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 271-280 of 681
31.3 Miles
73% 52 votes
History Museums 10946 Woodside Avenue North, Santee, CA 92071 MoreLess Info
The Creation and Earth History Museum is an unique collaboration of science and Christianity. The museum presents exhibits that look into the creation of the world through Biblical eyes while explaining scientific findings discovered on Earth.
31.3 Miles
95% 324 votes
Beaches Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA MoreLess Info
With seven miles of coastal bluffs, Salt Creek Beach is a prime spot for surfing. The beach sees over 2 million visitors every year who enjoy the unparalleled waves and body surfing opportunities.
31.3 Miles
86% 7 votes
Breweries 10960 Wheatlands Ave, Suite 101, Santee, CA 92071 MoreLess Info
The BNS Brewing & Distilling Company is a brewery that brews beer and distills gin, whiskey, bourbon, and BNS vodka. The company also has a tasting room that sells merchandise including hats and hoodies.
31.4 Miles
38% 8 votes
Dog Park 30291 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 MoreLess Info
A 2.5-acre facility named for a local veterinarian, Dr. Joe Cortese Dog Park provides a fenced area with dirt fields for canine recreation. The park features water fountains as well as separate areas for small and large dogs.
31.5 Miles
83% 6 votes
Parks 30111 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 MoreLess Info
Chapparosa Park is a leisure park that is situated on 16.5-acres of land. The park features a tot lot, a tire swing, four picnic tables, three basketball courts, a lighted soccer field, a restroom, and four barbecues.
31.7 Miles
100% 5 votes
Military Museums 1905 N. Marshall Ave, Hangar 6, El Cajon, CA 92020 MoreLess Info
Supported by volunteers, Air Group One - Commemorative Air Force Museum focuses on World War II and also includes exhibits featuring other wars. The museum offers artwork, photographs, uniforms, model aircraft, medals and patches.
31.7 Miles
Parks 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 MoreLess Info
Balboa Park is a hub of culture, art, history, entertainment, and vivid experiences. The thriving atmosphere contains attractions such as a zoo, photographic studio, miniature railroad, history, space, and art museums among many other things.
31.7 Miles
91% 695 votes
Botanical Gardens 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92103 MoreLess Info
A must-see destination in San Diego, the Botanical Building and Lily Pond is one of the most photographed sites in the area. The garden contains more than 2,100 species of plants including tropical plants, ferns, orchids, and season flower displays.
31.7 Miles
90% 220 votes
Lake 5540 Kiowa Drive, La Mesa, CA MoreLess Info
Open for shore fishing and private boats, Lake Murray offers boat and kayak rentals. Furthermore, the area also features hiking trails, barbecue grills, picnic tables and concession stands that allow visitors to purchase a state fishing license.
31.7 Miles
57% 517 votes
Natural History Museums 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 MoreLess Info
Featuring rotating exhibits, San Diego Natural History Museum showcases history from Native American culture to prehistoric creatures. The museum displays artifacts like dinosaur fossils and has 3D documentary film showings.
Showing 271-280 of 681
HAVE SUGGESTIONS FOR COOL AND INTERESTING THINGS TO DO IN THE Carlsbad AREA?
ADD A NEW ATTRACTION TO TRIPBUZZ!