West Riverside Drive

If you live in Carlsbad and haven’t walked West Riverside Drive yet, you’re missing out on one of the better low-key spots in town. The walking path runs alongside the water, and honestly it’s just a good place to clear your head — nothing fancy, but that’s kind of the point. There’s open grass if you want to throw a frisbee or let the kids run around without any structure. The lake nearby adds a nice backdrop, especially in the early morning before it gets hot.