Carlsbad Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Carlsbad, New Mexico. Plan your trip today!


Introduction to Carlsbad

Carlsbad is a charming city located in Southeast New Mexico, United States. Known for its stunning landscapes, historical landmarks and outdoor adventures, Carlsbad is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best things to do in Carlsbad, including the must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, this guide will help you make the most of your trip to Carlsbad.

List of Places to Visit in Carlsbad

  • Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
  • Carlsbad Museum and Art Center
  • Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park
  • Sitting Bull Falls
  • Guadalupe Mountains National Park
  • Brantley Lake State Park
  • Lincoln National Forest

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Carlsbad is rich in history and culture, making it home to an array of museums and historical landmarks that are worth exploring. The Carlsbad Museum and Art Center is a great place to start, offering an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and artwork detailing the history and culture of the area.

Another must-visit attraction is the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park, which features over 40 indigenous animal species and more than 1,500 plant species unique to the Chihuahuan Desert. To explore the natural beauty of the area, head to the Sitting Bull Falls or take a trip to Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Brantley Lake State Park and Lincoln National Forest offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and birdwatching, with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Natural Attractions of Carlsbad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Carlsbad is home to a diverse range of natural attractions, ranging from stunning deserts and mountains to crystal-clear lakes and waterfalls. Here are some of the top natural attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

  • Guadalupe Mountains National Park: One of the most popular natural attractions in the area, featuring scenic hiking trails, beautiful landscapes, and breathtaking views.

  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park: A must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers, featuring impressive underground caves and stunning rock formations.

  • Carlsbad Lake National Wildlife Refuge: An ideal spot for birdwatching, hiking, and fishing, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and diverse wildlife.

  • Sitting Bull Falls: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by stunning landscapes, offering a refreshing spot for swimming and hiking.

  • Brantley Lake State Park: A popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping, offering stunning views of the nearby mountains and landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Carlsbad

Carlsbad is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with an array of scenic hiking and biking trails that offer the perfect way to explore the natural beauty of the area. Here are some of the top routes that you shouldn’t miss:

  • Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Featuring challenging and scenic hikes that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

  • McKittrick Canyon Trail: An ideal route for hikers and bikers of all skill levels, offering beautiful views of the nearby mountains and landscapes.

  • Sitting Bull Falls Trail: A scenic hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall, offering a refreshing spot for swimming and hiking.

  • Pecos River Recreation Area Trail: A popular trail for hikers and bikers, offering beautiful views of the nearby river and landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Carlsbad: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of things to do in Carlsbad, with an array of activities and tours that are perfect for all ages and interests. Here are some of the top things to do in Carlsbad:

  • Carlsbad Caverns Ranger-led Tours: A must-do activity for anyone visiting Carlsbad, offering guided tours of the impressive underground caverns.

  • Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park Guided Tours: Offering guided tours of the unique and diverse wildlife of the Chihuahuan Desert.

  • Pecos River Adventure Tour: A scenic tour that takes visitors through the heart of Carlsbad, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and wildlife.

  • Brantley Lake State Park Boat Tours: An ideal tour for anyone interested in exploring the crystal-clear waters of the nearby lake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Carlsbad

Day 1: Visit the Carlsbad Museum and Art Center, Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park, and take a scenic hike at Sitting Bull Falls.

Day 2: Explore the stunning Guadalupe Mountains National Park, offering challenging and scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views.

Day 3: Visit the Carlsbad Caverns National Park, featuring impressive underground caves and stunning rock formations.

Day 4: Enjoy a day of fishing or boating at the Brantley Lake State Park, offering stunning views of the nearby mountains and landscapes.

Day 5: Take a guided tour of the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park and enjoy a picnic lunch in the park.

Day 6: Visit the nearby Lincoln National Forest and explore the diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.

Day 7: Relax and recharge at one of the nearby hot springs or spas, or explore the local food and drink scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Carlsbad

Carlsbad is home to a diverse range of restaurants and bars that offer a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages that you shouldn’t miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Green Chile Burger: A classic New Mexican dish that features a juicy burger topped with flavorful green chile peppers.

  • Carne Adovada: A spicy and flavorful pork dish that is cooked in a red chili sauce and is typically served with rice and beans.

  • Enchiladas: A delicious and filling dish that features tortillas stuffed with meat, cheese, and spicy chili sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Chile Beer: A unique and flavorful beer that is brewed with local green chile peppers, giving it a spicy and distinctive flavor.

  • Margarita: A classic cocktail that is made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, and is typically served in a salt-rimmed glass.

  • Sangria: A refreshing and fruity drink that is made with red or white wine, fruit, and juice.

