- The list below includes 16 free or cheap things to do in or near Carlsbad, New Mexico, including 13 different types of inexpensive activities like Movie Theaters, Caverns & Caves, Nature & Wildlife Areas and River.
- From Sitting Bull Falls to Pecos River, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Carlsbad and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Mount Lemmon.
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17
29.9 Miles
Hiking trails, photographic views, and picnic tables are available at the Sitting Bull Falls. While the oasis of water might be tempting in the summer, swimming is not allowed though.
1.3 Miles
Numerous parks are located on both sides of the Pecos River in Carlsbad. Facilities include playgrounds, docks, barbeque grills, picnic tables, and swimming areas with the ability to freely enjoy most outdoor activities.
0.3 Miles
Spread over 125 acres, the Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area offers a wide range of activities. Guests have access to playground equipment, barbeque grills, boat docks, and a swimming area in addition to the Beach Band-shell for concerts.
0.0 Miles
The desert comes alive at Brantley Lake State Park. Visitors can fish, enjoy water sports on the open water and spend time in the visitors center which features exhibits about the Wild West.
0.3 Miles
Known as the river that crosses itself, the Pecos River Flume allows water from Lake Avalon to dry areas through the Carlsbad Irrigation System. The Flume was originally made of wood before it was destroyed by a flood in 1902 and was then rebuilt to the modern concrete flume.
21.1 Miles
Featuring an extensive natural cavern, Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers self-guided tours of deep caves with natural stone formations. Visitors can begin at the Natural Entrance or go down by elevator to the Big Room; which is 75 stories down.
0.1 Miles
The Carlsbad Living Deserts Zoo and Garden features more than 40 animal species and hundreds of plant species that are native to the Chihuahuan Desert. Fun for adults and children, the zoo also features interpretive programs for each season.
2.9 Miles
84%
362 votes
1504 Miehls Dr., Carlsbad, NM 88221
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More than 40 species of animals and hundreds of plant species native to the region are housed at the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park. Up-close experiences with the animals and plants are offered to guests in addition to interactive programs for every season.
19.5 Miles
Left Hand Tunnel Tour is a candle-lit lantern tour that goes through an undeveloped section of tails. The tour consists of slippery slopes, fragile formations, and subversive pools of water.
2.4 Miles
Maintained by the New Mexico Historical Society, situated in Heritage Park and built by Charles B. Eddy, the Eddy House is the first homestead built in Eddy county. A covered picnic structure is available nearby.