Being tight on time doesn’t mean you have to miss out on having some family fun. There are plenty of things to do around San Diego that will get you maximum fun and you’ll be done in under an hour. So when you see the family calendar filled up with sports, classes and nap times, don’t be afraid to schedule in one of these awesome family activities. Tick tock!
Image Credit: Leah Singer
Putt it Out at Pelly’s Mini Golf Course
Nothing says good old family fun like a bit of putt putt golf, and Pelly’s Mini Golf Course can have the whole family swinging their 18 holes in under an hour flat. There are two courses to choose from: the sea-themed course is great for beginners with gentle bumps and curves while skilled pros will enjoy the surfers course where you can test the waters of the shark cage. Pelly’s is eco-friendly and puts a focus on educating players around conservation so it’s not only fun but factual. It’s worth noting that there isn’t much shade on the course, so be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen.
Time Spent: 55 minutes of putting fun
Dates: Mon. – Thurs., Sun.: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Fri. – Sat.: 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Cost: Starts at $7.50/person
15555 Jimmy Durante Blvd.
Del Mar, Ca 92014
858-481-0363
Online: delmargolfcenter.com
Image Credit: Lynn T. via Yelp.
Do An Hour of Power at Sky High Sports Trampoline Park
If you’re looking for some active fun, an hour spent at Sky High Sports Trampoline Park might be just the thing for you. Book a one-hour slot and you’ll have access to San Diego’s largest trampoline park where you can jump across their trampoline field, fly into their foam pit or swing from the rope swing. While the kids are jumping sky high, you can take a load off in the parents lounge with free wi-fi or pick up a coffee in their cafe. To maximize your hour, book and pay for your timeslot online up to two days in advance. Kids of all ages are welcome and the courts are divided based on age if it’s busy. Bare feet are okay for jumping (and mom, feel reassured as each trampoline is disinfected nightly), or grip socks are available for purchase.
Time Spent: 1 hour of maximum fun
Dates: Mon. – Thurs.: $15/one hour; Fri. – Sun.: $16/one hour
8190 Miralani Dr.
San Diego, Ca 92126
858-693-5867
Online: sdo.jumpskyhigh.com
Image Credit: Leah Singer
Get it Farm Fresh at the La Jolla Open Aire Market
Head down to the La Jolla Open Aire Market on a Sunday for a taste of the farm fresh life. Growers, boutique food shops and food trucks from all across the county have booths with plenty of fresh fruit, veggies, baked goods and take-away food. You can share a picnic table under the pergola or put down your picnic blanket on the grassy field while you watch the school concerts. If there’s time left over, check out the two play structures for the kiddos to play on or the face painter. All proceeds go to the La Jolla Elementary public school so you can feel good about putting your money where your mouth is. You’ll find plenty of parking on Girard Street.
Time Spent: 50 minutes of delicious fun
Dates: Sunday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Corner of Girard and Genter St.
La Jolla, Ca 92037
Online: lajollamarket.com
Image Credit: Chris C. and Calvin U. via Yelp.
Visit A Bit of Hidden San Diego – The Spruce St Suspension Bridge
Get ready for a short and sharp adventure! Walk down First Avenue turning west and you’ll hit Spruce Street. Look towards the inconspicuous opening at the end of the street and you’ll find a tiny bit of hidden and historic San Diego. The Spruce Street Footbridge, one of the seven structures in the Bridges of San Diego walk. Known to locals as “Wiggly Bridge,” this footbridge is suspended 75 feet over Kate Sessions canyon. Families not afraid of heights will love walking over the wooden planks, feeling the slight sway of the bridge with each step. Be on the look-out for the Little Free Library tucked away at the beginning or end of the trip. There aren’t any bathrooms here, so its best to do any bathroom breaks or water stops before you hit the bridge.
Time Spent: 20 minutes of high-time fun
Spruce St. and First Ave.
San Diego, Ca 92103
Image Credit: Love C. via Yelp.
Pick Up A Tasty Treat at Donut Bar
Head downtown and pick up a tasty treat at Donut Bar. The donut menu is set daily and shared the night before on their Facebook and Instagram page, so kids can go to sleep that night dreaming of what’s to come. Chef Santiago loves to create unique (but seriously yummy) donut creations like salted caramel and maple bacon. Plus, you can also pick up a good cup of coffee, tea or a shake for the kids. On the weekends they offer a free themed donut for kids with any order. Allow an extra five minutes for street parking downtown and be prepared that there may be a line. We’d suggest getting down there early, because they close up shop once the donuts are sold for the day!
Time Spent: 30 minutes of donut fun
Dates: Mon. – Fri., 7a.m. – sell out, Sat. – Sun., 8 a.m. – sell out
631 B St.
San Diego, Ca 92101
619-255-6360
Online: donutbarsandiego.com
What are your favorite family things to do in under an hour? Let us know!
— Lenya McGrath
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