocean there.

Carlsbad Village is right next to the beach, albeit up a long flight of stairs from the beach. The village is a great place to spend a day with the family. There’s lots of parking right in the center by the town square complex, and you can walk everywhere from there.

The fountain in the town square is the perfect spot to relax with the little ones, who can roam around and do cartwheels on the artificial turf surrounding the fountain. There are lots of gift shops to peruse, plenty of cafes for lunch, a gelateria, and even a gourmet popcorn shop.

The streets surrounding the main square are dotted with cute but well-priced boutiques, more shops, cafes, and restaurants. Family favorites include Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream on State Street and a short walk along the same road will lead you to The Goods, where the huge gourmet donuts are to die for!

Dining options are aplenty. Popular restaurants include 264 Fresco and Campfire, or Pure Taco is a great family option.

You can also get the Coaster train to Carlsbad Station from the city or other stops along the coast. And you can rent E-bikes at Pedego Electric Bikes.

8. Celebrate Dia de los Muertos in Old Town

San Diego’s atmospheric and beautiful Old Town district is full of fun things to do in the fall, and the weeks leading up to Dia de los Muertos are a great time to visit.

This Mexican tradition celebrates loved ones who have passed, and the streets of Old Town are decorated with ofrendas (altars) and many traditional Dia de los Muertos arts and crafts, including painted sugar skulls.

This year, the annual Dia de los Muertos candlelit procession takes place on November 2, starting at the Immaculate Conception Church at 6:15 p.m.

There will also be a free outdoor screening of Disney Pixar’s Coco in the Plaza de Armas on October 28 at 7 p.m.

Various festivities will take place in the State Historic Park all weekend, where you can honor your own lost loved one at the Community Altar, also located in the Plaza de Armas.

And don’t forget to take in one of the fantastic Mexican restaurants that line the streets of Old Town, or visit the famed haunted Whaley House Museum, if you dare!

You can check the complete calendar of events.

9. Attend the Autumn Festival at San Diego Zoo Safari Park

For those keen to mingle with animals of all sizes at the Safari Park but just for the day, head to the park’s Autumn Festival, which is held every Saturday and Sunday throughout October.

Fun family activities include a maze, a Jamboree dance, and live country and bluegrass tunes by The Barn Owls trio.

Friendly scarecrows are on hand to guide you through the park. And be sure to stay till darkness falls for the Reflections show in the Nairobi Village. The enchanting 7-minute musical journey of floating, flickering lanterns dancing in a choreographed musical journey around the world is sure to be the perfect end to your visit.

10. Take a Sightseeing Tour

Visitors to San Diego normally look into our fun sightseeing tours like Old Town Trolley (they have a haunted tour which is fun during Halloween time), San Diego SEAL tours, and our variety of San Diego harbor cruises. Some of these tour operators participate in Kids Free San Diego.

Some other tour ideas include snorkeling tours, kayaking tours, bay tours, whale watching tours, or a guided tour around the USS Midway, the historic naval aircraft carrier and museum.

You can also tour the grounds and various museums in Balboa Park with their Explorer Pass. The park’s free tram runs every 10-15 minutes.

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Save $5 per person on a 1-hour harbor cruise AND $7 per person on a 2-hour harbor cruise with Flagship Cruises & Events. Get your tickets.

11. Go Horseback Riding

Fall is a great time for the whole family to saddle up and enjoy one of San Diego’s many beautiful trails, or even the beach, on horseback. The hot sun has cooled, but still, grab a hat and sunscreen for this fun outing.

Picturesque-guided horseback trail rides are available through Surfside Ranch, which is located 15 miles south of downtown. You can choose from beach or trail rides, pony rides for the little ones, or get up close to other furry friends at the ranch’s Petting Zoo. There are llamas, goats, pigs, and even chickens.

Surfside Ranch is currently open seven days a week from 9 a.m– 5 p.m., but check their website before you go in case hours change. 1-hour trail rides start from $80 per person.

Another option is San Diego Horse Connection in Valley Center, which offers a lesson in their arena before you head out on the trails. A one and half hour session with two people max, costs $140 per person.

12. Take a Winery Tour

There are some great winery options around San Diego County. For a unique experience, you can hop aboard the Winery Train Tour of San Diego, where you’ll cruise up and down the coast. Guests disembark at selected stops for guided historic walks and some sample sipping at local wineries and tasting rooms.

San Diego Beer, Wine & Spirits Tours runs this 5-hour adventure. Tickets cost $128 and include tastings at four wineries, a wine-pairing light lunch, and other goodies. Guests may be 18+, but you must be aged 21+ to drink alcohol.

Other options for wine lovers include heading north to the famed Temecula wine country, where award-winning wineries abound. You can also take in a hot air balloon ride over the stunning vineyards while there. Prices for a shared balloon ride cost from $170 per person.

13, Go Street Dining in La Jolla Shores, Gaslamp Quarter, and Little Italy

Three popular areas where restaurants have continued to expand outdoor dining into streets and parking lots since the pandemic include La Jolla Shores, the Gaslamp Quarter, and Little Italy.

Dining along the streets on a balmy fall evening is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike, thanks to San Diego’s year-round sunshine and the energy felt by being in the middle of the action.

A popular choice for both locals and visitors is the Pendry San Diego, where you can dine and drink outside in the Gaslamp Quarter.

14. Pick Apples in Julian

Break out your fall scarves and boots for a day trip to this historic gold mining town that’s famous for its fall foliage and apple picking. There are a few U-pick farms to choose from in 2023, and after you’ve got a good haul you can head into downtown Julian to browse the cute little gift shops.

You could bring your bushel home and make your own apple pie, but there are some wonderful local pie shops here that make near-perfect apple and pumpkin pies. Learn more about what to do on a day trip to Julian.

15. Hike with Help From theNAT (San Diego Natural History Museum)

The San Diego Natural History Museum Canyoneers offer free guided hikes on various trails throughout San Diego County from September through June, mostly on weekends. Fun options this October include the Torrey Pines Loop through Gonzales Canyon and the picturesque Sunset Trail through Cleveland National Forest.

The Canyoneers put together a list of their favorite trails and tips in the Coast to Cactus: The Canyoneer Trail Guide to San Diego Outdoors book that you can find at local retailers or on Amazon.

How awesome to go hiking with experts through the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. This hike is offered in both November and December this year, and you can check the schedule, which includes many more guided hiking options, here. In addition, monthly midweek hikes allow participants to enjoy limited-access trails that are normally crowded on weekends.

The Bottom Line

As the end of October draws nearer, usually, some San Diego neighborhoods go all out with fantastic Halloween parties, events, pub crawls, cruises, and more.

Fall is a great time to visit San Diego. Most kids are back in school, so popular attractions tend to be less busy, there are more rooms available at San Diego hotels, and the weather is almost always fabulous, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Whether you love celebrating Halloween or Dia de los Muertos, there are plenty of options. Just be sure to check the hours for attractions and activities before you go.

What are your favorite fall things to do in San Diego?

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There are always quite a few things to do in San Diego with kids for Halloween. Themed events and places to go are abundant around Halloween in San Diego. 

Some of these San Diego Halloween events are also on my list of San Diego fall events. Remember that October is Kids Free San Diego where kids go free to many San Diego attractions when adults hold qualifying tickets (restrictions apply).

This means that many of the below activities are free for kids of certain ages, while others may require additional admission.

You can save on tickets, tours, and hotels through my affiliations. If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated.

1. San Diego Zoo HalGLOWeen

San Diego Zoo Halloween festivities include HalGLOWeen, named for the glow-in-the-dark decor and entertainment that guests will enjoy on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October, starting at 5 p.m.

Kids ages 11 and under get free entry and are encouraged to wear costumes. The zoo comes alive in a whole different light (literally) with two glow-in-the-dark acrobatic shows, while the Skeleton Band will be rocking on the Front Street Stage.

There are hooping contests, a bubble dance party, and interactive games for the kids with Dr. Zoolittle. And beware, The Boo Crew scarecrow stilt walkers might just sneak up on you. Admission is included with San Diego Zoo tickets.

KIDS FREE AT THE ZOO AND SAFARI PARK

One paid adult can take up to five kids ages 11 and under for free to both parks. The adult needs to hold a qualifying ticket, which I have at a discount below.

I have an exclusive San Diego Zoo tickets promo code and a San Diego Zoo Safari Park tickets promo code for 1-Day tickets, which are also eligible for Kids Free October.

2. Visit a Pumpkin Station

San Diego has multiple pumpkin patches open for you to explore with your kids. They all vary in size, cost, and detail. Some are like mini carnivals, and some have giant hay mazes. In true San Diego fashion, many pumpkin patches are dog-friendly! 

Pumpkin Stations are among the most popular, conveniently located centrally at places like Mission Valley Target and just off of the I-5 freeway in Del Mar. The list of locations includes:

• Del Mar
• Rancho Bernardo (Farm)
• Mission Valley
• National City (Plaza Bonita)
• Bonita (Farm)

Pumpkin Stations are free to enter, and parking is also free, but you’ll need tickets for rides and activities. Tickets can be bought at the Pumpkin Stations but are unavailable online. Visit their website.

3. Visit Carlsbad Strawberry Company Pumpkin Patch

Another favorite San Diego Halloween event of ours is the Carlsbad Strawberry Company Pumpkin Patch. 

Not only can you pick out your pumpkin at this fun North County spot, but guests can explore a corn maze, take tractor rides, pet the rabbits, and visit the venue’s beloved sheep and goats. These four attractions are in addition to the $10 per person entrance fee, and children under 5 enter free.

Teens may enjoy the Haunted Corn Maze on Friday and Saturday evenings from 7–10 p.m. for the month of October. The opening night for this attraction is October 6, and tickets cost from $25 per person.

The Pumpkin Patch is open seven days a week from now through November 5 from 9 a.m.–6 p.m. From October 6, Fridays and Saturdays stay open until 10 p.m. for the Haunted Corn Maze. Learn more about the Carlsbad Strawberry Company’s Halloween event.

4. SeaWorld San Diego’s Halloween Spooktacular and Howl-O-Scream Weekends

SeaWorld San Diego has brought back Howl-O-Scream, an “intense horror-filled haunt.” Howl-O-Scream will be the nighttime version of their more family-friendly Spooktacular, offered during daylight hours.

But beware, once the sun goes down. SeaWorld San Diego will transform into a terrifying playland intended for mature audiences. Tickets are priced separately from $39.99, in addition to the regular admission park tickets.

It’s a little too spooky for your tiniest tadpoles. Still, it isn’t as scary as, say, Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood. Use discretion when planning your SeaWorld San Diego trip during Halloween.

For a family-friendly Halloween celebration, join SeaWorld San Diego on Saturdays and Sundays in late September and October for their annual Halloween Spooktacular.

They will feature Halloween dance parties, trick-or-treating, fun Halloween decorations, and more. The Spooktacular will also host a Pumpkin Hunt. Guests can purchase a special map that allows them to search for SeaWorld animal-themed pumpkins for an exclusive Halloween prize.

Visit Friday–Sunday through October 29. The Halloween Spooktacular is included with the regular park admission. I have tips for how to buy SeaWorld San Diego tickets, but the two best places are through SeaWorld and aRes Travel.

There are discounts on regular admission but also for Howl-O-Scream. You’ll want to take a look also at the Kids Free tickets!

5. Belmont Park Fall Fest

Fall Fest is in full swing at Belmont Park San Diego! One of the most popular San Diego attractions, Belmont Park, ensures its array of dining outlets get into the fall spirit with Caramel Apple Spiced Funnel Cake at Belmonty’s Burgers and seasonal beer at Draft.

Not to mention Spooky Cotton Candy and Churros at Midway Snacks — to name just a few of the many festive treats.

There’s various live music on weekends throughout the festival, or check out the Trunk or Treat Classic Car Show on October 29. There’s face painting and glitter tattoos for the kids, and plenty of activities and games included with this year’s new Pumpkin Pass.

Free trick-or-treating happens every Sunday at the festival, and you can dive for pumpkins at the Plunge Pool on select dates.

The pool also hosts the annual Glow N Float Pumpkin Patch on October 27 from 5:30–8 p.m., where you can swim among hundreds of floating pumpkins or try out the Aqua Jungle, a fun floating obstacle course. It’s a great event for the whole family, and don’t forget your Halloween costume for when you’ve dried off.

It’s free to enter Belmont Park, but you’ll pay for activities such as rides, mini golf, and the arcade. Parking is free also. Tickets for the Glow N Float Pumpkin Patch event start from $20. Fall Fest runs through October 31.

See also: Things to Do at Belmont Park

6. Mr. Jack-O-Lantern’s Pumpkin Patch

Come to La Jolla to pick out your pumpkin at another family-owned Mr. Jack-O-Lantern’s Pumpkin Patch.

Fear not if you cannot make it to the pumpkin patch but live in the area. They process online orders and deliver locally.

They also sell pumpkin carving and pumpkin decorating kits. Kids can take a spin around the spooky maze and have fun in the bounce house. Parking and admission are free. The event runs from October 1–31.

7. Old Town Trolley Ghost and Gravestone Tours

See the spookier side of San Diego and travel back in time to learn about dubious local legends on one of the popular Old Town Trolley Ghost and Gravestone Tours.

You’ll hop on board the “Trolley of the Doomed” to learn about some of the city’s famous ghosts and visit some spookier sites at night, like El Campo Santo cemetery in Old Town San Diego.

You’ll go by the infamous Whaley House, which is said by many to be haunted, and Pioneer Park to check for paranormal activity.

The actors love getting into character for these tours. They are educational but also super spooky. Since many of these stories are based on the truth, it’s definitely important to approach these tours with caution when it comes to younger children. The tour company recommends the tour for kids 13 years and over.

8. LEGOLAND Brick-or-Treat Party Nights

This annual Halloween event includes live entertainment, character meet-and-greets, costume contests, rides, and giant LEGO Halloween models.

At LEGOLAND Brick-or-Treat Party Nights, kids can safely trick-or-treat at Treat Stations throughout the park with almost one million pieces of candy and attend the Monster Party with live entertainment, a costume contest, and more.

Spend the night at the LEGOLAND Hotel for added fun. If you stay at the hotel on days that include the Brick-or-Treat days below, the event is included in the room price.

• Every Saturday and Sunday in October (7–8, 14–15, 20–21, 28–29)
• All-day event, with activities beginning at 2 p.m.

Tips for buying LEGOLAND California tickets: October is Kids Free San Diego so general admission to the park is free for one child per paid adult. However, you do need admission that covers Brick-or-Treat and the kids’ free tickets do not. Luckily we do have discounted LEGOLAND tickets with Brick or Treat here!

9. Ghost Roasts at Hotel del Coronado

Did you know that Hotel del Coronado is one of the haunted hotels in San Diego? You don’t need to stay overnight to book one of their roasts, which is a fun beach activity that I recommend. In addition to beach s’mores roasted on a private fire pit set up for your group, you’ll read ghost stories and enjoy a supernatural flair.

You can book a Ghost Roast on any night between October 1 – 31, with either a 6 p.m. or 8 p.m. option. The cost starts at $210 per fire pit and 10 people max are permitted around each pit.

You’ll also be able to participate in Halloween Pumpkin carving on Oct 14, 21, 28–30, from 5 p.m. onwards. The cost is $30 per person, and you select your pumpkin from the beachfront pumpkin patch.  

And don’t miss the Haunted Happenings tours happening nightly from now through December 31, where you’ll learn the story of Kate Morgan, the ghost who allegedly haunts the hotel. Children have to be 12+ and tickets cost $35.

Older kids can also tag along for some ghoulish fun at Movies on the Beach on October 16 (Hocus Pocus) & October 30 (Beetlejuice). The movie starts promptly at 7:30. Doors open at 7, so try to show up a little earlier to secure a good spot. Check the full list of Hotel del Coronado Halloween activities for more details.

10. The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular At Sesame Place

Sesame Place San Diego is a newer SeaWorld theme park featuring all of your favorite Sesame Street residents. The Count, the host of the Halloween Spooktacular, encourages you and your family to come in costume for a spooky costume contest, trick-or-treating, themed live shows, a Halloween party, and so much more.

There’s even a fully interactive Spot-the-Ghost Scavenger Hunt and themed photo opportunities with your favorite Sesame Street characters.

Access to this event is included with regular park admission. We have advice for buying discounted Sesame Place tickets, but you can purchase them either through SeaWorld or our aRes Travel page.

11. Balboa Park Haunted Trail

Not for kids under 10 (or the faint of heart), this outdoor haunted trail is a mile of terror, including an additional maze called “The eXperiment”, where you can experience over 3500 square feet of freak-infested terror.

