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Top 10 Family Friendly Dates in Carlsbad & beyond

By Local Mom & contributor, Natalie Kaufman March 24, 2017


Whether you are trying to go big without spending big, or just trying to get out and enjoy the family, there are several kid-friendly activities to do in the area. We have compiled a list of our top 10 family friendly dates to consider this month.


Go Camping

South Carlsbad State Beach features beautiful views and the large bluff-top campground is very popular and is often sold out during summer months. But why not bundle up as a family, roast some marshmallows and take advantage before the rush comes through? 


Enter the Galaxy

Why wait for a kid’s birthday party when you can never be too old for lazer tag. Enter Lazer Tag Galaxy in Carlsbad where you can experience the a game of strategy, quick thinking, constant action… basically playing some good old cowboys and Indians with your kiddos.



Picnic with the Peacocks

Want something different than picnicking at the park or beach? Bring the family to Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park and picnic with the many peacocks who call this place home. It was a working ranch at one time, owned by actor Leo Carrillo and sits is in the heart of a 27-acre canyon. Kids can roam around free and explore the plants, trees, adobe buildings, antique windmills and so much more.

The Thrill of the Wheel

A much different drive than you might be used to with your kiddos. Much more exhilarating at least. Why not drive with them, and against them, at K1 Speed in Carlsbad. The track is professionally designed, the Italian karts are electric and are fully computerized for optimal safety.

Volunteer Opportunity

Some of my earliest memories I share with my family are when we volunteered. And while there are plenty of local opportunities, one option to help out (for those of you with older kiddos) this month is to volunteer for the Walk MS Sunset Walk. Happening April 22, 2017 from 11-3, they are looking for volunteers to set up the festival site and route. A great opportunity and a good cause. 


Glow in the Dark Bowling

Just north of Carlsbad Village sits Surf Bowl…perhaps best known for its glow in the dark bowling.  But not just a bowling alley, it is also an entertainment center fully equipped with billiards, arcade games and more. And the best part is that they have bumpers, smaller-sized balls for kids and a bowling ramp to make sure your kids have all the competitive advantage they might need to give you a run for your money.



Museum of Making Music

Unlike a children’s museum, the Museum of Making Music has something fun for the kiddos and parents as well. Come together to learn more about the evolutionary sounds of jazz, folk, rock ‘n roll and pop. There are also plenty of hands-on opportunities to pick up and play a variety of instruments, and discover the innovative ways that the music industry has grown over the years.

San Diego Botanic Garden

Besides the many beautiful trees and plants to check out, the San Diego Botanic Garden has tons to do with your little one. Check out the Hamilton Children’s Garden and climb the tree fort, or just bring a picnic and sit on one of the many grass areas (my favorite is by the koi pond). Or, you can visit the Seeds of Wonder children’s garden where, on April 15th, children are even invited to meet the Botanic Garden’s gentle bunny for a photo op, decorate bunny ears, visit real bunnies in a petting zoo, plant a spring flower to take home, get a bunny face paint and much more.

Pizza and Movie Night

Why not enjoy a good old fashioned pizza and movie night with the family. And rather than ordering in, why not step out and take the family to Piology Pizzeria in Bressi Village. There, you can create your own masterpiece that reflects your unique personality and either watch the open-flame oven bake your creation in under 3 minutes, or you can take home and bake it, and of course follow it up by your watching your favorite at home family flick.

A Historic Experience Awaits You

Looking for a different sort of meal experience? Bring the kids to the Green Dragon Tavern and Museum where you can eat New England inspired staples and finish off your meal with a free tour of the museum. Inspired by 18th century taverns, Green Dragon Tavern houses a collection of documents and antiques. And with a full kid’s menu (which includes a side and a beverage) and plenty of high chairs to go around, there is enough to look at here to keep the kids and adults well occupied (they also offer complimentary wifi and large screen LED tvs so dad doesn’t miss his favorite team while embracing historic traditions).  

We are fortunate to live in a place where natural beauty is abundant, beaches are vast & small local businesses are plenty.  Where ever you Find Your Family Fun, we hope its an adventure...