5 kid-friendly things to do in San Diego during Winter Break

OK, parents — we’ve got another 11 days of winter break ahead of us. As a mom of two busy girls, I stand with you. If you’re looking for ways to keep your little ones entertained in San Diego, we’ve got you covered. Here’s hoping you can take a breather (you deserve it) + play like a kid again.

🚲 Get Outside: Bike + Hike

There’s no better way to burn some kid-sized energy than getting outside. Luckily, our version of winter allows for a lot of outside playtime. Grab the bikes or scooters + take the kids for a ride down the Mission Beach boardwalk (Pro tip: pack a snack for a break on the sand). Another idea: try one of the easier hikes — Grasslands Loop Trail or Father Junipero Serra Trail — both at Mission Trails Regional Park.

• Winter Break Hours: Dawn to dusk is safest; Mission Trails closes at 5 p.m.

🔬 Museums at Balboa Park

There’s some rain in our forecast over the next few days, so museums are a good indoor option. Make it easy on yourself and head to Balboa Park, where there are 17 museums + cultural institutions from which to choose. The Fleet Science Center is a kid favorite, with interactive exhibits + movies at the Heikoff Giant Dome Theater.

• Winter Break Hours: vary by museum; The Fleet is open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

🐠 Birch Aquarium at Scripps

A trip to the Birch Aquarium in La Jolla gives you the best of both worlds: indoor + outdoor activities. Inside, kids will love learning about colorful fish and invertebrates in 60+ habitats (don’t miss the seahorses, they’re fascinating). Outside, Tide Pool Plaza gives kids hands-on experience with sea stars, hermit crabs + other sea creatures, not to mention that breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean.

• Winter Break Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily (reservations required)

🦁 Jungle Bells

The San Diego Zoo is decked out in lights this time of year and open late for “Jungle Bells.” The annual holiday celebration features a lineup of special entertainment that includes “Aurora,” a light show with 3D projections + music. Jungle Bells is included with regular admission.

• Winter Break Hours: 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat., Dec. 25-Sun., Jan. 2

🎄 San Diego attractions, holiday edition

Everything is holiday-themed this time of year, including some of our city’s biggest attractions. Legoland California, SeaWorld San Diego, and Belmont Park are offering seasonal activities, programming + meet-and-greets with festive characters. Don’t miss the 30-foot Christmas tree made entirely of Legos at Legoland.

• Winter Break Hours: vary by park; SeaWorld + Belmont Park’s holiday-themed attractions run through Sun., Jan. 2, while Legoland’s run through Sun., Jan. 9.