San Diego vs Los Angeles for Families
A side-by-side comparison to help you pick the right destination for your next family trip.
K
By Kit, KidPaths editor
Covers 71 cities. Reads a lot of parent reviews.
| San Diego, CA | Los Angeles, CA | |
|---|---|---|
| Total Activities | 43 | 26 |
| Free Activities | 12 | 6 |
| Avg Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Indoor Activities | 19 | 13 |
| Outdoor Activities | 17 | 8 |
| Stroller-Friendly | 33 | 15 |
| Rainy Day Options | 21 | 17 |
Age Suitability
| Age Group | San Diego | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Infants (0-1) | 14 | 4 |
| Toddlers (2-4) | 34 | 22 |
| Little Kids (5-7) | 42 | 25 |
| Big Kids (8-10) | 39 | 18 |
| Tweens (11-12) | 20 | 11 |
| Teens (13+) | 17 | 6 |
Activities by Category
| Category | San Diego | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Museums | 3 | 0 |
| Zoos & Aquariums | 4 | 1 |
| Parks & Playgrounds | 11 | 6 |
| Restaurants | 1 | 0 |
| Entertainment | 7 | 8 |
| Farms & Nature | 1 | 1 |
| Tours & Experiences | 16 | 10 |
Top Attractions
San Diego
Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Diego or Los Angeles better for families with kids?
Both are great! San Diego has 43 kid-friendly activities (12 free) while Los Angeles has 26 (6 free). Los Angeles has a slightly higher average rating.
Which city has more free things to do with kids?
San Diego has more free family activities (12 vs 6).
Which city is better for toddlers?
San Diego has 34 toddler-friendly activities and Los Angeles has 22. San Diego edges ahead for the littlest travelers.