23 Family Vacations in CALIFORNIA (Fun, Blissful, & Cheap)

Spending quality time with one’s family cannot be overemphasized.

Between work stress for parents and school stress for kids, it is essential to always remember to take some time off to relax in one another’s company while doing fun things together.

And what better way to combine relaxation with family bonding than a family getaway?

You get to have new experiences and create fun memories with your loved ones while relieving yourself of accumulated stress.

However, a family vacation can go wrong, spoiling the fun for everyone if the wrong destination is chosen.

But don’t fret, because no matter what makes the ideal vacation for you and your family, the Golden State has got you covered.

Without further ado, below are 23 family vacations in California for you to consider.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Family Resorts in California.

Family Vacations in Los Angeles, California

1. Universal Studios Hollywood (Diverse Theme Park)

Universal Studios Hollywood opened in 1964 and has since been a popular and loved family vacation destination by many people across the globe.

The studio, a combination of a theme park, a working movie studio, and a shopping and dining destination, offers much to people of all ages.

Imagine the fun you and your family can have at the Super Silly Fun Land, a dry and wet outdoor Despicable Me-themed play area.

You can dress up as minions and have a 360-degree view of the attraction on the Silly Swirly Fun Ride.

But the fun doesn’t end at Despicable Me.

Harry Potter fans can also find plenty to enjoy at the park’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

These are just a few examples of the fun awaiting your family at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, United States

2. Natural History Museum (Educational & Historic)

The Natural History Museum is one of the most iconic and largest historical museums in the United States, and you can have all the fun your family needs to unwind there.

This location is an excellent way to combine family fun with education, especially for youngsters.

The museum’s management is dedicated to delivering only the best services to stir awe and learning in their visitors.

They have an impressive collection of about 35 million artifacts (including dinosaurs, mammals, birds, insects, etc.) that span over 4.5 billion years of history.

The museum does not only display natural exhibits but also exhibits related to human history and culture.

It is also a hub for research and education; the museum’s scientists perform studies on various subjects, such as biodiversity, climate change, and conservation.

Be ready to challenge your intellect and reasoning while having fun at this museum.

Address: 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007, United States

3. Hollywood Walk of Fame (Celebrity Tribute)

When E.M. Stuart was the volunteer president of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce in 1953, he initiated a project to honor the entertainment industry’s achievements in Los Angeles.

He said he initiated the project to preserve the honor of the industry whose name is synonymous with global glitz and excitement.

The famous and extraordinary Hollywood Walk of Fame began due to this vision.

It is an iconic landmark located in Hollywood, with 2,752 brass stars embedded in the sidewalks for about 1.3 miles.

Each star is dedicated to an icon or celebrity within five entertainment industries.

They are motion pictures, broadcast television, music, radio, and theater or live performance.

Your Los Angeles family vacation is only complete with a visit to the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Address: Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St., Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

4. Hollywood Bowl (Iconic Amphitheater)

Thousands of tourists and locals have visited this entertainment attraction for over a century because of its famously breathtaking view and architecture.

Many have also visited for the brilliant performances and shows it has hosted.

The theater, designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, has unique architecture and a natural amphitheater containing up to 17,500 people.

Some of the biggest musical acts have performed at the Hollywood Bowl, including The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and the Rolling Stones.

The Hollywood Bowl also provides a range of family-friendly activities, such as picnics before concerts, location tours, food explorations, and hands-on displays.

A great time of enjoying excellent and timeless music awaits you at Hollywood Bowl!

Address: 2301 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90068, United States

Also see our article on Family Activities in California.

Family Vacations in San Francisco, California

1. The Walt Disney Family Museum (Walt Disney’s Legacy)

No, the Walt Disney Family Museum is not Disneyland.

It is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Walt Disney, the man behind the Walt Disney Company.

And it is just as perfect a destination for a family vacation as Disneyland.

Imagine having access to exhibits (including early sketches and cartoons, personal items, and Disney Company memorabilia) from the life of the creator of your favorite fairies, princes, witches, etc., with your family!

Interestingly, the museum was established in 2009 by Diane Disney Miller, Walt Disney’s daughter, in honor of her father’s life and achievements and to educate people about the man who made magic possible.

With a massive collection of over 40,000 objects, the Walt Disney Family Museum is carefully curated to give visitors a fun experience and an overview of Walt Disney’s life and career.

Address: 104 Montgomery St., San Francisco, CA 94129, United States

2. California Academy of Sciences (Scientific Exploration)

Many families enjoy participating in recreational activities that can also serve as learning opportunities.

If yours is one of those and you’re looking for vacations in San Francisco, you should check out this place.