Where to Stay in Carlsbad: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Carlsbad offers a diverse range of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the top places to stay in Carlsbad:

  • Carlsbad Inn: A cozy and affordable hotel that offers comfortable rooms and on-site amenities.

  • Hampton Inn and Suites Carlsbad: A modern and comfortable hotel that offers spacious rooms and on-site fitness facilities.

  • Candlewood Suites Carlsbad South: A contemporary and spacious hotel that offers extended stay options and a range of amenities.

  • Holiday Inn Express and Suites Carlsbad: A budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Carlsbad: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Carlsbad is home to an array of unique and locally-made products that make for great souvenirs or gifts for loved ones. Here are some of the top local products to bring home:

  • Native American Jewelry: Handmade jewelry that features traditional designs and symbols of the Navajo and Pueblo tribes.

  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park Souvenirs: T-shirts, hats, and other items that feature iconic images of the impressive underground caves.

  • Green Chile Products: Spicy and flavorful green chile peppers, salsa, and other products made with the local chile peppers.

Local Culture and Customs of Carlsbad

Carlsbad is a melting pot of Native American, Mexican, and American cultures, with a diverse and vibrant community that celebrates its heritage and traditions. Here are some of the local customs and traditions that you may encounter while in Carlsbad:

  • Native American Powwows: Annual events that celebrate the traditional music, dance, and art of the Navajo and Pueblo tribes.

  • Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead): A Mexican holiday that is celebrated in Carlsbad with colorful altars, parades, and traditional foods.

  • Fourth of July Extravaganza: An annual event that features a spectacular fireworks display, live music, and other family-friendly activities.

Best Time to Visit Carlsbad

The best time to visit Carlsbad is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and comfortable, and the crowds are smaller. The summer months can be hot and crowded, while the winter months can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Carlsbad

Do:

  • Do try the local green chile dishes and other unique New Mexican cuisine.

  • Do explore the natural beauty of the area, including its stunning deserts, mountains, and waterfalls.

  • Do learn about the local culture and traditions, including the Native American, Mexican, and American heritage of the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural landscapes and wildlife of the area.

  • Don’t ignore safety warnings and precautions when hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities.

  • Don’t disrespect the local culture and traditions, including the heritage and customs of the Native American and Mexican communities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Carlsbad

Carlsbad is a safe and friendly destination, but visitors should still exercise caution and common sense when traveling in the area. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Always lock your doors and windows when leaving your car or hotel room.

  • Keep valuable items secured and out of sight when in public areas.

  • Be aware of your surroundings when hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities.

Health in Carlsbad

Carlsbad is also a relatively healthy destination, but visitors should still take necessary precautions to stay healthy during their trip. Here are some health tips to keep in mind:

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.

  • Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when spending time outdoors.

  • Seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms or illnesses.

Getting to Carlsbad: Transportation Options and Logistics

Carlsbad is easily accessible by plane, bus, or car, with a range of transportation options available for visitors. Here are some of the top transportation options for getting to and around Carlsbad:

Airports Near Carlsbad

  • Carlsbad Regional Airport (CNM)

  • Roswell International Air Center (ROW)

  • Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)

Bus Stations Near Carlsbad

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Carlsbad

  • Amtrak Bus Station in Carlsbad

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Carlsbad via Interstate 25 or Highway 285, or take a taxi or shuttle service from nearby airports or bus stations.

How to Get Around in Carlsbad

Carlsbad is a relatively small city, with easy and convenient transportation options for getting around. Here are some of the top ways to get around Carlsbad:

  • Rental Car: Visitors can rent a car at one of the nearby airports or bus stations, or at one of the local car rental companies in Carlsbad.

  • Taxi or Ridesharing Service: Visitors can also take a taxi or ridesharing service to get around the city.

  • Public Transportation: Local buses and trolleys are available for transportation around Carlsbad.

Where to Go Next from Carlsbad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Carlsbad is located in close proximity to several other stunning destinations and attractions, making it a great starting point for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some of the top excursions and nearby destinations to consider:

  • Roswell, New Mexico: Home to the mysterious UFO incident, and a charming downtown area with plenty of shops and restaurants.

  • White Sands National Monument: A stunning landscape of white sand dunes that offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.

  • Fort Stanton-Snowy River Cave National Conservation Area: A stunning natural landscape featuring caves, trails, and diverse wildlife.

Conclusion

Carlsbad is a hidden gem of the Southwest, with plenty of natural beauty and cultural attractions to explore. Whether you’re interested in hiking, shopping, dining, or exploring local culture and history, Carlsbad has something to offer for everyone. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this stunning destination.