Location: Carlsbad
Top Things to do in Carlsbad
Top 9 Museums in Carlsbad, California (CA)
Spa-goers have flocked to Carlsbad since its mineral spring was discovered in the late 19th century. Today, you can visit the site of the original well, but you can do much more than just "taking the waters"—Carlsbad’s spas offer world-class services.
Restaurants in Carlsbad
1. The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 197 reviews
The museum features wood and metalworking craftsmanship at the small end of the size scale. Exhibits include running internal and external combustion engines, model ships, aircraft and autos, tools, clocks, jewelry, guns and dollhouses. Small Engines are run in our working machine shop each day at 10, 12 and 2 PM. Admission is free, and regular hours are Tuesday through Saturday 9 to 4. The museum is sponsored by the non-profit Joe Martin Foundation for Exceptional Craftsmanship and partially funded by Sherline Products Miniature Machine Tools.
Reviewed By sylvial940 - San Diego, United States
This is a hidden gem located in an industrial park in Carlsbad. What you will see in miniature is truly a labor of love from craftsmen who are masters in their art. The works displayed here are just awesome and a definite "must see" .Entrance is free.
2. Clever Element
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Clever Element features interesting and unique items from independent artists, designers and fair trade artisans; both local and international. New artists are added weekly and you can stop by to sign up for classes taught by local artists!
3. Museum of Making Music
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 359 reviews
The Museum of Making Music celebrates the music products industry’s rich history from 1900 to today. Through unique exhibitions, vibrant and varied live music performances, and innovative educational programs, the Museum shares the accomplishments and impact of the people who make, sell, and use musical instruments and products. When you step into the galleries (and back in time) you’ll see outstanding examples of musical instruments, many of them displayed in vintage music store settings. You’ll also hear some familiar tunes in audio and video clips, have many 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.
Reviewed By 77mic - Eugene, United States
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful little museum that featured historical instruments and samples of the music of the times. What was most fun was the areas where guests were free to play instruments ranging from banjos and guitars to theramins and organs that sounded like full orchestras.
4. GIA Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 101 reviews
GIA's museum in Carlsbad is open to the public Monday through Friday from 8 a.M. To 5 p.M. With appointment.
Reviewed By Patti7147 - Phoenix, United States
The institute is beautiful. Tour was fun and very informative. The gems and jewelry pieces were magnificent. Remember to bring your exact ID with you as you will have to show at the gate. There is no charge at all.
5. Carlsbad Oceanside Art League Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 10 reviews
The Carlsbad Oceanside Art league is non-profit gallery, exhibiting in its gallery (The Coal Art Gallery) a wide selection of art produced by local artists. The art includes Oil & Acrylics, Water Media, Pastels, Drawing / Printmaking, Mixed Media / Collage, Photography, Computer Art and Sculpture. The quality of the art is exceptional and the prices are reasonable.
6. Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 10 reviews
Reviewed By RetiredHawkeye
We stay near the west end of the Lagoon and enjoy walking and birdwatching along the area where it empties into the ocean. It took us a while to realize that the Discovery Center is inland several blocks to the east. There are very interesting exhibits in the Center with information about the inhabitants of the Lagoon and it is a good place to ask questions about this unique area. There is also a relatively short trail outside that goes near the Lagoon and a pond with several kinds of waterfowl.
7. Seacoast Gallery
8. Handled Pottery Studio
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
9. Spirits in Stone Gallery
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