Have you been to Belmont Park? We spent an evening at this legendary amusement park in San Diego’s Mission Beach which opened almost 100 years ago. It’s still one of the most popular places to visit in the area.
Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping rides, arcade games, or relaxation, Belmont Park has something for everyone whether you’re visiting as a couple, group friends, or family.
Here’s our detailed guide to help you decide whether or not visiting Belmont Park is worth it, with 27 reasons that will make you want to head to SoCal’s most iconic playground.
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1. Ride The Giant Dipper
The Giant Dipper is a vintage beachfront thrill ride that stands 75 feet tall and reaches speeds of up to 48 mph.
This historic coaster was so popular it’s become a permanent part of the Mission Beach landscape. You’ll get to enjoy amazing ocean views as you dip, turn, and zoom around the track.
Keep in mind that there’s a minimum height requirement of 50 inches to ride. Also, the coaster can be a bit rough, so be prepared for some bumps.
You can ride with any park pass or by using 8 tickets per ride.
2. Ride the other thrill rides
Control Freak
Control Freak is a chair swing-style ride that rotates and spins giving a fun and dizzying experience. The minimum height requirement for this ride is 48 inches. You can enjoy this ride for 5 tickets per ride.
Octotron
Travel on a circular coaster track and use a joystick to spin forward or backward. You can control the ride to spin non-stop or not at all, and neon lights illuminate the way. The minimum height requirement for this ride is 48 inches. You can ride with any park pass or by using 6 tickets per ride.
Zero Gravity
A big thrill ride where you board a rocketship and blast off above the entire park. You must be at least 42 inches to ride alone. The maximum height is 76 inches. You can ride with any park pass or by using 5 tickets per ride.
Flip Out
An exciting ride where you control the direction – clockwise or counterclockwise – of 2 double-seat gondolas. The minimum height requirement is 52 inches, and the maximum height is 78 inches. This ride can be enjoyed with any park pass or for 6 tickets per ride.
3. Enjoy the small rides too
Tilt-a-whirl
This fun, spinning ride in themed cars twists and twirls on individual tracks. Riders must be at least 46 inches tall to ride alone, and those between 38 and 46 inches need a paid chaperone. You can ride with any park pass or for 6 tickets.
Mic Drop
Let your little ones feel like a rockstar on Mic Drop, a ride that gently rocks up and down before taking you on an exciting three-story drop. Riders must be at least 42 inches tall to ride alone, and those between 36 and 42 inches need a paid chaperone. The maximum height for this ride is 76 inches. This ride is covered with any park pass or for 5 tickets per ride.
Speedway
These kid-friendly two-seater race cars speed around an oval track. Riders must be at least 42 inches tall to ride alone, and those between 36 and 42 inches need a paid chaperone. This ride is covered with any park pass or for 5 tickets.
Crazy Submarine (Dip & Dive)
This submarine-themed ride rotates and lifts riders to 20 feet. It features a full-size mural of an underwater scene. Riders must be at least 42 inches tall to ride alone, and those between 36 and 42 inches need a chaperone. This ride is available with any park pass or for 5 tickets.
Overdrive Bumper Cars
Drive one of 14 multi-colored cars across a 2,000-square-foot arena bumping and dodging others. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride alone, and those between 42 and 48 inches need a paid chaperone. It’s included with any park pass or for 5 tickets.
Krazy Kars
This indoor ride is a quirky take on the classic bumper car experience. The 1,400 square feet of space is illuminated by black lights and a disco ball. Riders must be at least 42 inches tall. Enjoy this fun ride with any park pass or for 5 tickets.
Liberty Carousel
The Liberty Carousel is a 30-foot antique reproduction featuring 12 historical paintings, 800 lights, and classic fairground songs as you ride. Children aged 2 and under must ride with a chaperone. Ride with any park pass or for 5 tickets.
4. Zipline through the park
Conquer 26 challenging obstacles that will really test your skills on the Sky Ropes course.
You’ll step from tree to tree or leap, swing, and ride the zipline.
To do this activity, you’ll need to wear closed-toed shoes. You’ll be given all the safety equipment, including a harness – we also recommend wearing a top that covers your midriff as the harness might chafe on bare skin.
The minimum height to go alone is 48 inches; guests 36 inches and above must be accompanied by a paid chaperone who is at least 18 years old. The maximum height is 80 inches.
This activity is included on any park pass. Alternatively, use 12 tickets per ride. It’s open year-round!
5. Head to the Lazerblast Arcade
Here you’ll find an exciting mix of activities, including a rock wall, a maze, and over 70 arcade games like racing, sports, and virtual shooters.
You can play ticket games, collect tickets, and trade them for prizes.
There are no specific height or age restrictions for the arcade, making it fun for everyone. The arcade is open year-round, so you can enjoy it anytime!
6. If you’re here in the fall, go-kart inside the park
Experience the go-kart racing on an exciting outdoor circuit with hairpin bends and long straits.
The race track is located inside the park although this seasonal attraction is only open during the fall.
