Things to do & places to visit in Carlsbad, California, United States

Spa-goers have flocked to Carlsbad since its mineral spring was discovered in the late 19th century. Today, you can visit the site of the original well, but you can do much more than just "taking the waters"—Carlsbad’s spas offer world-class services.

Carlsbad city in California, United States. Timezone: America/Los_Angeles, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 22:34.

Top things to do (23)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum (MECM) (207 reviews)
- Something Here For Everyone
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

The museum features wood and metalworking craftsmanship at the small end of the size scale. Exhibits include running internal and external combustion engines, model ships, aircraft and autos, tools, clocks, jewelry, guns and dollhouses. Small Engines are run in our most Thursdays and Fridays at 11am and 2pm based on staff availability. Admission is FREE; donations gladly accepted. The museum is sponsored by the non-profit Joe Martin Foundation for Exceptional Craftsmanship. See more..
5.0 Alga Norte Community Park (47 reviews)
- Free music very clean
Parks

Went for a free mucic event, a Johhny Cash tribute band, Cashed Out, they were excellent. Five thousand people and the event was handled with grace and very good planning. Parking is tight as in non existent but the city provides a free shuttle. Be prepared to park in nearby neighborhoods and walk half a mile or more to the park. So impressed with the committee that plans these events! Porta potties are on site as are good vendors but most bring picnics. Alcohol is allowed at these events. Come early for a good spot near the dance floor! See more..
5.0 New Village Arts Theatre (26 reviews)
- Discover a gem!
Friday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Theaters

Award-winning professional theatre in the heart of Carlsbad Village. Located in the historic Bauer Lumber Building, New Village Arts presents six mainstage theatre productions each year, ranging from classic musicals to modern favorites and exciting new works. NVA also produces a concert series throughout the year, an annual gala each winter, and more. We offer classes for children, teens, and the elderly, including programs for teens with special needs and for adults with early-stage dementia and Alzheimer's. Located in the building is our Foundry Artist Studios--studio space for 16 resident artists working in a variety of mediums and styles. Each month the Foundry hosts an Artist Reception with a gallery showcase, live music, refreshments, and interactive art. With theatre, visual arts, music, and education programs, NVA is the premier arts hub in North County San Diego. See more..
5.0 Carlsbad City Library (16 reviews)
- Serving the community
Spent 1-2 hours Libraries

Living in Massachusetts and coming for a month to Carlsbad, CA, I wanted books to read. I was able to go online, fill out the application and then get my library card once I went to customer service at the library. Everyone was helpful I feel they should have reviews for their service. See more..
4.5 South Carlsbad State Beach (1.762 reviews)
- Sunset Watch
Beaches

This nearly five-mile stretch of beach is popular with families but also draws surfers and skin divers to the water and runners and cyclists to the boulevard bordering the beach. See more..
4.5 Carlsbad Village (1.234 reviews)
- It just never gets old, we love each stay here in Carlsbad!
Neighborhoods

Downtown Carlsbad offers antique and curio stores, lots of good eating places and a great place to cool off after spending hours on the nearby beach. See more..
4.5 The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch (955 reviews)
- Beautiful experience!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens

Open in Spring from March 1st through Mothers Day. For over sixty years, Mother Nature has transformed the rolling hills of North San Diego County into one of the most spectacular and coordinated displays of natural color and beauty anywhere in the world. The nearly fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers that make up The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch® in Carlsbad, California, are in bloom for approximately six to eight weeks each year – from early March through early May – literally bringing the famous fields back to life. This annual burst of color, which has become part of the area’s local heritage, also is one of nature’s official ways of announcing the arrival of spring here in Southern California. See more..
4.5 Museum of Making Music (372 reviews)
- Hidden Gem!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

The Museum of Making Music celebrates the music products industry’s rich history from 1900 to today. Through unique exhibitions, vibrant and varied live music performances, and innovative educational programs, the Museum shares the accomplishments and impact of the people who make, sell, and use musical instruments and products. When you step into the galleries (and back in time) you’ll see outstanding examples of musical instruments, many of them displayed in vintage music store settings. You’ll also hear some familiar tunes in audio and video clips, have many hands-on opportunities to pick up and play a variety of instruments, and discover the innovative ways that the music industry has grown over the years. See more..
4.5 Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park (294 reviews)
- A relaxing walk-about!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites

