Discover the Wonders of Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Explore the breathtaking underground beauty of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stunning formations and rich ecosystems.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, invites tourists to explore its breathtaking underground caves, filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and unique wildlife. With its rich geological history and diverse ecosystems, this national park is a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Carlsbad Caverns National Park
- Carlsbad, New Mexico, 88220, US
- +1575-785-2232
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures in the caverns.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the trails can be uneven and slippery.
- Bring a light jacket; temperatures in the caverns can be significantly cooler than outside.
- Consider joining a ranger-led tour for a deeper understanding of the cave formations.
- Don't miss the evening bat flight program during the summer months for a unique natural spectacle.
Getting There
-
Public Transit
From the center of Carlsbad, head to the nearest bus stop on the intersection of Main Street and Texas Street. Take the local bus service toward the Carlsbad Airport. The journey will take approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the airport, you will need to transfer to a shuttle service that operates to Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The shuttle departs every hour and takes about 30 minutes to reach the caverns.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
If you prefer a more direct option, you can order a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) from any location in Carlsbad. Simply provide the driver with the destination: Carlsbad Caverns National Park, located at Carlsbad, NM 88220. The drive from Carlsbad will take approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
-
Bicycle Rental
For the more adventurous, consider renting a bicycle from a local shop in Carlsbad. Follow the designated bike path from downtown Carlsbad heading west until you reach the entrance road for Carlsbad Caverns National Park. The ride is approximately 20 miles and may take around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace. Be sure to carry water and snacks, as well as to check the weather conditions before embarking on your bike ride.
Discover more about Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship on the Desert
28.4 km
Discover the Ship on the Desert, a unique historical landmark in Dell City, Texas, offering a glimpse into the region's captivating past amidst a stunning desert landscape.
Carlsbad AAFB Aux #1
32.6 km
Explore the rich military legacy and stunning desert landscapes at Carlsbad AAFB Aux #1, a captivating historical landmark in New Mexico.
Frijole Ranch Museum
35.2 km
Explore the Frijole Ranch Museum in Salt Flat, Texas, where history meets the breathtaking beauty of the Guadalupe Mountains.
Carlsbad Army Airfield WWII
35.8 km
Explore the historic Carlsbad Army Airfield WWII, a significant military site that shaped aviation history during World War II.
Pinery Butterfield Stage Station Ruins
37.3 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes at the Pinery Butterfield Stage Station Ruins in Salt Flat, Texas.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
38.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Guadalupe Mountains National Park, where towering peaks meet diverse ecosystems in an unforgettable Texas adventure.
Carlsbad Monument Co
42.1 km
Explore the artistry of memorials at Carlsbad Monument Co, a unique destination in New Mexico dedicated to personalized craftsmanship and local history.
Flume
42.1 km
Experience the warmth of American comfort food at Flume in Carlsbad, NM, where every meal feels like home.
Cal's Cactus Lane Bowling & Recreation
42.2 km
Experience fun and camaraderie at Cal's Cactus Lane Bowling & Recreation in Carlsbad, NM—where every frame is a new memory.
El Charro
42.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at El Charro, Carlsbad's beloved Mexican restaurant, offering generous portions and a lively atmosphere.
North Star Laundry Mat Lea Street
42.4 km
North Star Laundry Mat in Carlsbad, NM: Clean, convenient, and essential for travelers needing laundry services in New Mexico's beautiful landscapes.
Danny's Place
42.5 km
Discover the rich flavors of barbecue at Danny's Place in Carlsbad, NM, where smoky meats and a friendly atmosphere await every visitor.
Tia Maria Apartments
42.6 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Tia Maria Apartments, your ideal base for exploring Carlsbad, New Mexico's natural wonders and attractions.
The HideOut
42.7 km
Experience the best pizza in Carlsbad, NM at The HideOut, where every slice is a delicious adventure waiting to be savored.
