Free Weekend Fun at Leo Carrillo Ranch

Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is free to the public, run by the city of Carlsbad and home to about 40 peafowl that freely roam the State and National Historic Landmark.

Leo Carrillo brought the peacocks to the land he purchased in 1937. Charles Balteria, the park's recreational supervisor says, "The peacocks are one of the more popular aspects of the park. However, they are feral birds and we encourage the public not to get too close but to observe them from a distance." There are signs throughout the park asking visitors not the feed or touch the peafowl.

The public is encouraged to walk around the 27 ½-acre park and learn about the home Carrillo fashioned after an old-style California rancho. Carrillo lived on the ranch with his wife and daughter, using it as a place to relax and refresh. The late Carrillo was an actor and best known for his role as Poncho on the TV series The Cisco Kid.

Today the city of Carlsbad operates the historic park with the majority of funding coming from the city's general fund, public donations and the Carrillo Ranch Trust Fund.

"Carrillo ranch is really a hidden gem here in Carlsbad. We invite everyone to come out and enjoy it," adds Balteria. In addition to seeing majestic peafowl, the rancho hosts guided tours, weddings, summer art programs, fourth-grade school field trips, and is a great place to go for a hike.

The park is open Tuesday through Sunday.