Enter the Haunted Trail at your own risk and encounter Little Dead Rising Hood, a ghoul bus full of zombie prisoners, and the possessed Room 666 in the Haunted Hotel, among others. Good luck!

• Starting September 22, and running every night except Mondays and Tuesdays until October 22, then daily from October 24–31. See the online calendar.
• Opening and closing times vary daily, but it typically opens at 6:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. and typically ends at 10:00, 10:30, or 11 p.m. See the online calendar for daily times.
• Timed general admission tickets start at $32.99 and are date specific; cash only at the gate, but it’s highly advisable to book online; Scream Pass admission (express line upgrade) starts at $47.99
• The Experiment Maze & Trail is included in the admission ticket
• Located at Balboa Park and Juniper at Marston Point.

Haunted Trail ticket tips: Buy tickets online to skip the ticket queue.

12. Trick-or-Treating in La Jolla (TBD)

We attend this community event every year. On a select date near Halloween (the 2023 date and time is TBD), come down to the Village of La Jolla to trick-or-treat at local businesses in the late afternoon. The stores that take part display black and orange balloons so families know where they can get goodies.

It is a lot of fun and also allows parents to do some La Jolla shopping along the way. This event is formerly known as Pillage the Village.

13. Trick-Or-Treat on India Street

Families can head to San Diego’s famed Little Italy for a fun trick-or-treating option. The event will kick off at the beautiful Piazza della Famiglia town square, where you can pick up a map of local businesses participating in the fun.

Enjoy Halloween décor and music along the streets as your little ghouls, witches, and goblins walk door to door along historic India Street to collect delicious Halloween treats and candy.

• Sunday, October 29, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
• Maps businesses taking part will be available at the Piazza della Famiglia.

14. Helen Woodward Howl-O-Ween Harvest Family Festival

Join Helen Woodward Animal Center and their creepiest critters for animal encounters, trick-or-treat stations, entry into their Spooky Vet Clinic, face painting, crafts, a magical maze, and a mini pumpkin patch.

They’ll also have a cakewalk, hot cider, scavenger hunt, and more. You’ll need to register in advance to attend.

• October 14, 21, 28, & 29, from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Tickets cost $13.75 per child and $7 for adults
• A great event for all ages, but the shelter especially recommends it for toddlers and elementary school-age children

15. The Scream Zone at Del Mar

This one definitely isn’t for the faint hearted and isn’t recommended for children under the age of 10. But if your tweens or teens don’t scare easily, you could head to the Trifecta of Terror at the Del Mar ‘Scaregrounds,’ where three main haunts may just scare the wits out of you.

At the Labyrinth Manor, descend the Helevator to an underground labyrinth of catacombs before attempting to escape supernatural beings via the spirit-filled graveyard.

Over at the Stars of the Silver ‘Scream’ haunt, classic horror characters, including Freddy and Jason, come to life. Or you can take a ride in The Haunted Hayride. But beware, you may just find yourself sitting among Hillbillies turned KILL-billies and dodging killer clowns.

Brand new for 2023, the Midway Madness is a Halloween-themed carnival where you can try your hand at Axe Throwing, Zombie Archery, or simply blast zombies at their virtual reality attraction. The Midway also features a variety of food options and themed beverages.

• Select evenings from October 5–31 (check their website for off-days and hours)
• Open evenings only. Timed entry starts at 7 p.m. on most nights. Check times on the daily schedule.
• Timed Ticket admission starts at $32.99, and a Scream Pass (i.e. express line) starts at $47.99.
• Parking at the Fairgrounds costs $15
• Because of strobe lights and high-impact scary attractions, pregnant women will not be admitted.

 What is your favorite thing to do in San Diego with kids during the Halloween season?

See also: Best Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

*Top photo is courtesy of LEGOLAND California Resort

If you’re headed to Florida to visit SeaWorld Orlando, you might also want to visit their themed water park, Aquatica. Aquatica is a family-friendly destination filled with thrilling water rides, high-speed water slides, wave pools, and attractions inspired by marine life, like the dolphin plunge. 

A family trip to Aquatica can be costly, so budgeting ahead of time is a great idea. While gate prices are available, you can save more by looking for discount Aquatica tickets online. Thankfully, there are a number of ways to save.

Gate Prices for Admission to Aquatica Orlando

You can view the gate price for Aquatica Orlando tickets on the official site, which frequently features exclusive offers and seasonal specials. If you walk up on the day you want to enter the theme park, then tickets will cost around $50 per person for guests aged 3 and older. 

Children 2 and under can enter the park for free with a paying adult.

If you want to upgrade your ticket to include an all-day dining option, then you’ll pay around $80 per person. Remember, ticket prices for Orlando theme parks can vary throughout the year, especially during peak season when greater demand drives rates up.

Another option for gate prices includes a package that includes single-day tickets to both Aquatica and SeaWorld Orlando. There are also multi-park passes that allow you to access the water park, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and Adventure Island within a 14-day period.

The gate prices for Aquatica Orlando tickets are:

• Children 3+ and Adults: $99.99 each
• All-day dining + Single-day Admission Tickets: $144.98 each
• SeaWorld Orlando + Aquatica Tickets: $197.99 each
• SeaWorld Orlando + Aquatica + All-day Dining: $297.99 each

Aquatica Orlando Discount Ticket Options

There are plenty of ways to save money on your Aquatica Orlando tickets, including on-site deals, seasonal offers, and booking your tickets through aRes Travel. Your final price will be affected by the dates you plan to travel and how many days you want to visit.

If you plan on visiting SeaWorld Orlando as well, you can look for bundles that give you access to both theme parks.

1. Discounted Single-Day Admission Tickets

From wave pools to water slides, marine life exhibits, and more, you can access Aquatica for less than gate prices if you book through aRes Travel. aRes Travel is an authorized ticket vendor based out of San Diego, and they offer great discounts on tourist attractions, theme parks, and venues throughout the United States. 

These cheaper tickets include tax, and you’ll pay a $2 per ticket administration fee. If you were to buy tickets online through Aquatica Orlando, the prices do not include taxes and fees (which are significant). Therefore, for most tickets, aRes Travel has the best final price.

To score some extra savings, visit the theme park on a weekday. Generally, prices are always lower during the week, plus you can enjoy slightly thinner crowds and shorter lines to see attractions.

2. Multiple Park Tickets

You can be two-, three-, and four-park tickets that allow entry into SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa, or Adventure Island Tampa Bay within 14 days of your first visit.

3. Orlando CityPASS

Orlando CityPASS is a sightseeing pass that allows you to purchase the tickets you like to the following Orlando theme parks:

• Walt Disney World Resort
• Universal Orlando Resort
• SeaWorld Orlando
• LEGOLAND Florida Resort

The SeaWorld Orlando option gives you the opportunity to buy a 2-Park or 3-Park ticket that includes other SeaWorld Entertainment Parks, including Aquatica Orlando.

4. Annual Membership Ticket Savings

By using aRes Travel, you can score more savings on Aquatica annual memberships. Buying through the official park already comes with great perks, like admission to popular events like Howl O Scream, preferred parking, and free guest tickets.

Benefits for annual memberships vary by tier. You can also choose whether you want to buy a membership for Aquatica alone, Aquatica, and SeaWorld Orlando, or all four Orlando parks, which include Aquatica, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens Tampa, and Adventure Island.

Bronze Annual Membership

• 12 months of unlimited park visits with blackout dates
• Free admission to popular events

Silver Annual Membership

• 12 months of unlimited park visits with no blackout dates
• Free admission to popular events
• Free general parking
• 2 free guest tickets
• Up to 20% off in-park discounts

Gold Annual Membership

• 12 months of unlimited park visits with no blackout dates
• Free admission to popular events
• 4 free guest tickets
• Up to 30% off in-park discounts

Premium Annual Membership

• 12 months of unlimited park visits no blackout dates
• Free admission to popular events
• Up to 50% off in-park discounts
• Free preferred parking
• 6 free guest tickets
• 1 free single ride Quick Queue ticket per day

Each annual membership also comes with an automatic renewal, but you can cancel beforehand if you don’t want to be charged. 

aRes Travel offers a discount on the silver membership, including a two-pack deal and a combination package featuring unlimited access to Aquatica Orlando, SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens, and Adventure Island. 

I suggest you check out aRes Travel and Aquatica to compare annual membership deals.

5. Fun Card

The Aquatica Fun Card is an easy way to access the water park and SeaWorld Orlando year-round. It’s basically a scaled-back version of the annual membership that gives you unlimited visits year-round with blackout dates.

There are no additional perks, like in-park discounts or preferred parking. However, because it grants you unlimited visits for the cost of two tickets at gate prices, it’s a good deal for those who want to become frequent guests. 

6. Discounted Group Ticket Rates

Single-day Aquatica Orlando tickets for groups of 15 or more start at $52.99. For a meal plan included, the cost is $69.99 for adults and children 3 and older.

Lastly, for access to the park for the day plus all-day dining, the cost per ticket is $72.99 for adults and children 10 and older.

7. AAA Discount Tickets

AAA members, their spouses, and dependents can save as much as 20% off their tickets when they book through AAA. 

8. Active Military Discount

Active duty, drilling reservists, and National Guardsmen members receive one complimentary admission per year, which includes free admission for up to three dependents. They may redeem their ticket at Aquatica Orlando, Busch Gardens, SeaWorld Orlando, or Sesame Place. 

Additionally, active-duty service members can save 50% on single-day admission tickets for themselves and up to three dependents at the gate. 

A military ID is required upon purchase, and you must verify your active duty status on the park’s website using GovX ID. 

9. Veteran Military Discount

Veteran service members and up to five guests can receive 50% off single-day Aquatica Orlando tickets. GovX verification and a military ID presented at the gate are required.

10. Vacation Packages

Several vacation packages on Aquatica’s site include hotel accommodations and park admission. The Aquatica Free Vacation Package starts at $55 per person, per night, and includes: 

• Free admission to Aquatica water park and SeaWorld for the length of your stay
• Free parking at each theme park 
• Choice of hotel accommodations plus one free night 
• Reserved seating for shows at SeaWorld

There is also a Discovery Cove Package that starts at $113 per person, per night, and includes:

• Free admission to SeaWorld and Aquatica for the length of your stay
• One single-day admission ticket to Discovery Cove
• The choice between a Day Resort or All-Inclusive Dolphin Swim
• Choice of hotel accommodations plus one free night
• Reserved seating for shows at SeaWorld

Regular Online Tickets and Package Prices

Below are the current standard admission costs for Aquatica:

• Single-day admission for adults and children 3+: $99.99 each
• Single-day admission plus all-day dining: $144.98 each
• SeaWorld Orlando + Aquatica Single-Day Admission: $197.99
• SeaWorld Orlando + Aquatica + Busch Gardens Tampa Bay + Adventure Island Single-Day Admission: $214.99 each 
• SeaWorld Orlando + Aquatica + Busch Gardens Tampa Bay + Adventure Island Single-Day Admission and All-Day Dining: $364.96 each
• SeaWorld Orlando + Aquatica Single-day Admission and All-Day Dining: $297.99
• Fun Card for Aquatica: $104.99 each
• Fun Card for Aquatica + SeaWorld: $178.99 each
• Unlimited visits to SeaWorld, Aquatica, Busch Gardens, and Adventure Island plus free parking for one year: $269.99

Important Tips for Visiting Aquatica Orlando 

Aquatica offers family fun for guests of all ages. Although the park is known for its thrilling water rides, there is so much more to discover. Little kids can visit splash pads and kid-friendly rides, and there are also many animal exhibits to explore, like underwater observation halls to see the dolphins. 

Make sure that you pack all your water park essentials, like swimwear, a fresh change of clothes in case they get wet, goggles, water shoes, and beach towels. You can also bring bottled water or a refillable water bottle into the park. 

All guests under 48 inches (4 feet) tall must wear a life vest on most of the attractions. The park will provide United States Post Guard (USPG)-approved life vests; personal ones are permitted as long as they’re USPG-standard. Guests can wear Type II, III, and V at Aquatica, but flotation devices, pool noodles, boogie boards, and swimmies are not permitted. 

As for what types of shoes to wear to Aquatica, the park allows water shoes, sandals, and water socks on certain rides, but they are not allowed on others. It may be a good idea to bring along an extra pair of sneakers in your bag just in case you need to change. 

Babies and children who wear diapers must have waterproof protectors or swim diapers before they can enter water attractions. 

I suggest looking into the all-day locker rentals available throughout the park so you can easily store your stuff and enjoy the attractions without lugging around heavy bags all day.

Aquatica offers various events throughout the year, depending on the season, like summer beach night movies, festivals, and special events. It’s a good idea to look at their event calendar and see what’s going on during your visit so you can make the most out of your experience. 

Aquatica Orlando Frequently Asked Questions

Can you bring water into Aquatica Orlando? 

Yes, bottled water and refillable water bottles are permitted in the park. 

Is Aquatica better than SeaWorld Orlando? 

Aquatica is a water park, while SeaWorld is a theme park centered around marine life. While both are great experiences, those who want to get up close with animals like dolphins, whales, and stingrays will prefer SeaWorld. 

On the other hand, Aquatica is a great family-friendly attraction with tons of attractions to enjoy, whether you want to relax poolside or take on an adventurous water slide.

Which is better: Volcano Bay or Aquatica Orlando?

Universal’s Volcano Bay is better suited to families with older children (13+) and adults who want to enjoy some thrilling rides. Aquatica is a better choice for those with smaller kids who want a more family-friendly water park.

Can you bring food to Aquatica Orlando?

No. Outside food is not permitted, but baby formula is allowed. Guests who have dietary restrictions may also bring their own food. 

How much is parking at Aquatica Orlando?

General parking costs $30 for one car or motorcycle. RV and preferred parking cost $40. There is no free parking at Aquatica. 

What time does Aquatica close in Orlando? 

Aquatica closes at 6 or 7 p.m. on most days. 

What time does Aquatica Orlando open? 

The park usually opens at 9 or 10:30 a.m. You can check park hours on the official site.

Photos courtesy of Aquatica Orlando

Raging Waters Los Angeles (San Dimas) is the largest waterpark in California, and it’s a fantastic stop for families with kids of all ages. There are plenty of family-friendly events, exciting attractions, and thrilling rides that offer endless summer fun.

From a 30,000-square-foot Kid’s Kingdom to the state’s only hydromagnetic water coaster, the Aqua Rocket, a trip here will leave you with amazing memories. Thankfully, discount Raging Waters Los Angeles tickets are available so that you don’t have to pay full price for a fun day out in the sun.

Imagine flying straight through the twisting Thunder Rapids or riding a raft through a completely dark tunnel with a 600-foot plunge. Or step up to the heart-pounding plunge from the new Bombs Away drop tube, where you’ll fall 26 feet per second. Or coast casually along an 18-foot-wide tropical river on the Amazon Adventure.

There’s fun for the whole family packed inside, so get ready to have a blast and make some amazing memories you’ll cherish for years to come.

You can save on tickets, tours, and hotels through my affiliations. If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated.

Gate Prices for Raging Waters Tickets

Raging Waters is not only California’s biggest theme park; it’s also one of the most popular in the United States. Ticket prices vary each year and can even change throughout the season, but the average gate prices for admission to raging waters are as follows.

• 1-Day Pass: $69.99 for ages 3+
• Children ages 2 and under are free

Raging Waters Discount Ticket Options 

If you’re purchasing tickets for Raging Waters Los Angeles, then I highly suggest taking advantage of all the great discount promotions, promo codes, and special savings online.

1. Single-Day Discounted Raging Waters Tickets

I can also help you save by booking through aRes, a San Diego based authorized ticket vendor that offers exclusive discounts on theme parks across the United States.

Through aRes Travel, you can save money on single-entry tickets. This will give you access to the park during operating hours and help you save money on the whole family’s trip. If you’re buying multiple tickets, the extra savings can really add up. A $2 per ticket administration fee applies, but you will still come out ahead.

2. Summer Meal Combo

If you order the Summer Meal Combo online, you can pay $59.99 per person and eat free. Each guest can redeem one free meal at the park from their choice of Bayside Burger, Pipeline Pizza, Pink’s Hot Dogs, or Sharkey’s.

Choose from the following meal options, which include a fountain soda of your choice:

• Burger/Beyond Burger and fries
• Chicken tenders and fries
• Chicken and waffles
• Popcorn shrimp and fries
• Pizza and breadsticks
• Hot dogs and fries
• Salad

Note that this option does not allow you to claim a meal through the cabana meal service. 

