Family vacation destination: San Diego

If you’re looking for a family vacation destination, why not consider San Diego? The southern California city is known for having great weather and beaches, along with a laid-back atmosphere. There are a few downsides—for example, San Diego is one of the most congested cities in the country as far as traffic and roadways. San Diego is also a pretty expensive destination, which is true for most … [Read more...]

One week in San Diego with kids: San Diego itinerary

San Diego is one of our favorite spring destinations: it's warm, offers up both beaches and culture, and can be affordable for a week-long visit. Here's what not to miss with kids during a one week San Diego itinerary: As travel today remains uncertain, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind at all times. If you are comfortable with traveling, please travel responsibly and … [Read more...]

San Diego with kids: U.S.S. Midway attraction

I can't tell you how many times I've been in San Diego with kids and not gone to the U.S.S. Midway attraction. This incredible museum is comprised of the actual aircraft carrier that now sits in the San Diego harbor. Kids who love military vessels and planes will be in heaven, and even if your level of interest for these items is usually closer to lukewarm, you'll still be blown away. We spent an … [Read more...]

Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort and Spa review

Want to be central to LegoLand and San Diego, but stay at a hotel with a distinct ‘beach’ feel? The Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort and Spa is located one street off a lifeguard-manned beach, with ocean views from both rooms and the outdoor pool and lounging complex, and is still within easy driving distance to area attractions. Hilton Carlsbad Oceanfront Resort and Spa review: Located in … [Read more...]

Del Mar Racetrack: Fun for the whole family

The following guest post is written by family travel blogger Amber Mamian of www.GlobalMunchkins.com. Gorgeous weather, a nostalgic past, the season's top race horses, jockeys and trainers plus free kids activities. Yes please! I'm talking about where the "Turf meets the Surf" at the famous Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in sunny California. This past weekend I had the opportunity to check out the … [Read more...]

Reuben H. Fleet Science Center

Located in scenic Balboa park San Diego, the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center offers hands-on science fun in a open-layout, easy-to-navigate facility. The museum is actually smaller than it looks on the outside, and for our family, that was just fine by us. With four kids in tow from age 4-14, we were thankful for the manageable size and open layout of the space. There are two floors: downstairs … [Read more...]

Luv Surf: Best San Diego vacation home rental

Pay attention, family travelers. I’ve recently discovered a gem of a San Diego vacation home rental option. If you’re not in the San Diego area, you probably haven’t heard of Luv Surf, but this local company should absolutely be on your radar before your next visit to Southern California. Luv Surf is a boutique rental company with half a dozen beach home rentals in the Mission Beach and Mission … [Read more...]

An ideal day itinerary using Old Town Trolley Tours

San Diego’s Old Town Trolley Tour is an excellent way to get an overview of the city for first-time or infrequent visitors. The trolley drivers are entertaining and most stops are well-worth your time. However, admission is not cheap, so to make the cost of an Old Town Trolley Tour worth your while, plan to spend the whole day utilizing it. After a day on the trolley as visitors already … [Read more...]

Beyond the San Diego Zoo: three Balboa Park museums you’ve overlooked

Over 20 museums and family attractions await kids at Balboa Park in San Diego, but I bet you've only heard of a few of them, the famous San Diego Zoo most likely one of them. While families need days to see them all (and hours to see some), the following three Balboa Park museums for kids you've overlooked include: Museum of Man: Before touring the Museum of Man, I didn't have a clear … [Read more...]

Homebase for a San Diego vacation: Manchester Grand Hyatt review

When most families dream of vacationing in San Diego, they picture themselves staying right on the beach. And this option does exist: namely in Coronado or north in Del Mar. But if you plan to spend the majority of your time in the city (and not in the car), you'll want a downtown hotel by the harbor. I spent three nights at the Manchester Grand Hyatt and was pretty blown away by this perfect home … [Read more...]