LEGOLAND® California Resort is a kid’s dream come true with more than 60 rides, shows and attractions based around the famous click-and-build toy. The amusement park, LEGO-themed hotel and water park are located in the oceanside town of Carlsbad, 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of San Diego.
The 128-acre (52-hectare) resort is divided into multiple themed zones: Pirate Shores, Dino Island, Fun Town and Castle Hill. They each feature distinctive rides, interactive games and LEGO creations. Ride the ocean waves on a LEGO pirate ship, build and drive your very own car around a racetrack, and stroll among life-sized animals and historical figures constructed from LEGO bricks.
You’ll feel like a giant as you wander the streets of Miniland USA. About 20 million LEGO pieces were used to construct replicas of seven U.S. cities, including New York, San Francisco, New Orleans and Washington D.C. You’ll find miniature versions of all the landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Central Park and the Lincoln Memorial. In the Model Shop, watch artists at work on creations for the resort. See Miniland from the water on the Coast Cruise and, for a small fee, drive a mini LEGO boat around the marina.
DUPLO Village has been geared towards toddlers, with life-sized giraffes, zebras and lions, all made of LEGO. One of Fun Town’s most popular attractions is the LEGO Factory. Take a tour and watch as LEGO bricks are molded, decorated and packed. In Fun Town, the Police and Fire Academy offers family fun with races to put out fires and chase robbers.
For kid-friendly thrills, climb aboard the roller coasters in Dino Land and Castle Hill, or cool off in the water-based attractions of Pirate Shores.
This expansive park is too large to cover entirely in a day, so make a plan of the areas you want to target. Or, better yet, spend a night or two at the LEGOLAND Resort or one of the other local lodging options. When you need to refuel you’ll find a number of eateries within the grounds, serving everything from wood-fired pizzas and hickory-smoked ribs, to sandwiches and salads. LEGOLAND also has shops where you can stock up on pieces or find a themed souvenir. The resort is open Thursday to Monday and every day of the week during some holiday periods. Hours of operation vary according to the season.