3. Discounted Group Ticket Rates

Small groups (15-99 guests) can save with prices as low as $35.99 per ticket. You can also add on a meal voucher for $14.99 per person or a dessert voucher for $6.99 per person.

Groups with 100+ guests can get one-day admission for $33.99 per person and the same optional food voucher prices. 

4. Military Discounts for Active and retired military

Military members save up to 40% when buying tickets online for as little as $39.99 each. Each military discount ticket is valid for one day’s admission to the park.

You will need to present a SheerID to lock in the price. This offer is valid for both active and retired military members.

5. Hotel + Ticket Packages

If you plan to visit Raging Waters as an out-of-towner, why not save on admission by purchasing tickets through a partner hotel?

The reservation on the waterpark’s site will give you single-day admission plus all the hotel perks, usually including free parking and complimentary breakfast, WiFi, pools, and more.

6. Season Pass Savings

The best way to save on multiple admissions is to purchase one of the 2023 season passes These give you unlimited park access throughout the entire summer, as well as extra perks depending on the tier you choose. 

You have the option to split your season pass cost into two payments when you buy online.

Bronze Season Pass — $79.99 (or $40 on the two-pay plan)

This pass includes unlimited admission to the park on every operating day except July 8, 15, 22, and 29. 

Silver Season Pass — $59.99 (or $55 on the two-pay plan)

The Silver Season Pass at Raging Waters LA gives you unlimited access throughout the season, 10% off dining and retail, a one-time use free ticket for a friend, and eight one-day admission discounted tickets to be redeemed on select Buddy Days.

Gold Season Pass — $129.99 (or $65 on the two-pay plan)

This pass includes unlimited summer 2023 admission on any operating day, general parking, a one-time free friend ticket, eight discounted tickets for select Buddy Days, and 15% off all in-park retail and dining purchases.

Platinum Season Pass — $229.99 (or $115 on the two-pay plan)

The highest tier includes not only unlimited access to Raging Waters but also all Palace Entertainment parks. You’ll also receive two free friend tickets (one-time use only), eight discounted tickets for use on select Buddy Days, 20% off in-park food and retail, a souvenir cup with free refills, and premium parking. 

Regular Online Tickets and Package Prices

If you book online, these are the standard booking rates:

• 1-Day Admission: $49.99
• 1-Day Admission + Meal: $59.99
• Military 1-Day Admission: $39.99
• 1-Day Tickets for Groups 15+: $33.99/each 

Important Tips for Visiting Raging Waters

It’s best to arrive early because the park fills up fast and can get crowded during the day. I suggest bringing plenty of sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, and any other protection you need because you’ll get a lot of UV exposure throughout the day.

It’s also important to ensure your little ones have all the sun protection they need. Sun-protective bathing suits are especially great for kids and toddlers.

The best time to visit is during the week, usually on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Weekends will always be the most hectic, so plan ahead by studying the park map to choose which rides you want to visit first if you’re going on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.

A good way to save money on food is to pack lunch in a cooler, leave it in your car, and then pop out to eat before returning to the park for the rest of the day. Make sure that you leave your valuables in a locker ($12-20 fee) to avoid accidentally taking your phone or keys along with you for a ride down the waterslide.

Raging Waters Frequently Asked Questions 

Do you have to wear a bathing suit at Raging Waters? 

Proper swimwear is required for all rides, attractions, and water-based activities. You can change into regular clothes if you want to walk around the park, though.

Do you need water shoes at Raging Waters?

You don’t have to, but water shoes are highly recommended. They’re the only shoes you can wear on attractions, and you won’t have to leave them unattended before getting on a ride. Plus, flip-flops can be hazardous around water and wet surfaces. 

Also, since the waterslide stairs tend to be scorching hot, water shoes can protect you and the kids’ feet as you climb.

Is Raging Waters the biggest waterpark?

No, that title goes to Noah’s Ark waterpark in Lake Dell, Wisconsin, but Raging Waters is still a huge water park — the biggest one in California!

Do you need to bring your own towels to Raging Waters? 

You’ll need to bring your own towels to Raging Waters. If you forget them or just realize you need more, the Beach Shop or Surf and Swim make it easy to buy one.

Does Noah’s Ark have lifeguards? 

More than 250 trained and licensed lifeguards are stationed throughout the park at all times, so you don’t need to worry about safety.

However, you should still always practice good water safety and supervise your children, especially if they are weak swimmers. Never leave any children unattended in the water, even if they can swim.

Is Raging Waters Bigger than Soak City?

Raging Waters is considerably bigger than Soak City, spanning 60 acres compared to 15. Raging Waters has 35 water slides; Soak City has 16. There are also 14 pools throughout Raging Waters, compared to 14 in Soak City.

Both are great parks with plenty of attractions, thrill rides, and kids’ areas, but Raging Waters takes the cake regarding size and opportunities.

Are there free life jackets at Raging Waters? 

All guests under 48 inches tall must wear a life jacket in the wave pool. You can find free life jackets throughout the park or bring your own, as long as they bear Coast Guard approval.

What do I need to know before going to Raging Waters? 

There is first aid on-site next to the Speed Sliders. If you’re traveling with toddlers, then Kid’s Kingdom is the perfect place for them to splash and have fun in a safe environment. Entrance to the park is only off Via Verde; there is general and preferred parking available for a fee.

Gatorland, the “Alligator Capital of the World,” is a famous theme park and wildlife preserve that showcases alligators and crocodiles of all sizes across 110 acres in Orlando, Florida.

It’s one of the most popular things to do in Orlando with kids and thankfully you can buy discounted Gatorland tickets to save money on your visit. We’ve done the legwork for you so that you don’t have to search online for coupons, deals and special offers that are invalid or expired.

Keep in mind also that this attraction isn’t just about gators. There is a petting zoo for up close encounters with four-legged friends like goats and cows, a nature walk filled with birds and towering trees, and unique experiences like the Gator Gully Splash Park, Gator Gauntlet Zipline, and Screamin Gator Zipline.

Gate Prices for Gatorland Orlando

If you’re hoping to grab Gatorland tickets as a walk-up guest, you’re in luck. The park is open 365 days a year from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Children ages 3 and up will need a ticket to enter, which you can buy at the gate.

Here are the standard rates for single-day admission you can buy when you walk up to the park gates:

• Adult tickets (13+): $32.99 plus tax
• Children tickets (3-12): $22.99 plus tax
• Senior tickets (60+): $31.98 plus tax
• Children ages 2 and under: Free

General admissions do not include the zip line or rock climbing attractions. You will have to purchase tickets for each one separately.

There are also annual passes available to buy on-site. Adult annual passes are $34.99, the children’s pass is $34.99, and the senior pass is $44.99.

Stroller and wheelchair rentals are available at the gate. A single stroller is $11, a double is $16. A standard push wheelchair is $11, and an electric wheelchair rental is $27.

You can always buy Gatorland Orlando tickets as a walk-up guest, but the more budget-friendly options are online.

Gatorland Orlando Discount Ticket Options

If you’re planning to visit Orlando, seeing the best central Florida theme parks can get expensive fast. To save money, you can check out discount ticket options online that offer all the fun on a better budget.

1. Discount Single-Day General Admission Tickets

aRes Travel is an authorized Gatorland ticket seller that offers cheaper tickets to theme parks, hotels, and attractions across the country including Walt Disney World, LEGOLAND Florida, Gatorland, Kennedy Space Center or other major Florida attractions.

These tickets are the best way to save on a trip to Gatorland Orlando, especially if you’re traveling in a group and paying for multiple tickets. You will pay a $2 per ticket administration fee, but will still come out ahead over gate prices.

You’ll launch 65 feet from one of Orlando’s finest zip line towers, then soar over the alligator breeding marsh and nature trails.

From up above, you can look down on over 130 alligators that call the park home. You’ll move up to 30 miles per hour as you navigate five zip lines from start to finish.

While you won’t get up close with any really dangerous animals, the Trainer for a Day experience still lets you meet some amazing creatures. Pet a giant tortoise, hold a baby alligator, tour the backstage area where the gators and crocs prepare for the gator jumparoo, and even meet some of the insects and other small reptiles. 

The Trainer for a Day experience is available for guests age 12 and up. If you’re afraid of spiders, I’d skip the last portion of the visit as it includes meeting a tarantula. 

2. Gatorland Online Ticket Purchase Discount

You can save up to $3 per ticket when you order online directly through Gatorland rather than buy at the gate. There are also options to purchase annual passes and tickets to attractions like the Gatorland Express, the Screamin Gator Zip Line, and the Crock Rock climbing adventure.

The discount on the official site isn’t as big as the one you receive on aRes Travel, and it’s subject to additional taxes, but it is still worth mentioning since it offers you an easy way to save money on admission. 

3. The Greater Gator Package

If you purchase this package from the park, you can save up to 20% on admission. The Greater Gator Package includes single-day admission, a meet-and-greet with an alligator, unlimited train rides on the Gatorland Express, and some gator food.

Adult tickets cost $39.99 plus tax, and tickets for children 12 and up cost $31.99 each.

4. The Gator Wranglers Pick Upgrade

If you’ve already purchased a single-day admission or a voucher from one of the theme park’s vendors, you can upgrade your ticket to include an alligator meet-and-greet, unlimited Gatorland Express train rides, and gator food.

The upgrade cost is $13.99 per child and adult.

5. Military Discount

Gatorland has a great military discount. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces and veterans with ID can enter the park for free.

Additional attractions still have a charge, but your single-day ticket to tour the theme park is complimentary as thanks for your service. Accompanying family members receive 20% off single-day admission as well.

6. AAA Discount

In qualifying areas, members can receive 35% off their general admission, the Screamin Gator Zip Line, and the Stompin Gator Off Road Adventure.

There is also a ticket option exclusively for children that includes their admission plus a free meal when accompanied by an adult purchasing one entree. 

If you’re interested in experiencing Gator Night Shine, an adventurous trek through the park after-hours, AAA offers a discount on that attraction as well. 

7. Senior Discount

Senior tickets are always discounted at Gatorland ($1.01 less than an adult ticket), but they must be purchased at the gate using a valid ID.

If you buy through aRes Travel, then you will pay the discounted adult price, which is $10 off the standard single-day admission. This is a better deal than the senior discount.

8. Florida Resident Discount 

Gatorland runs ticket deals specifically for Florida residents. In 2023, promotions included an up to 50% off special offer. The buyer must show a valid state ID or driver’s license at a ticket booth to get the deal. 

9. Annual Membership Ticket Savings

If you want to visit one of central Florida’s classic attractions year-round, then you may consider becoming an annual member of the wildlife preserve.

Adult annual passes cost $49.99, children’s passes are $34.99, and senior passes are $44.99. You must show proof of ID when you pick up your passes at the park.

Annual members get exclusive benefits that include:

• Unlimited admission
• Free Gatorland Express wristband
• 50% off Adventure Hour
• 30% off general admission tickets for up to 6 guests you bring with you
• 20% off the gator meet-and-greet experience
• 20% off all gift shop purchases (excluding sale items)
• 10% off food and drinks at Pearle’s Good Eats & Snack Bar
• BOGO bird feed stick at the free flight aviary
• BOGO animal feed cone at the park’s petting zoo

Important Tips for Visiting Gatorland Orlando

Reservations are not required, and you can use single-day admissions, Greater Gator, and Wrangler upgrade tickets anytime. 

It’s easy to plan your trip around your schedule since the park is open 365 days a year, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Gatorland is located at 14501 South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837, about 20 minutes from the Orlando International Airport, SeaWorld Orlando, and Walt Disney World. 

Gatorland has its own restaurant, Pearle’s Good Eats, that serves various Florida-inspired food and snacks ranging from alligator bites to loaded fries and chili dogs. There is also a coffee shop and general store to purchase drinks, snacks, and ice cream. 

Special events happen occasionally at the park, like Gatorpalooza, an exciting event featuring food vendors, live music, games, giveaways, and of course, plenty of chances to see real Florida alligators and crocodiles. There is also the Annual Gatorland Florida Man Challenge. Competitors will hop into giant balls and race over a gator-filled swamp. 

Gatorland Orlando Tickets Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is the best time to visit Gatorland?

Gatorland is open every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The busiest days are Fridays and weekends, as well as holidays. You can likely get the best experience by visiting on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday at opening. 

Does Gatorland offer a discount for seniors?

Yes, single-admission and annual memberships qualify for senior discounts. ID is required.

Does Gatorland offer a student discount?

No, there are not currently any student discounts on Gatorland tickets. 

What age is best for Gatorland?

The park is open to all ages, but children 12 and up will get the most out of the experience. Little ones may be scared of the large reptiles, but there is a kid-friendly petting zoo and fun nature walk that can be fun for the whole family.

Is Gatorland worth the money?

If you are interested in the attractions, getting up close with alligators, and seeing crocodiles in natural exhibits, then you will likely enjoy Gatorland. It is also fairly affordable compared to other theme parks in Orlando.

How long does it take to go through Gatorland?

I would suggest spending at least three hours at the park to tour all of the animal exhibits, including Cuban and Nile crocodiles, but four hours is more realistic if you are going to ride the gator zip line or rock climb.

The famous gator jumparoo show and alligator breeding marsh are also popular attractions that you won’t want to miss on your visit.

How long is a day at Gatorland?

Gatorland is open seven hours a day, and it typically takes three to five hours to see everything, depending on whether or not you’re participating in extra activities. 

What happened to Gatorland in Florida?

In September 2022, Gatorland had to temporarily close due to Hurricane Ian. It reopened in October of the same year, and it is now open to all guests.

Where is Gatorland?

Gatorland is located in Orlando, Florida, at 14501 South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837.

Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto is in a prime location, just a short distance from Stanford University and some of the biggest tech companies in the world. This makes it an ideal luxury hotel choice for leisure and business travelers looking for a convenient stay.

We checked in recently to watch the Stanford women’s volleyball team play top-ranked University of Texas. From the driver of the house car that took us back and forth to campus to the waitstaff in Quattro restaurant, we experienced amazing customer service, as one might expect from a Four Seasons.

I’ll tell you what to expect when you stay here and how to benefit from Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits that you have access to through me.

Book with Four Seasons Preferred Partner Benefits

Through me, you have access to Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits at no extra cost to you that include:

• A $100 hotel credit for rooms and a $200 hotel credit for suites.
• Daily breakfast for two.
• Upgrade at check-in, subject to availability.

Full program details are below.

REQUEST RATES

2050 University Ave, East Palo Alto, CA 94303

650-566-1200

fourseasons.com/siliconvalley

WHAT I LOVE

• Renovated rooms
• Excellent food via room service and Quattro restaurant
• Plum Wine dispenser in our suite
• House car service (first come, first served) to nearby sights
• Grab and go coffee and pastries at [ETC]
• Excellent welcome amenities for VIP guests
• Outstanding food in Quattro and in-room dining

GOOD TO KNOW

• Rooftop pool is nice but small and open seasonally
• The pool is also open seasonally
• It takes 20 minutes without traffic to get to San Jose Airport
• Pet-friendly
• Not a lot of kids’ amenities as it’s mostly a business hotel but you can expect kid-sized robes, slippers, bath products, and fun welcome treats

Guest Rooms and Suites at Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto

Four Seasons Palo Alto has 200 guest rooms and suites, each designed with a contemporary California aesthetic. The style and decor of the rooms are modern and sleek, with natural materials such as wood, stone, and glass throughout.

Standard guest rooms range in size from 405 to 450 square feet and come with various amenities, including a king or two double beds, a flat-screen HD television with DVR, a minibar, and a five-piece marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub, and a separate shower. Some rooms also feature a private balcony or terrace.

If you’re seeking more space and luxury, the hotel offers a variety of suites ranging in size from 635 to 1,855 square feet. Each features separate living and sleeping areas, a dining table, and additional amenities such as a fireplace, a private terrace, and a soaking tub with jets.

All guest rooms and suites at the Four Seasons Palo Alto come with 24-hour room service, twice-daily housekeeping, air conditioning, and access to the hotel’s fitness center and outdoor pool. Other amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, a business center, and a concierge desk to assist with guests’ needs or requests.

Superior Room

Offering between 405 to 450 square feet of space, Superior Rooms have one king bed with the option of a crib.  These rooms can accommodate two adults or one adult and one child.

There is a work area with a large desk and a small seating area near the large floor-to-ceiling windows. Superior rooms have City views.   

Note: Superior Accessible with Roll-in Shower, Superior Hearing Accessible, and Superior Accessible Mobility rooms are available.

Deluxe Room

Deluxe rooms provide 420 square feet of space with two double beds or one king bed. These rooms can accommodate two adults or one adult and one kid with the king bed.

