Liberty Station Playground
Rating
Price
Free
Duration
1-2 hours; easily extended with Liberty Station's restaurants and shops
Best Ages
Best for ages 2-10
About
Liberty Station Playground is a hidden gem within one of San Diego's most thoughtfully redeveloped public spaces. The former Naval Training Center in Point Loma was transformed into a mixed-use arts and dining district — and the playground sits right in the heart of it, surrounded by free parking, open lawns, public art, and an excellent restaurant lineup.
The playground itself has high-quality equipment rated 4.9 stars by visitors — not a fluke for a small sample, but a genuine reflection of the care put into the space. Climbing structures and swings are well-maintained and suited to toddlers through grade school.
But the larger appeal is the Liberty Station environment. After playground time, families can walk the NTC Promenade, browse art galleries, discover public art installations throughout the grounds, or sit down to a meal at one of a dozen restaurants within easy walking distance. Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens is the family standout — a massive outdoor garden dining area that's forgiving of kids and serves excellent food and beer for the adults.
Free parking is abundant throughout Liberty Station, which is genuinely rare for a popular San Diego destination. The flat, pedestrian-oriented layout makes it easy to navigate with strollers and kids on bikes or scooters.
Liberty Station also hosts weekend markets and community events throughout the year — checking the schedule before visiting can yield bonus activities like food fairs, farmer's markets, and outdoor performances that round out a full family day.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Unknown
Kid Meals
N/A
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Any time; Liberty Station is uncrowded on weekday mornings. Weekends are busier but the area handles crowds well.
Wait Times
No wait; public playground
Nearby Food
Liberty Station has an outstanding restaurant collection within walking distance of the playground, including Stone Brewing World Bistro, The Lot (movie theater with restaurant), Mess Hall (casual American), and multiple other family-friendly options. A dedicated food market operates on weekends.
Why Kids Love It
Liberty Station Playground is tucked within the Liberty Station arts and dining district, a beautifully redeveloped former Naval Training Center that gives families a playground surrounded by open lawns, public art installations, and a vibrant food scene. Kids love the well-designed climbing equipment and the sense of discovery that comes from exploring Liberty Station's courtyards and outdoor spaces between playground sessions.
What Parents Say
“Great shaded playground equipment for kids of all ages, with bathrooms, water fountains, nearby tables, and char-cole grilling areas.”
Pro Tips from Parents
- Liberty Station has free ample parking — unusual for San Diego's popular areas.
- The surrounding Liberty Station arts complex has galleries and public art that older kids often find engaging.
- Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens is Liberty Station's most family-friendly restaurant with a large outdoor garden seating area.
- The nearby NTC Promenade (National Training Center park area) has additional outdoor space for running and exploring.
- Weekend food markets and community events frequently take place at Liberty Station — check libertystation.com for current programming.
What to Bring
- Sunscreen
- Snacks or plan to eat at Liberty Station restaurants
- Scooters or bikes for kids — the area is flat and pedestrian-friendly
Cost Info
Free Admission
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$0 for playground.
Liberty Station parking is free and ample.
Budget for food at the surrounding restaurants ($40-60 for a family lunch at casual spots).
Tips to Save
- The playground is free; the strategic value is combining it with Liberty Station's free outdoor areas, public art, and walkable restaurant row without extra cost.
