Day Trips for Your Carlsbad Meeting Attendees to Add Their Itinerary

Ready to feel like a kid again? Located just minutes from your attendees’ hotel or resort, LEGOLAND California is built for fun.

This destination is much more than a theme park. The 10-acre LEGOLAND Water Park features slides, sandy beaches and the unique Build-A-Raft River. And the SEA LIFE Aquarium provides up-close encounters with sea creatures — including sharks, stingrays and more.

Want to relax at the beach? Carlsbad has 7 miles of beautiful coastline with five beaches, where meeting attendees can unwind with the sound of waves rolling upon the shore.

Distance: In town!

America’s Finest City is just a 40-minute drive from our beachside destination, making it the perfect day trip or an extended stay for event attendees flying in and out of San Diego International Airport (SAN). San Diego has developed a renowned food scene, so your attendees can sample local dishes, or they can take in another stretch of California coastline by visiting the city's gorgeous beaches.

At the world-famous San Diego Zoo, your attendees can see animals in action, including wildlife like exotic big cats, koalas, penguins and more. There’s also a variety of activities, dining and shopping to enjoy.

Experiences with animals don’t have to stop at the zoo. SeaWorld San Diego is an aquarium, zoo, theme park and water park all in one! Your attendees can see shows and demonstrations featuring marine life like whales, seals and dolphins. Or they can hop on one of the park’s exciting mild-to-wild rides or roller coasters and take part in educational activities and tours. Plus, there are unique shopping and dining options.

Distance: About 30 miles from Carlsbad

Another great day trip option: Meet and greet with your favorite Disney characters — like Mickey Mouse, Goofy and the Disney Princesses — at Disneyland in Anaheim. Just an hour’s drive from Carlsbad, Disneyland offers two theme parks — Disneyland Park, featuring Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and Disney California Adventure Park, including the Avengers Campus — making it the spot for your attendees to have a magical time. Not only can they explore attractions and sightseeing but also go on thrilling rides, sip and savor tasty food and drinks, and shop for souvenirs. Head to the happiest place on Earth where dreams come true!

Distance: 60 miles from Carlsbad

Your attendees can experience an island getaway packed full of sun and refreshing ocean air by sailing to Catalina Island. Getting to the island is a breeze; depending on where your attendees leave, it can take as little as an hour to get there by boat.

Catalina Island has two fantastic destinations — Avalon and Two Harbors. In Avalon, your attendees can swim, scuba dive, snorkel, golf and more. And Two Harbors is perfect for camping, hiking and other outdoor activities. The memories made here will be priceless.

Distance:

Welcome to Los Angeles, the capital of creativity. With vibrant neighborhoods like Downtown L.A. and the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and surrounding Beach Cities Region, including Venice Beach, and activities like hitting Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills for some of the best shopping, this iconic destination is a must-visit for your attendees. It’s also convenient for those flying in and out of LAX!

Whether they’re thrill seekers or film buffs, Universal Studios Hollywood is an experience your attendees won’t get enough of. Located about 2 hours from Carlsbad, this famous theme park boasts rides, attractions, events, seasonal activities and more based on hit movies and well-known characters ranging from Harry Potter to Super Mario Bros.

Distance: About 100 miles from Carlsbad

Known as a popular destination for stars and celebrities, Palm Springs is an unforgettable destination for your attendees to travel from their meeting destination in Carlsbad or stay for a couple of days before or after flying in or out of Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). Located about two hours away, this desert oasis has a different vibe with its mid-century architecture, thriving arts and culture scene, exhilarating outdoor adventures and relaxation experiences.

Distance: About 90 miles from Carlsbad

Head only two and a half hours to Big Bear to experience the great outdoors. This four-season mountain lake escape in the heart of Southern California is where you need to be to participate in recreational activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking and fishing. It’s also home to some of California’s best terrain, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain.

Distance: About 140 miles from Carlsbad

Let’s Plan Your Carlsbad Itinerary

Reach out to Jed Arrogante, Business Development, or submit your RFP to plan the ultimate meeting, corporate event, executive retreat or conference in Carlsbad and get itinerary inspiration.