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Leo Carrillo Historic Park: A Glimpse into Old California

Explore the historic ranch of Hollywood's Leo Carrillo in Carlsbad, CA. Discover adobe buildings, gardens, and California history in a peaceful setting.

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Step back in time at Leo Carrillo Historic Park, a 27-acre ranch in Carlsbad that was once the weekend retreat of Hollywood actor Leo Carrillo. Explore the charming adobe buildings, wander through the gardens, and encounter the park's famous peafowl, all while learning about California's rich history and the legacy of a beloved entertainer.

A brief summary to Leo Carrillo Historic Park

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the park has irregular earthen and paved surfaces, including stairs and trails.
  • Visit the Visitor Center Barn to discover a small gift shop, refreshments, exhibits, a film, and park information.
  • Take a self-guided walking tour to explore the historic buildings, gardens, and other features of the park.
  • Check the park's website or call ahead to inquire about special events and the availability of docent-led tours.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Leo Carrillo Historic Park is located at 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Ln, Carlsbad, CA 92009. From I-5, exit at Palomar Airport Road and head east. Turn left onto Melrose Drive, then left again onto Flying Leo Carrillo Lane. The park entrance will be on your right. Parking is free in the park's lot. Limited parking is available, especially during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    The closest bus stop to Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is Rancho Santa Fe Rd & San Elijo Rd, which is about a 34-minute walk (2860 yards) from the park. Bus lines 304, 332, and 604 stop near the park. From the bus stop, head north on Rancho Santa Fe Rd, turn right onto San Elijo Rd, then turn right onto Flying Leo Carrillo Ln. The park will be on your left. A one-way bus fare is typically between $1-3.

Unlock the Best of Leo Carrillo Historic Park

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Discover more about Leo Carrillo Historic Park

Leo Carrillo Historic Park, formerly Rancho de los Quiotes, offers a captivating journey into California's past. This 27-acre park was once the working ranch and weekend retreat of Leo Carrillo (1880-1961), a Hollywood actor best known for his role as Pancho in the 1950s television series, The Cisco Kid. Carrillo, proud of his Spanish heritage, purchased 1,750 acres in 1937 and designed the property in the style of Spanish hacienda estates, creating a lively ranch with orchards, farm animals, and unique adobe buildings. Visitors can explore the historic structures, including the visitor center in the restored hay barn, hand-crafted adobe buildings, the hacienda, a reflecting pool (formerly a swimming pool), cabana, cantina, carriage house, tack shed, stable, barn, and equipment shed. Self-guided walking tours and a 13-minute introductory film provide an overview of the ranch's history and significance. The park also features vintage farming equipment, citrus trees, and diverse native plants. Keep an eye out for the descendants of the six peafowl that Carrillo brought to the ranch in 1937; they freely roam the property, adding to its charm. The park offers a variety of activities, including picnicking, exercising, creating art, and attending special events. While some events may be on hold, the park often decorates the historic hacienda for holidays. The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering a tranquil escape and a chance to learn about California history and the life of Leo Carrillo.

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