Best Things to do in Carlsbad | Must-see attractions 2025

Carlsbad Skatepark

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

2560 Orion Way

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Carlsbad Skatepark, a 15,000 sq. ft. skateboarding facility in Carlsbad, CA, features ramps, bowls, and rails, offering a secure environment for skaters.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free.

Carlsbad Village Theatre

12:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

2822 State St (at Grand Ave)

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Carlsbad Village Theatre is a historic movie theater in Carlsbad, California, featuring a selection of films and a vibrant local atmosphere.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Varies. Adult tickets typically range from $10-$15, with discounts for students and seniors available.

MC Clellan Palomar Airport

Open 24 hours

Airport

2192 Palomar Airport Rd (at Aircraft Rd)

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MC Clellan Palomar Airport in Carlsbad, CA serves regional flights with modern facilities and a focus on general aviation, just minutes from the coast.

Duration: 1-2 hours to explore.

Free to enter; parking fees may apply.

Museum of Making Music

Mo-Su 10:00-17:00

Museum

5790 Armada Dr

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Museum of Making Music in Carlsbad, California, explores 100 years of American music with 450 instruments and interactive displays across six musical eras.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

General Admission: $10. Discounts for seniors and students available.

Plaza Paseo Real Shopping Center

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

Carlsbad

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Plaza Paseo Real Shopping Center in Carlsbad boasts over 90 retailers, dining options, and entertainment venues, making it a diverse shopping destination.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Costs associated with purchases and dining vary by retailer.

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane

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Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, located in Carlsbad, CA, features unique adobe structures, lush gardens, and a rich history linked to actor Leo Carrillo, who transformed the site in the 1930s.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Batiquitos Lagoon

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Nature reserve

7380 Gabbiano Ln

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Batiquitos Lagoon is a protected coastal wetland in Carlsbad, California, featuring a nature center and a 2-mile hiking trail with guided walks.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some guided walks may require a reservation.

Poinsettia Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

6600 Hidden Valley Road

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Poinsettia Park in Carlsbad, USA, offers picnic areas, sports facilities, and scenic trails, ideal for outdoor activities and family gatherings.

Duration: 1-3 hours.

Free.

The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

3190 Lionshead Ave

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The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum in Carlsbad showcases intricate wood and metalwork models, including engines, ships, aircraft, and more. Free admission.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. All exhibits are accessible without an admission fee.

GIA Museum

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

5345 Armada Dr

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GIA Museum in Carlsbad offers a deep dive into the world of gemstones and jewelry, featuring rare gems, educational exhibits, and guided tours.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Appointments required for entry.

Sea Life Aquarium

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Aquarium

1 Legoland Drive

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Sea Life Aquarium in Carlsbad, US, offers an interactive ocean journey featuring touch pools, sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish in unique habitats.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adult: $25. Child: $20. Discounts available for online bookings.

Magee Park

Open 24 hours

Park

200 Beech Ave

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Magee Park is a 2.1-acre public park in Carlsbad, California, featuring a rose garden, gazebo, picnic areas, and historical buildings, with ocean views.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No admission fees for entry.

The Fields Church

5:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

2265 Camino Vida Roble

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The Fields Church in Carlsbad, USA, offers spiritual services in a community-oriented environment, reflecting the area's rich cultural heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed.

Carlsbad Community Church

Office Closed

Church

3175 Harding St

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Carlsbad Community Church in California offers a welcoming environment with various community programs and worship services, making it a center for spiritual growth and fellowship.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed to support various programs.

Hidden Canyon Community Park

Open 24 hours

Amusement Park

2685 Vancouver St

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Hidden Canyon Community Park in Carlsbad, California, offers a spacious green area with a shaded playground, grassy open space, and undeveloped land for recreation.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fee for entry.

Aviara Golf Club

6:30 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

7447 Batiquitos Dr

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Aviara Golf Club features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, located in Carlsbad, California, known for its scenic views and challenging layout.

Duration: 4-5 hours.

Green fees range from $245 to $295, depending on the season. Discounts available for members and advance bookings.

New Village Arts Theatre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

2787 State St (btw Grand Ave & Beech Ave)

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New Village Arts Theatre in Carlsbad, USA, hosts innovative performances and celebrates community art with a focus on local talent and diverse culture.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies based on performance; general admission for adults is approximately $30, discounts available for students and seniors.

Wild Woods Golf

6:30 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

Castle Hill (at Legoland California)

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Wild Woods Golf in Carlsbad offers a unique golfing experience surrounded by nature, featuring a challenging course and beautiful landscapes.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Rates vary; contact for current green fees.

Volvo Junior Driving School

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theme Park

Fun Town (at Legoland California)

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Volvo Junior Driving School in Carlsbad offers kids ages 10-17 an educational driving experience with hands-on instruction, promoting safe driving habits.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours for a complete course.

Cost: $175 for each participant, includes materials and vehicle use.

Future Home Of Faith Community Church

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Carlsbad

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Future Home Of Faith Community Church in Carlsbad, USA, is dedicated to fostering community togetherness and spiritual growth through various programs and services.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community projects.

North Coast Calvary Chapel

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

1330 Poinsettia Lane

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North Coast Calvary Chapel in Carlsbad, California, offers a vibrant community focused on worship, teaching, and outreach programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events.

Coastline Community Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

2215 Calle Barcelona (near Paseo Aliso)

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Coastline Community Church in Carlsbad, USA, offers a welcoming environment for spiritual growth through worship, community events, and educational programs.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours for a typical service or event.

