10 Best Cities To Visit In California, Usa With Kids

10 Best Cities to Visit in California, USA with Kids

If you’re looking for a fun-filled family trip, California has a lot to offer. I remember the first time I took my kids to San Diego; the excitement in their eyes at the San Diego Zoo was priceless! We spent the entire day marveling at animals from all over the world, and seeing my kids learning and exploring was incredible. California is packed with cities that cater specifically for family trips. Here, I’ve compiled a list of the ten best cities to visit in California with your children, focusing on key attractions, activities, and fun experiences that await you.

1. San Diego

San Diego is often known as the "child-friendly capital" of California, with over 70 miles of coastline and plenty of attractions for families. The famous San Diego Zoo is just one of the iconic spots that you won’t want to miss, frequently cited as one of the best in the world. Additionally, Legoland California, located in Carlsbad, is ideal for kids aged 2-12, making it a perfect day trip from the city.

Over 3 million guests visit these attractions annually, making San Diego a hub for family-friendly activities. Kids can learn about marine life at SeaWorld or soak up the sun at one of the many beautiful beaches. The outdoor activities are endless, from surfing lessons to ranking up at boardwalk games at Mission Beach. In fact, USA Today named San Diego Beach one of the best in the country for families!

2. Los Angeles

Next on our list is Los Angeles. The city is not just about Hollywood; there are many family-oriented attractions. Universal Studios Hollywood offers a unique experience, with rides based on famous movies and the chance to see real movie sets. Did you know that, on average, the park attracts around 9 million visitors every year?

For the little ones, the California Science Center presents interactive exhibits that inspire curiosity and learning. And of course, a stroll along the iconic Santa Monica Pier with its amusement park rides will add a touch of excitement to your trip.

3. San Francisco

San Francisco is another excellent city for families. The city itself has a rich history and captivating sites, like the Golden Gate Bridge. Did you know that the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in the world? The Exploratorium is an interactive science museum that engages children and has countless hands-on exhibits. With its innovative and playful approach to science, over 800,000 children visit the Exploratorium each year!

Take a ride on the historic cable cars, visit Alcatraz Island, or discover the wonders of the California Academy of Sciences. There’s always something new to see and do, making San Francisco a fantastic family destination.

4. Anaheim

Of course, we can't forget Anaheim, home to Disneyland Resort! The enchantment of the Happiest Place on Earth is something that kids and adults alike cherish. Disneyland hosts about 18 million visitors annually, showcasing its popularity. The park is filled with attractions suitable for every age group, ensuring that every family member leaves with unforgettable memories.

In addition to Disneyland, the nearby California Adventure Park offers fun experiences like the Pixar Pier, making it a complete family adventure! Kids can meet their favorite characters throughout the parks, making each visit magical.

5. Sacramento

As California's capital, Sacramento deserves a visit too. The California State Railroad Museum is immensely popular among kids and has the steepest learning curve in fun! It is also one of the largest and most visited railroad museums in the world. The museum hosts over 100,000 visitors each year to explore its extensive collection of locomotives and cars. Kids can climb aboard vintage trains and learn about their significance in California's history.

The interactive exhibits are designed to keep children engaged and interested, making this a memorable stop on your journey.

6. Fresno

Fresno offers an exciting mix of outdoor adventures and educational experiences. Families can take trips to the nearby Sierra National Forest for hiking or camping. But there’s more—the Fresno Chaffee Zoo has been recognized for its captivating exhibits and kid-friendly layout. Each year, it welcomes approximately 500,000 visitors curious to see everything from giraffes to sea lions.

Apart from the zoo, the Forestiere Underground Gardens presents an intriguing mystery that ignites kids' imaginations. This lush underground oasis is vast, with secret tunnels and grottos, making it an exciting exploration destination.

7. Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers the beauty of the California coast and is ideal for families. The Santa Barbara Zoo is small but has a charming collection of animals that even little ones can enjoy. As of 2022, the zoo reported approximately 265,000 annual visitors, who all appreciate its unique approach to animal care and conservation.

The city's beautiful beaches also provide opportunities for beach-themed activities like surfing lessons and sandcastle building. Plus, the nearby Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History offers interactive exhibits that captivate kids while educating them about the world around them. Your family will never run out of things to explore here!

8. Long Beach

Long Beach stands out with its rich maritime history. Home to the famous Queen Mary ship, which has been converted into a hotel and museum, it's a place shrouded in mystery that sparks curiosity among the kids. Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific is another highlight, attracting around 1.5 million visitors yearly to learn about marine conservation.

Whether you explore the playgrounds at Shoreline Aquatic Park or partake in kid-friendly activities at the family-friendly events that run year-round, Long Beach is a hidden gem perfect for any family trip.

9. San Jose

San Jose is a tech-driven city with attractions that kids would find fascinating. The Tech Interactive is a hands-on technology museum that features interactive exhibits, ideal for sparking the curiosity of young minds. Over 800,000 visitors walk through its doors every year!

And don't forget the Children's Discovery Museum, which offers fun, interactive exhibits for kids. A visit to San Jose is an excellent way to get your family engaged with innovative ideas and creative activities.

10. Bakersfield

Finally, Bakersfield may not be the most obvious choice, but it's slowly becoming known for its family attractions. The California Living Museum (CALM) is an excellent way to learn about the state's native wildlife. The museum attracts around 130,000 visitors annually. You can witness and learn about various species, all while enjoying the lovely environment of the park.

Within Bakersfield, family-friendly events like festivals and fairs occur year-round, making it a city worth considering for your next family vacation.

With so many fantastic cities to choose from, the question isn't if you will have a good time in California, but when will you go? Each city provides unique attractions and experiences that cater to families, ensuring that there is no shortage of adventure and fun. So pack your bags, and prepare for an unforgettable family trip to California! Keep exploring, and you never know what mysteries await around the next corner.

Sources: San Diego Zoo, Universal Studios Hollywood, Exploratorium, Disneyland, California State Railroad Museum, Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Santa Barbara Zoo, Aquarium of the Pacific, The Tech Interactive, California Living Museum