The Complete Guide on Carlsbad, California

Craving some Carlsbad fun? No matter your taste, there is bound to be something for everyone in the seaside town. With it’s historical significance, great restaurants, amazing aquarium and unique museums, Carlsbad has a variety of offerings that will be sure to keep you smiling your entire visit. Check out all the amazing places this "Village by the Sea" has to offer.

The first spot is the Legoland California Resort, which is ideal for families with small children. The Legoland California Resort includes Legoland California, Sea Life Aquarium, the Legoland Water Park and Legoland Hotel, making it easy and accessible to both locals and visitors. 

Legoland California is home to more than 60 rides and attractions that will be sure to keep your little ones happy and tantrum-free. Sea Life Aquarium is the perfect spot for adults and kids interested in learning more about sea life. With an interactive guide, hands-on learning and fascinating educational talks, your family will feel like aquatic life experts by the end of your visit. On a hot summer day, the Legoland Water Park is a refreshing way to cool down. 

For those without children who are just looking for a great date activity, a visit to Sky’s The Limit Ballooning Adventures is a must. Be warned this activity is not for those with a fear of heights, but it is great for those adventurous couples looking for some fun. A private hot air balloon is romantic—it’s a great place for those looking to pop the big question!

Sky’s crew ensures a safe experience with FAA commercial licensed pilots with over 30 years of flight experience combined and outstanding safety records. Their balloons and vehicles are regularly maintained and inspected to assure a smooth and memorable experience. Their tours capture views of the beautiful Southern California coastline as you gently glide over the Pacific Ocean and see spectacular sights of fabulous estates and mountains. 

For a less exhilarating date activity, try visiting The Flower Fields. When in bloom, nearly 50 acres of stunning giant tecolote ranunculus flowers bring a burst of color to the ranch; they’re a direct result of over 85 years of floral cultivation. Be sure to visit their website for hours of operation and information regarding the next blooming season. 

The Flower Fields are also a perfect venue to say those special "I do’s" or to celebrate any special occasion. Besides the breathtakingly beautiful flowers, the site features antique tractor wagon rides, an organic demonstration on gardening and water-wise farming, a sweet pea maze, the Artist Gardens, Carlsbad Mining Company, Cymbidium Orchid Greenhouse, Santa’s Playground and a Historic Poinsettia Display. 

Foodies looking for a great place to eat in Carlsbad should give Cafe Topes a try. It’s a great place for breakfast and brunch. In fact, they were voted the best breakfast in Carlsbad. They have a unique style that incorporates succulents and vintage antiques to create a warm and inviting setting. 

As for their food, they’re notorious for their heavenly cinnamon rolls but have amazing lunch options, as well. We suggest their Ultimate Grilled Cheese, which is served with fig butter, melted brie cheese and crisp green apples. Or try the Crack Bomb, which consists of housemade chips and burgundy tri-tip loaded with cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole and sour cream. Coffee addicts will be glad to know they serve french press coffee, available in a small or large pot. 

If you love beer, head over to Karl Strauss Brewing Company. This brewery is located right around the corner from Legoland on Armada Dr. and they’re family-friendly, so feel free to bring along the kiddos. They started in the mid 1980’s, creating local craft beer in San Diego and helping kick off the city’s craft beer industry. Since then, the brewery has been newly remodeled and consistently has both great beer and food. They have a wide selection of beers on tap, but if you are unsure as to which beer to try then grab a flight. 

Another great eatery is Bistro West. Located right on Avenida Encinas, Bistro West is a phenomenal farm-to-table restaurant. Most of their ingredients come from their own farm, the West Farm. The menu features bistro classics as well as unique seasonal compositions and is reasonably priced for the exceptional taste. Be sure to check out their daily happy hour from 3:30 to 6:30 for even more savings. 

If you want to truly explore the wide range of diverse food offerings that Carlsbad restaurants have to offer, then take a culinary journey with the Carlsbad Food Tour. This walking tour includes eight or more tastings of both food and drinks with a professional tour guide. Taste a range of bites and sips while listening to fascinating stories about the history of Carlsbad. They are kid and family-friendly, making it a great activity for all ages.

The tour is approximately two miles and is an easy walk on flat terrain. Stops will be made during the tour for food tastings, wine tastings, restroom breaks and cultural presentations. Tasting stops are subject to change, but usually include a California-style cafe, a European-style restaurant, an Italian eatery, a Mexican deli and other restaurants or specialty shops. Tours range from three to three and a half hours and tickets must be purchased in advance. Whether you happen to be driving through the area or are planning to stay a while, enjoy these fantastic venues Carlsbad has to offer. The entire family will be happy you stopped by.

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