Free. Donations are welcomed but not required for attendance.

Regal Carlsbad 12

11:00 AM–12:00 AM

Cinema

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Regal Carlsbad 12 offers 12 screens showcasing the latest films in Carlsbad, California, complete with modern amenities and comfortable seating.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Prices vary by showtime; general admission typically ranges from $12 to $15.

Terra Mar Point

Open 24 hours

Park

5399 County Highway S21

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Terra Mar Point in Carlsbad offers breathtaking coastal views, walking trails, and scenic bluffs, ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Parking may have associated costs.

The Flower Fields

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Garden

5704 Paseo del Norte (at Palomar Airport Rd)

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The Flower Fields in Carlsbad showcase 50 acres of vibrant ranunculus flowers during spring. A seasonal attraction for flower enthusiasts and photographers.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Admission: $20 for adults, $10 for children (ages 3-10). Discounts available for seniors and military.

The Shoppes at Carlsbad

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

2525 El Camino Real

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The Shoppes at Carlsbad features world-class spas and shopping options. Visit the historic mineral spring site and indulge in luxurious spa services in a vibrant setting.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Spa services and some special events may require a paid ticket.

Crossings at Carlsbad

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

5800 The Crossings Dr

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Crossings at Carlsbad is an 18-hole municipal golf course set on 6850 yards with rising ocean views, popular among golf enthusiasts and manufacturers.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees range from $45 to $75 depending on the day and time. Special rates available for children and seniors.

Carlsbad Oceanside Art League Gallery

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

300 Carlsbad Village Dr Suite 101

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Carlsbad Oceanside Art League Gallery showcases exceptional works by local artists, featuring various mediums from photography to sculpture in a welcoming environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

St Michaels By The Sea

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Carlsbad

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St. Michaels By The Sea is a historic church in Carlsbad, CA, founded in 1894, known for its stunning architecture and serene ocean views.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and community programs.

South Carlsbad State Park Campground

All day

Camping

Carlsbad Blvd

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South Carlsbad State Park Campground offers beach access, ocean views, and 215 campsites, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts in Carlsbad, California.

Duration: Varies by activity; generally 1-3 days recommended.

Camping fees vary by site; typically around $35-$70 per night.

Kip Puterbaugh's Aviara Golf Academy

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

7447 Batiquitos Dr

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Kip Puterbaugh's Aviara Golf Academy offers expert golf instruction in Carlsbad, U.S., featuring top-tier facilities and personalized coaching programs for all skill levels.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Paid. Rates vary based on lesson length and program type.

Chopra Center for Wellbeing

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Spa Center

2101 Costa del Mar Rd ((at La Costa Resort))

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Chopra Center for Wellbeing in Carlsbad offers programs focused on holistic health, meditation, and Ayurveda in a serene coastal environment.

Duration: 2-5 hours, depending on the program.

Varies by program. Some events are free; others may cost between $100-$500 depending on the offering.

Fun Town Police and Fire Academy

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theme Park

Fun Town (at Legoland California)

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Fun Town Police and Fire Academy in Carlsbad, CA, provides hands-on experiences with law enforcement and firefighting activities for families and children.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special programs may have a fee.

Sky Patrol

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Theme Park

Fun Town (at Legoland California)

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Sky Patrol in Carlsbad offers thrilling aerial adventures with unique views of the coastal landscape. Experience guided tours and cutting-edge drone technology in action.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Prices range from $50 for basic aerial tours to $150 for specialized photography workshops.

Kid Power Tower

Open 24 hours

Theme Park

Fun Town (at Legoland California)

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Kid Power Tower in Carlsbad, USA, features an interactive play structure designed for children to develop strength and coordination through climbing challenges.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free access for all visitors.

Lego New Orleans

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Theme Park

Carlsbad

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Lego New Orleans in Carlsbad, USA, features intricate Lego models of the city, highlighting landmarks, culture, and local life with interactive play areas for families.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adults: $25, Children (3-12): $15. Discounts available for groups and seniors.

Carlsbad Village

10:00 AM-7:00 PM

Sights

Carlsbad Village Drive

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Carlsbad Village is a lively area filled with shops and restaurants. It has a fun beach vibe and is a great spot to relax after a day in the sun.

approx. 2-3 hours

free

Carlsbad State Beach

6:00 AM-10:00 PM

Beach

7009-7369 County Hwy S21 (Tamarak Ave)

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Carlsbad State Beach offers a beautiful stretch of sand ideal for water sports and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy volleyball, scenic views, and even spot dolphins swimming nearby.

Duration: approx. 1-3 hours

Free

La Costa

7:00 AM-6:00 PM

Landmark

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La Costa is known for its beautiful golf courses that attract players of all skill levels. The lush fairways and scenic views make it a popular destination for golf enthusiasts.

Duration: approx. 3-5 hours

Varies by course

Carlsbad Boulevard

Open 24 hours

Landmark

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Carlsbad Boulevard is a scenic road that runs along the coast of Carlsbad. It offers beautiful ocean views, access to beaches, and a popular spot for walking and biking.

Duration: approx. 1-3 hours

Free

Stagecoach Community Park

6:00 AM-10:00 PM

Landmark

3420 Camino De Los Coches

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Stagecoach Community Park is a park in Carlsbad, California, featuring a variety of activities and historic ruins. Visitors can enjoy the scenic trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas while exploring the park's unique history.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free