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What Can I Bring? Ultimate Guide to San Diego Attractions with Kids!


People walking in front of the entrance, main sign, and lion statue at the San Diego Zoo.
Andrewjames954, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Are you planning a visit to San Diego’s top theme parks and attractions? Whether you're heading to Sesame Place, SeaWorld San Diego, LEGOLAND California, the San Diego Zoo/Safari Park, or Birch Aquarium, knowing what to bring and understanding park policies can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know about approved gear, food policies, and more essential park information to help you make the most of your visit.


1. San Diego Zoo and Safari Park

Tiger lying on a rock at the San Diego Safari Park.
Jim1138, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
  • Approved Gear: Small backpacks and bags are allowed. Strollers and wagons are allowed into the park. 

  • Food and Beverages: Guests can bring small personal food supplies. Large coolers, glass items, and party trays are not allowed.

  • Lockers: 

  • Zoo: Self-service lockers available at Front Street.

  • Safari Park: Outdoor lockers available for use.

  • Baby Nursing Stations: 

  • Zoo: The First Aid office near the Reptile House offers a semi-private space for nursing. Diaper changing stations are in most restrooms.

  • Safari Park: Curtained area in the Health Services office and designated areas in women’s restrooms.



Inside of a tunnel in an aquarium
Credit: SeaWorld San Diego
  • Approved Gear: All bags, strollers, and other personal items are subject to inspection. Strollers that do not fold up for easy storage are required to be parked outside stadiums and exhibits. 

  • Guest Services: Just inside the park to the right of the Main Entrance. Team members can help with the following:

  • Visitor information, including guides for guests with disabilities

  • Lost and found

  • Lost children’s center

  • Food and Beverages: No large coolers, glass containers, or outside food and drinks are permitted. Water bottles are allowed. Picnic areas are available outside the park. Guests with medical diets or baby formula should speak with a park representative for assistance before entering the park.

  • Cashless Transactions: Use credit/debit cards or smart devices for payments. Cash-to-Card kiosks are available for converting cash to Visa prepaid cards.



People outside of the LEGOLAND California sign
Credit: LEGOLAND California
  • Approved Gear: Backpacks, strollers, and wagons are allowed into the park. All Guests are subject to bag checks before entry.

  • Guest Services: Available for identification wristbands and other assistance.

  • Baby Care Center: In Fun Town, close to Driving School and Urban Kitchen. The Baby Care Center includes changing areas, rocking chairs, a refrigerator, and a microwave.

  • Lockers: Available for rent in The Beginning and inside LEGOLAND Water Park.

  • Reservations: Required for all visitors except those with dated tickets or through LEGOLAND Vacations.

  • Cashless Resort: Only credit or debit cards are accepted throughout the park.



Children playing at a waterpark
Credit: Sesame Place
  • Approved Gear: Wagons that have locking wheels and can be pushed are permitted. Strollers are permitted. All bags, backpacks, and packages are subject to inspection before entering the park.

  • Lockers and Storage: Lockers are conveniently located at the front of Sesame Place. Self-service lockers can be rented on the day of your visit, making it easy to store your belongings securely.

  • Guest Services: Inside the park near Sesame Souvenirs or at the Ticket Windows at the park entrance. Ambassadors can assist with the following:

  • Lost parent assistance

  • Lost and found services

  • Season pass and ticket upgrades

  • Guides for guests with disabilities

  • Enrollment in the Ride Accessibility Program

  • Visitor information

  • Food and Beverages: No outside food, beverages, or coolers are allowed, except for a water bottle or a refillable water bottle. No glass containers (excluding small baby food jars) and plastic straws are allowed.

  • Water Stations: Refill stations are available behind Grover’s Grill

  • Cashless Wristbands: Use Cashless Wristbands to make purchases throughout the park without carrying cash. Set up an account with your credit card or cash and receive waterproof wristbands for convenience.


Other Amenities:
  • Life Vests: USCG life vests are available for free. Personal vests must be approved and tagged by park staff. Life vests are required at many attractions based on height. Floatation devices such as noodles, swimmies, in-suit floatation devices, personal swim rings/floats, and boogie boards are not permitted.

  • Quiet Rooms: Located near Sesame Souvenirs and across from Guest Services. Obtain an entrance code at Guest Services.

  • Baby Nursing Stations: Changing stations are located in restrooms. Bottle warming and ID wristbands for children are located at Guest Services.



People standing around a tide pool, touching an animal
Credit: Birch Aquarium
  • Approved Gear: Strollers are welcome everywhere except inside Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins. 

  • Food and Beverages: Picnic lunches and snacks are welcome. Cakes and large-group treats are not permitted.

  • Nursing Facilities: No private rooms available; Guest Services can recommend a quiet area.

  • Storage: No storage for personal belongings; keep items with you or in your vehicle.


Being prepared with the right information about gear policies and essential services at San Diego’s theme parks and attractions ensures a smoother, more enjoyable visit. From food and beverage policies to safety measures and guest services, knowing what to expect helps you make the most of your time at these exciting destinations. For the latest updates and specific details, always check each park’s official website before your visit.


Share your tips or experiences in the comments below! For more detailed information and park updates, visit the official websites of Sesame Place, SeaWorld San Diego, LEGOLAND California, the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, and Birch Aquarium.

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