Hidden in
a canyon and surrounded by houses is Leo Carrillo Historic
Ranch. This former working ranchero was once owned by
actor Leo Carrillo and has been restored by the city of
Carlsbad to look much as it did over a century ago.
Leo Carrillo Historic Ranch is a 27-acre historic park
with hand-crafted adobe buildings, windmills and many
other historic structures. When you drive down the twisting
road to the ranch you take a trip back in time to the
early rancho days of Southern California.
One of the first things you notice (hear) when you enter
the park is the sound of peacocks which inhabit the valley
in large numbers. These beautiful but noisy birds are
everywhere and add to the charm of the ranch.
Take a sef guided tour using the free guide or on weekends
docent tours are available twice a day. The ranch looks
much the same as it did when Leeo Carillo used it as family
retreat. Leo purchased the ranch in 1937 which at that
time was called Rancho de Los Kiotes.
The entire 840 acres cost Lee Carrillo $65,000, or $77.00
per acre. Leo continued to expand his ranch until it reached
2,538 acres. Today all that remains is 27 acres, the rest
are all developed with only a few open areas.
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