San Diego Automotive Museum
Balboa Park
Start your engines! Dads get free admission during Father’s Day weekend, June 19-21, 2026, at the San Diego Automotive Museum. Explore 17,000 square feet of FUN that showcases both cars and motorcycles. To make the weekend even more special, come out Sunday morning for “Cars and Coffee” in the museum’s front parking area. See cars of all makes and models while enjoying FREE coffee, donuts, and car talk from 6:30 – 8 a.m. The museum opens early at 7:30 a.m. with a special admission price of $10 before 10:00 a.m. Plus, the outdoor event is free to attend and show your car.
Tijuana Estuary Visitors Center
National City
If Dad is a nature lover, your Father’s Day can be about the great outdoors! Take the whole family for an early morning hike along the accessible trails of the Tijuana Estuary in National City. Stop by the Tijuana Estuary Visitors Center and learn how you can experience the beauty and wonder of this natural wetland habitat by hiking and biking to birding and horseback riding. Get more information here.
Maritime Museum of San Diego
San Diego Bay Front
Celebrate Father’s Day at the Maritime Museum of San Diego, home to the legendary Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship. Explore historic vessels, enjoy stunning San Diego Bay views, and treat Dad to a day of maritime adventure.
With General Admission on Sunday, June 21, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Dad receives a complimentary craft beer (21+) and a FREE On-the-Water Adventure aboard one of the Museum’s historic boats.
Fun Tip: Plan, celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at the Maritime Museum, and get tickets here for spectacular fireworks viewing on July 4.
J.A. Cooley Museum
University Heights
Just in time for Father’s Day! The J.A. Cooley Museum introduces the newest addition to its impressive collection of automobiles, a 1981 Delorean DMC. Go back in time with Dad and experience 109 years of auto manufacturing and 36 other rare collections. The museum is located one mile north of Balboa Park and includes fun interactive displays.
Whaley House Museum
Historic Old Town
A Whaley House Haunted Evening Tour makes the scary good Father’s Day Gift! Worldwide known as the Most Haunted House in America, it is recognized for its historical significance in Old Town San Diego. Be part of the historic legacy, mystery and legends of the Whaley Family, and hear of their myths and misconceptions. Approximately 30-minute guided tour through the historic Whaley House and the surrounding grounds. Regale in the tales of the spirits from the past and perhaps even experience the paranormal. Book your evening tours here.
Comic-Con Museum
Balboa Park
Step into the worlds of superheroes, science fiction, gaming, and animation at the Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park. This Father’s Day weekend, families can explore immersive exhibits, including Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder: Where Science Meets Fiction, featuring iconic props, interactive experiences, and the real science behind the beloved series.
Whether Dad grew up reading comic books, watching sci-fi classics, or attending Comic-Con, the Museum offers a fun and nostalgic experience for fans of all ages. It’s also the perfect way to start getting excited for this summer’s Comic-Con International.
California Surf Museum
Oceanside
As “one of Southern California’s most consistent surf spots,” Oceanside’s local surf culture and old school beach vibe truly make for a fun weekend catching waves with the family. For more fun, look no further than the California Surf Museum located in downtown Oceanside. This family-friendly museum has a stunning collection of surfboards and more including the exhibit featuring the courageous Bethany Hamilton and the shark-bitten surfboard as depicted in the movie, Soul Surfer.
San Diego Air & Space Museum
Balboa Park
From the Wright Brothers to the Space Age, the San Diego Air & Space Museum offers an unforgettable journey through aviation and space exploration. Explore historic aircraft, hands-on exhibits, flight simulators, and one of the museum’s most remarkable treasures—the actual Apollo 9 Command Module, one of only two flown Apollo capsules on display west of the Rocky Mountains.
Perfect for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and future astronauts alike, the museum combines legendary aircraft, interactive experiences, and inspiring stories of innovation. Families can also enjoy flight simulators, a 3D/4D theater, and hands-on activities throughout the museum
Learn more at: San Diego Air & Space Museum.
Fleet Science Center
Balboa Park
For dads who love to tinker, discover, and explore, the Fleet Science Center offers a Father’s Day adventure filled with hands-on exhibits, interactive experiences, and fun for all ages. From engineering challenges and scientific discoveries to immersive learning opportunities, there’s something to inspire every curious mind.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the all-new Element 8 Café. Fresh, fun, and family-friendly, this reimagined dining experience features a thoughtfully prepared menu focused on quality, locally sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect place to recharge, refuel, and reignite your curiosity before heading back to explore the museum.
Learn more at: Fleet Science Center.
Blue Star Museums
San Diego County
This Father’s Day Weekend and through September 7, 2026, active-duty military and their families can enjoy free admission at participating museums thanks to a collaboration with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Blue Star Museums in San Diego include Bonita Museum & Cultural Center, Coronado Historical Association, JA Cooley Museum, Mingei International Museum, Museum of Making Music, Museum of Photographic Arts at The San Diego Museum of Art, Oceanside Museum of Art, Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, San Diego Archaeological Center, San Diego Automotive Museum, San Diego Chinese Historical Museum, San Diego Mineral & Gem Museum, San Diego Museum of Art, and Visions Museum of Textile Art.
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego
San Diego County
Located just steps from the waterfront, the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego offers a powerful and immersive look into the history, missions, and values of America’s elite special operations forces. Through authentic artifacts, interactive exhibits, cutting-edge technology, and stories shared by retired SEALs, visitors gain a rare glimpse into the world of Naval Special Warfare.
With Coronado serving as the training ground for generations of Navy SEALs, there’s no better place to explore this uniquely San Diego story. Families can experience hands-on exhibits, learn about the evolution of the SEAL Teams, and even add the Navy SEAL Xperience virtual reality mission to their visit.
Whether Dad is a military history enthusiast, a veteran, or simply inspired by stories of courage, leadership, and service, the Navy SEAL Museum offers a memorable Father’s Day outing.
Learn more at: Navy SEAL Museum San Diego.
