Free tours offered at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park

Discover the history and tranquil beauty of a former working ranchero during the City of Carlsbad’s free weekend tours of Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, located at 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane in southeast Carlsbad. The 90-minute, docent-led tours are held Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and Sundays at noon and 2 p.m. Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots. Tours depart from the parking lot. Reservations are not required.

Once owned by actor and conservationist Leo Carrillo, the ranch is secluded in the heart of a magnificently landscaped 27-acre canyon. The historic park features hand-crafted adobe buildings, antique windmills, a reflecting pool and many other beautiful historic structures where visitors can explore and experience California history. Nature-lovers delight in gorgeous agave, bougainvillea, Birds of Paradise, plentiful trees and the company of dozens of brilliant peacocks who call the ranch home. Leo Carrillo Ranch is a designated Historic National Landmark that was opened to the public by the City of Carlsbad in 2003. It is connected to the citywide trails system via the four-mile long Rancho Carrillo trail.

 The Ranch was established in the late 1930s by Leo Carrillo, best known for his Hollywood role as “Pancho” in The Cisco Kid. Some of the visitors back in the day included Clark Gable, along with other legends shown in exhibit photos throughout the ranch detailing the history of the property and its owner. 

 According to City of Carlsbad Recreation Supervisor Mick Calarco, “Leo Carrillo Ranch gives us the opportunity to create a getaway within an urban setting. People can drive just a few miles from their homes or businesses in Carlsbad, and once they pass through the ranch entry gate and come down into the canyon, away from the traffic and city life, they will be absorbed by the beauty of nature, preserved adobe buildings and all of the historical richness that takes you back in time.” 

In addition to the docent-led weekend tours, self-guided walking tours of the building exteriors and park grounds are available during normal park operating hours. A free, self-guided walking tour brochure is available in the parking lot, visitor center and hacienda. Tours are also offered by special advance arrangement for persons with special needs or mobility requirements, groups and organizations.

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is open Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.

Visitor advisory: Leo Carrillo Ranch is a 27-acre historical park with irregular earthen and paved surfaces including, without limitations, stairs and trails. It is recommended that visitors wear appropriate shoes for the uneven terrain within this historic park. Be prepared to walk extended distances up and down moderately sloping hillsides on uneven decomposed granite trails. Wear cool, comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots. Wear a hat and sunscreen. Bring drinking water. 

Find out more about Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park at www.carlsbadca.gov/parksandrec

For more information

Mick Calarco, 760-434-2859, or mick.calarco@carlsbadca.gov

City media contact

Kristina Ray, 760-434-2957, kristina.ray@carlsbadca.gov