Free & Cheap Things to Do in Carlsbad, CA

  • The list below includes 183 free or cheap things to do in or near Carlsbad, California, including 110 different types of inexpensive activities like Movie Theaters, Beaches, Dog Park and Parks.
  • From Carlsbad State Beach to Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Carlsbad and in nearby cities within 25 miles like La Jolla, Poway, Oceanside and Escondido.
  • The list below includes 183 free or cheap things to do in or near Carlsbad, California, including 110 different types of inexpensive activities like Movie Theaters, Beaches, Dog Park and Parks.
  • From Carlsbad State Beach to Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Carlsbad and in nearby cities within 25 miles like La Jolla, Poway, Oceanside and Escondido.
Showing 1-10 of 681
0.0 Miles
View Deal
The GRID 800 Grand Avenue, Suite B5, Carlsbad, CA MoreLess Info
Don a virtual reality headset and take on opponents in laser tag and other games inside a simulated multiplayer arena
0.0 Miles
93% 4796 votes
Beaches Carlsbad Blvd. and Hwy 101, Carlsbad, CA 92008 MoreLess Info
Camping enthusiasts love the Carlsbad State Beach in Carlsbad, California. The park includes extensive camping facilities with individual sites, token-operated showers and restrooms with running water. Carlsbad State Beach is also open to day visitors.
3.0 Miles
92% 700 votes
Parks 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane, Carlsbad, CA 92009 MoreLess Info
Carlsbad's Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is a 27-acre space tucked into a scenic canyon. The park is open Tuesday through Sundayand is closed on national holidays. It is a popular spot for walking, jogging, hiking and relaxing. Dogs are not allowed.
3.0 Miles
83% 2156 votes
Gardens 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008 MoreLess Info
The vibrant, fragrant Carlsbad Flower Fields bloom for six to eight weeks every spring. Thousands of Ranunculus blossoms produce a riot of color that is the perfect backdrop for weddings and other events. Tickets to the Carlsbad Flower Fields are available at the Carlsbad Ranch.
0.8 Miles
100% 30 votes
Beaches 101 Tamarack Avenue, Carlsbad, CA 92008 MoreLess Info
A broad, clean white sand beach, Tamarack State Beach is a good destination for a family outing. The beach offers ample parking, and visitors are allowed to build fires if they bring their own pits.
6.0 Miles
76% 62 votes
Dog Park 6565 Alicante Road, Carlsbad, CA 92009 MoreLess Info
Located on 32 acres, Alga Norte Community Park features baseball and soccer fields, basketball courts, a dog park and an aquatic center. The park also provides shaded picnic areas, barbecue grills, a skate park and paved walking paths.
8.8 Miles
83% 23 votes
Parks 3450 Camino de los Coches, Carlsbad, CA MoreLess Info
Stagecoach Park has a lot of activities for families. It offers tennis courts, a playground, and a wide open space for picnics or ball games.
1.4 Miles
76% 25 votes
Hiking Trails Jefferson Street, Carlsbad, CA MoreLess Info
Passing through a eucalyptus grove, Hosp Grove Trails are part of Carlsbad's city trails system. Bring a picnic, and hike the unpaved trail up 100 feet for views of the Pacific Ocean and Buena Vista Lagoon.
2.2 Miles
38% 26 votes
Dog Park 2700 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008 MoreLess Info
Offering a safe, fenced environment where dogs can play freely, the Ann D. L'Heureux Memorial Dog Park offers expansive space for both large and small breeds. The park also features a water fountain and seating for dog owners.
0.3 Miles
78% 36 votes
Farmers Markets Roosevelt Street & Grand Avenue, Carlsbad, CA 92018 MoreLess Info
Visit Carlsbad Village Farmers Market and visit the fine vendors peddling organic produce, arts and crafts, prepared foods, flowers and baked goods. While there, enjoy live entertainment or learn about other happenings in the village.
2.9 Miles
93% 1090 votes
Music Museums 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008 MoreLess Info
Dedicated to the history of music and the music industry, the Museum of Making Music is a must-see attraction for lovers of the arts and pop culture enthusiasts. Located in Carlsbad, California, the museum is open throughout the year on every day except Mondays.
Showing 1-10 of 681
HAVE SUGGESTIONS FOR COOL AND INTERESTING THINGS TO DO IN THE Carlsbad AREA?
ADD A NEW ATTRACTION TO TRIPBUZZ!