LEGOLAND® CaliforniaResort is a kid’s dream come true with more than 60 rides, shows andattractions based around the famous click-and-build toy. The amusement park,LEGO®-themed hotel and water park are located in the oceanside town ofCarlsbad, 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of San Diego.
The 128-acre(52-hectare) resort is divided into multiple themed zones: Pirate Shores, DinoIsland, Fun Town and Castle Hill. They each feature distinctive rides,interactive games and LEGO creations. Ride the ocean waves on a LEGO pirateship, build and drive your very own car around a racetrack, and stroll amonglife-sized animals and historical figures constructed from LEGO bricks.
You’ll feel like agiant as you wander the streets of Miniland USA. About 20 million LEGO pieceswere used to construct replicas of seven U.S. cities, including New York, SanFrancisco, New Orleans and Washington D.C. You’ll find miniature versions ofall the landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Central Park and the LincolnMemorial. 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 amini LEGO boat around the marina.
DUPLO® Village hasbeen geared towards toddlers, with life-sized giraffes, zebras and lions, allmade 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 FunTown, the Police and Fire Academy offers family fun with races to put out firesand chase robbers.
For kid-friendlythrills, climb aboard the roller coasters in Dino Island and Castle Hill, orcool off in the water-based attractions of Pirate Shores.
Thisexpansive park is too large to cover entirely in a day, so make a plan of theareas you want to target. Or, better yet, spend a night or two at the LEGOLANDResort or one of the other local lodging options. When you need to refuelyou’ll find a number of eateries within the grounds, serving everything fromwood-fired pizzas and hickory-smoked ribs, to sandwiches and salads. LEGOLANDalso has shops where you can stock up on pieces or find a themed souvenir. Theresort is open Thursday to Monday and every day of the week during some holidayperiods. Hours of operation vary according to the season.
