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Writer's pictureKara Kohnen

Family-Friendly Fall Activities in San Diego


As fall arrives, San Diego offers the perfect weather for families to explore and enjoy a wide range of seasonal activities. From pumpkin patches to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to embrace the spirit of the season. Here are some fun and family-friendly fall activities to enjoy in San Diego this year.


1. Visit a Pumpkin Patch


One of the most iconic fall activities is visiting a pumpkin patch, and San Diego has plenty to offer. These local spots often feature more than just pumpkins—families can enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and even tractor rides. Some of the best pumpkin patches in the area include:


• Bates Nut Farm (Valley Center): This beloved farm offers acres of pumpkins, a petting zoo, tractor rides, and live music during weekends.

• Pumpkin Station (Multiple Locations): With locations throughout San Diego, Pumpkin Station is a convenient option with fun activities like giant slides, train rides, and bounce houses.




2. Apple Picking in Julian


Fall is the perfect time for a family trip to Julian, a charming mountain town just outside of San Diego, famous for its apple orchards and apple pie. Take a drive through the scenic back roads and spend a day picking apples at one of the local orchards. Afterward, enjoy a fresh slice of warm apple pie from one of Julian’s famous pie shops. Julian also hosts fall festivals and events that celebrate the season.


3. Explore the San Diego Zoo Safari Park


The San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers special events and activities during the fall, such as “Kids Free October,” where children get free admission. Families can explore the park’s incredible wildlife exhibits, ride the Africa Tram, or watch the animals roam freely in their natural habitats. The cooler fall weather makes it an ideal time to visit without the summer crowds.


4. Attend a Fall Festival


San Diego is home to a variety of fall festivals that offer entertainment for the whole family. These events often feature live music, food vendors, craft booths, and activities for kids. A few popular fall festivals include:


• Harvest Festival Original Art & Craft Show (Del Mar): Known for its unique artisan crafts, live entertainment, and food, this festival offers something for every age.

• Fall Fest at Belmont Park (Mission Beach): Belmont Park transforms into a fall wonderland with pumpkin painting, live music, and trick-or-treating at the beachside amusement park.


5. Hike the Trails at Torrey Pines


Fall brings cooler temperatures to San Diego, making it the perfect time for a family-friendly hike. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers scenic coastal trails that are great for kids and adults alike. The breathtaking ocean views, unique wildlife, and striking sandstone cliffs make for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.



6. Visit a Corn Maze


For a bit of fall fun and a challenge, head to one of San Diego’s corn mazes. These giant mazes provide a fun family bonding experience, with twists and turns that keep everyone guessing.


• Carlsbad Strawberry Company: This farm offers a seasonal corn maze along with a pumpkin patch. There are also games and activities for younger children.

• Mountain Valley Ranch (Ramona): In addition to the corn maze, this ranch features pony rides, a petting zoo, and seasonal produce.


7. Celebrate Halloween at LEGOLAND


LEGOLAND California hosts its annual “Brick-or-Treat” Halloween event, where the park comes alive with seasonal décor, LEGO-themed trick-or-treating stations, and live shows. It’s a kid-friendly celebration perfect for families with younger children who want to enjoy a festive but not-too-scary Halloween experience.


8. Family Picnic at Balboa Park


Balboa Park, with its sprawling gardens and cultural attractions, is a wonderful spot for a fall family outing. Pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the park’s museums, art installations, and natural beauty. During October, many of the park’s museums participate in “Kids Free October,” allowing children to enjoy free admission to participating attractions.


9. Attend a Football Game


Fall means football season, and families can enjoy the excitement by attending a San Diego State University Aztecs game at Snapdragon Stadium. It’s a fun way to experience the community spirit and introduce kids to live sports in a family-friendly environment.


10. Take a Harbor Cruise


Enjoy the crisp fall air with a family-friendly harbor cruise around San Diego Bay. Many companies offer narrated tours where you can see landmarks like the USS Midway, Coronado Bridge, and even spot sea lions. It’s a great way to enjoy the city from a different perspective and learn more about San Diego’s history.



11. Go on a Ghost Tour in Old Town


If your family enjoys a bit of spooky fun, consider taking a ghost tour in Old Town San Diego. This historic area is known for its haunted past, and family-friendly ghost tours guide visitors through the area’s most famous haunted spots. It’s a fun and educational way to get into the Halloween spirit while learning about local history.


12. Stargazing at Palomar Observatory


Take advantage of clear fall nights by visiting the Palomar Observatory for some family stargazing. Located in the mountains northeast of San Diego, this observatory offers public tours and a chance to explore the wonders of the night sky. It’s a great educational outing for both kids and adults.


Final Thoughts


Fall in San Diego offers an abundance of family-friendly activities that embrace the season’s festive atmosphere. Whether you’re picking pumpkins, exploring nature, or enjoying a local festival, there are endless opportunities to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Creating seasonal and annual traditions can create wonderful, lifelong memories and be very grounding for families.



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