Visited the Flying LC Ranch of Leo “Poncho” Carrillo (of “The Cisco Kid” fame) on a weekday and found the Ranch walk-about to be comfortable, relaxing and educational. The docents were entertaining and knowledgeable. To me they enjoyed recounting the Ranch history as I enjoyed their telling. The old “Adobe” on the property might have been the model for the “Old Adobe” at Knotts Berry Park! I tried my hand at roping with the riata outside the visitors center. I was a lot better when a lot younger! See more..
4.5 Batiquitos Lagoon (201 reviews)
- A Really Pleasant Walk
Nature & Wildlife Areas

I have a "must" for your visit here. Stop off at the Nature Center and pick up two things: (1) the "Trail Map" and (2) the "Self-Guided Trail Guide" to the 26 "stops" along the way. The text is clear, concise, and informative. The entire trail is only 1.6 miles long. This is a great place to walk if you have an hour or two. If you have binocs, bring them (we didn't). But, in spite of that, we had a great observation of an osprey picking up a fish on its third dive in the lagoon water. Neat! See more..
4.5 GIA Museum (102 reviews)
- Gemological Institute of America - Definitely worth a visit!
Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

GIA's museum in Carlsbad is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8 a.M. To 5 p.M. With appointment. See more..
4.5 Carlsbad Village Farmers' Market (54 reviews)
- Produce comprises the majority of vendors' offerings (as one would expect)
Flea & Street Markets

A friendly, community spirit pervades this wonderful outdoor marketplace, where you'll find the usual market goods, produce that is mostly organic and fresh bread, seafood and baked goods offered on a weekly basis. See more..
4.5 Poinsettia Park (39 reviews)
- Carlsbad's Park
Parks

This well-maintained city park is a great place for a picnic, a run on one of the trails or, for the sports-minded, a game of tennis, basketball or baseball. See more..
4.5 Barrio (26 reviews)
- Great Mexican
Friday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM Neighborhoods

Settled in the 1920s by people fleeing the Mexican Revolution, this historical neighborhood holds firmly to its Latino flavor despite the modern development around it, and boasts fine food and interesting shops. See more..
4.5 Carlsbad Skatepark (19 reviews)
- Skateboard
Parks

A skaters' haven, this 15,000-square foot park with skateable rails, ramps, bowls and stairs is located between a police and fire station, affording parents some measure of security. See more..
4.5 The Forum Carlsbad (15 reviews)
- One of my favorite malls
Spent 1-2 hours Department Stores • Shopping Malls

First of all, The Forum is attractive. The sidewalks have irregular pebble designs through them, there’s nice landscaping throughout, sculptures and water features dot the campus, and nice music plays from above. Secondly, there’s a great array of shops and restaurants so almost any personal or household item you might want can be found there. Bottom line, it’s a nice place with lots of businesses to meet your needs. See more..
4.5 Stagecoach Park (15 reviews)
- Great place for both kids and adults
Parks
This huge community park in the La Costa hills has a gymnasium, lighted sports fields, a sand volleyball court, picnic area, playground and some interesting features, including sculpted stone structures, the ruins of a stagecoach stop, and a wildlife habitat. See more..
4.5 Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center (13 reviews)
- All is well in the world and nature is in control
Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Natural History Museums • Science Museums • Children's Museums

Peace and solitude, such valuable commodities, every-and-any-where it con be found, these are the treasures upon which no monetary value can be set. This is one of those little slices of paradise. It is small now but it has bigger aspirations. We wish them well and much success. Under the bridge, sit a spell and watch the ocean and lagoon interact. There are some incredible views under the bridge, looking out to where the lagoon battles with the current. Along this short path (for now, until expansion eventually happens), we watched as a heron seemed to be fishing with a pole (never leave those things untended), and life just quietly played out at a much less hectic pace. Dial it down, sit and breath deeply and enjoy the moment. Once more, we did not visit the Discovery Center but spent our time in the Lagoon environs. Sit on Titus (the dog's) bench and ponder how many happy walks that canine spent waiting to hear those magic words. See more..
4.5 Georgina Cole Library (13 reviews)
- I love this library. I got my first library card from Georgina Cole herself in 1954
Spent 1-2 hours Libraries

I have patronized this library since it was built in 1967, when I was just 17 years old. Before that I got my books at the old Security Pacific Bank Building purchased by City of Carlbad turned into our library. This building is now a music store on Carlsbad Village drive. I can remember when Georgina Cole let me have my first library card, as son as I could sign my name. I am a working journalist who hopes to see my book about Carlsbad, from 1952 until present grace the shelves of the Georgina Cole Library in the near future. Lot of folks from Carlsbad will become famous. Who knows? See more..
4.5 Carlsbad Oceanside Art League Gallery (11 reviews)
- Multiple local artist work nicely displayed
Friday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries

