Location: Carlsbad
Top Things to do in Carlsbad
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The 5 Best Things to do Good for Big Groups in Carlsbad, New Mexico (NM)
The internationally known Carlsbad Caverns are the biggest tourist draw in this city on the Pecos River. But before or after you've experienced the magnificent caves, you can round out your weekend with some wonderful above-ground sights and activities. If the thought of caves conjures up visions of narrow spaces and dark, cold clamminess, the comfortable year-round 56-degree climate, wide-open spaces and magical underworld of naturally created sculptures will amaze and enthrall you. In the summer, you get to see another natural wonder - some one million bats taking to the skies from the cave entrance every evening at sundown. Hardier cave explorers can take a side trip to the wilder Slaughter Cave for a down and dirty ranger-led tour. Come out from under to the zoo at Living Desert State Park for a glimpse of Chihuahuan Desert wildlife - everything from mountain lions, buffalo, bears and coyotes to reptiles, prairie dogs and roadrunners. Head over to the Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area for river swimming and waterskiing or to Guadalupe Mountains National Park for hiking trails with diverse terrain and incredible views.
Restaurants in Carlsbad
1. Carlsbad Museum and Art Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 252 reviews
Reviewed By UmaL_12 - San Francisco, United States
Has a good collection of old pottery , and history of the finding of the Carlsbad caves . The musuem shop has great unique products from local artisans.
2. Sitting Bull Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 299 reviews
Reviewed By 556terrilld - Yuma, United States
The falls area was beautiful and the staff very helpful in planning out our day of hiking the area. Definitely give this place a visit, you'll be very pleased!
3. Lake Carlsbad Recreation Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 67 reviews
Reviewed By moosgang2 - Rockport, United States
If you are in need of some walking time, this is a wonderful place to walk. Well kept sidewalks line both sides of the Pecos River with places to park and play throughout. My favorite hour walk was to park by the blue floating walk-bridge and make a 3 mile loop from there down (south) round the furthermost point and up the other side. You can watch families swimming and fishing, watch the 100s of ducks and enjoy the dry heat and water views as you walk.
4. Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 524 reviews
Overlooking the Pecos River Valley, this fascinating park exhibits the varied plant and animal life of the arid Chihuahuan Desert region. Visitors can observe caged animals like snakes, lizards and birds of prey, plus larger animals such as bison and antelope, which are held in pens. Or walk along a nature trail past cacti, agaves, yuccas and other native plant life.
Reviewed By TrailBlazer312848
This is a one of a kind place for all ages. Beautiful plant life of the region and many species of animal life found in this area. The paths walk you through a part of the Chihuahuan Desert with ease on a paved trail outside. Wonderful afternoon for families with kids of school age and above. Inside they have many displays of the local area giving everyone a view of natural beauty found right in own back yard. It is a short drive , five minutes or so from the bottom of the hill in Carlsbad to where is located overlooking the city. Grat time for all!
5. Carlsbad Cruises Day Tours
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 17 reviews
Carlsbad Cruises is located in Carlsbad, New Mexico along the beautiful Pecos River. Just a few miles down the road from the world famous Carlsbad Caverns, you can enjoy an oasis surrounded by tree shaded parks. Climb aboard one of Carlsbad Cruises boats and enjoy a relaxing hour long guided ride down the Pecos River, or bask in the sunshine and swim at our free beach area. We rent paddle boats, kayaks and more including a full service concession stand with the best snow cones in the southwest. We have everything you need to make the most of a day at New Mexico's secret beach!
