Travel Guide to Carlsbad, California

Carlsbad, California is right in the middle of two popular family travel destinations. Just 45 minutes north of San Diego and an hour south of Anaheim, Carlsbad is a great option for families wishing to visit both Disneyland and SeaWorldtheme parks. While the location can’t be beat as a central point between two hot spots, Carlsbad is a vacation destination in itself. Here are five fun activities for families visiting Carlsbad, California:

LEGOLAND California: What sets LEGOLAND apart from the other area theme parks is its emphasis on rides and attractions for families with young children, specifically ages 2-12. The park is separated into LEGO themed areas with rides, shows and interactive activities.  Popular attractions include the Volvo driving school — where kids drive real electric LEGO cars and receive an official LEGOLAND driver license– andMiniland USA, which features reproductions of American landmarks built from more than 24 million LEGO bricks.

The Flower Fields: There’s no shortage of flowers in Carlsbad; however, nothing can compare to colorful display of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus at The Flower Fields, which bloom every spring season from March through May. Families can roam the paths, or take a wagon ride, through nearly 50 acres of flora. Make sure to bring your camera as the flowers make a gorgeous backdrop for family photos.

LEGOLAND Waterpark: An extension of LEGOLAND California, LEGOLAND Waterpark is a cool way to beat the heat after a morning or afternoon at the theme park. Though the parks are connected, there is an upgrade fee of $12 to enter the waterpark. Once inside, you’ll find waterslides, splash areas and two lazy rivers –complete with floating LEGO bricks—that are suitable for guests of all ages.

Carlsbad State Beach: It would be hard to ignore the beaches of Carlsbad. This seaside community is home to seven miles of scenic shoreline, with Carlsbad State Beach being the perfect choice for active families who enjoy camping, swimming, surfing and beachcombing.If nothing else, the sunsets here are not to be missed.

SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium: Conveniently located next to LEGOLAND, the SEA LIFE Aquarium takes kids on an interactive journey through the depths of the ocean. Children can hold crabs and touch sea stars in the Discovery Zone Touch Pool, explore the Lost City of Atlantis while viewing sharks, rays and fish, or come face-to-face with cephalopods in the new Octopus Garden exhibit. With more than 4000 sea creatures, the SEA Life Aquarium is a fun and educational day for the kids.