San Diego Botanic Garden

This 37-acre garden (sdbg.org; adult/child $20/12) has a large collection of California native plants as well as flora from different regions of the world, including Australia and Central America. It has four miles of walking trails and 29 different themed gardens, including the largest bamboo collection on the continent and the biggest children’s garden on the West Coast, with interactive features and things to climb. Inside the enormous glass conservatory, plant islands hang from the ceiling. There are often special activities for children; check the website for a full schedule. Parking $2 (free on Tuesdays).