Alternatively, rooms with two double beds can accommodate three adults or two adults and two children. There is a nice seating area near the grand windows and an extended desk in the workspace.

Deluxe guestrooms have Courtyard and City views.

Premier Room

With 450 square feet of space, the Premier Room at Palo Alto has one king bed and a small lounge area by floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s also equipped with an expansive work area with an oversized desk. You have the option of adding a crib or rollaway bed to your room.

The maximum occupancy for this guestroom is two adults and one child, or three adults. Premier rooms have picturesque Bay Area views.

Note: Premier Accessible with Roll-in Shower, Premier Hearing-Accessible, and Premier Accessible Mobility rooms are available.

Four Seasons Executive Suite

Four Seasons Executive suites have 725 square feet of space and city views. The separate living area has a cozy seating area with a pull-out sofa and a large desk.

The private bedroom has a king bed, and small seating area, corner window views, and an attached marble bathroom. You can add a rollaway bed for additional guests for a fee.

Note: Some suites have up to two bedrooms, while others have a pull-out sofa bed in the main living area. 

Deluxe Four Seasons Executive Suite

Deluxe Four Seasons Executive suites offer 635 square feet of space, perfect for the busy business traveler. The main living area has a sofa bed and a large workspace with an expansive desk. There is a king bed and lounge chair in the private bedroom and an attached marble bathroom.

These suites are on all floors and provide incredible views of the hotel courtyard and the Santa Cruz Mountains. 

Note: These rooms can be adjoining for larger groups traveling together. 

One Bedroom Silicon Valley Suite

I was traveling with two teens, so this is the suite I booked, and it was perfect. It was quiet and we didn’t hear any noise from the exterior, nor did I hear much from them in the living room when the doors were closed. Part of the reason for choosing this suite instead of an Executive Suite is that it has also has a half-bathroom in the living room area.

One Bedroom Silicon Valley Suites provide 700 square feet of space, comfortably accommodating three adults or two adults and two children.

The private bedroom has a king bed and an expansive marble bathroom. These suites have a spacious living area with a pull-out sofa, a small dining area, and a half bathroom.

Located on floors 2-9, they offer views of the Santa Cruz Mountains or the hotel courtyard. 

Note: These rooms can be connected to another room for larger groups traveling together. 

Luxury Suite

With 1,360 square feet of space, the Four Seasons Luxury suites have incredible floor-to-ceiling windows and beautiful city views. The main room has a large seating area with a luxury sofa bed, coffee table, and two chairs.

There is also a lavish dining table that seats up to six people. These suites have two marble bathrooms, one attached to the main living space and one attached to the private bedroom, which is equipped with a king bed and a cozy seating area. 

Four Seasons Palo Alto Presidential Suite 

The largest suite at Four Seasons Palo Alto, the Presidential Suite, has an impressive 1,855 square feet of space. A nice-sized sofa bed and two stately oversized chairs surround a large fireplace. A grand work desk separates the living room from the dining room, with a large oval table for up to eight people.

Located on the tenth floor, the entire suite features magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows offering epic city views. There is a king bed, a large dressing area, plus a lounge chair in the private bedroom. A lavish marble bathroom is attached. The suite also has a guest bathroom off the great room and a pantry near the dining table.

Four Seasons Hotel Palo Alto Dining 

The Four Seasons Hotel in Palo Alto offers a variety of dining options for guests to enjoy. From the upscale Italian cuisine at Quattro to the quick casual service [ESC] eatery, there is something to suit every taste and mood.

Guests can also indulge in handcrafted cocktails and small plates at the sophisticated Quattro Bar. I can say wholeheartedly that they are all great options.

Quattro

Quattro is an Italian-inspired restaurant with a California twist inside Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto.

Executive Chef, Marco Fossati, creates continuously evolving seasonal menus using only the freshest ingredients to create signature dishes inspired by the flavors and ingredients of Northern Italy.

It features a warm elegance with sleek lines, neutral tones, and contemporary furnishings creating a refined and sophisticated atmosphere.

During our last visit, I decided to splurge on the 40-day dry-aged rib eye steak and it was outstanding. My daughter and her friend shared rigatoni and a few salads. They were craving a Caesar salad, which wasn’t on the menu, but in true Four Seasons style, they made one for them anyway.

Quattro Bar

Quattro Bar is a sophisticated and stylish spot to enjoy handcrafted cocktails and small plates. With its sleek and modern decor, this bar provides an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere for you to unwind and socialize.

The menu features a variety of creative cocktails made with premium spirits, as well as a selection of wines and craft beers.

A small plates menu of Mediterranean-inspired dishes is provided from charcuterie boards and artisanal cheeses to crispy calamari and house-made flatbreads.

[ESC]

When you need a quick bite, head to the casually elegant eatery [ESC], with its grab-and-go open 24 hours daily.

This quick-service restaurant provides a wide selection of pastries, cold-pressed juices, and fresh coffee for breakfast and sandwiches for all-day dining.

(Sometimes it looks like [ESC] isn’t open when it actually is, just ask the front desk if you need something.)

Amenities at Four Seasons Silicon Valley

The Four Seasons Palo Alto offers a selection of leisure amenities. Indulge in a vigorous workout session at the hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness center or lounge by the serene outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery.

Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment or use their complimentary business center with free Wi-Fi. They also provide 24-hour concierge services.

Fitness and Wellness at Four Seasons Silicon Valley  

Fitness Center

The fitness center at Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto has a contemporary design and high-tech facilities. 

Train on the latest cardio and strength training equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, strength training equipment, Peloton bikes, and free weights. You can also use personal training services, participate in group fitness classes, or book private yoga sessions for a fee.

The fitness center is open 24 hours a day. You can reserve one of three Tonal capsules and have certain equipment sent to your room.

Rooftop Swimming Pool

The pool at the Four Seasons Palo Alto offers a relaxing atmosphere for guests to unwind and soak up the California sun.

Comfortable lounge chairs and umbrellas allow you to relax and enjoy the poolside ambiance. And cabanas line the pool area as well. You’ll find towels and sunscreen available up here and a seasonal bar.

Spa and Wellness   

Four Seasons Palo Alto Spa and Wellness Center is an urban oasis with soothing décor of earthy colors, natural wood, and soft lighting. The spa has a peaceful ambiance with luxurious amenities, including private treatment rooms, saunas, and a relaxation lounge.

Indulge in various services, including massages, facials, body treatments, and beauty services, by a team of highly skilled therapists who offer personalized treatments tailored to meet your needs. The natural surroundings of Silicon Valley inspire some services, such as their signature massage and fan favorite, Western Healing.

The Four Seasons Palo Alto spa offers a range of packages and experiences, including bridal packages, couples’ treatments, and seasonal specials. It also features a boutique offering skincare products, bath and body products, and candles to continue relaxation at home.

The Neighborhood: Palo Alto, CA

Palo Alto, California, is a vibrant and dynamic city in the heart of Silicon Valley.

While many people visit for business reasons, there are things to do. Visiting the sprawling Stanford University can help you clock in your daily steps (I advise a hat and sunscreen).

The historic Stanford Theatre showcases classic films from the 1920s to the 1960s. Art lovers should check out the Cantor Arts Center’s diverse collection, including Egyptian artifacts, contemporary art, and works by famous artists. I recommend catching a sporting event.

I enjoy Stanford Shopping Center at the edge of campus. It’s a lovely outdoor mall anchored by major department stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdales, with a nice mix of luxury stores, boutiques, and fast-casual food.

Off-campus, outdoor enthusiasts will love Arastradero Preserve, with over 600 acres of hiking and biking trails. An ideal destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests.

Another great outdoor attraction is Gamble Garden, a public two-acre garden with various plants, flowers, and trees.

If you’re traveling with kids, stop into the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo. This interactive museum features hands-on exhibits and live animal displays that allow kids to learn about science and nature. Visitors can also participate in animal feedings and behind-the-scenes tours to get a closer look at the zoo’s residents. 

Kids will also love Baylands Nature Preserve with its 1,940 acres of wetlands, trails, and wildlife habitats. You can participate in guided nature walks, bird watching, and other educational activities to learn more about the local ecosystem.

Ask the Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto concierge for even more idea.s

Reservations at Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley at East Palo Alto

I can book you in with Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits

• Daily breakfast for two in the Hotel restaurant
• Hotel/Resort Credit* (based on room category booked):
  • Guest Rooms: USD 100 credit per stay
  • Suites and Specialty Suites: USD 200 credit per stay
  • Private Retreats: USD 200 credit per bedroom per stay
• Upgrade of one category, based on availability at time of check-in**
• Welcome note at check-in acknowledging you and your travel agency and the benefits that are being extended
• Complimentary standard Internet in all guest rooms and premium Internet in all suites

REQUEST A PREFERRED PARTNER RATE

*Hotel/Resort Credit may be applied to select incidental charges incurred at the Hotel or Resort. Must be used in conjunction with the initial stay and will be applied at check-out. May not be applied towards the room rate, taxes, resort fees, service charges, conference fees, or any charges from outside vendors. Exclusions may apply; contact the Hotel/Resort for more details.

When a suite is reserved in connection with another guest room or suite, the cumulative credit (based on room category booked) value applies.

The Private Retreats credit applies to Villas and Residences with a minimum average rate per night (before Resort fees and taxes) of USD 1,000.

**Category upgrade based on availability at time of check-in excludes Specialty Suites, Villas and the Private Retreats collection of Villas and Residences.

Peppa Pig is loved by millions of families worldwide, and now everyone’s favorite British pig has her own theme park in Winter Haven, Florida. As a part of LEGOLAND Florida Resort, the theme park features places to stay, annual passes, and your usual general admission tickets. 

You can either spend a night in a fun themed Florida resort that the kids will adore or buy a ticket for the day and enjoy the rides and attractions. Go on a family-friendly thrill ride on Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster, climb and explore Peppa Pig’s Treehouse, and discover prehistoric surprises at Grampy Rabbit’s Dinosaur Adventure. 

Can you think of anything better for your kid’s first theme park memories than a magical land that brings their favorite cartoon character to life?

You can buy discount Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida tickets online to get more out of your trip for less money. We’ve listed the most reliable ways below so you don’t have to spend time on coupons, promo codes, special offers, and deals that don’t work.

You can save on tickets, tours, and hotels through my affiliations. If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated.

Gate Prices for Peppa Pig Theme Park 

If you approach the gate on the day you want to visit the theme park, the walk-up price for ONLY Peppa Pig Theme Park will be:

• One-Day Pass: $59.99/person ages 2 and older
• Ages 0-1: Free

You can buy combo tickets that include LEGOLAND Florida. In fact, all multi-day tickets include both parks — Peppa Pig Theme Park and LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park during regular park hours. And a multi-day ticket can also include LEGOLAND Florida Water Park.

The Peppa Pig Theme Park tickets are valid from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. unless there are any special schedules.

There are three combo ticket options available, and the gate prices start at:

• 1-day pass: Starting from $149
• 2-day pass: Starting from $174
• 3-day pass: Starting from $164 (yes, this price is currently lower than a 2-day)

Ticket prices vary by day and whether you include the water park as well, so it pays to plan ahead. Guests ages 2 and older will need a ticket to enter the theme park, so even your preschoolers and toddlers will need a pass to enjoy the rides and attractions.

Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida Discount Options

To save money on admission to Peppa Pig’s fun new park, you can look online for discount ticket prices.

Here are some of the ways you can save and make the most out of your budget:

1. Discount One- and Two-Day Combo Legoland Florida and Peppa Pig Tickets 

aRes is a San Diego-based authorized ticket seller who offers exclusive discounts to major theme parks and attractions throughout the United States. You can bundle great packages on their site that often include special deals on local hotels.

There are awesome travel deals on their site that are always changing, so you can easily plan ahead and get the best prices for your dream family vacation destinations. 

Right now, there are one- and two-day LEGOLAND Florida and Peppa Pig combo tickets starting at $93 per person. Compared to the $119 two-day pass on the official site, this is a great deal.

In addition to exploring Peppa Pig’s magical Florida theme park, you and the kids can enjoy over 50 rides and attractions at LEGOLAND Florida. It’s the perfect place to make theme park memories together, with many interactive attractions and kid-friendly rides. 

Here is the breakdown of the aRes Travel LEGOLAND Florida and Peppa Pig combo tickets. Tax is included.

2. Discount Legoland Florida, Legoland Water Park, and Peppa Pig Two- and Three-Day Tickets

Now, if you visit during the open season, you can take a trip to LEGOLAND Florida and its amazing, family-friendly water park. There are many places to splash, slide, and play, and different areas are suitable for children ages 2 to 12.

The build-a-raft attraction is always a hit, and there are many large structures for kids to climb before taking an adventurous slide into the pool.

If you want to combine your Peppa Pig trip with a LEGOLAND Florida adventure, these two- and three-day passes are the best deals. Access to all of the parks is bundled into the ticket, which gives you plenty of time to visit the best rides without feeling like you need to rush. 

3. Legoland Florida Hotel Package Bundle

The LEGOLAND Florida family vacation bundle is the ultimate getaway if you’re looking to see everything the theme parks have to offer. If you’re looking to save on both your tickets and accommodations for the duration of your stay, this is the best deal.

You can choose from one, two, or three days of park access and decide whether you want access to just LEGOLAND Florida and Peppa Pig Theme Park or if you want to bundle LEGOLAND’s water park into your trip as well.

There are 10 different hotels to choose from, all with their own great amenities ranging from complimentary breakfasts to swimming pools on-site. What’s more, Winter Haven is just a short drive from Orlando and Tampa, so you can easily hop in the car and go on great day trips without paying for more hotels. 

Prices for the LEGOLAND Florida hotel bundle vary by the duration of your stay and the type of tickets you buy; click here to explore your options.

4. Military Discount

Veterans and active-duty service members can access the LEGOLAND Florida hotels and theme parks at exclusive rates.

Discounted tickets and hotel rates are available directly through LEGOLAND. Ask your local ITT office about discounted tickets that include a free second day. 

5. Build a Legoland Hotel Bundle

If you book on the site, some resort packages start at $89 per person. These packages include access to LEGOLAND theme and water parks and the Peppa Pig Theme Park for one day.

If you stay in one of the three on-site hotels, there are fun perks for kids, like daily in-room treasure hunts with a keepsake souvenir, access to the resort pools, a separate sleeping area for kids in every room, and free breakfast. 

6. CityPAss Orlando

The best sightseeing pass that has Peppa Pig Theme Park tickets on it is CityPASS Orlando. You can add a variety of ticket options to the pass from:

• LEGOLAND Florida Resort
• Walt Disney World Resort
• Universal Orlando Resort
• SeaWorld Orlando

It basically works like a build-your-own pass. You can add your preferred ticket type from as many of the above theme parks as you would like.

Annual Membership Ticket Savings

If you want to visit Peppa and friends multiple times throughout the year, you might benefit from buying one of the theme park’s annual passes. Members get special discounts, free standard parking, and exclusive Peppa Pig theme collectibles.

Monthly pay options for annual passes start at just $17.99. There are two annual passes to choose from:

Gold Annual Pass

Gold members get access to LEGOLAND’s theme park and water park, and Peppa Pig Theme Park throughout the year, but some blackout dates apply. 

They also receive free self-parking, and exclusive discounts on food and drinks and LEGOLAND Florida hotels.

If you sign up for this pass, you can get friend and family discount tickets, collectible items, a digital pass, and admission to more local attractions. 

The monthly cost is $17.99, and the full cost of the Gold membership is $269.99.

Platinum Annual Pass

All of the perks of the Gold membership get better when you go Platinum. You’ll still get access to all three LEGOLAND parks, but no blackout dates apply. This means you have true unlimited visits year-round.

Platinum members also get free preferred parking and admission to 30+ Merlin attractions nationwide. These include all of the LEGOLAND Discovery Centers, the SEA LIFE aquariums, and Madame Tussaud’s museums. 

The Platinum Pass costs $19.99 per month or $299.99 per year.

Important Tips for Visiting the Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida

Before you go, download the Peppa Pig Theme Park official mobile app. This allows you to make a plan for your visit. You can look at the different attractions, make a travel guide, and even see wait times for each ride.

You’ll be able to check out all the attractions and rides before you go, like Muddy Puddles Splash Pad, Rebecca Rabbit’s Playground, Peppa’s Bike Tour, and Daddy Pig’s Roller Coaster. The app can make it easier to see how long the wait times are and get your little ones ready accordingly. 

