Leo Carrillo Ranch Carlsbad Day Trip

Hidden in a canyon and surrounded by homes is Leo Carrillo Historic Ranch. Actor Leo Carrillo once owned this former working ranchero. The city of Carlsbad restored the ranch to look much as it did over a century ago.

Discover the charm of the early Rancho days of Southern California at Leo Carrillo Historic Ranch, a 27-acre park featuring stunning hand-crafted adobe buildings, windmills, and other historic structures. As you wind down the road to the ranch, you’ll feel transported back in time.

Peacocks

As soon as you step into the park, you’ll be greeted by the distinctive calls of the peacocks that roam the valley in abundance. Though quite vocal, these stunning birds are a common sight throughout the park and contribute significantly to its allure.

Leo Carrillo Ranch Tours

Visitors can take self-guided walking tours of the building’s exteriors and park grounds during the park’s regular operating hours. A complimentary brochure can be obtained at the parking lot, visitor center, or Hacienda. On weekends, docent-led tours are available twice daily, providing in-depth information and are highly recommended for history enthusiasts.

History of the Ranch

The ranch looks much the same as when Leo Carillo used it as a family retreat. Leo purchased the farm in 1937 called Rancho de Los Kiotes. The original 840 acres were purchased for $65,000. Leo continued to expand his land holdings in the Carlsbad area until it reached 2,538 acres. Today all that remains is the 27-acre Leo Carrillo Historic Ranch.

Weddings

Leo Carrillo Ranch is a popular wedding and event location. Rental areas include the reflecting pool and cabana area and the hacienda patio, or a combination of both, which includes using the hacienda courtyard and the Bride’s room.

The ranch can accommodate groups ranging in size up to 150 people. If you are looking for a unique place for a wedding, Leo Carrillo Ranch is worth a look.

Getting to Leo Carrillo Ranch Carlsbad

Leo Carrillo Ranch is a designated Historic National Landmark that opened in August 2003 at 6200 Flying LC Lane, Carlsbad, California. Website.

Admission to the park is free, but donations are always welcome. Dogs are not allowed in the park. Park hours are Tuesday- Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sundays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed on Mondays.

Plan on spending about two hours exploring the ranch. Nearby attractions include Legoland California and seasonally open Carlsbad Flower Fields.

Casa Romantica San Clemente

San Diego Area Day Trip Ideas

Southern California Hidden Gems

Leo Carrillo State Beach