Little Kawaii
42.7 km
Explore Little Kawaii in Carlsbad, NM—your ultimate destination for anime, gifts, and a taste of Japanese and Korean culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Slaughter Canyon Cave
3.6 km
Explore the breathtaking formations of Slaughter Canyon Cave, a hidden gem in New Mexico's stunning landscape perfect for hiking and adventure.
Carlsbad Caverns Wilderness
4.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Carlsbad Caverns Wilderness in New Mexico, a haven for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Rattlesnake Canyon Trailhead
5.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Rattlesnake Canyon Trailhead in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await every hiker.
Rattlesnake Springs Picnic Area
7.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Rattlesnake Springs Picnic Area in Carlsbad, NM, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Black River Recreation Area
8.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities at Black River Recreation Area, a true gem in New Mexico's outdoor landscape.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center
10.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center, your gateway to stunning limestone caves and diverse ecosystems.
Bat Flight Amphitheater
10.6 km
Witness the breathtaking bat flight at Carlsbad Caverns' Bat Flight Amphitheater, a must-visit natural spectacle in New Mexico.
Carlsbad Cavern Natural Entrance
10.7 km
Discover the wonders of Carlsbad Cavern Natural Entrance in New Mexico, a breathtaking underground marvel filled with stunning formations and rich biodiversity.
Sitting Bull Falls
18.6 km
Discover Sitting Bull Falls, a stunning waterfall in New Mexico, where nature's beauty awaits amidst captivating landscapes and serene waters.
Sitting Bull Falls Recreation Area
18.9 km
Explore the mesmerizing beauty of Sitting Bull Falls, where cascading waterfalls and serene picnic spots await your discovery in New Mexico's desert paradise.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park Headquarters
40.8 km
Discover the enchanting underground world of Carlsbad Caverns National Park Headquarters, a natural wonderland in New Mexico, perfect for adventurous spirits.
Cass Park
41.0 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Cass Park in Carlsbad, NM—a perfect destination for families and nature lovers alike.
Arcadia Park
41.6 km
Explore Arcadia Park: A serene green oasis in Carlsbad, NM, perfect for picnics, nature walks, and family fun.
Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park
42.0 km
Explore the unique flora and fauna of the Chihuahuan Desert at Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park in Carlsbad, NM, a perfect family-friendly attraction.
Cruz Fernandez Park
42.1 km
Explore Cruz Fernandez Park in Carlsbad, NM - a serene escape with lush landscapes, recreational activities, and family-friendly amenities.
Essential places to dine
Carlsbad Caverns Underground Lunch Room
10.3 km
Enjoy delicious sandwiches amidst stunning geological wonders at Carlsbad Caverns Underground Lunch Room, a must-visit dining experience.
Cactus Cafe
16.3 km
Discover the flavors of New Mexico at Cactus Cafe, where delicious meals meet warm hospitality near Carlsbad Caverns.
Taqueria Jalisco
39.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Taqueria Jalisco in Carlsbad – where every bite tells a story.
The Carrot Top
39.9 km
Experience delightful dining at The Carrot Top in Carlsbad, NM - where fresh ingredients meet flavorful creations in a cozy setting.
Ocotillo Sports Bar and Grill
40.1 km
Discover Ocotillo Sports Bar and Grill in Carlsbad: where delicious cuisine meets vibrant sports culture in an inviting atmosphere.
Mariscos El Buchón
40.3 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Mariscos El Buchón in Carlsbad - where every dish brings the taste of the ocean to your plate.
Tina's Mexican Café
40.5 km
Discover Tina's Mexican Café: where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality in Carlsbad, NM.
La Patrona
40.8 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at La Patrona in Carlsbad, NM – where every dish is a celebration of flavor.
Sabor Mexicano
40.9 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Sabor Mexicano in Carlsbad, NM – where every dish tells a story!
