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All the United States California Carlsbad

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Carlsbad

3 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Carlsbad, California

Updated September 10, 2019
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Unusual Attractions in Carlsbad

Carlsbad, California

The Flower Fields

Stripes of flowers bloom each spring in a 50 acre rainbow of color.

Carlsbad, California

Copper Creek Falls and Mine

The overgrown ruins of a once thriving World War I-era copper mine.
The Do Nothing Machine

Carlsbad, California

Craftsmanship Museum

This large collection of tiny things revels in the art of fine machinery well made.
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Surfing Madonna.

Encinitas, California

Surfing Madonna

What began as an illegal art installation has become a symbol for unity, ocean awareness, and coastline preservation.
8 miles from Carlsbad
1883 Schoolhouse.

Encinitas, California

1883 Schoolhouse

The oldest structure in a beachside California city was built to serve eight students.
8 miles from Carlsbad

Encinitas, California

Encinitas Boat Houses

These unusual houses look like giant boats that washed ashore on a residential street.
8 miles from Carlsbad

Escondido, California

Elfin Forest

This dark, quiet forest on the outskirts of San Diego is dense with rumor and lore.
12 miles from Carlsbad
In partnership with GetYourGuide

Unforgettable Experiences Nearby

Explore Carlsbad, California

Wwi 1
Abandoned 1
Wunderkammers 1
Museums 1
Flora 1
Nature 1
Miniatures 1
Farms 1
Collections 1
Mines 1
Plants 1

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Stories About Carlsbad

A demonstration by the Special Service Unit in Fort Meade, Maryland, in 1943.

When the Pianos Went to War

Steinway & Sons' Victory Verticals were tougher than your average upright.
by Winnie Lee
September 10, 2019
Aerial image of Vietnam, displaying the picturesque rice terraces, characterized by their layered, verdant fields.
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