Since its establishment in 1853, the California Academy of Sciences has built a reputation of being one of the world’s most prestigious scientific institutions.

The institution’s exhibits cover various fields, including astronomy, geology, marine biology, and biodiversity.

Highly recommended are two of their most popular exhibits: the African Hall, which showcases African wildlife, and the Steinhart Aquarium, which includes more than 38,000 live animals from throughout the world.

You won’t regret it if you decide to go here, so you should start planning to.

Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr., San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

3. Madame Tussauds San Francisco (Wax Celebrity Figures)

You don’t have to be in Hollywood or Los Angeles to see many of your favorite celebrities; you can find many A-list celebrities at Madame Tussauds San Francisco.

Maybe not exactly them, but their lifelike wax replicas!

Madame Tussauds is a world-renowned wax museum established by wax sculptor Marie Tussaud in London in 1835.

Today, Merlin Entertainments, one of the biggest attractions operators worldwide, owns and runs the museum.

The museum features figures of historical luminaries, pop culture stars, and celebrities such as Barack Obama, Steve Jobs, Lady Gaga, and Michael Jackson.

Madame Tussauds San Francisco is a fascinating and engaging tourist destination that welcomes tourists of all ages.

Any family vacation to San Francisco will undoubtedly be made more enjoyable by the lifelike wax figures and interactive exhibits at the museum.

Address: 145 Jefferson St., San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

4. Golden Gate Park (Expansive Urban Park)

Golden Gate Park, built in the late 19th century in response to San Francisco’s expanding need for public places, is an urban park that spreads over 1000 acres of land.

The park, modeled after other famous ones in America, was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted.

Many tourists and residents of San Francisco troop in and out of the park daily because of the numerous attractions located there.

Some of the attractions include the San Francisco Botanical Garden and the California Academy of Sciences.

Walking the hiking trail and riding around the biking routes can give your family an ultimate fun experience while you take in breathtaking views of the city and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Go and have some fun with your family at this beautiful park.

Address: 501 Stanyan Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

Also see our article on Vacation Spots in California.

Family Vacations in San Diego, California

1. SeaWorld San Diego (Marine Theme Park)

Animal lovers looking for family vacation destinations in San Diego can explore SeaWorld San Diego.

Located on San Diego’s Mission Bay, SeaWorld San Diego features a combination of an animal theme park and a marine zoo.

The park has 19 freshwater and saltwater aquariums, housing various aquatic animals, from whales to dolphins.

Kids can enjoy a full blast of rides like the Tidal Twister, Manta, Emperor, etc., while learning about aqua life.

Adults can also find lots to enjoy there with events like the Seven Seas Food Festival, where you can enjoy foods from different cultures, craft beers, and wine while live music plays.

If you plan to go, you should book your tickets online beforehand.

Address: 500 SeaWorld Dr., San Diego, CA 92109, United States

2. San Diego Whale Watch (Whale Migration Views)

Only a few other activities can match the tranquility of watching a large body of water just doing its thing.

That calmness and serenity of nature!

But did you know that you can take that experience up a notch?

Imagine watching giant animals swim in the water, enjoying their mesmerizing habitat!

Watching whales splash around in the water, take dives, and return to the water’s surface could be the fun your family should consider.

And what better way to experience such awesomeness than to go whale-watching in San Diego during a whale migration period (mid-December to April)?

San Diego Whale Watch offers a great view of marine life from a boat on Mission Bay for as long as 3 hours.

You should check them out.

Address: 1617 Quivira Rd., San Diego, CA 92109, United States

3. La Jolla Shores (Scenic Beach Getaway)

La Jolla Shores is a beach located in the upscale neighborhood of La Jolla.

It is a well-liked destination for a luxurious and fun-filled family beach getaway.

Aside from the beautiful scenery likely to leave you stunned, this beach offers visitors access to the undiluted natural wonders of the marine world and an endless view of the Pacific.

Tourists and locals highly favor La Jolla Shores for the numerous activities available.

You could explore La Jolla Cove on foot (depending on the tides) or in a kayak.

Or, if you prefer, you could go swimming, sunbathing, or scuba diving.

The Children’s Pool is another excellent amenity; it was a safe swimming area for kids but is no longer used since seals and sea lions claimed it.

Although it no longer functions as a pool, the Children’s Pool now offers guests an entertaining view of these adorable sea creatures.

Address: 8300 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States

4. Legoland California Resort (Lego-Themed Fun)

For families with kids between ages 2 and 12 looking for a fun-filled vacation in San Diego, look no further than Legoland.

Finding a vacation activity for kids can be a chore because they get bored quickly and continually seek out activities that interest them the most.

