From roller coasters to water parks to up-close animal encounters to professional sports, there’s no shortage of all-ages of fun to be had in San Diego this summer. There is an abundance of exciting new additions at some of San Diego’s most beloved locations. In theme parks and experiences, LEGOLAND California, SeaWorld San Diego, the San Diego Zoo and Sesame Place San Diego all have new rides and experiences to share with visitors.
LEGOLAND California debuted Miniland San Diego this year, its most recent addition to its Miniland U.S.A. exhibit, featuring miniature, hand-built versions of American cities such as New York, Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Las Vegas. Created by master builders over thousands of hours, Miniland San Diego features LEGO versions of iconic landmarks inspired by the Gaslamp District, the San Diego Convention Center, Coronado Bridge, Petco Park, Balboa Park and more.
SeaWorld San Diego’s highly anticipated roller coaster, Artic Rescue, launched in spring 2023, taking the title of longest and fastest straddle coaster on the West Coast, with speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. The family-friendly multi-launch ride invites guests to hop on a snowmobile for a chilly adventure as they race through the arctic to rescue endangered animals. Also new this summer is Rescue Jr., a kid-friendly play area where children become park heroes while learning about animal rescue and rehabilitation through exciting hands-on experiences. Featuring thrilling play elements, splash pads, climbing structures, rides, and real-life rescue stories, kids will engage with conservation efforts in a fun and interactive environment.
The San Diego Zoo’s all-new Wildlife Explorer’s Basecamp is now open, inviting children to “go wild” as they learn about nature. Basecamp blends learning with physical activity, inviting explorers to climb, scramble and jump in innovative play areas, visit diverse natural habitats, experience up-close animal encounters and more – all while learning about wildlife conservation.
Belmont Park has big plans in motion for its 100th anniversary in 2025, including opening a new ride. In the meantime, a new interactive climbing tower called Sun Kid Tower will debut this summer, offering thrill seekers views of the Pacific Ocean and Mission Beach boardwalk. The park recently replaced its Control Freak ride with Flip Out, and expanded its Lazerblast Arcade, adding 14 new games and additional prizes.
Sesame Place San Diego is home to family-friendly rides and water slides, shows and parades, and this summer the park will debut Dine with Elmo & Friends, an interactive adventure that includes a buffet-style meal and entertainment. Sesame Place is an accredited Certified Autism Center, with team members trained in sensory awareness, program development and more.
To celebrate the Fourth of July, the USS Midway Museum is hosting a fireworks viewing party from the flight deck of its historic aircraft carrier. In addition to the best view in town for the Big Bay Boom, guests will enjoy live entertainment, barbecue, photo opps and more. Tickets go on sale June 7 at 11 a.m. and will sell out fast!