Kacys Kitchen
40.9 km
Experience the charm of Kacy's Kitchen in Carlsbad - where delicious American comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Sotelo's Food and Clamatos
41.0 km
Experience the best seafood in Carlsbad at Sotelo's Food and Clamatos - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
El Nopal
41.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Nopal in Carlsbad - where every meal is a flavorful journey into tradition.
Maria's Mexican Food
41.1 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Maria's Mexican Food in Carlsbad—where every dish is crafted with care and flavor.
Big Dogz Tacos, LLC
41.1 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors at Big Dogz Tacos, LLC—Carlsbad's top destination for delicious tacos and vibrant dining.
May's Dari-Lea Drive In
41.1 km
Discover delicious Mexican flavors and classic fast food at May's Dari-Lea Drive In in Carlsbad - a must-visit for every traveler!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Carlsbad Caverns Trading Company
10.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local flavors at Carlsbad Caverns Trading Company, your perfect stop near the stunning Carlsbad Caverns.
White's City Gift Shop
16.2 km
Explore unique souvenirs and local crafts at White's City Gift Shop, the perfect stop for tourists visiting Carlsbad Caverns.
Walmart Supercenter
41.5 km
Discover Walmart Supercenter in Carlsbad, NM - a comprehensive shopping experience for travelers with everything you need under one roof.
Cato Fashions
41.6 km
Discover trendy women's clothing at Cato Fashions in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where style meets affordability for the perfect shopping experience.
Calvani Pecan Co
41.6 km
Explore Calvani Pecan Co in Carlsbad, NM, where delightful pecan treats await you - a true taste of local flavor and tradition.
Pilot Travel Center
41.6 km
Discover the Pilot Travel Center in Carlsbad, NM - your ultimate roadside stop for fuel, food, and convenience while on the go.
Carlsbad Horitculture Society
42.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Carlsbad Horticulture Society, a charming gift shop in the heart of New Mexico.
La Tienda Thriftway
42.2 km
Discover local flavors and fresh produce at La Tienda Thriftway, the heart of grocery shopping in Carlsbad, NM.
El Vaquerito Western Wear & Workwear
42.2 km
Discover authentic western apparel at El Vaquerito in Carlsbad, NM—your destination for cowboy culture and quality workwear.
Bosque Cbd
42.2 km
Discover wellness at Bosque Cbd in Carlsbad, New Mexico – your go-to destination for organic products and CBD expertise.
HTeaO - Carlsbad
42.3 km
Explore HTeaO in Carlsbad, NM: A Tea Store Offering Premium Brews and a Cozy Atmosphere for All Tea Lovers.
Decor Furniture
42.7 km
Discover stylish furniture and decor at Decor Furniture in Carlsbad, NM - a treasure trove for home design enthusiasts.
Pecos Valley Production - Mermod
42.8 km
Discover the vibrant cannabis scene at Pecos Valley Production - Mermod in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where quality meets community.
Rugged Trade
42.8 km
Discover high-quality work clothes, outdoor gear, and western apparel at Rugged Trade in Carlsbad, NM - your adventure starts here!
Cloud 9 Smoke Shop
42.8 km
Explore Cloud 9 Smoke Shop in Carlsbad, NM for an exceptional selection of vaporizers and a welcoming shopping experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Co
40.6 km
Discover the flavors of New Mexico at Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Co, a welcoming brewpub in Carlsbad offering local craft beers and delicious food.
Blue Cactus Lounge
42.1 km
Discover the lively social scene at Blue Cactus Lounge, Carlsbad's go-to bar for craft cocktails, local brews, and unforgettable experiences.
Cal's Shade Western
42.2 km
Discover the heart of Carlsbad at Cal's Shade Western, where delicious grilled meals and a friendly atmosphere await every traveler.
SIPS Sodas & Snacks
44.4 km
Experience the refreshing taste of SIPS Sodas & Snacks in Carlsbad, NM—where every sip and snack is a moment to cherish.