Standard parking can be purchased when you arrive, and the ticket booths open about 30 minutes before the parks. You can also save time and purchase preferred parking online for $40. 

Food and drinks are allowed at Peppa Pig Theme Park, but you must follow the guidelines. No food that requires heating or refrigeration is permitted on the grounds, and you cannot bring any alcohol or glass containers into the park. 

Hard-sided coolers are completely banned, and soft coolers must not be larger than 8.5 inches wide, 6 inches tall, and 6 inches deep.

Be sure to research LEGOLAND’s site for official updates on blackout dates when discounts and special deals won’t apply. 

Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida Tickets Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is the best time to visit Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida?

The park opens at 9, and you might want to arrive 15 to 20 minutes earlier to avoid a line. The middle of the week tends to have fewer crowds. 

Fridays, the weekend, and Mondays are the busiest times, so you can have a much more relaxed experience if you visit the park sometime in the middle of the week.

The park is busiest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., with crowds tending to disperse throughout the afternoon until the park closes at 5 p.m.

Does Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida offer a discount for seniors?

No, there is currently no senior discount at the theme park. 

Does Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida offer a student discount?

No, general admission prices apply to students as well. 

Is Peppa Pig a part of Legoland?

Yes, Peppa Pig is a LEGOLAND theme park, even though it has its own separate location. You don’t have to purchase access to LEGOLAND if you want to visit Peppa Pig Theme Park, but bundled tickets are available.

How much is it to go to Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida?

Tickets range from $34 to $129 if you buy online, and the gate price of a single-day ticket is $149.99 per person (ages 2 and up). You can save more by booking ahead of time and using aRes Travel for discounted LEGOLAND + Peppa Pig combo tickets. 

What age is best for Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida? 

The park is open to guests of all ages, but the rides and attractions were made with children ages 2 to 6 in mind. Preschoolers will have the most fun visiting Peppa and all her family and friends at the theme park.

See also: How to buy discount tickets to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park

Established in 1965, the Timken Museum of Art contains valuable works, including European old masters, American art, and Russian icons.

Founding director Walter Ames established the museum to house the personal collection of heiresses Amy and Anne Putnam. It’s in a prime location inside Balboa Park, one of Southern California’s most beautiful parks, next to the San Diego Museum of Art and the Botanical Building.

Its white, marble, and bronze exterior architecture is something to admire also before you walk into this free attraction. But you should step inside to see the only Rembrandt in San Diego, Saint Bartholomew.

Five Highlights to See

Here are some highlights of the Timken Museum of Art: 

• Rembrandt van Rijin, Saint Bartholomew (1657): This striking painting of Saint Bartholomew, one of the twelve apostles holding a butcher knife (symbolic of his martyrdom), really should be seen in person.
• Luca Carlevarijs, The Piazzetta at Venice (1700-10): As a traveler, I appreciate that this scene of Venice is largely the same today.
• Pieter Brueghel the Elder, Parable of the Sower (1557): A beautiful interpretation of the Biblical parable of the sower by one of the greatest Flemish painters of the 16th century. I love the colors.
• Francois Boucher, Lovers in a Park (1758): Boucher was the favorite artist of Louis XV’s mistress Madame de Pompadour, and this style of art is associated with the king’s reign.
• Russian Icons: Timken’s collection fills a small room. Each Russian icon tells a story of faith, a holy person or an event, painted on a wooden panel in line with the beliefs and standards of the Orthodox Church.

Things to Know Before Visiting the Timken Museum of Art 

There are several important considerations to keep in mind before visiting the Timken Museum of Art. These include the following.

Donation-BAsed Admission & Hours

The Timken Museum of Art is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Wednesday to Sunday. The museum occasionally closes for special events, so keep an eye on the website to ensure you can enter.

The museum is unique in not requiring payment or tickets to enter. Donations are accepted in any amount that guests feel is appropriate. The recommended amount is $7.

The museum also offers memberships for frequent guests, which grants you 20% off at the gift shop, among other privileges.

Download The App

Timken has a great phone app to help you learn more about each painting. The app has an intuitive interface and a built-in scavenger hunt for the kids!

Free Guided Tours

Groups of adults and school groups can schedule free docent-guided tours of the museum that last 45-60 minutes.

Visiting with Kids

Of course, accompanied kids are welcome. Because it’s a small museum, you must check empty strollers and backpack carriers at the front desk. Strollers in use and front baby carriers are okay.

You’ll need to be sure you carry your handbag in front of you as well, not on your hip or your back.

Food and Beverages

Keep all food and beverages sealed and concealed in your bag, or leave them at the front desk.

Although the museum does not have an eatery, you can find many restaurants and cafes in Balboa Park. Panama 66 (one of our favorites) is just across the courtyard from the museum.

Gift Shop

The small gift area at the front of the museum. You can find unique handmade items, sophisticated jewelry, and books on art and architecture. All proceeds from the gift shop directly support the museum. The gift shop often features one-of-a-kind gifts during the holidays.

Parking

It’s free to park in the Balboa Park parking lots, and a tram circles through some of them to shorten the walk to and from your car.

The closest lots are south of the Timken Museum, adjacent to the International Houses, San Diego Air & Space Museum. The Alcazar Lot is probably the closest, but any other nearby lots will do.

Fun Facts About the Timken Museum of Art 

The Timken Museum of Art has an interesting history that even residents may not know about.

1. It Stands on a Historic Site

The building’s past makes it a significant cultural landmark.

The Timken Museum stands on the historic site of the former Home Economy Building. Constructed in 1915 for the Panama-California Exposition, the building stood in Balboa Park and served multiple uses until its demise in 1962.

2. Henry Timken Was a Hero 

Henry Timken, who helped fund the museum, was a German immigrant and a 19th-century inventor and entrepreneur.

Long story short, he patented a tapered roller bearing for carriages that enabled wheels to turn with less friction. His invention rocked the transportation market, and by 1923, a whopping ninety percent of the country’s roller bearings came from his company.

The Timken Museum was one of many philanthropic endeavors that Henry Timken funded, and his legacy lives on through this cultural gem. 

3. It’s Comprised of The Putnam Collection

Timken Museum’s art collection is mostly thanks to the paintings acquired by sisters Amy and Anne Putnam and, subsequently, their foundation. However, this was only the last gesture in a long legacy of anonymous donations.

The sisters donated works of art to the San Diego Museum of Art throughout the 1940s and other prominent museums nationwide. In fact, the Timken Museum of Art was established to bring pieces to San Diego that were on loan abroad.

4. You Can Attend Neat Events

I’m a huge fan of checking museum calendars to see what is on tap. During my last visit to the Timken, you could sign up for a flower arranging class (which has since sold out due to high demand).

You can also sign up for virtual talks and tours.

5. The Museum Gives Back 

Timken is involved in many local charitable causes. The museum offers art classes to boys and girls incarcerated in juvenile detention.

It also works with veterans healing from mental and physical injuries at the VA San Diego Healthcare System. 

Why We Love the Timken Museum of Art 

Balboa Park is at the heart of San Diego’s cultural hub, and it’s so, so easy to step into the Timken Museum of Art for a little bit to see some truly special paintings. It’s next door to the San Diego Museum of Art and adjacent to the Botanical Building and Lily Pond.

The app provides insight into each painting that adds tremendous value to your experience. You will definitely learn something new.

And, yes, it’s small but why not step inside? It’s free to enter.

Whether you’re a thrill-ride enthusiast or more of a mini-coaster rider, Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, MO, has something for everyone. Live shows, attractions, rides, and shopping abound at this quaint Kansas City gem.

However, like any amusement park, it’s crucial to plan ahead whenever possible to ensure your family has fun without breaking the bank.

One of the easiest ways to save money is through discounted Worlds of Fun tickets. We have advice on how to find them so that you don’t waste time on coupons, special offers, and deals that don’t work.

You can save on tickets, tours, and hotels through my affiliations. If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated.

Gate Prices for Worlds of Fun Amusement Park

Gate prices at Worlds of Fun are what you pay if you walk up to the ticket booth without a pre-purchased pass, similar to a concert or movie ticket.

Usually, a gate price is higher-priced than advance tickets per person, especially on weekends or holidays like Labor Day.

The average gate price ticket at Worlds of Fun is

• 1-Day Pass: $70.67 (ages 3+)
• 2-Day Pass: $141.35
• Ages 0-2: Free

Please note that a gate price can change at any time and fluctuate depending on the time of year.

Worlds of Fun & Oceans of Fun Discounted Ticket Options 

Whether you want to book a one-time Saturday trip to Kansas City or access Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun waterpark (on the same property as the theme park!) year-round, below are the best-priced tickets at Worlds of Fun and discount Oceans of Fun tickets.

1. Discounted Single-Day Worlds of Fun Tickets

One of the easiest ways to save extra money at Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun is with single-day tickets through aRes Travel.

aRes Travel sells authorized tickets for theme parks across the United States, including Worlds of Fun. They offer the best price on single-day Worlds of Fun tickets without hidden fees.

There’s a $2 per ticket service fee but you may still come out ahead as tickets sold directly through Worlds of Fun online are subject to taxes and a one-time $6.99 service fee.

2. Discounted 2-Day Worlds of Fun Tickets

The Worlds of Fun two-day ticket from aRes Travel saves money and grants access to Oceans of Fun. These 2-day passes provide a bundle deal – so you enjoy both attractions without paying extra ticket fees. The two-day pass works well for travelers who are not from Kansas City.

If you purchase a 2-day ticket from aRes Travel, you could save up to 50%! Note that if you want to explore the Oceans of Fun park, you can only do so from the end of May to the beginning of September – normally Labor Day. 

3. Season Passes

Buying a season ticket is a great way to access discount visits to Worlds of Fun. Season pass buyers also receive several benefits and perks unavailable to those with single or two-day tickets.

Some benefits of season tickets include free parking, exclusive ride times, early entry to the park (including Oceans of Fun), and more. There are a few varieties of season tickets to choose from – check them out below!

Worlds of Fun Platinum Pass Tickets

The Platinum Pass allows unlimited visits to both Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun. You receive free parking, unlimited Halloween Haunt and Cedar Fair Parks visits, exclusive ride times, and early entry to the park at a discount.

The package also includes a bring-a-friend ticket and costs around $21 (not counting fees) per month for 2023.

World of Fun Gold Pass Tickets

The Gold Pass allows unlimited visits to Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun. Other perks include free parking, exclusive ride times, and early entry to the park. The difference from the Platinum ticket is that you don’t get unlimited visits to Cedar Fair Parks.

However, you can get a 10% discount on food and Merchandise discounts. The ticket costs $8 monthly or $94 for 2023 before service fees.

World of Fun Silver Pass Tickets

The Silver Pass is cheaper than the gold and platinum options but has fewer benefits. This Worlds of Fun season ticket costs $84 for 2023, and you do not receive unlimited visits to the Halloween Haunt event or Cedar Fair Parks.

You get unlimited Oceans of Fun, summer, and fall visits with free parking and a 10% discount on merchandise with the Silver Pass.

4. Group Sale Discounts for 15+ People

Groups ranging from 15 people to 99 parkgoers (kids 3+) can purchase the one-day group admission ticket at a discount. One-day group tickets cost $34.99 each, but those prices may fluctuate throughout busy seasons. 

You can make the experience even smoother with advance tickets, and tickets purchased online. 

5. Student Discounts and Youth Group Deals

The student and youth group ticket options provide engaging and fun learning experiences while allowing kids to enjoy the park rides after the learning sessions end. Worlds of Fun offers programs like Girl Scout Day and Performance in the Park to celebrate talented youth.

Student group tickets can come with catered food or meal vouchers, depending on your budget. You can also give each student Beagle Bucks, which work like cash, as soon as they enter the gate.

6. Bring-A-Friend Tickets

Going on rides alone isn’t ideal, so Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun offer Bring-A-Friend tickets!

While these tickets are only available to gold and platinum pass holders for purchase, they make it easy to build your group and save on ticket costs.

7. AAA Member Discounts

By being an AAA member, you qualify for the AAA discount. Worlds of Fun is a AAA affiliate and will honor new and old members with less-than-gate prices.

You’ll need to check with your local club for pricing and availability. AAA members can also book vacation packages through Worlds of Fun directly at discounted pricing.

8. Worlds of Fun Pre-K Pass

The Worlds of Fun free Pre-K Pass offers free admission for juniors aged 3 to 5.

You must have a gold or platinum pass to use the Free Pre-K option. You do not have to be from Kansas City to use the Pre-K discount.

You’ll need to apply for the Pre-K Pass by a certain date, which in 2023 is August 1.

9. Military Discounts on Tickets and Passes

The Worlds of Fun park enjoys the privilege of offering military discounts to active and retired personnel. This discount extends to family members and kids.

Single-day tickets start at $25.99, or you may opt for a discounted Military Gold Pass that includes free parking and other perks throughout the parks.

10. Worlds of Fun Hotel & Tickets Package 

Are you interested in booking a hotel in the Kansas City area while enjoying Worlds of Fun? You can save even more with a park and hotel bundle. Choose from 17 nearby hotels.

Worlds of Fun Upgrades

In addition to daily tickets, Worlds of Fun offers several ticket upgrades for parkgoers. The currently available add-ons are below.

Dining

No trip to an amusement park is complete without delicious food! Dining add-ons at Worlds of Fun can include:

• All Season Dining. This pass covers lunch and dinner every time you visit the park.
• Season Pass Paper Cup. It covers free refills any time you’re in the park, with 15 minutes between each interval.
• Drink Bottle Season Pass. It covers free refills and holds more than the paper cup.
• All Day Dining Pass. It covers one entree and side in a participating restaurant in the park.

Other options include a Single Meal Deal, which covers one meal per visit, and a Souvenir Bottle/Wristband tier that grants free refills every visit. 

Fast Lane

The Fast Lane add-on allows you to enjoy shorter wait times at the gate for your favorite rides and attractions. Worlds of Fun has three options for Fast Lane passes — Single-Use Pass, Fast Lane Season Pass Plus, and the Fright & Fast Lane Pass during the Halloween season.

Note: You will still need to buy park admission!

The Fright & Fast Lane Pass provides access to 6 Extreme Haunts via the Fast Lane and the standard Worlds of Fun rides. Like the Single Use Fast Lane Pass, the Fright & Fast only works for one date. All options are per person.

FunPix

The FunPix add-on is excellent for families or friends that want to remember their day at Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun. 

FunPix comes in two options: a one-day pass or a season pass. The Single Day FunPix pass includes capturing, sharing, and collecting your professional-grade images for one visit to the park. After your visit, you will receive the photos via email or text and be able to download them.

The FunPix Season Pass is the same as the single-day option, but you can enjoy the add-on throughout the season and with every visit. Plus, you get professional photos from the new Zambezi Zinger ride!

Cabanas

If you want a private, relaxing experience while your kids enjoy the thrills and attractions of Worlds of Fun, the Cabana add-on may be your dream come true. There are four cabana tiers available:

• Luxury Loungers: The cheapest option includes a luxurious padded poolside chair and Caribbean Cooler (swim-up bar) access.
• Standard Cabanas: The Standard options have a ceiling fan, lounge chairs, lockbox, meal delivery (sold separately), and sunscreen.
• Premium Cabanas: These have all the above features, plus flat-screen TVs, six bottles of water, towels, a tote bag, and a patio table and chairs. 
• Oasis Cabanas: Oasis Cabanas have Premium features and waterfall views but do not have lounge chairs. 

Perfect for beating the heat or enhancing your park experience, the Worlds of Fun cabanas are convenient for families and groups. 

Rentals

Carrying around your bags and necessities isn’t only cumbersome but makes it way more likely to lose something in the park. Worlds of Fun provides season pass locker rentals, or you can rent by the day. There are also electric wheelchair rentals.

Worlds of Fun Tickets: 5 Tips for Visiting

There are a few insider tips you may want to know before visiting Worlds of Fun. Below are some recommendations so you can have the best experience!

1. Halloween season brings the Haunt event, which offers haunted houses and other spooky activities and may not be the best option for little ones. However, the Great Pumpkin Fest goes until October 30 and suits all ages!
2. Find out what’s new! Worlds of Fun is re-imagining its classic Zinger coaster in 2023 with a modernized ride called the Zambezi Zinger. Find out when the ride will be ready here.
3. Invest in a souvenir cup to save money on refills.
4. See what live shows will be available during your visit.
5. If you can, avoid going on Saturday or other busy times of the year, like July, to avoid crowds. Kansas City can also get hot in the summer.

Overall, Worlds of Fun makes it easy for park visitors to make the most of their trip even if they opt out of ticket add-ons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you still wondering about purchasing Worlds of Fun discount tickets? Read on for frequently asked questions from other potential parkgoers.