The go-karts are perfect for older children and groups of friends. There are no specific height restrictions mentioned, but you’ll need to be able to touch the pedals comfortably.
7. If you love lasers…
- Laser Tag – Make a team with up to seven friends and battle across three levels, aiming to knock your opponents offline for a few seconds. Kids aged 5 and under need to be with a paid chaperone. You can play with any park pass or pay $10 per round. This game is available all year round.
- Laser Maze – Navigate through a Mission Impossible-style course avoiding lasers and obstacles. It’s suitable for all ages. Play with any park pass or pay $5 per round. The Laser Maze is open year-round.
8. Find treasures in Jungle Gems
Join the Jungle Gems Mining and Sluicing Company for an exciting treasure hunt.
You’ll sift through sand and water to discover hidden gems, fossils, arrowheads, and even shark teeth. Be aware that it can get a bit messy, so wear something that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty or wet.
There are no height restrictions, making it suitable for all ages. This activity is available all year round.
9. Feel the movie at Xanadu 7D Theater
Strap into your motion seat and join the action, battling pirates, zombies, and aliens. Take part in a fully immersive adventure at the Xanadu 7D Theater.
The combination of real-time 3D graphics and 4D movie effects puts you in the center of the story.
You need to be at least 40 inches tall to take part. This experience is available with any park pass or for 8 tickets per ride and is open all year round.
10. Play carnival-style games
- Midway Games – A fun way to test your aim, strength, and dexterity with six different carnival-style games like balloon busting and tub toss. You can win big prizes.
- Belmont Lanes – Located next to Escapology, has four lanes of bowling and over 20 different types of gameplay. There are no height restrictions, making it perfect for everyone.
Both attractions are open year-round, so you can enjoy them anytime.
11. Play a round of golf at Tiki Town Mini Golf
Tiki Town Mini Golf has indoor and outdoor miniature golf courses with a tropical island theme. Each hole has surprises and different challenges, making every game unique.
If you get a hole-in-one on hole 18, you’ll win a free $5 power card for the arcade.
It’s a fun activity for all ages with no height restrictions. You can buy a round for $12 but it’s also included with any park pass. Tiki Town Mini Golf is open year-round.
12. Book an escape room
Escapology is perfect for groups of friends or families. Recommended for ages 6 and up, it’s a fun activity for nearly everyone.
You’ll find clues, solve puzzles, and discover keys to escape from an immersive fantasy world. Be aware that it can be tricky, so teamwork is essential.
The escape room is open Monday from 2-8 pm, Tuesday to Thursday from 10 am-8 pm, and Friday to Sunday from 10 am-9:15 pm. It’s open all year round.
13. Climb on a rock wall
Attached to the Historic Plunge building, the Rock Wall has 12 lanes with routes for beginners, intermediates, and advanced climbers.
You can tackle the climb alone or with friends.
Make sure to wear closed-toe shoes and wear clothing that covers your midriff so the harness doesn’t chaff.
The weight limit for climbers is between 50 and 250 pounds.
You can use any park pass or pay $8 per climb. The Rock Wall is available year-round.
14. Or Coconut Climb to the top
Race your friends to the top of twin palm trees at the Coconut Climb and see who rings the bell first.
You need to wear closed-toe shoes, and we suggest a shirt that covers your midriff so the harness is more comfortable.
Anyone between between 30 and 250 pounds can climb.
This is included with any park pass or by using 5 tickets per climb. The Coconut Climb is open year-round.
15. Buy some park souvenirs
To remember your visit, don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs.
You’ll find everything from T-shirts and hats to plushies and toys.
The shops are open year-round, so you can always find the perfect memento as a keepsake from your day at Belmont Park.
16. Pose at the Old Time Photo Booth
To capture your day out, head to the Old Time Photo Booth.
Choose from dozens of customizable backdrops and props to create unique souvenir photos.
The photo booth is open year-round, so whether it’s Halloween, Christmas, or a themed party you can capture lasting memories anytime you visit.
Just be aware that it can get busy, so there might be a wait. There are no height restrictions, and it’s a perfect activity for all ages.
17. Join The Seasonal Harvest Walk in the fall
The Harvest Walk at Belmont Park begins in October and runs for 4 Saturdays across October and November.
This event features a local food and artisan market with BBQ, locally produced food, jewelry, craft beer, and trick-or-treating for kids.
It’s a great way to enjoy delicious bites and support local businesses. The Harvest Walk also partners with different charities throughout the year, making it not only a fun event but for worthy causes as well.
18. Experience Belmont Park’s Annual Bloom Festival
This colorful festival happens in March – the dates differ each year, this year it was the 30th of March.
Belmont in Bloom lets you enjoy gorgeous spring flowers in a beachfront setting.
You can expect stunning floral arrangements and colorful sculptures, as well as music and dance performances by local artists.
It’s a great way to spend a sunny spring afternoon. Pack a picnic to have with your family or group of friends. There are no restrictions, making it perfect for everyone to enjoy.
