Free Child Admissions Coming to Local Museums for Kids Free in October

Who said there’s nothing free anymore?

San Diego is always a kids’ paradise, so how do you make this SoCal adventure destination even better? With FREE kids’ admission to dozens of San Diego County’s best museums and attractions throughout October

The San Diego Museum Council has announced the return of its Kids Free San Diego program, now in its 13^th year, presented in partnership with the San Diego Tourism Authority and with support from First 5 San Diego.

From Oct. 1 to 31, children ages 12 and under can enjoy free admission to more than 50 museums, aquariums/zoos, gardens, state parks, historic sites, and other family-friendly attractions throughout San Diego County. Sites include some of San Diego’s most popular sites, including the USS Midway Museum, Fleet Science Center, Birch Aquarium, and San Diego Air & Space Museum, as well as many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Some locations are free for the entire family or offer pay-what-you-wish admission year-round. A full list of participating museums can be found on the San Diego Museum Council website.

“There really is something for every age and interest, no matter what your kids are into,” said San Diego Museum Council Executive Director Bob Lehman. “We have art, science, history, trains, cars, ships, animals, archaeology, and so much more. We also have gardens, parks, nature centers, and hiking trails for families to get outdoors and enjoy San Diego’s beautiful Fall weather. It’s all about having fun, exploring everything San Diego has to offer, and of course, saving money, which parents always appreciate.”

Kids Free aims to give more families access to the wide range of fun and enriching museum experiences available in San Diego. Last year, more than 100,000 children and adults participated in the Kids Free program.

How to Participate: For every adult ticket purchased, free admission is available for up to two kids (ages 12 and under). To participate, you will need to download a Kids Free coupon for each venue you would like to visit at sandiegomuseumcouncil.org. Then, simply present it at the participating museum’s admissions desk to receive your free child admissions. Note: Restrictions may apply at some museums, so guests are encouraged to check the website for more information before visiting.

Other major local attractions participating in Kids Free include the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND California Resort and SEA LIFE Aquarium, Belmont Park, and Sesame Place. To find more family-friendly deals during October, including hotels, restaurants, and activities, visit the Kids Free San Diego website.

The San Diego Museum Council’s major funding comes from The Prebys Foundation. Additional funding is provided by the California Arts Council, the city of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, and the County of San Diego. 

“Kids Free is the perfect time for families to enjoy time together, learning, playing, and creating new memories,” said Alethea Arguilez, executive director of First 5 San Diego. “Children really benefit from these types of experiences, particularly in their early development years, so access is key. We are proud to be part of this program that helps more families discover the magic of museums.”