The Carlsbad Oceanside Art league is non-profit gallery, exhibiting in its gallery (The Coal Art Gallery) a wide selection of art produced by local artists. The art includes Oil & Acrylics, Water Media, Pastels, Drawing / Printmaking, Mixed Media / Collage, Photography, Computer Art and Sculpture. The quality of the art is exceptional and the prices are reasonable. See more..
4.0 LEGOLAND California (8.838 reviews)
- Good
Friday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks

LEGOLAND® California Resort has more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including the new LEGO® Star Wars™: The Force Awakens Miniland Model Display opening March with a 16-foot long Finalizer model made completely out of LEGO bricks plus six more scenes! Conquer dragons, battle pirates and discover ancient treasures at the Resort, also home to LEGOLAND Water Park, SEA LIFE® Aquarium; and NEW for Summer enjoy Surfers’ Cove – a water park expansion featuring racer-water slides. There’s so much to do, you’ll want to spend the night at LEGOLAND Hotel featuring new LEGO NINJAGO themed rooms. See more..
4.0 Carlsbad Premium Outlets (1.117 reviews)
- Outstanding staff at Ralph Lauren rescue stranded tourist
Friday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Factory Outlets

Carlsbad Premium Outlets features a collection of the finest brands for you, your family and your home. Include a shopping stop during your next trip to the San Diego area. Located north of downtown San Diego, you're sure to find impressive savings all year round. See more..
4.0 SEA LIFE Aquarium (674 reviews)
- The reptile exhibit was the cherry on top!
Spent 1-2 hours Aquariums

SEA LIFE is designed to be a child’s interactive guide to the life of the sea. Get ready to embark on a journey through fantastic ocean habitats. Shake hands with sea stars at the touch pools and discover the sharks, stingrays and tropical fish of the mysterious Lost City of Atlantis. SEA LIFE Aquarium is packed with interactive play zones, fun activities and unforgettable sights creating an experience like no other. SEA LIFE Aquarium is home to more than 5,000 living creatures and incorporates LEGO models into a child's voyage to the depths of the ocean featuring play zones, fun facts and quiz trails. Visit the new Sea at Night attraction featuring an amazing bioluminescence display. See more..
4.0 Witch Creek Winery (96 reviews)
- Excellent Wine, Large Variety
Friday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards

This winery doesn't grow the grapes, but the two-medal winner at the 2000 Orange County Fair makes an excellent red wine, and its Zinfandel is a big seller. See more..
4.0 U-Pick Carlsbad Strawberry Company (89 reviews)
- Highly recommend!!!! So fun!
Farms

This was a blast! I don’t know what the other people who reviewed this are talking about but they’re totally wrong! It’s $5 per person to enter and $17 per person to pick/per bucket. It’s super fun! We went through the sunflower maze and then picked strawberries. It’s not dirty or dusty like others commented. We wore flip flops and it was totally fine! They have a corn maze and lavender fields as well as a taco truck, pizza truck, coffee, cotton candy and a huge bouncey section for kiddos! Absolutely worth the cost & highly recommend it! The $55 that someone reviewed about was for a FLAT of strawberries at the farm stand and there are probably 150 strawberries in a flat. Just go! It was awesome!!!!! See more..
4.0 Hosp Grove Trails (29 reviews)
- Visiting mom
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Hiking Trails

My mom died in Carlsbad. I bought a bench in hosp grove park for her. Hi-Noon Rotary arranged the purchase of benches with inset plaques. I go there often to speak with her. It’s a pretty place and in a quiet spot. On the City trail system. The plaques ha be all been stolen. See more..
4.0 Magee Park (25 reviews)
- Great little historic park next to beach access
Parks

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this 2 1/2-acre historical park has shuffleboard, horseshoe pits, a picnic area with barbecue facilities and a beautiful rose garden. See more..
4.0 Carlsbad Convention and Visitor Information (23 reviews)
- Historic preservation delight!
Visitor Centers

Be sure to stop off at this visitor center for brochures, maps, hotel, beach and surf information to take advantage of all this charming town has to offer. See more..
4.0 Calavera Park (17 reviews)
- What a VIEW and a HIKE
Parks

This indoor/outdoor recreation center at the top of the Calavera Hills has a gymnasium, lighted ball fields and tennis courts, a playground, kitchen and picnic area. See more..
4.0 Holiday Park (16 reviews)
- Well maintained family park
Parks

This tree-covered park is a popular gathering place for locals, perfect for picnics, horseshoes and parties and the site of the annual Oktoberfest. See more..