Looking for the best places in California to visit with family? Look no further! This blog post will share our top picks for the best places to take a family in California.
The Golden State is vast, with plenty to see and do, making it the perfect destination for a family vacation. But with so much ground to cover, it can be tough to decide where to go. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in California with kids and the entire family. From theme parks to beaches to museums, there’s something for everyone on this list.
The 15 best places in California to visit with family
There are many top places to visit in California for family memories. Below is a list of 15 beautiful places to visit with the kids in California.
1. Family Vacation: San Diego
If you are looking for family vacations in California, San Diego is one of the best places for families, with so much to offer families, from stunning beaches to world-class attractions. Here are a few reasons why San Diego should be at the top of your list of places to visit with family in California.
The Beach: Of course, one of the main reasons to visit San Diego is for the fantastic beaches. With over 70 miles of coastline, there’s sure to be a beach that is perfect for your family. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun or a place to play in the waves and surf, San Diego has it all.
Balboa Park: This beautiful park is a must-see for any family visiting San Diego. With over 1,200 acres of land, Balboa Park is home to museums, gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. There’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy at Balboa Park.
SeaWorld San Diego: A visit to San Diego wouldn’t be complete without a trip to SeaWorld. This world-famous marine park is home to Shamu, the killer whale, and other fantastic sea creatures. Your family will enjoy shows, rides, and animal encounters at SeaWorld.
Old Town San Diego: Step back in time and explore Old Town San Diego. This historic area is home to beautiful Spanish Colonial buildings, charming shops, and great restaurants. Your family will love strolling through the streets of Old Town and learning about the history of San Diego.
San Diego Zoo: The zoo is one of the best zoos in the country. It is home to over 3,700 animals. The zoo is also one of the largest zoos in the world. Your family will love seeing all the animals and learning about animal conservation.
These are just a few great places to visit with family in San Diego. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or a place to explore, San Diego has something for everyone.
Read Also: Most beautiful places in the United States
2. Disneyland: Disney California Adventure
Are you looking for the best family vacation in California? Then look no further than Disney’s California Adventure! Located in Anaheim, this theme park has something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
One of the best parts of Disney California Adventure is that it is continually expanding and adding new things to see and do. The newest addition to the park is the Pixar Pier, which opened in 2018. This area of the park is full of fun for the whole family, with rides, games, and restaurants based on popular Pixar movies. Then, head over to Buena Vista Street to ride on the Disneyland Railroad or visit the shops and restaurants inspired by the 1920s.
For more thrills, head over to Grizzly Peak to go on some of the most thrilling rides in the park, like the Grizzly River Run or the Soarin’ Around the World. And don’t forget to check out the nighttime entertainment at the Hollywood Land stage, where you can see shows like the World of Color or the Electrical Parade.
3. California for Families: Universal Studios
When it comes to family vacation destinations in California, check out Universal Studios! This world-renowned theme park has something for everyone, from thrilling rides and attractions to shows and entertainment.
Universal Studios has been a staple in Southern California since it opened its doors in 1964. For over 50 years, families have been flocking to this popular destination for a day (or more) of non-stop fun.
Universal Studios has dozens of rides and attractions, so it’s impossible to do everything in one day. That’s why it’s a good idea to plan ahead and make a list of must-do activities for your family.
Some of the most popular rides at Universal Studios include The Simpsons Ride, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the Jurassic Park ride, which takes you on a thrilling journey through the dinosaur-infested island from the famous movie. You’ll see life-sized dinosaurs, experience some intense special effects, and maybe even get wet on this adventure.
There are also plenty of kid-friendly rides like E.T. Adventure and The Funtastic World of Hanna-Barbera, the Sesame Street Neighborhood, where they can meet their favorite Sesame Street characters and ride on the Cookie Monster Coaster, and more.
In addition to the rides, a visit to Universal Studios will give you access to many shows and entertainment options. Be sure to catch a performance of The Water World Show—a live-action show based on the popular film. Or, check out the new nighttime show, Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular—100 Years of Movie Memories. This dazzling show features footage from some of Universal’s most famous films, set to an epic score.