Does Worlds of Fun Amusement Park currently offer a student discount?

Yes, the amusement park has discounted group tickets for student and youth groups, but not for individual tickets. You do not have to be from Kansas City to receive the discount.

Does Worlds of Fun currently offer a first responder discount?

Worlds of Fun has a military discount but not a First Responder option. Military members (active or veteran) and their families get discounted season passes and single-day tickets.

Is there A teacher discount? 

Currently, Worlds of Fun does not offer discounted tickets for teachers. However, teachers may want to check the tips and options above to get the best tickets.

A list of the best restaurants in Old Town San Diego looks a lot different now than when I first started going there to eat (dare I say) a few decades ago.

Sure, some are touristy, but that’s part of their charm. People weave Mexican food and perhaps a fishbowl-sized margarita into their itinerary after sightseeing throughout this historic neighborhood, known as the birthplace of California.

Nowadays, you can visit Old Town San Diego just for the food. To give you an idea, one of the Old Town San Diego restaurants we like has a Michelin Star. You’ll also discover great spots for sushi, pasta, seafood, vegetarian and even Venezuelan fare. 

Have you ever dripped your own bone marrow over a birria taco? I recommend you come to Old Town to try it. The fresh-off-the-grill tortillas with fresh honey butter that you can find in a few spots (including number one below) are also personal favorites.

1. Café Coyote

• 2461 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 291-4695
• cafecoyoteoldtown.com

I feel like a traditional Mexican restaurant needs to top the list. People seek out Mexican food in Old Town San Diego. Café Coyote has been voted Best Mexican by the California Restaurant Association for twenty years.

It’s family-friendly and easy to find. As with some other Old Town San Diego Mexican restaurants, you’ll want to try the delicious handmade tortillas prepared daily by friendly tortilla makers — you and the kids can watch as they are made. 

The festive atmosphere has strolling mariachis, bubbling water fountains, and friendly staff. The colorful papel picado banners (cut-out paper sheets, a Mexican folk art classic) decorating the outdoor patio dining area add to the jubilant mood and fit the casual Old Town vibe.

Café Coyote is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. House favorites include rolled tacos, albondigas soup, fajita veggie bowl, chimichanga, margarita shrimp tacos, chipotle camarones, and buñuelos for dessert. 

2. Sushi Tadokoro

• 2244 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 297-0298
• sushitadokoro.com

If you’ve had a busy day of shopping and sightseeing and want to wind down away from the activity of the more touristy Old Town San Diego restaurants, Sushi Tadokoro is a terrific choice.

Located just south of the historic district, this one-Michelin-star venue prepares traditional Japanese-style sushi in an intimate setting that puts you face-to-face with your sushi chefs. 

This mini sushi counter offers a rotating selection of fish and endless creations to keep patrons happy. Fresh ingredients include California coast sea urchin, British Columbia oysters, and Hokkaido scallops. 

Some of the countless sushi possibilities here include grilled Chilean sea bass, saba salmon toro, omakase sashimi, and nigiri aji. Give the San Diego roll a try—it comes with fresh salsa and a lemon slice—and help yourself to some house-made gyoza, too. Sushi Tadokoro is THE place for seafood lovers and true sushi connoisseurs.   

3. Old Town Urban Market

• 2548 Congress St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 995-5510
• oturbanmarket.com
• Closed Sundays

If you’re a foodie who likes to try a little of this and a little of that, you’ll love Old Town Urban Market. It’s a . This vibrant food hall is a collection of several counter-order eateries serving award-winning culinary creations, just outside the state historic park.

Tuetano Taqueria serves birria tacos with spicy sauce and bone marrow — the ultimate comfort food — and several other items, including fish tacos and tortas. At Ruth’s No. 5, you can load up on specialty brand salsas, such as roasted salsa verde and spicy piña, and handmade tortilla chips, all vegan, gluten-free, and kosher (many are also halal and you can also find them at several local farmer’s markets). 

Elote serves tasty corn-centric creations—Mexican-style corn on the cob street food—plus refreshing agua fresca. Mar Rustico offers plates and bowls with sea-inspired recipes. Try their fish tacos, shrimp ceviche, or the super decadent smoked marlin burrito (the letter is a specialty).

You can sip wine from sustainable, family-owned wineries at The Wine Shop. Check back occasionally as new eateries are set to open in this eclectic hall (and some have already rotated out).

4. Tahona Bar

• 2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 255-2090
• tahonabar.com
• Open for dinner/happy hour only and closed Mondays

Tahona Bar is an Old Town San Diego Mexican restaurant centered around a curated collection of over 120 types of mezcal. The Baja California and Oaxaca-focused menu is outstanding and a bit more upscale Mexican than you’ll find in other nearby restaurants.

Try the corn croquetas, tempura squash blossom, carnitas bao bun, ahi tostada, or tempura nori tortilla taco. Check out their menu for other fusion creations, and save room for dessert—like the chocolate plantain served over ice cream. 

Happy hour (currently Wednesday—Friday) is a great time to try what Tahona Bar is best known for: its mezcal. Order a mezcal flight with your meal, or participate in a mezcal tasting (reservations are required for the tasting). 

We’d place it higher on this list, but it’s only open from happy hour onward, and most people visit the historic neighborhood during the day.

5. Harney Sushi

• 3964 Harney St, San Diego, CA 92110 
• (619) 295-3272
• harneysushi.com

Harney Sushi serves a wide selection of sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese cuisine favorites, including tempura and miso soup. Offering traditional and creative fusion flavors, this place is ideal for date nights, or anytime you’re in the mood for amazing sushi. It’s a favorite of locals.

The menu is extensive. In addition to serving popular specialties—orange crush, lightning roll, Maui wowie, Bruce Lee, mellow yellow nigiri, moon dance, dragon roll, tuna maki, and more—Harney Sushi offers cooked entrees, such as katsu chicken, Mongolian beef stir fry, and even a bento box for the kids.

Add a traditional soup or salad—try one of their specialty miso soups or the Chuka seaweed salad—or an appetizer, such as oysters, classic tempura, or specialty edamame.

Some vegetarian and vegan options are listed on the menu, including avocado maki, mushroom roll, vegetarian roll, vegan rainbow, and others. The beverage selection includes alcoholic options, including beers, sake, wines, and cocktails, and non-alcoholic sodas, teas, and juices (try the lychee juice).  

6. Casa de Reyes

• 2754 Calhoun St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 220-5040
• casadereyesrestaurant.com

What makes Casa de Reyes one of the best Old Town San Diego restaurants is the festive garden setting you’ll enjoy while dining here. It’s just a nice place to enjoy traditional Mexican favorites outside in good weather. It’s an easy stop while walking around the Old Town State Historic Park.

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are marked on the menu for convenience. Vegan choices include soft corn tacos and veggie enchiladas with plant-based cheese. Gluten-free items include shrimp ceviche, enchiladas, tacos, and chicken mole poblano. On the drinks menu, you’ll find many different specialty margaritas, which you can get for the table by the pitcher. Horchata is also on the menu.

You’ll find all your favorites at Casa de Reyes: chicken rolled tacos, quesadillas, steak and shrimp burritos, chile rellenos, fajitas, and more. On the weekend, you can order breakfast items until noon. Try the machaca burrito with scrambled egg or the egg, potato, and cheese — a popular breakfast burrito (or all-day burrito in my family). 

7. Old Town Tequila Factory

• 2467 Juan St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 260-8124
• oldtowntequilafactory.com

A lot of first-timers come for the view—which is spectacular—but it’s the food and warm hospitality that keeps them coming back. (Okay, and the views.) 

Perched high above the historic district, overlooking rooftops, city lights, and a panoramic view stretching from Mission Valley to the airport, Old Town Tequila Factory is a great place to bring out-of-town guests. It’s also a fantastic choice for celebrations — or just because. 

Despite the prime location, the restaurant is not pretentious. It serves delicious Mexican fare in a colorful setting, including indoor seating in ample dining rooms and lovely outdoor patio areas. You can sit in a cozy, secluded nook or at a table with views that make you say, wow! The lighting and décor add to the great ambiance. 

Menu items include Mexican fiesta ensalada, carne asada Tampiqueña, chicken or beef tamale, enchiladas del mar, blackened Hawaiian mahi mahi, Baja fish tacos, and deep-fried ice cream sundae. 

8. Old Town Mexican Café 

• 2489 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110 
• (619) 297-4330
• oldtownmexcafe.com

Serving Mexican fare since 1977, Old Town Mexican Café is as authentic as it gets. Handmade tortillas are prepared daily and are regarded as some of the best in town.

You can watch them being made from scratch. Every day, teams of tortilla ladies prepare over 3,000 corn and 5,600 flour tortillas the traditional way. 

But it’s not just about the tortillas. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Old Town Mexican Café serves various favorites, including carnitas, street tacos, spicy tequila ribs, and shrimp tacos. Vegetarian burritos, tostadas, and fajitas are also on the menu.

This is one of the best restaurants in Old Town San Diego because you can have brunch here every day of the week until noon. This is the place to go if you’re craving a breakfast torta, chorizo con huevos, or breakfast tacos.  

9. Barra Barra Saloon

• 4016 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 291-3200
• barrabarrasaloon.com

Many of the best restaurants in Old Town San Diego offer nice patio seating day and night, but you may want to sit inside indoors at Barra Barra. It’s a period saloon from the mid-1800s, a timeframe that saw Mexican and American traditions blend, located inside Fiesta de Reyes at the north end of the historic district.

The covered patio dining area includes fire pits and neat hanging light fixtures, which is nice, too. Go for the margaritas and tequila selection. Order from various specialties, including queso fundido, vegetarian empanadas, Indian flatbread tacos, and Barra Barra seafood paella.

A number of the menu items can be modified to make them vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free, so check with your server beforehand for suggestions. Kids 10 and under eat free (one child per paying adult), making this restaurant a great choice for families.   

10. Casa Guadalajara

• 4105 Taylor St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 295-5111
• casaguadalajara.com

Casa Guadalajara is among the best restaurants in Old Town San Diego because of the combination of festive decor and food.

Whether you dine inside or outside on the patio, you’ll have a delightful sensory experience. The colors are bright and cheery yet relaxing, with exquisite tile work, intricate wood carvings, stained glass features, New Mexico color combinations, and Puebla-style furnishings.

The enclosed Garden Room patio is charming, with its hanging ferns and beautiful Mexican mosaic tables. The courtyard offers an equally lovely setting, complete with a 200-year-old shade tree. 

The recipes pay tribute to the regional villages of Mexico. Try the camaroncitos fritos, chicken tortilla soup, tostada de Jalisco, shrimp fajitas, steak ranchero, mango chipotle chicken, tostada vegetariana, or Guadalajara omelet. Vegetarian dishes are marked VG. 

11. Jack & Giulio’s

• 2391 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 294-2074
• jackandgiulios.com
• Closed Monday and Tuesday

If you’re hungry for great Italian food, head to Jack & Giulio’s, one of the district’s restaurants that doesn’t focus on Mexican fare. This Italian restaurant offers everything from antipasto classico to chicken marsala.

With indoor and outdoor seating, this restaurant takes pride in delivering great service. The vibe is friendly, and the food is fantastic. Formerly a popular restaurant in Pacific Beach, this renamed and relocated eatery has been around in some incarnation since 1961.

At its current location, the family-owned and operated restaurant has been recognized as serving artisanal Italian cooking by friendly staff in a welcoming atmosphere.

Other menu items include Brutus salad, tortelloni verdi, lasagne della casa, angel hair mediterraneo, scampi al pesto, spaghetti al burro, and chicken piccata. An extensive wine list is available, along with other signature drinks (you can get a house-special margarita). Hand-rolled pasta is made fresh daily onsite. 

12. Congress Café 

• 3941 Mason St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 260-8060
• thecongresscafe.com

Rounding out this list of best restaurants in Old Town San Diego is Congress Café, a Venezuelan restaurant behind The Whaley House Museum offering Latin American fusion creations.

Open for breakfast and lunch, the café specializes in traditional Venezuelan cooking, sandwiches, salads, and farmers’ breakfasts.

You can dine in or take your meal to go. Offerings include Venezuelan starters—mini empanadas, tequeños (cheese sticks), fried plantains, and cachapas (corn pancakes). Main plates come with scrambled eggs, arepa, grilled tomatoes and onions, avocado, latin cream, and your choice of shredded beef, black beans, or seasoned fish. 

Try a grilled arepa—an artisanal dish perfect for brunch, made of corn flour and filled with your choice of ingredients, including ham, chorizo, avocado, or salmon. The Platanera arepa has Venezuelan cheese and fried plantains, while La Vegana has black beans, avocado, and fried plantains.

Specialty drinks include Mexican spiced mocha and chai tea latte, among other choices, or enjoy a refreshing natural juice made from mango, pineapple, or passion fruit. 

What are your favorite Old Town San Diego restaurants?

Fiesta Island Park is the largest island on Mission Bay – a manufactured recreational waterway with 27 miles of coastline and 4,235 acres.

The island comprises 463 acres of undeveloped public park and recreational land. Known for its vast open spaces, both large grassy areas and sandy beaches, it’s an outdoor wonderland that welcomes activity. Open to humans, horses, and dogs, there is much to do and explore.

Fiesta Island Park: Breakdown of Where to Go

Fiesta Island Park resulted from dredged sand resulting from expanding Mission Bay. It has since been untouched and remains an undeveloped peninsular island that attracts over five million visitors annually.

You enter the island from the east and exit the island to the west. I’ll show you what to expect as you travel along this loop.  

Fiesta Island Park: East Side

The entrance is on the east side of the island. This part is known for having beaches with calm waters that are great for families with small children.  

Tecolote Cove is the first beach you’ll come across. Enchanted Cove is a little further up in the island’s southeast corner. Both are great spots for water activities like fishing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), rowing, and slow-moving watercraft. The maximum speed limit at these beaches is 5 mph.

Fiesta Island Youth Camp and Youth Aquatic Center is also located in a protected cove on the island’s east side. Sandy bayfront beaches and access to the Pacific Ocean border the popular facility.

However, it is only available for use by San Diego youth groups such as Seascouts, Boys & Girls Club, and YMCA Indian Guides. Children can learn to canoe, sail, kayak, row, SUP, swim, and windsurf.

The Fiesta Island Youth Camp is adjacent to the Aquatic Center, providing 25 campsites to accommodate up to 250 campers. Each campsite has a firepit, barbecue, and picnic table. The campsite has rinsing showers, drinking water, and a centrally placed restroom. There is also a bonfire ring and amphitheater ideal for large campfire gatherings. Again, this is only available to youth groups. Other visitors cannot launch, anchor, or use the beach here.

Once you pass the aquatic center and campgrounds, you can launch your small personal watercraft into Fiesta Bay. The speed limit remains 5 mph on the East side of Fiesta Island Park.

Fiesta Island Park: Center

Once you reach the center of Fiesta Island Park, you’ll find the San Diego famous Over-The-Line (OTL) fields. This is also where the iconic Over-The-Line Tournament is hosted each year.

The esteemed Old Mission Bay Athletic Club has hosted the legendary event since the mid-1950s. If you’re unfamiliar with OTL, it’s a bat-and-ball sport played in teams of three in the sand.

The Over-The-Line fields can also be used to launch model rockets. However, you must obtain a permit from the city beforehand.

The great thing about central Fiesta Island is that there are fewer crowds since people prefer to be shoreside. We like to explore the sand dunes taking in the beautiful native and non-native flora. Some native plants you’ll come across are big saltbush, pickleweed, coastal goldenbush, and beach evening primrose. You may even stumble upon people riding horseback along the way.

Fiesta Island Park: West Side

The west side of Fiesta Island Park is for the high-energy, adventurous, thrill-seeking watercraft and watersport enthusiasts.  On the west side, you’re not limited to the 5 mph limit in the water. Watercraft can go faster (within reason) from morning to night in this area of Fiesta Island. 

The laxer rules of these beaches make them a hot spot for motor and sailboats. Waterskiing and kitesurfing are among the most popular watersports on the west side. However, to waterski, you must first obtain a permit that requires you to be a member of a waterskiing club. You’ll often find watercraft speed competitions here.

Local Tip: There is an isolated cove in the southeastern tip of the west side called Hidden Anchorage. It’s a premier waterski place, so ensure you get that permit.

After passing the beaches on Fiesta Island’s west side, you’ll come upon Stoney Point, adjacent to the dog park.

