Activities in Carlsbad and LegoLand
Barnstorming Adventures
Address 3750 John J. Montgomery Drive, Suite D, San Diego, CA 92123 Map, Website
These highly rated flights in historic biplanes (we did not take one ourselves) would be a great splurge for a child who is fixated with airplanes. Young kids will enjoy watching the planes take off, fly over the Pacific Ocean, and come in to land too. more
Carlsbad State Beach
Address 7201 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008 Map, Tel (760) 438-3143 Call, Website
This large public beach offers swimming, surfing, skin diving, fishing and picnicking. Free WiFi is available within 500 feet of lifeguard station more
LEGOLAND
Address 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008 Map, Hours Reduced schedule during winter, check website for latest hours, Cost Adult $59, Ages 3-12 $47 Website
The lego theme park has more than 50 rides, shows and attractions to choose from, but the real draw is all the super-detailed lego models in "mini land." The kids were fascinated by moving cars, breakdancers, and subway trains. Rides are geared towards younger children, and there are many choices for kids 34 inches or taller. Our son's favorite was a car ride (ages 3+) where he got to steer a small car around a track by himself. He was thrilled by the fact that there were no "rails" and he was really driving. The large water splash area is also a popular choice when the weather is warm, and you should bring a spare set of clothing. more
Moonlight Beach
Address Moonlight State Beach, Encinitas, CA 92024 Map, Website
Moonlight Beach (just south of Carlsbad) is a nice choice for families because there is a nice, mostly-shaded play area. Restrooms and a picnic area are also available. Limited concessions are available during the summer, but we recommend that you pack your own picnic. more
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Geppetto's
Address 1935 Calle Barcelona #174 Carlsbad, CA 92009 Map, Tel 760.632.1107 Call, Website
This is a great neighborhood toy store where they carry unique toys. They carry special books, educational toys, and games you wouldn't normally find anywhere else. For boys they have brands such as WOW, Bruder, and Automblox. They have two different play tables where kids can try out some of the fun toys. more
Museum of Making Music
Address 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008 Map, Tel (760) 438-5996 Call, Website
The museum of making music is a nice place to stop, especially on a rainy day. Kids can learn about and hear different types of music in this small museum. An instrument room gives kids a chance to experiment with making their own music. more
PlayWerx
Address 6060 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad Map, Tel (760) 804-1600 Call, Closed Monday Website
This drop-in play area has a multi-story indoor play structure, crafts and a small library. There is also a small cafe serving coffee, pizza and snacks. more
Quail Botanical Gardens
Address 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas CA 92024 Map, Tel (760) 436-3036 Call, Website
Not only are the gardens nice that include a bamboo forest, they have a kids water area. They also conduct special kids activities and events throught the month. If you go the first Tuesday of the month admission is free and it is only a $1 to park. more
The Flower Fields
Address 5704 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008 Map, Tel (760) 431-0352 Call, Open Spring (March 1 through May 10, 2009) Website
Every spring 50 acres of land near the Pacific Ocean are planted with colorful flowers, making a lovely place for kids to run and parents to enjoy. There are several activities for kids too, including a sluice mine, sweet pea maze, wagon rides, and occasional special events. Purchase tickets online to avoid lines on weekends. more