No matter your interests, this destination in southern California has something for everyone in the family.
4. California Vacation: Santa Monica Pier
Are you looking for a place to take your family on vacation? If you’re like most people, you probably want to find a place that’s both fun and affordable. Luckily, California has no shortage of unique places to visit, and Santa Monica Pier is one of them!
Situated right on the beach, Santa Monica Pier is a great place to take a stroll, go for a swim, or enjoy the incredible views. The pier is also home to various shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it the perfect place to spend an unforgettable time with the family.
Some of the best things to do at Santa Monica Pier include riding the Ferris wheel, playing in the arcade, or checking out the Santa Monica Aquarium. There’s also a great boardwalk, perfect for people-watching or taking a leisurely stroll.
If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay, there are plenty of hotels and motels in the area. However, if you want to save even more money, you can always camp at one of the many campsites near Santa Monica Pier.
5. Vacation ideas for families: Legoland California
Legoland California is a famous amusement park for kids and families. The park is a must-visit for any family, especially if you have young kids. With over 60 rides, shows, and attractions, there’s something for everyone at Legoland. The park is located right in the heart of beautiful Carlsbad in southern California, so you can explore all the activities the area offers.
Here are just a few of the rides and attractions that your family will love at Legoland California:
See Life Aquarium: One of the best parts of Legoland California is the See Life Aquarium. With over 5,000 different sea creatures, the See Life aquarium is a must-see for any family visiting Legoland. The Sea Life aquarium has everything from sharks to stingrays to turtles.
Legoland Park: Of course, no visit to Legoland California would be complete without spending some time in the park itself. With over 60 rides and attractions, Legoland Park has something for everyone in the family. From the kid-friendly Dragon Coaster to the more adventurous Piraten Rollercoaster, there’s a ride for everyone at Legoland Park.
Legoland Water Park: If you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, look no further than the Legoland Water Park. With over 20 different water slides and attractions, the Legoland Water Park is the perfect place to beat the heat. From the family-friendly Riptide Racers to the more thrill-seeking Blackbeard’s Revenge, the Legoland water park has something for everyone.
The Lego Movie World: Last but not least, The Lego Movie World is a must-see for any family visiting Legoland California. With rides, shows, and attractions based on The Lego Movie, The Lego Movie World is a fun-filled place for the whole family. From the kid-friendly Emmet’s Flying Adventure to the more thrill-seeking Battle of Brickbeard’s Bounty, The Lego Movie World has something for everyone.
6. California Trip: Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is one of the best California family vacation areas. It is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It is a popular spot for both summer and winter vacations. The lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing in the summer. In addition, the surrounding mountains offer hiking and biking trails. The lake is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
There are many towns and villages located around Lake Tahoe. Some popular destinations include South Lake Tahoe, Tahoe City, and Truckee. Each of these towns has something unique to offer visitors.
South Lake Tahoe is the largest city on the lake. It is home to several casinos and resorts. The city also has many shopping and dining options.
Tahoe City is a smaller town located on the north shore of the lake. It is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing. The town also has several art galleries and shops.
Truckee is a small town located on the west shore of the lake. It is a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking. The town also has several restaurants and cafes.
No matter what type of vacation you are looking for, you will find it at one of these Lake Tahoe destinations for your family.
7. A California family vacation: Yosemite National Park
For good reason, Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. The park is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world, from soaring mountains to rushing waterfalls. There are plenty of things to do in the park, from hiking and biking to horseback riding. And, of course, no visit to Yosemite would be complete without a stop at the famous Yosemite Valley, where you can see the majestic Half Dome and El Capitan.
In addition, one of the best things about Yosemite is that there’s something for everyone. You’ll love exploring all the hiking trails and waterfalls if you’re outdoorsy. And if you’re more of a homebody, you can enjoy the stunning views from your lodge or campsite. So no matter your family’s interests, you’re sure to find something to love about Yosemite.
Here are just a few of the many places you’ll want to check out during your visit:
Glacier Point: With its sweeping views of Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point is a must-see for any visitor to the park. You can reach Glacier Point by car, bike, or on foot, and there are plenty of trails to explore once you’re there.