Stoney Point is the California Least Tern Nesting Area and is gated off with a no trespassing/do not enter sign. Due to the area’s isolation, it provides a good food source and protection for this endangered bird species. Additional signage asks pet owners to keep their dogs from entering the site or barking at the gate to avoid disturbing the birds.

In 2021, the City Council approved a plan to expand and renovate the island. Fiesta Island Park will be expanded from 463 acres to 470 acres. After renovations are completed, Fiesta Island will include an off-leash park, several restroom areas, several dedicated wildlife areas, a campground, and a concession stand.

How to Get to Find Fiesta Island

Situated on Mission Bay, in the seaside neighborhood of Mission Beach, Fiesta Island is easy to find.

You’ll take Interstate 5 and exit Sea World Drive. After exiting, head southwest to make a right on East Mission Bay Drive before finally making a left at Fiesta Island. This is a one-way road that loops around the island. The speed limit on this road is 25 mph.

Where to Park at Fiesta Island Park

There is free parking throughout Fiesta Island Park. You can park anywhere along the road as you drive along the one-way loop.

There are no parking lots currently on the island. You can park directly on the beach if you can’t find parking along the road. No parking is allowed on the island from 10 p.m. – 4 a.m.

Things to Do at Fiesta Island Park

Fiesta Island Park is a tranquil area of uninhabited land and peaceful natural surroundings amid an otherwise urban landscape. With plans to expand and revitalize Fiesta Island, it’s only destined to appeal to a wider variety of tourists and locals.  

This is a great place to explore quieter beaches, take advantage of a massive dog park, and enjoy the island’s unique charms. Fiesta Island provides the freedom and space to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities both on land and in the water. It’s also home to several one-of-a-kind and recurring events.

Fiesta Island Dog Beach

Fiesta Island Dog Beach is by far the most popular and notable aspect of Fiesta Island and one of the best things to do with dogs in San Diego.

It’s such a prominent fixture that Fiesta Island’s original expansion and redesign plans were denied because they would reduce the size and accessibility of the dog park. Instead, the new plan will honor the pup-friendly history by upgrading the off-leash area.

Open daily, 24 hours a day (the island is closed to vehicles between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m.), the expansive park has plenty of sand dunes your dog will love to romp around in. Play catch and frisbee with your playful pooch across the 90 acres. This includes a calm water beach so your pup can splash around with reckless abandon or just cool off.

To fully appreciate its significance to dog lovers, you should know that the park was voted the number one dog park in the nation by USA Today readers.

SeaWorld San Diego is located nearby, so if your dog is especially sensitive to noise, I recommend checking their evening fireworks schedule. Additionally, there are no clean water sources yet, so be sure to bring water for your dog with you.

Tip: Make sure you bring waste bags with you. Respect the park, and pick up after your pup (or horse). There is also a dog bag station at the park entrance if you forget to bring your own. Make sure to grab some when you enter, as the park is quite large.

Watercraft at Fiesta Island Park

Though Fiesta Island Dog Park may be the most notable feature on the island, the beaches on the island’s west side are the most popular.

Personal watercraft owners flock here. You’ll often see motorboats, sailboats, and jet skis launching into and cruising around the water.

Watersports At Fiesta Island Park

There are so many water and land activities to get into at Fiesta Island Park. Fun things to do in Mission Bay like swimming, sunbathing, fishing, SUP, kayaking, and canoeing are popular on the island’s east side.

This is because the water is much calmer and watercraft are not allowed to go above 5 mph near these beaches. This also makes them the ideal beaches for families with children. You can play in the water during the day and have a bonfire to roast s’mores while you watch the sunset.  

The west side beaches allow watercraft to go at higher speeds making jet skiing, waterskiing, and sailing popular activities. The higher winds and more intense waves make it a hot spot for kiteboarding and windsurfing.

Kayakers, canoers, and paddleboarders can also use these beaches, but the intense waves make it more challenging, and, frankly, not as fun.

Run, Walk, Or Bike the Loop

The Fiesta Island Park loop is two miles of mostly flat land, making it a great route to run, walk, or bike. Since the entire park is dog-friendly, they can exercise alongside you if they’re on a leash.

If you have a horse, bring it along and explore the park via horseback. You can also play beach volleyball, Over-The-Line, corn-hole, frisbee, and other common beach-friendly games.

Bird Watching at Fiesta Island Park

Fiesta Island is a popular location for novice and avid bird watchers alike. There is an abundance of untouched land and water sources. This provides a healthy food supply that draws in both native and non-native bird species.

The most common bird varieties include the Lapland Longspur, Eared Grebe, Chestnut-collared Longspur, Semipalmated Plover, Black Turnstone, and Horned Lark. And, of course, there’s the Least Terns mentioned above.

Picnics at Fiesta Island Park

Picnics are a fun and enjoyable experience at Fiesta Island. I encourage you to plan and pack a meal when you visit. For example, you can have lunch seaside after spending the morning on the water.

Watching the Sunset at Fiesta Island Park

Though there are a lot of incredible places to watch the sunset in San Diego, Fiesta Island is a hidden gem. You’ll have your choice of vantage points, from the tranquil beaches on the east to the lively beaches on the west. Some of my favorite sunset snaps have been from this unassuming island.

Fiesta Island Park Events

A popular spot for tournaments and events, Fiesta Island Park hosts charity walks, bicycle races, marathons, and time trials.

The biggest event the island hosts is the annual Over-The-Line Tournament which brings in scores of players and spectators. Recently, “fun runs” have exploded on Fiesta Island with events like the annual Resolution and Mermaid runs.

What to Know Before You Go

Fiesta Island Park is open daily between 4 a.m. – 10 p.m., and the Fiesta Island Dog Park is open 24 hours a day.

There are no public restrooms available on the island yet. However, portable toilets may be available during special events. Glass containers, possession and consumption of alcohol, and smoking are strictly prohibited, like at all San Diego parks.

Please use trash cans to dispose of unwanted waste. Large group gatherings require permits from the city and require portable toilets to be provided by the host. To learn more about how you can host an event and/or pay the permit fee, call 619-235-1169.  

You are only allowed to use the firepits provided on the island, and they are on a first-come, first-served basis. No fires or portable fire containers are allowed directly on the sand.

Campsites and the Youth Camp Aquatic Center are not open to the public. Camping outside of the Youth Center is not permitted on the island.

The entire island is dog and horse friendly. You can bring your horses to the island, but you must pick up after them.

What are your favorite things to do at Fiesta Island in San Diego?

The Newport Aquarium is ranked among the best aquariums in America, thanks to its impressive 70 exhibits and tunnels spanning over 200 feet. A trip to this aquarium involves close encounters with fish, frogs, jellyfish, octopuses, penguins, and other marine life.

There’s much to see, including the scheduled aquarium activities and the baby animal habitats (including little puffer fish and tiny lobsters) at the new Hatchling Harbor opening in 2023.

We have tips for buying discount Newport Aquarium tickets so you don’t have to waste time trying coupons, promo codes, and deals that don’t work.

You can save on tickets, tours, and hotels through my affiliations. If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated.

Quick Overview of the Newport Aquarium

The Newport Aquarium is located in Newport, Kentucky, and it allows visitors to discover the wonder of ocean life in a captivating underwater world. Dozens of exhibits house exotic fish, mollusks, jellyfish, amphibians, invertebrates, rare white alligators, and more.

Interactive exhibits let you and the kids encounter thrilling adventures with marine life. The Shark Tank Overlook lets you walk a rope bridge suspended just inches above sharks and stingrays. You can even pet a shark or skate in the 5,000-gallon Shark Central exhibit. 

Note: Many animals in interactive exhibits are fed various fish and shellfish, so anyone allergic to either should avoid touching them.

Tunnels wind through the aquarium to give you a panoramic view of the amazing sea life within their walls; there’s Surrounded by Sharks, an 85-foot expanse that features three Sand Tiger sharks that are part of the Species Survival Plan. You may also be able to spot a sea turtle named Denver as you take in this coral reef ecosystem.

There’s a play area for kids called Splash and Bubbles among the many exhibits and galleries. It’s an interactive adventure that teaches them about marine life while they climb and slide through Coral Cove. They can also stop by Kelp Forest and color in their own fish, then see them turn into 3D using a special scanner. 

Overall, Newport Aquarium is a family-friendly place that’s fun for all ages. You can stop by for a full day or split our exploration into a two-day trip. I’d recommend this if you have little kids that likely won’t make it for hours in their strollers.

Important Newport Aquarium Ticket Tips

Gate Prices for Tickets

Currently, the Newport Aquarium advises everyone to purchase tickets in advance. Capacities are limited, popular days and times tend to sell out quickly, and you may not get into the aquarium if you haven’t already purchased tickets for the day you plan to visit.

Buying Newport Aquarium tickets at the gate is possible, but there is zero guarantee there will be enough space available for everyone in your party to enter. It’s super easy to buy beforehand and then reserve your visit online.

Newport Aquarium uses variable pricing, so the cost of tickets changes depending on the season, time of day, and demand.

• Adults (age 13+): $22.99 – $39.99
• Children (age 2-12): $14.99 – $31.99
• Children (age 0-1): Free
• These prices do not include tax.

Each general admission ticket grants one person access to the aquarium and all its exhibits, galleries, and activities for one day, except for Penguin Encounter. Those tickets are sold separately.

Reservations are required

You can have one active reservation at a time and book a reservation up to 45 days before your planned visit.

You must cancel your reservation and select a new date to change your visitation date. After you use your reservation, you can book your next one.

Again, reservations are required for everyone, but the booking process changes slightly depending on your situation. 

If you bought Newport Aquarium discount tickets online that are not date-specific:

• Log onto the aquarium’s website, click “Reservations”
• Click “Start Reservation”
• Enter your ticket barcode
• Select your visit date and time
• Confirm your information 

If you buy Newport Aquarium tickets directly from the aquarium online, you’ll select a date and time before checking out.

Newport Aquarium Discount Ticket Options

If you want to save money on Newport Aquarium tickets, buying your tickets through a verified third-party vendor is the best way to do that.

1. Discounted Single-Day Admission

aRes Travel is an authorized ticket seller to theme parks across the U.S. that helps families access amazing attractions and adventures around the U.S. for less. 

There is a $2 convenience charge if you book with aRes Travel. All sales tax is included in the final price.

Even with this fee, you’ll still likely save money on your Newport Aquarium tickets, especially when they’re at their highest price points on peak days.

Once you have your ticket, head onto the website and book your reservation. You’ll just have to enter your ticket barcode into the system, and you’ll be good to go.

2. Annual Membership Ticket Savings

You can also buy annual passes to the Newport Aquarium, saving you a lot of money on admission if you plan to visit regularly.

There are three membership options:

Silver Annual Membership

Silver members get unlimited visits yearly and save 10% on food, souvenirs, and Penguin Encounter tickets. The cost of a Silver Membership is $62.99 plus tax.

Gold Annual Membership

The next tier up offers additional benefits such as select Bring-a-Friend-Days in the spring and fall. These days, Gold members can bring a guest with them to the aquarium and receive free admission.

Gold members also get a 15% discount at all aquarium stores and dining options, access to exclusive member-only early opening dates, exclusive invitations to new exhibits, discounts on birthday parties, $5 off guest tickets, 50% off select attractions, first access to special events, and two free parking vouchers. 

You can get a Gold Membership at the Newport Aquarium for $82.99 plus tax.

Platinum Annual Membership

Platinum members receive all the benefits of Silver and Gold members, but their only discount at shops and dining facilities is 20%. They also never need to book a reservation, so their unlimited visits for the full year can go a long way.

They’ll also receive two bonus guest tickets they can use anytime and invitations to special VIP Platinum events.

A 12-month Platinum Membership costs $112.99 plus tax.

3. Discounted Group Ticket Rates for the Newport Aquarium

Groups of 10 get a special discount when they pre-register 48 hours or more before arrival. Still, the aquarium suggests booking early because they tend to fill up quickly. There may not be enough availability for all party members if you wait until two days before your trip.

Exact pricing discounts vary according to availability, season, and demand.

Important Note: All weekend group visits require full payment 48 hours before your intended arrival. There is no guarantee you’ll receive a discount on your group tickets if you book later.

Tickets for groups up to ten costs between $19.99 and $31.99 for adults (13+) and $11.99 and $23.99 for children ages 2–12.

If you buy ten child tickets, you receive one chaperone ticket free.

4. School Field TRip Discounts

School field trip prices vary depending on the time of year. They cost $11 for children and $17 for adults from September through February. From March through May and August, student tickets cost $17, and adult tickets cost $23.

No student rates are available during the summer months (June and July). 

School groups can provide a tax exemption form to save more on tickets. Without the form, a 6% Kentucky state tax rate applies.

For an additional $1 per person, you can receive a field experience curriculum, which includes a teacher’s guide with questions and answers based on state education standards for grades K–12. 

5. Boy and Girl Scout Rates

Boy and Girl Scout Troops can receive discounted rates year-round at the Newport Aquarium. Adult tickets (13+) range from $19.99 to $31.99. Children’s tickets (2–12) cost $11.99–$23.99.

All group tours are self-guided and require 48-hour advance registration. Remember that for every 10 children’s tickets, an adult chaperone gets one ticket for free. 

6. Newport Aquarium Kroger Discounts

You can save up to $3 on each ticket if you buy them at a Kroger store in Cincinnati, Dayton, or Northern Kentucky. 

7. AAA Discount to Newport Aquarium

The Newport Aquarium AAA discount qualifies some members to receive discounts on tickets. When booking, contact your local AAA office to see if they participate in the discount program.

8. Newport Aquarium Military Discount

Active and former U.S. service members can receive $2 off each ticket they purchase. You must verify your military ID online through ID.me and present it when you arrive. 

9. AARP Newport Aquarium Discount

AARP members get $1 off their own ticket. You must purchase the ticket in advance by calling 1-800-406-347 and presenting your AARP card at the gate.

10. Company Discounts

You may receive an employee discount on Newport Aquarium tickets if your company is in the area. Ask your Human Resources department if your company participates. 

11. Newport Aquarium + Hotel Ticket Package

Bundle your accommodations and aquarium admission into one package! You can choose from 92 hotels in the area that are perfect for single travelers, couples, and families.

Customize your stay by choosing the right hotel and room, selecting your tickets, and booking everything in one place for an easy vacation.

Important Tips for Visiting the Newport Aquarium

There are interactive exhibits to touch sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, anemones, and more. These are great learning experiences for kids.

The museum has many activities, including the Octopus Den, Coral Reef Tunnel, Shipwreck: Realm of the Eels, Gator Alley, and Penguin Palooza.

Times for the penguin viewing vary by season because the team keeps them on a Southern Hemisphere cycle. You can plan your trip around their schedule; if you stop by while they’re asleep, you’ll still see them curled up under some simulated Northern Lights.

No outside food or drinks are permitted inside the aquarium, except for bottled water. There is on-site dining available at the cafe, which features typical American fare and has a kids’ menu. 

Newport Aquarium Tickets FAQ

What Other Newport Aquarium Discounts Are Available?

Some special group activities are also available, depending on the size of your party. Groups of 10 or more can book lunch at Sharky’s Café one week before their visit (payment is required in advance).

Groups of 30 or more can enjoy breakfast at the aquarium before it opens to the public and enjoy a biologist’s presentation on penguins and sharks. They’ll also enjoy early access to the aquarium without any other visitors. This package has to be booked 30 days in advance.

Finally, you can book a picnic at the aquarium to enjoy a grilled menu along the terrace with views of the Ohio River. This makes a great location for small weddings, baby showers, birthday parties, and more.

When is the best time to visit the Newport Aquarium? 

Weekends are the most popular days, so there will be heavy crowds on Saturday and Sunday. Mondays and Fridays can also be busier from people taking three-day weekends.

You can expect more kids and tourists when school is out in the summer.

On weekdays, you’ll be best off arriving sometime after 2 p.m. On weekends, it’s best to arrive before 11 a.m. and after 2 p.m. Arriving particularly early or toward the end of the day could also be beneficial, but this could affect the visibility of some animals and access to some activities.

Does the Newport Aquarium offer a discount for seniors?

No, but AARP members can get a discount if they book in advance. 

Does the Newport Aquarium offer a student discount?

No, there are no student discounts at the Newport Aquarium. Only discounted ticket prices are available for schools booking field trips.

Looking for fun things to do in Old Town San Diego? The extensive list below offers plenty of ideas, from immersing yourself in the area’s rich heritage through museums and tours to indulging your creative side with workshops and craft-making. 

This vibrant historic district is considered the birthplace of California, and time spent here can be both fun and educational, with a hands-on angle. And, there’s great shopping and food, too.

