Three Carlsbad attractions are offering free admission for children 12 and under through Saturday, Oct. 31, as part of the 15th annual Kids Free San Diego program.
LEGOLAND California Resort, the Museum of Making Music and the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum are all participating, according to NBC 7 San Diego. Countywide, more than 70 museums, historic sites, aquariums and gardens are in the lineup.
The San Diego Museum Council, which organizes the program, said 2026 is the biggest year yet. For the first time, the program has expanded into Tijuana.
What Carlsbad families need to know
LEGOLAND's Kids Go Free offer gives families one free child ticket, ages 2 to 12, with each full-price adult ticket purchased at $139. The ticket is sold online only, covers LEGOLAND and SEA LIFE Aquarium, and is capped at three per transaction. LEGOLAND's website lists the offer as valid through Friday, Dec. 25, with no blockout dates, though another source lists Oct. 31. Families should confirm dates on LEGOLAND's site before purchasing.
The park's Brick-or-Treat Halloween event runs on select dates through Sunday, Nov. 1, including Oct. 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25 and 31. Brick-or-Treat is included with regular admission on event dates.
The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum offers free admission year-round. The Museum Council describes it as packed with tiny wonders, from working engines and machines to music boxes and miniature homes. The Museum of Making Music, at 5790 Armada Drive, is also participating. Families should download a free coupon from the Museum Council's website before visiting.
Beyond Carlsbad
Nearby North County sites in the program include the San Diego Botanic Garden, California Surf Museum, Mission San Luis Rey Museum, San Diego Zoo Safari Park and the Children's Museum of Discovery in Escondido, according to NBC 7 San Diego.
Age limits vary by venue. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park cover children 11 and younger rather than 12.
Most venues require a free coupon downloaded from the Museum Council's Kids Free page. Coupons cannot be combined with other discounts, and Balboa Park Explorer Passes, CityPASS and Go San Diego passes do not apply.
The program runs through Oct. 31. A full list of participating venues and deals on hotels, restaurants and activities is available at the Museum Council's website.
Upcoming community events
- Kids Free San Diego: Free admission for kids 12 and under at 70-plus venues, through Saturday, Oct. 31
- LEGOLAND Brick-or-Treat: Select dates through Sunday, Nov. 1
- Carlsbad Village Halloween trick-or-treating: Saturday, Oct. 31