Tuolumne Meadows: This beautiful meadow is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the incredible scenery. There are also plenty of hiking and camping opportunities in Tuolumne Meadows, so you can stay for a few days and explore the area.
Half Dome: One of the most iconic landmarks in Yosemite, Half Dome is a must-see for any visitor. You can hike to the top of Half Dome or take a cable car for a bird’s-eye view of the park.
No matter your interests, your family will find something to love about Yosemite National Park.
8. California with kids: Monterey Bay Aquarium
This world-renowned institution is one of the best aquariums in the U.S. It is located on the shores of Monterey Bay in California. The Aquarium is home to more than 35,000 animals representing over 550 species. The mission of the Monterey Bay Aquarium is to inspire the conservation of the ocean.
The Aquarium achieves this by being a leader in ocean science and conservation and connecting people to the wonder and power of the sea. The Aquarium is open year-round, and there is always something new to see and do. The exhibits are constantly changing to reflect the latest discoveries in ocean science. The Aquarium is also an ideal place to take the family for a day of learning and fun. Kids will love seeing the animals up close and learning about the ocean.
There are a variety of ways to experience the aquarium. You can take a self-guided tour, sign up for a behind-the-scenes tour, or participate in one of the many hands-on activities. The Aquarium also offers a variety of educational programs for all ages. These programs are designed to teach people about the ocean and its importance to our planet.
9. State Park: Crystal Cove State Park
This fantastic state park is located in Orange County and offers a wide variety of activities for everyone in the family to enjoy. From hiking and biking trails to beautiful beaches and tidepools, there is something for everyone at Crystal Cove Park.
One of the best things about Crystal Cove is that it is easily accessible from many different parts of California. So whether you are coming from the north or south, you can easily find your way to this beautiful park.
Here are just a few of the reasons why Crystal Cove State Park is the ideal place for a family vacation:
The Beach: Crystal Cove has a gorgeous beach and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply relaxing. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is soft and white. There are also plenty of beach umbrellas and chairs for rent so that you can make a day of it.
The Hiking: If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore in Crystal Cove Park. There are trails of varying difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone. And the views from the top of the trails are simply breathtaking.
The Wildlife: Crystal Cove is home to various wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and sea lions. You might even spot a whale if you’re lucky. There are also plenty of birds to be seen, and the park is an excellent place for bird watching.
The Camping: If you’re looking for a truly unique camping experience, this park is the place for you. There are a variety of campsites to choose from, and you can even camp on the beach if you’d like. There’s nothing quite like falling asleep to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore.
10. California Attractions: Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park is one of California’s oldest and most beloved theme parks. The park opened its doors in 1940, and since then, it has been delighting families with its world-class rides and attractions.
One of the things that makes Knott’s Berry Farm so great for families is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a young child, you’ll find plenty of rides and attractions to enjoy.
The park’s most popular rides include the GhostRider roller coaster, the Xcelerator, and the Perilous Plunge. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, you can enjoy a leisurely ride on the historic Calico Mine Train or take a spin on the famous carousel.
In addition to rides, Knott’s Berry Farm also offers a variety of shows and attractions. The park is home to the world-famous Knotts Berry Farm Ghost Town, filled with shops, restaurants, and other fun activities.
If you’re looking for a place to cool off, you can take a dip in the park’s waterpark, Knott’s Soak City. This waterpark features a variety of slides, pools, and other water-based attractions.
Knott’s Berry Farm is the perfect place to take the family for a day of fun. You’re sure to create lasting memories at this iconic California theme park with so much to see and do.
11. Family fun: The Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. The bridge spans over the Golden Gate Strait, which is the entrance to the San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean. The bridge is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with over 10 million people visiting it each year.
There are many reasons why the Golden Gate is such a popular destination for families. First of all, the bridge offers stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Strait, and the Marin Headlands. The Golden Gate is also a great place to walk or ride a bike, with plenty of pedestrian and bike paths to explore.
