Things to do in Carlsbad

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Carlsbad Caverns National Park which includes caves
Carlsbad Caverns National Park showing caves
Carlsbad Caverns National Park featuring caves
Photo provided by National Parks Service/Peter Jones
Photo provided by National Parks Service/Peter Jones
Photo provided by National Parks Service/Peter Jones
Photo provided by National Parks Service/Peter Jones

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What to do in Carlsbad

 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Carlsbad

Carlsbad Caverns National Park featuring caves as well as an individual male

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

5/5(162 reviews)

See the wondrous geologic formations in a vast underground cavern system. Cave facilities offer easy walks or adventurous climbs and crawls.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Pools atop the cliff from which Sitting Bill Falls cascade. This beautiful spot is a short but intense hike to reach; well worth the effort!

Sitting Bull Falls

4.5/5(14 reviews)

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Sitting Bull Falls during your travels in Carlsbad. Amble around the area's parks, or seek out its hiking trails.

Sitting Bull Falls

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center

Explore the great outdoors at Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center, a lovely green space in Carlsbad. Discover the area's desert landscape and seek out the hiking trails.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center

Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area

4.5/5(23 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area, a lovely green space in Carlsbad. Discover the desert landscape and mountain views in this walkable area.

Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area

Carlsbad Water Park

4.5/5(9 reviews)

Have a fun-filled day with the family at Carlsbad Water Park as part of your trip to Carlsbad. Discover the area's desert landscape and seek out the hiking trails.

Carlsbad Water Park

Pecos River Flume

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Pecos River Flume during your travels in Carlsbad. Discover the area's desert landscape and mountain views.

Pecos River Flume

Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park

4.5/5(32 reviews)

Why not meet the animals who call Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park home during your travels in Carlsbad? Discover the area's desert landscape and mountain views.

Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park

Carlsbad Medical Center

Though Carlsbad Medical Center might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Carlsbad while you are here.

Carlsbad Medical Center

Lake Carlsbad Golf Course

4.5/5(2 reviews)

Enjoy a round of golf in Carlsbad at Lake Carlsbad Golf Course. Discover the desert landscape and mountain views in this walkable area.

Lake Carlsbad Golf Course

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Carlsbad

Photo by Corey Dargan

Hobbs

Salt Flat which includes mountains

Salt Flat

Frequently asked questions

Is Carlsbad worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Carlsbad is visit Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park. Check this top sight off your to-do list, then discover more of the area's nature and culture.
How do I spend a day in Carlsbad?
Once you've visited popular attractions like Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park and Carlsbad Water Park, spend the rest of your day enjoying Carlsbad's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Carlsbad?
Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Carlsbad and should be high on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Carlsbad?
You can easily tour top attractions like Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park, Carlsbad Water Park and Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area with a three-day trip to Carlsbad. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stick around longer and head to Artesia.
Is Carlsbad a walkable city?
With major attractions like Carlsbad Water Park close by, Carlsbad is every bit a place to enjoy on foot. Like to visit some vibrant neighborhoods within walking distance of the city center? Carlsbad North is just 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Carlsbad with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Carlsbad with kids.
What to do in Carlsbad for adults?
From incredible food and cultural hotspots to thrilling excursions and unique experiences, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Carlsbad for adults.
Are there free things to do in Carlsbad?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around exciting neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Carlsbad. If you're looking for inspiration, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area is a must for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing activities.