But, according to reviews online, many kids enjoy Legoland so much that they don’t want to leave when it’s time.

Perhaps this is not so far-fetched because who wouldn’t like the real-life version of their favorite toy?

Legoland California Resort offers numerous Lego-themed activities, including a theme park with various sections (like the Explorer’s Island, Fun Town, and Lego Friends Heartlake City); a sea life aquarium; a water park; and the Lego Movie World.

You don’t want to miss out on this resort’s fun.

Address: One Legoland Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008, United States

Also see our article on Cheap Weekend Getaways in California.

Family Vacations in San Jose, California

1. Happy Hollow Park & Zoo (Amusement & Wildlife)

Are you in San Jose looking for a chance to spend quality time with your family while exploring and being close to nature?

Or do you want to explore a family-friendly amusement park or zoo with your family?

If the answer to any of the above questions is yes, it is time to book your tickets to Happy Hollow Park and Zoo.

From roller coaster rides and carousels to a petting zoo and a puppet theater, the park has incredible features and amenities that will make your family vacation memorable.

And with animals like jaguars, fossas, capybaras, meerkats, and so on waiting to be marveled at, adults will find the park just as fun as kids would.

Address: 748 Story Rd., San Jose, CA 95112, United States

2. Winchester Mystery House (Historically Thrilling)

For adventure-seeking families vacationing in San Jose, you can visit Winchester Mystery House for an absolutely thrilling experience.

Sara Winchester, the wife of the popular firearms businessman William Wirt Winchester, once lived in the house.

People started touring it in 1923, nine months after Sarah Winchester’s death, because of its enormous size and gothic vibes.

It is regarded as one of the most haunted places in the world and is a popular tourist site and a well-liked family location for thousands of people who enjoy thrilling or weird experiences.

If you’re considering this location, it is advisable to go prepared to be creeped out of your mind.

It’s an excellent experience like no other!

Address: 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128, United States

3. The Tech Interactive (Interactive Science)

Are you looking for a fun getaway that challenges your reasoning and creativity?

Do you want your kids to engage in some thought-provoking and innovative hands-on activities related to science and tech?

Or are you interested in conducting scientific experiments in a fun, laid-back setting?

You can find all these and more at Tech Interactive.

Established in 1998 and formerly known as the Tech Museum of Innovation, this attraction is a science and technology museum with exhibits such as social robots, innovations in healthcare, cyber detectives, etc.

This location is ideal for people of all ages.

So, if your ideal family vacation is aimed at unwinding while inspiring you and your family to become problem solvers, this location is excellent.

Address: 201 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113, United States

4. Broadway San Jose (Live Performing Arts)

For families that enjoy performing arts, Broadway San Jose is an excellent family vacation destination in California.

The theater, formerly known as the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, is now one of the most significant theaters in the Bay Area after receiving a $75 million makeover in 2006 and reopening as Broadway San Jose.

It annually hosts several Broadway shows and musicals in downtown San Jose.

While some of their productions are aimed mainly at adults (like “The Book of Mormon” and “Hamilton”), they also offer family-friendly musicals like “The Lion King” and “Mary Poppins.”

Since located close to many attractions, restaurants, and hotels, Broadway San Jose is the perfect spot for a vacation with the family.

Address: 55 S Market St, Ste 250, San Jose, CA 95113, United States

Also see our article on the best Weekend Getaways in California.

Family Vacations in Fresno, California

1. Shinzen Japanese Garden (Tranquil Japanese Oasis)

The beautiful and serene Japanese-style garden in Woodward Park, Shinzen Japanese Garden, was built in 1981 in honor of Fresno’s sister city, Kochi, a city in Japan.

This tranquil haven in the heart of Fresno has the elements of a traditional Japanese garden: a pagoda, a tea house, a koi pond, etc.

Visitors can soak up the peacefulness and serenity by strolling along the paths and bridges that run through the garden.

From bonsai workshops to ikebana flower-arranging displays and traditional tea ceremonies, Shinzen Japanese Garden hosts various kinds of cultural events throughout the year.

Shinzen Japanese Garden has aesthetic and cultural value and functions as a community educational resource about Japanese gardens for school groups and tourists of all ages.

Address: 114 W Audubon Dr., Fresno, CA 93720, United States

2. Fresno Chaffee Zoo (Diverse Animal Exhibits)

Fresno Chaffee Zoo, established in 1929, has a wide range of animal species in Fresno.

With a land mass of about 39 acres and over 190 species selected worldwide, this zoo is famous among people visiting Fresno and locals alike.

The animals are divided into several sections to group similar species.