Another reason the Golden Gate Bridge is perfect for families is that it is home to various family-friendly attractions. For example, the Bridge Pavilion is a great place to learn about the bridge’s history, while the nearby Aquarium of the Bay offers up close and personal views of marine life.
The Golden Gate Bridge is an excellent destination if you’re looking for a fun-filled day out for the whole family. With its stunning views, variety of attractions, and convenient location, the Golden Gate is sure to please everyone in the family.
12. Visiting California: Joshua Tree National Park
If you want to enjoy a family trip to southern California, try and visit Joshua Tree National Park. The park is located in southern California, and it’s one of the best vacation destinations when visiting California. The park has various activities and attractions that families can enjoy together. One of the reasons Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent place for families is the wide variety of activities the park offers. There are plenty of hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, so there is something for everyone. In addition, the park has some rock climbing and bouldering areas, so families can enjoy a challenging day out together.
Another reason Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent place for families is the park’s variety of attractions. There are some museums and ranger-led programs that families can enjoy together. In addition, the park has many scenic drives that families can take to enjoy the beautiful landscape.
Overall, Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent place for families. The park has various activities and attractions that families can enjoy together. In addition, the park is located in a beautiful setting that is perfect for a family vacation.
13. Best California Vacation: The U.S.S Midway Museum
If you’re looking for a fun and educational family trip? Look no further than the U.S.S. Midway Museum in San Diego, California! This unique museum is dedicated to the history of aircraft carriers and naval aviation and provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about and experience life on an aircraft carrier.
The U.S.S. Midway Museum is located on the Midway, an aircraft carrier that served the United States Navy for 47 years. The Midway was the longest-serving aircraft carrier in U.S. history and saw action in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The museum features over 60 exhibits and displays, a flight simulator, and a 4D theater. Visitors can also participate in hands-on activities, such as steering the ship and manning the flight deck.
The U.S.S. Midway Museum is an excellent activity for families because it is both educational and fun. It is a unique experience that will allow your family to learn about naval history and the role of aircraft carriers in the United States Navy.
14. The place to visit in California: Philo Apple Farm
The Philo Apple Farm in California is an excellent place for a family visit. The farm has a variety of activities for kids and adults, and the scenery is beautiful. The Philo Apple Farm is a great place to spend time with the family.
The farm has a variety of activities for kids to do. For example, they can pick apples, go on a hayride, or play in the corn maze. There are also a few animals on the farm, such as goats and chickens. The kids will love getting to see and pet the animals.
Adults can enjoy the beauty of the farm as well. The Philo Apple Farm has a variety of apple trees, and the scenery is simply beautiful. The farm also has a gift shop where you can buy apples, apple pies, and other apple-related items.
The Philo Apple Farm is an excellent place for a family visit. Everyone has something to do, and the scenery is simply beautiful. So, if you are looking for a place to take the family for a memorable day, the Philo Apple Farm is a great option.
15. Visit in California with kids: Turtle Bay Museum
Turtle Bay Museum is a great place to take your family on a fun trip. The 300-acre park has a museum, botanical gardens, a greenhouse, a wildlife center for children, and a sundial bridge. The Turtle Bay Museum is a great place to take your family on a day trip. The 300-acre park has a museum, a greenhouse, a sundial bridge, botanical gardens, and a wildlife center for children.
The Turtle Bay Museum in California is a great place to take your family for a day of fun. The museum has a variety of exhibits that are both educational and entertaining. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the museum is handicap accessible.
One of the best things about the Turtle Bay Museum is the variety of exhibits. The museum has something for everyone, from younger kids to older kids and adults. The exhibits are well-designed and engaging, providing an excellent opportunity for families to learn about the natural world together.
The Turtle Bay Museum is also a great place to break from everyday life’s hustle and bustle. The museum is located in a beautiful setting, and the grounds are well-maintained. There are plenty of places to sit and relax, and the museum is a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch.
Final Thoughts
There are many fun activities to choose from in this great state, and we have listed our favorite places in California to visit while exploring with your family. We hope you enjoy your time in this great state as much as we have. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to write them in the comment section.
