A fun spot for the youngsters, with more than 60 rides across a site that spans 52 hectares, LEGOLAND® California Resort is located by the ocean in Carlsbad, about 50 kilometres north of San Diego. It is home to a hotel and water park, along with shows and attractions based on the world-famous toy bricks.
The resort has different zones, each of which has its own rides and games, from Pirates Shores and Dino Island to Fun Town and Castle Hill. LEGO pirate ship, LEGO animals, LEGO cars—you can find all this and much more besides.
Wander round Miniland USA, where 20 million LEGO pieces have been used to build replicas of seven different American cities, from New York and Washington D.C. all the way across the continent to San Francisco. Miniature versions of the Golden Gate Bridge, Central Park and the Lincoln Memorial are all on display too. For a different perspective on Miniland, take to the water on the Coast Cruise.
If you’re visiting with toddlers, check out DUPLO Village with its life-sized LEGO giraffes, zebras and lions. Meanwhile in Fun Town you can even explore the LEGO Factory and see LEGO bricks being moulded, decorated and packed.
Head to the Police and Fire Academy to see fire engines rushing to put out blazes and cops chasing robbers. Elsewhere at Dino Land and Castle Hill the kids can take a ride on the fun roller coasters or cool down in the water rides on Pirate Shores. Kids can even take the wheel and steer mini LEGO boats around the marina.
If you want to stay over, as well as the LEGOLAND Resort hotel there are local lodgings available. The different dining establishments around the park serve everything from pizzas and classic hickory-smoked ribs to light sandwiches and salads. Shops are also open where you can find souvenirs to take home or build up your LEGO collection. The resort is open from Thursdays to Mondays, with opening times extended during some holiday periods. Check the opening hours before you visit, as these change depending on the season.