If your kids love LEGOS, than you must make a trip to LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad. There is so much to see and do including a LEGO Eiffel Tower, a mini city and a LEGO NINJAGO world. You’ll find everything you need to know in our Guide to LEGOLAND California – from parking to dining to everything you must see.
LEGOLAND California
One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad, CA 92008
Hours:
Operating hours vary slightly throughout the year. Certain days the park opens at 10:00 am, while other days the park opens at 9:30 am (though only select rides are operational at 9:30 am; while the entire park opens at 10:00 am).
In addition, LEGOLAND is closed on select Tuesdays and Wednesdays from September through February.
Description:
LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad opened in 1999 and was the third LEGOLAND Park in the world. The Park includes “more than 60 kid-powered, kid-tastic rides, shows, and attractions.”
LEGOLAND is organized into different areas including “LEGO Ninjago World,” “Castle Hill,” “Miniland USA,” and “Fun Town” to name a few. Each park area features rides, dining, shopping, and of course, opportunities to marvel at what time, creativity, and LEGO bricks can make.
LEGOLAND also has a variety of rides and attractions making sure every member of the family is engaged and having a good time. You can opt for relaxing-type of rides (such as the Coast Cruise) or more dare-devil type of ride (such as the LEGO Technic Coaster). To make sure there are no disappointments, be sure to plan ahead and read the height restrictions guide.
Even if your family doesn’t often play with/build with/construct with LEGOs (which my family doesn’t), there is so much to see and do that you’re sure to enjoy your time at LEGOLAND.
Special Activities and Events:
Be sure to pace yourself because you won’t want to miss the special activities at LEGOLAND, such as viewing “The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure” which uses elements such as wind, water, smoke, and special lighting effects. There are also LEGO Friends and Character Meet and Greet opportunities in several locations throughout the park.
If you’d like to extend your visit, families can also spend time at SEA LIFE Aquarium and/or the LEGOLAND Water Park. SEA LIFE Aquarium has 14 interactive zones for children to explore while 10 million gallons of fun awaits your family at the LEGOLAND Water Park which is now open for the season. (LEGO CHIMA Water Park opens May 26th).
Price:
Different ticket options are available depending on how long you plan on staying in Carlsbad and what you want to explore while you’re there — such as LEGOLAND only for a one-day visit or a combination of LEGOLAND, SEA LIFE, and the Water Park for a multi-day visit.
Additionally, Annual Passes are a way for families to visit LEGOLAND multiple times a year. Different annual passes options are available that also include special benefits such as free parking, retail and dining discounts, invitations to special members-only events, and more.
Parking:
Parking is $20, and a preferred parking option is available for $30.
Food:
Everyone in the family is sure to find something they like at one of the many dining options at LEGOLAND. Whether you’re looking for casual hamburgers and hotdogs; something sweet like crepes; pizza and pasta; Japanese-style stir fry; Texas BBQ; or sandwiches, soups, and salads; you’ll find it here. And don’t forget to save room for LEGOLAND’s famous Granny’s Apple Fries. These popular snacks — cooked Granny Smith apples dusted with cinnamon sugar and “secret ingredients” and served with a vanilla cream dipping sauce were invented at LEGOLAND.
Nearby Attractions:
LEGOLAND is located in the city of Carlsbad, about an hour south of Anaheim and about thirty minutes north of San Diego. If you visit before May 13th this year, be sure to spend time at the absolutely gorgeous Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. The Carlsbad Premium Outlets are just a short drive away from LEGOLAND and offer a large selection of shops and dining options. Nearby you’ll find the Carlsbad Strawberry Company which offers opportunities for families to pick their own berries. And, of course, don’t forget to spend some time at the beach!
Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post. However, I was given free tickets to attend LEGOLAND in exchange for writing about the park.