San Diego in October by Guest Blogger Christina Holt from MommyLovesCoffee.com

Yesterday I shared my bucket list of my favorite things to do and see, and favorite places to stay and play in San Diego in honor of San Diego’s Special Kidvasion Month where kids are free at many local atrractions, restaurants and more.

To complete your trip, we thought we should ask a native San Diegan about her favorite places to go, things to do and hotels to stay at in San Diego.  Christina Holt, also known as Mommy Loves Coffee, shares with us what to do this October in th beautiful city of San Diego:

While most of the country is unpacking their fall and winter clothing and accessories, San Diego is still soaking up the sun – and the fun! With weather that stays in the 70’s (and sometimes ventures into the 80’s if we’re lucky), San Diego in October is quite possibly the perfect place for visitors and locals.

October is a busy month for San Diego – and a time when kids and families can really enjoy all this special town has to offer. This year, October means that kids eat, stay and play for free at over 100 attractions throughout the city… As if you needed another excuse to enjoy the beaches, parks and family-friendly outdoor activities.

From now until November 4, the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum in Escondido is hosting a Family Pumpkin Patch featuring a live music series, family garden programs, craft activities and much more, families from all over are invited to participate in the classic fall traditions at the museum’s 12,000 square foot Discovery Garden.

Kids get in free with a paid adult admission during the entire month of October thanks to the San Diego Museum Council’s “Kids Free in October, presented by Time Warner Cable”. Enjoy adventures from the 36 participating museums including, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, The Midway, Museum of Man and many more. Download your free coupon online at

The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are also offering free child’s admission during the month of October. But be sure to bring your walking shoes and a stroller for the little ones to fully enjoy and experience the beautiful – and large – Zoo grounds.

Sea World, located right on the bay, is a perfect place to cool off while having fun. With attractions, interactive shows, educational displays and your favorite Sesame Street characters, the whole family will appreciate this adventure. During the month of October, Sea World is offer you a chance to swim with the dolphins, if you book in advance.

LEGOLAND and Sea Life Aquarium are getting in the spirit of Halloween this year with their annual Brick Or Treat nights. Come dressed in your best costume and experience the tricks, treats and family fun! Don’t forget to check out the construction and book your room at the LEGOLAND Hotel, which opens in May of 2013.

While your having fun in the sun, be sure to check out these other popular family-friendly San Diego locations.

Balboa Park – experience culture through museums and nature in this beautiful and historic San Diego location. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy your time under the shady trees.

The San Diego Botanical Gardens in Encinitas offer a serene and peaceful place for families to learn and relax. Don’t forget to visit the tree house play house and check out the mommy and me classes as well.

Venture down the coast from Del Mar’s 15^th Street Powerhouse Park, to La Jolla Shores and all the way over the Coronado Bay Bridge. You might want to schedule a stop at Seaport Village to enjoy the food, shopping and carousel fun.

If you’re planning a visit to San Diego this month, here’s a list of my favorite family-friendly resorts and hotels that are sure to make your stay that much more enjoyable.

La Costa Resort and Spa – Enjoy your stay in true style, but with the conveniences of Kidtopia, Sandy Beach Family Pool, Splash Landing Pools and family activities that include: S’more roasting, Dive in Movies, Surf Camp, Radical Reptile Shows and a Vibz Game Lounge. Plus, you’re right down the road from LEGOLAND California. 

Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina – The Hyatt Regency Mission Bay is stepping it up for families this October. Enjoy Halloween activities or stay in one of the Sea World rooms to really get the most of your stay at the bay.

La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club – with the beach at your doorstep, set up a family beach BBQ, tennis lessons or venture to the playground for some good old fashion fun.

BIO:

Christina Holt is a born and raised San Diego mom of three boys and writer behind Mommy Loves Coffee. Christina leverages her adventures in parenting, her experience as a trained Montessori teacher and knowledge of children’s products and trends to inform her expert reviews, freelance work on popular parenting websites and insightful live television segments.