19. Go to Draft South Mission for a drink
One of the best places for a refreshing beer in Belmont Park is at Draft South Mission.
This bar serves up a wide selection of beverages, including craft beers and cocktails, in a laid-back atmosphere. They also have small plates of classic American-style bar food. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of fun at the park.
The bar gets busy, especially in the evenings and on weekends, so finding a seat might be challenging. It’s open year-round from noon until 8.30 pm on weekdays and 10 am until 8.30 pm on weekends.
20. Swim in The Plunge
The Plunge is the best indoor public swimming pool in the area, open daily from 7 am to 7 pm.
It has a sauna, showers, and a workout area. Towels are provided, and there are plenty of staff on hand to ensure safety.
There are no height restrictions – although there are dedicated sessions for toddlers, children, and lane swimming.
The pool is perfect for private hire for parties. They also host special sessions throughout the year including their large inflatable assault course.
Check their website for the full calendar of events and different sessions.
Be aware that parking can be tricky in the summer.
21. Get active at FIT Athletic
Fit Athletic Club & Gym, was voted San Diego’s Best Gym in 2023. It’s the place to be for personal training, group fitness, and excellent facilities.
They host a mix of dynamic fitness classes that combine cardio, strength, and flexibility for a full-body workout. Their personal trainers create tailored fitness plans to help you achieve your goals with effective 1-on-1 sessions.
The club uses state-of-the-art equipment and has well-equipped locker rooms, as well as a rejuvenating wellness spa.
FIT is open year-round, check out their list of events to find out what’s on.
22. Rent gears at Mission Beach Rentals
Mission Beach Rentals is your go-to shop for surfboard, bike, and beach gear rentals in San Diego.
They offer top-quality equipment whether on wheels, waves, or sand.
Their rates are very affordable, and reservations can be made online, by calling or visiting the shop.
The shop is open year-round daily from 10 am until 7 pm.
23. Watch live performances
At Belmont Park, you’ll find various live performances. These shows feature a variety of acts, from music and dance to magic and theatre.
Performances are scheduled throughout the year, so there’s always a chance to catch a show.
One thing to be aware of is that seating with a good view can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early to get a good spot.
24. Enjoy ocean views while dining in the park
Enjoy stunning ocean views while dining at one of the 17 spots available at Belmont Park.
Whether you’re in the mood for casual or upscale dining, you’ll find options like Beach House Tequila and Taqueria, Cannonball Asian, and Belmont Draft Park.
There are also plenty of spots for quick bites, including pizza, ice cream, burgers, hot dogs, and fries.
One thing to be aware of is that it can get busy during peak times. Most dining places are open year-round.
25. Go to the beach
After a morning at Belmont Park, spend the afternoon on the beach, either relaxing on the soft sand or swimming in the sea.
The beach is open year-round although it can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays, so arriving early is a good idea.
You’ll find amenities like picnic tables and public restrooms nearby.
26. Walk on the Mission Beach Boardwalk
The Mission Beach Boardwalk is a classic beachfront walkway.
It runs past Belmont Park and has plenty of shops and oceanfront activities.
The Boardwalk is also wheelchair accessible, and pet-friendly, and has amenities like picnic tables, public toilets, a skateboarding area, and a volleyball court.
It’s open 24 hours a day, year-round, and it’s a great place to visit anytime.
Free parking is available in large lots along Mission Blvd near Belmont Park, but it can get busy, especially on weekends. If you visit on a Saturday morning, be prepared for a short walk to the main boardwalk area.
27. Celebrate at Belmont Park
Celebrate in style at Belmont Park’s event venues.
Whether it’s a corporate event, party, wedding, graduation, or team-building event, Belmont Park offers a range of options for different ages, group sizes, and budgets.
For the ultimate experience, you can even book a full park buyout and have Belmont Park all to yourself!
If you’ve got an idea in mind, planning is essential. Check their website for a full list of packages if you’re interested in planning an event here.
How to get to Belmont Park
Belmont Park is in the heart of Mission Beach, just a mile west of SeaWorld in San Diego.
If you’re coming from the south, take West Mission Bay Drive. From the north, head south down Mission Boulevard. It’s an easy and scenic drive either way.
If you’re flying in, San Diego International Airport is just five miles southeast, making it very convenient to reach the park.
Can you walk around Belmont Park?
Yes, you can walk around Belmont Park. The pedestrianized park is easily navigable on foot and it’s buggy friendly.
We recommend wearing conformable shoes.
Parking in Belmont Park
For parking, there 4 free public lots available for guests, but they do fill up quickly and don’t allow overnight parking.
If you want to avoid the hassle, then we recommend using a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft.
Where to stay near Belmont Park
Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina (Luxury)
Bahia Resort Hotel (Mid-range)
ITH Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel (Budget)
Final Thoughts
As you’ve just read, Belmont Park has so much to offer for the whole family, from exciting rides to more classic attractions.
With plenty of indoor attractions, from escape rooms to arcades, it’s a perfect year-round destination.
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