San Diego family guide
Things to Do in Chula Vista with Kids
Curated by Simir Shah
Reviewed & updated June 2026 · we check listings regularly, but hours and prices change — confirm before you go.
📍 Where Chula Vista is
Chula Vista sits in San Diego, Southern California. Nearest major airport: San Diego Intl (~9 mi / 15 km). It's roughly 118 mi (190 km) from Downtown LA and 7 mi (11 km) from San Diego — SoCal traffic can make a drive take far longer than the distance suggests, so plan around it.
Visiting? See SoCal at a glance, getting around and which airport.
Things to do in Chula Vista
Farmers markets in Chula Vista
Downtown Chula Vista Farmers' Market
Sunday market by Memorial Park with 60+ vendors, fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and salsas; rain or shine.
Otay Ranch Town Center Farmers Market
Open-air mall market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and pantry staples; easy parking and family-friendly.
Local restaurants in Chula Vista
Taquizas Los Chuchys
Longtime family taqueria and caterer beloved for street-style tacos.
Las Ahumaderas
Food-court-style adobada taco spot with a family Tijuana marinade recipe.
Pho Hiep & Grill
Founder-chef Hiep Phan has been making pho in San Diego for nearly 30 years.
Canada Steak Burger
Made-to-order burgers and steaks from a family running it 45+ years.
La Concha Bakery
Three-generation family panaderia with fresh pan dulce and custom birthday cakes.
El Pollo Grill
Family-owned South Bay grill since 1987 known for mesquite-grilled chicken and family combo plates.
Acqua E Farina
A chef-owned Italian kitchen in Chula Vista with handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza — a welcoming spot that handles a family dinner with care.
Local shops in Chula Vista
My Cup of Tea Unique Gifts
Locally owned tea and gift shop on Third Avenue with 70+ loose-leaf teas and tea parties.
Craft on Third
DIY craft studio and flower and gift shop in historic downtown to gather, create, and celebrate.
Mario's Boutique
Chula Vista's premier independent dress and bridal boutique on Third Avenue.
Nature's Storehouse
Family shop blending organic health foods with religious treasures and gifts.
Upright Citizen
Vintage clothing store with 60s-90s styles for all genders, plus vinyl and cassettes.
Seasonal & outdoors near Chula Vista
The closest splash pads, patches, lights and more — distances from Chula Vista.
More San Diego family guides
Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.