Nearly every type of tourist visits Old Town San Diego attractions, from families and business travelers to history buffs and ghost hunters. Since many activities are free, it suits various budgets, too. Below, we discuss which of the many things to are worth space on your itinerary.

You can save on tickets, tours, and hotels through my affiliations. If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated.

1. Start at the Robinson-Rose Visitor Center

• 4098 Mason St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 220-5422
• parks.ca.gov

As Old Town’s visitor center and park headquarters, the Robinson Rose House is a great place to start. Here you can learn about many interesting things to do in Old Town San Diego, view museum exhibits, and join walking tours. Pick up some of the brochures that talk about local attractions.

Among the highlights at this museum are the miniature model displays of what Old Town looked like during San Diego’s early days. Tour guides dressed in period clothing share stories of fascinating people who lived here back then. 

You’ll also learn the history of the building itself, a reconstructed replica of a grand house built by James W. Robinson, a successful lawyer in the 1850s. You might even experience a bit of the paranormal since this building is reportedly haunted, like some other Old Town structures.  

2. Become a Junior Ranger (And Other Kids’ Activities)

The California Department of Parks and Recreation has a Junior Ranger program for kids, making exploring state parks even more fun.

You can pick up a free booklet at the Robinson-Rose Visitor Center to fill out as you explore the park. Don’t forget to turn it in for an award at the end of your visit.

Also, don’t forget to print the free scavenger hunt sheet and bring it with you. I also like this coloring booklet, which is a few pages long. If you know you will visit Old Town San Diego, have the kids color it in advance so they can spot familiar signs and buildings while there.

3. Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour

• Old Town Plaza, San Diego, CA 92110
• parks.ca.gov

If you’re unsure where to begin, take a free, self-guided walking tour through the historical places in Old Town. California Parks and Recreation has outlined tours starting at Robinson-Rose House, which range from an hour to two and a half hours. You can take a look online at recommended stops or grab a tour map at the visitor center for a small fee.

This walk through history passes by many historic buildings. There’s the Johnson House, built in 1870 by George Alonzo Johnson, a steamboat captain on the Colorado River. The Mason Street School, built in 1865, was the first publicly built schoolhouse in San Diego County. Many buildings are open with free admission and even have their own brief, free tours.  

4. Visit the Free Museums in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

• Various locations
• parks.ca.gov

So many things to do in Old Town San Diego are free of charge — including many of the unique museums found here.

Check with the Old Town Chamber of Commerce and Robinson-Rose Visitors Center to learn which museums are free and what their hours are. The list is extensive; we’ve included a few here.

The McCoy House was built in 1869 by Irish-born immigrant James McCoy—who became fluent in Spanish—as a wedding gift for his wife, Winnifred. James served as county assessor, city sheriff, and state senator. The museum offers a detailed glimpse into life in the area in the late 1800s. 

La Casa de Machado y Silvas is another wedding present—this one from a father to his daughter—built in the early 1840s. La Casa de Machado y Stewart is an adobe house that was lived in until 1966 but has since been restored to its 1830s character.

And, there are a few others that are free and mentioned below. Be sure to visit Old Town’s free museums to learn about San Diego’s multicultural history.

5. Go Shopping

• Various locations
• oldtownsandiego.org/shopping

You’ll find over a hundred shops in Old Town, San Diego, some in market centers that house multiple stalls and others in historic buildings around the park.

At Old Town Market alone, you can browse 40 unique indoor and outdoor shops selling goods from Mexico, Ecuador, Guatemala, Peru, Vietnam, and other regions. 

Shopping at Bazaar del Mundo is a special treat, because of the unique treasures you’ll find and the colorful setting that immerses you in Old Mexico’s charm. Purchase fair trade merchandise from around the world, including folk art, jewelry, fashion, and home décor. 

Throughout Old Town, you’ll encounter a wide selection of specialty shops that draw you in. Cousin’s Candy Shop sells old-fashioned sweets, including saltwater taffy and homemade fudge.

Find lovingly restored antiques at The Johnson House, Marine Antiques, and West Sea Co Nautical Antiques. At Tinsmith, you’ll find exquisite star lamps and other tin-punched decorative items to bring home. 

6. Walk Through a Famous Haunted House — Whaley House Museum

• 2476 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 786-1143 
• whaleyhousesandiego.com 

One of the most popular things to do in Old Town San Diego is to visit the Whaley House Museum. It was the former home of a pioneering family, but it’s widely regarded today as one of the most haunted houses in North America, thanks to the multiple deaths that occurred on the premises.

The Greek Revival-style 1850s house is the oldest brick structure in Southern California. It served as a general store, courthouse, and private residence. Upstairs, you’ll find San Diego’s first commercial theater. 

A California Historical Landmark, the Whaley House has been featured on numerous ghost-hunting shows, including America’s Most Haunted and Ghost Adventures. Visitors can take a daytime self-guided, self-paced tour, or an evening guided tour.   

7. Dine on Mexican Food and More

• oldtownsandiego.org/dining

As a dining destination, Old Town offers some of the best Mexican restaurants in San Diego County and other noteworthy eating establishments, including great sushi places.

Whatever you crave, you’ll find great eateries in Old Town, along with a vast selection of specialty margaritas and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages—like the popular horchata. 

For many people, dining al fresco in vibrant outdoor areas is one of the favorite things to do in Old Town San Diego. Many restaurants here offer patio dining, with beautiful flowers, bubbling fountains, and firepits to add to the ambiance. 

An example of the diverse selection to be found in Old Town includes:

• Casa de Reyes: A vibrant restaurant serving favorite Mexican dishes, including rolled tacos, tostada salads, burritos, tamales, and much more.  
• Tahona Bar: Gather with friends for an upscale dining experience in an establishment that celebrates mezcal. Tasting room available by reservation.
• Harney Sushi: This elegant sushi place offers a wide selection of traditional and contemporary sushi creations and cooked Japanese specialties. 
• Congress Café: Open for breakfast and lunch, this cozy café with a lovely outdoor seating area serves Venezuelan favorites, including arepas and cachapas. 

8. Old Town Urban Market

A relatively new addition to the Old Town scene, this market place is located just outside of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

While there is retail space available, right now, you’d go there to eat. And it’s worthwhile. From the drip-your-own bone marrow on tacos at Tuetano Taquería and ceviche at Mar Rustico to the delectable elote from Elote and soon donuts from Barrio Donas, it’s a place for foodies.

You’ll eat on a covered patio that isn’t big, so get there early. Everything is counter-order, so you could grab it to go for a picnic in Old Town State Historic Park.

9. Shop and Eat at Fiesta de Reyes

• 2707 Congress St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 297-3100
• fiestadereyes.com

Fiesta is a great way to describe this vibrant section of Old Town, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy free, live musical performances in a unique setting. Fiesta de Reyes is Spanish for “celebration of kings,” and you can celebrate like royalty without breaking the bank.

Here you can enjoy several Old Town San Diego attractions without having to walk far since everything is close together yet far enough apart to give you that satisfying sense of exploring a vibrant district. Mariachi musicians and folklorico dancers entertain visitors most weekends.  

Dine in comfort on the lush garden patio of Casa de Reyes or within the attractive, hacienda-style surroundings of Barra Barra Saloon. Both places serve authentic Mexican cuisine, from standard favorites to new creations and a large selection of margaritas.

Shop at one of the unique outlets, such as Treasures of Mexico, Old Town Jerky & Root Beer, and The Tile Shop.  

10. El Campo Santo Cemetery

El Campo Santo Cemetery dates back to 1849 and is/was the final resting place of many early San Diego residents, including members of prominent families such as the Estudillos and Fitchs.

Over the years, the area’s development changed the boundaries of the cemetery. Some bodies were relocated and paved over while others remain buried as intended. This has said to have disturbed some trapped souls and trigger some paranormal activity.

Part of the cemetery was restored based on old records and visitors today can walk through remaining gravesites.

11. Walk Up to Presidio Park

• 2811 Jackson St, San Diego, CA 92110
• sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/parks/regional/presidio

An idyllic spot to have a picnic and let the kids play awhile, Presidio Park overlooks the Mission Valley area and beyond. It’s about a 7-minute walk from the Robinson-Rose Visitor Center.

Several viewpoints present gorgeous views — you can see Mission Bay and the coast — while nature surrounds you, with a large collection of beautiful, mature trees spread throughout the park.

This hill is steeped in history. As you walk the grounds, you’ll find statues, memorials, and markers commemorating past influencers and events from San Diego’s past. It was the site of a fort and church that date back to 1769, and this spot served as the capital of Baja California when Mexico owned the land.  

You’ll find several walking trails throughout Presidio Park, some more challenging than others. It’s usually not crowded here, giving you space for quiet contemplation.  

12. Visit the Mormon Battalion Historic Site

• 2510 Juan St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 298-3317
• churchofjesuschrist.org/learn/historic-sites/california/mormon-battalion-historic-site

This historic site commemorates LDS church members who served in the Mexican-American War of 1846-1848 as part of the U.S. Army’s Mormon Battalion. While stationed in the area, these volunteer soldiers and their families built water wells and a courthouse in Old Town. 

The center offers free tours daily, showing glimpses of what life was like in the region during the mid-1800s. The tour lasts 45 minutes and includes an interactive video about the battalion, plus a look at various artifacts. You’ll want to allocate an hour to an hour and a half to participate in everything the center offers. 

All areas of the museum are wheelchair accessible. For visitors’ convenience, the site has a small parking lot in the back—like the museum, parking is free. Be sure to check out the lovely views from the window as you walk by.  

13. Watch a Performance at Old Town Theatre

• 4040 Twiggs St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 337-1525
• Call or check online for shows and hours
• cygnettheatre.com

The Cygnet Theatre company runs one of the most unique Old Town San Diego attractions where you can enjoy everything from Shakespeare plays to more contemporary musicals. Housed in a building still called the Old Town Theatre — on a site that used to be a barn — the Cygnet Theatre presents live performances inside a one-of-a-kind theatrical setting. 

An interesting historical tidbit: between 1986 and 1991, the theater served as a stage for student productions. Among the alumni from this period are actor and singer Jamie Foxx and actor John Barrowman (of Doctor Who fame). 

Today you can catch theatrical productions like El Huracán, a multi-generational lyrical tale about the power of forgiveness, or cabaret-style entertainment.

Check the website to see what’s playing and learn about special performances, such as those offering ASL interpretation or evenings dedicated to the LGBTQIA community. Assisted listening devices are available free of charge.  

14. Admire the La Casa de Estudillo, a Historic Adobe House

• 4000 Mason St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 220-5422
• Open Daily: 10 a.m.– 5 p.m.
• parks.ca.gov

As one of the carefully restored historic adobe houses in Old Town San Diego, La Casa de Estudillo dates back to 1827 and is a lovely example of Spanish Colonial architecture. Once a center of social gatherings and religious observations, this museum was the home of a distinguished 19^th-century family.

Built by comandante José María Estudillo and his son, lieutenant José Antonio Estudillo, this 12-room house has a beautiful inner courtyard that invites introspection. Now a part of the California State Park system, La Casa de Estudillo is a museum worth visiting for its depiction of multicultural life in the early 1800s. 

Several rooms with period pieces, including canopy beds, carved tables, and upholstered chairs are open for public viewing. You’ll see a set table next to a fireplace in the dining room while and another room houses working tools of the time, including a large spinning wheel. Other highlights include an outdoor oven and a bell tower. 

15. Make Candles at Toby’s Candle Shop

• 2645 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 297-5426
• Open Daily: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• tobyscandles.com

Many things to do in Old Town San Diego are hands-on. Making your own candles at a historic candle shop is certainly one of these activities. At Toby’s Candle & Soap Shop, you can buy beautiful candles if you don’t have time to make one.

A little about the shop. It was established in 1981 by burgeoning candle-making enthusiasts who began to teach candle carving techniques throughout Southern California malls and even at Knott’s Berry Farm. Toby’s Candles has been in Old Town since 1992. 

Your candle-making experience is an opportunity to make your own beautiful gift for yourself or a friend. The shop welcomes walk-ins, but reservations are needed for groups of ten or more. 

If you’re short on time, the candle dipping process is your best option; it doesn’t take long but is very satisfying. If you have more time, make your own sand wax candle. You will need at least twenty minutes for this fun project. 

16. Spend a Night at the Cosmopolitan Hotel

• 2660 Calhoun St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 297-1874
• oldtowncosmopolitan.com

If you want to immerse yourself in this historic district to have more time to enjoy all the Old Town San Diego attractions that are available, spend a night or two at the Cosmopolitan Hotel. This historic hotel provides a first-class experience that takes you back in time. 

In your room, you’ll be surrounded by vintage antique furniture, each piece a true work of art. With just ten rooms to tend to, the hotel staff can deliver attentive, personalized service to every guest. 

This bed and breakfast establishment serves homemade pastries with hot coffee and tea in the building’s old-fashioned saloon. For many guests, one of the best parts of staying here is getting away from it all — there are no phones or TVs in the rooms, although you will have access to WiFi. 

Relax and enjoy your stay at the Cosmopolitan, once the home of Peruvian-born Juan Bandini, a California politician born in 1800 who helped shape San Diego and was known to throw great parties.

17. See Stagecoaches and More at Seely Stable Museum

• 2648 Calhoun St, San Diego, CA 92110
• Friday – Sunday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Closed Monday – Thursday
• parks.ca.gov

A favorite among kids, the Seely Stable Museum houses a collection of old coaches, wagons, and buggies, each lovingly restored and cared for at this unique museum dedicated to California’s stagecoach history. 

Learn how mail, goods, and passengers were transported across the country before the railroad lines were established. Stagecoach travel was a perilous way to journey between places, but the California gold rush encouraged travelers to venture west despite the dangers. At the museum, you’ll see maps showing old stage routes—the preferred travel mode before the days of train tracks and freeways.

By the way, the museum is named after Albert Lewis Seeley, who, at 17, became a stagecoach driver and established the United States Mail Stage line. He continued growing his business by expanding stagecoach routes to transport mail and passengers between San Diego and Los Angeles, San Diego, Yuma, and other itineraries.  

18. Take the Old Town Trolley Tour

• 4010 Twiggs St, San Diego, CA 92101
• (619) 298-8687
• trolleytours.com/san-diego
• Buy tickets

If you’re unsure what to do in Old Town San Diego, a good place to start might be getting there via the Old Town Trolley. This hop-on, hop-off experience runs through several parts of San Diego and includes eleven stops. You can hop off and shop, eat, or sightsee before hopping back on and continuing with your tour.

Buy a ticket once, and then spend the rest of the day conveniently hopping on and off. In addition to taking you through Old Town, the trolley-style tour bus takes you through the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, Barrio Logan, Coronado, Balboa Park, Little Italy, and more. A great way to see it all at your own pace. 

19. Look Out for Living History Demonstrations

• 4002 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110
• (619) 220-5422
• Wednesday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (check the schedule before you go)
• parks.ca.gov

As part of the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Old Town makes living history programs available to all ages. People wear period clothing, answering questions about the region’s history for memorable, interactive exchanges. Live demonstrations bring San Diego’s history alive for locals and visitors alike. 

On a Wednesday or Saturday, see living history demonstrations of everything from furniture building to quilting. Demos vary from week to week. You might learn how people used to spin wool into thread and see old blacksmithing techniques in action.

At the Kosay Kumeyaay Market, the traditions of the region’s first peoples are preserved and demonstrated. You might see time-honored basket weaving techniques or perhaps other artisans at work. 

As you browse Old Town, you may encounter various living history demonstrations, re-enactments, performances, and mini-talks. If you see someone in period clothing, feel free to ask questions about what life was like here in the past. 

20. Sip San Diego’s Best at Rose’s Tasting Room

• 2754 Calhoun St San Diego, CA 92110 (inside Fiesta de Reyes)
• rosestastingroom.com
• Note: All guests must be ages 21+

I feel like Rose’s is a bit of a hidden gem. After all, you’re in the birthplace of California and perhaps focused on the activities it’s famous for — fishbowl margaritas, Mexican food, free museums, a grassy park, Whaley House, etc.

But you may be surprised to know that there’s a little tasting room with indoor and outdoor seating that will allow you to taste some of the craft beer San Diego is famous for (did you know that we’re a craft brewery destination) in addition to some wine made in San Diego (yes, it’s good). And, they even offer a few cocktails on the menu.

It makes for a lovely stop in between sights. Old Town San Diego, we think, is best experienced on a sunny day when you’re not in a rush. And, you may find yourself enjoying sips and suds at Rose’s for longer than anticipated.

What do you think are the best things to do in Old Town San Diego?