Some sections are African Adventure, Sea Lion Cove, Twiga Terrace, Bird Show, etc.

Visitors can also benefit from the interactive exhibits and educational events where they can interact with some animals directly for a fee.

These sessions aim to give the visitors an up-close and personal interaction with the animals while learning about their natural habitats and behaviors.

You can make the most of your family vacation in Fresno by visiting this zoo.

Address: 894 W Belmont Ave, Fresno, CA 93728, United States

3. The Meux Home Museum (Historic Victorian House)

One of the essential lessons humans have learned over time is that how a society handles its history has a vital role in making or breaking it.

This is why many scholars have advised paying close attention to history and teaching it to young people early in life.

In Fresno, California, there is a historical home museum called the Meux Home Museum.

The museum, constructed in 1888, is a Victorian-style house that was the home of a renowned local doctor, Dr. Thomas Meux.

It features a collection of artifacts that can give visitors a glimpse into what life in Fresno must have been like in the 9th and early 20th centuries.

And with many of the original furnishings still intact, Meux Home Museum is regarded as one of California’s best-preserved Victorian houses.

Trust that visiting this museum will be an unforgettable experience for you and your family.

Address: 1007 R St., Fresno, CA 93721, United States

4. Fresno Discovery Center (Interactive Science)

Sneaking a little learning experience into a family vacation won’t hurt anyone, so if you’d like a location that offers that, here you go.

Fresno Discovery Center is a science and technology museum with a mission to spark wonder and creativity in the young people of Central Valley.

The museum’s exhibits span various topics (geology, ecology, physics, and astronomy) and offer unique learning experiences and fun.

Some exhibits include the Earthquake Simulator, which enables visitors to experience the effects of earthquakes of different magnitudes; the Dino Dig, where visitors can search for dinosaur fossils; and the TechLab, which offers hands-on activities related to modern-day technology and computers.

It is a kid-friendly location where kids enjoy running around and playing in the playground, dino dig, and meadow.

Address: 1944 N Winery Ave, Fresno, CA 93703, United States

Also see our article on Playgrounds in California.

Family Vacations in Anaheim, California

1. Disneyland Resort (Ultimate Theme Park)

Everybody knows Disneyland.

It draws most visitors to Anaheim, so a list of family vacations to Anaheim will only be complete with it.

Disneyland Resort is fantastic for a premium experience of relaxation and unwinding as a family.

It has two theme parks: Disneyland Park, which is the original park and opened in 1955, and Disney California Adventure Park, which debuted in 2001.

Disneyland Park is the home of eight areas: Mickey’s Toontown, Main Street, the United States of America, Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Critter Country, and New Orleans Square.

Each area features amenities like rides, entertainment, food options, and attractions designed to match its theme.

The fun at Disneyland is limitless: guests can dine in themed restaurants, interact with their favorite Disney characters, and shop for Disney-related items across the resort!

Address: Disneyland Dr., Anaheim, CA 92802, United States

2. Anaheim GardenWalk (Shopping & Entertainment)

Anaheim GardenWalk, a popular outdoor food and entertainment area, is just a short distance from Disneyland.

It is the perfect place to relax after an adventurous day at Disneyland.

This one-stop-shop has everything from shopping to art installations to movies, music, and comedy!

You can find high-end fashion retailers, specialty stores, and gift shops at Anaheim GardenWalk.

Lush, H&M, and Forever 21 are notable retailers at the complex.

Also, with the numerous dining options available at the complex, you can enjoy a variety of cuisines, including American, Italian, and Mexican foods.

Anaheim GardenWalk offers a range of entertainment options in addition to dining and shopping, including Bowlmor Lanes, which has bowling, arcade games, and a sports bar, and the House of Blues, which regularly holds live music and other events.

Address: 400 Disney Way, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States

3. Angel Stadium of Anaheim (Baseball Excitement)

The Angel Stadium of Anaheim is a baseball stadium, and it is an excellent location for families interested in baseball.

This stadium is one of the top sporting venues in Southern California.

The Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball play their home matches there.

Since opening in 1966, the stadium has undergone several repairs and renovations to improve the viewing experience.

Angel Stadium sponsors several additional events throughout the year in addition to baseball games, so your options aren’t limited to baseball.

Some of these events include concerts, festivals, and charity activities.

An interesting fact is that the stadium houses a well-known monument and a representation of Anaheim: the “Big A” scoreboard, which has a vast, lit “A” that can be seen from miles away.

Address: 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92806, United States

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Places to Stay, Attractions, and Cabins in California.

Looking beyond California? Check out our article on the best Family Vacations in Texas and Florida.