Summer is out and so are we! With that in mind, my entourage and I were ready to build our own adventure and we decided what better way to do that than to head to LEGOLAND.
We jumped in the car and headed south to Carlsbad which was a straight shot down the freeway and very easy to get to. Since we were going to be staying overnight on our mini vacation we did opted to do the Resort Hopper tickets which allowed us to enjoy LEGOLAND, LEGOLAND Water Park and Sea Life Aquarium. Here is the boy’s reaction when they learned that we would be doing all three:.
One of the many highlights for my boys was the new Star Wars mini land, they had a blast walking thru mini land and exploring the numerous meticulously crafted scenes. The level of detail was amazing.
I really appreciated the fact that they had a places to change or nurse your baby – that even more impressive was that the Mom stations also have activities to keep your other children occupied as you take care of the littlest one. That came in handy while I changed the toddler. I think all of us appreciated me not having to change him in the bathroom while his brothers waited outside.
Much like carnivals and fairs, LEGOLAND is dotted with game booths where you can pay to try to win a prize. However, unlike carnivals and fairs, the attendants here are friendly and try to coach you so that you can win the prize of your choice. I though it was pretty neat. Here is my middle son being coached on the best way to throw the ball.
They have something for everyone at LEGOLAND. My youngest was captivated by the helicopters. He wanted to go again and again and, well, you get the picture….
When we were done with the rides it was time for lunch so we headed over to Burger Stop.
One of the many things I love about LEGOLAND is that it is toddler friendly. My little one was able to stand at the counter (on tiptoes of course) to purchase his very own soda. Notice the sign about requesting a gluten free hamburger bun – clearly, they’ve thought of everything.
I ordered my boys their very own kids meals, I am very pleased to say it didn’t break the bank either. with the entire meal coming out at about $8.00 per person including drinks. This beats what I’m used to paying for a kids meal at an average restaurant. , We decided to purchase the Pirate Reef mug, which allowed us to get refills for around $2.00.
After lunch (and a few more rides) we headed to the Water Park. Here’s a helpful hint for you so that you don’t make the same mistake that I did. Being unfamiliar with the Water Park (and failing to ask the appropriate questions) I left our swim gear in the car and had to go back to get it before we went to the Water Park. What I should have done – and what I’d suggest you do – is brought my gear in and went to the Water Park right away. Once there, you can rent a locker (which is a reasonable $9 for a family sized version) to store your swimsuits and towels while you enjoy the park. This way you can enjoy LEGOLAND and come back to change when you’re ready for the Water Park. Best of all there’s no key to worry about! Instead, they provide you with a waterproof wristband that automatically opens your locker. (I’ll bet a mommy invented that device.)
When you do get to the Water Park, you can start with a refreshing and relaxing ride down the Lazy River as you and your children play with soft, floating Lego blocks. Make sure to bring the sun screen. No need to bring the camera, though, as they have staffers who will gladly takes photos for you – leaving your free to play and interact with your little ones. Best of all, when you purchase one photo, you can get others at a discounted rate along with a cute LEGOLAND picture holder to keep them from getting wrinkled. Oh and moms,they even have life jacket for your little ones! Like I said before, they’ve thought of everything.
They have something for every kid – even those of us who are just kids at heart. I loved the tot area and my tiniest tot loved the slide. No need to worry, either, because the bottom of the pool was cushioned so the little ones don’t get hurt if they slipped.
Towards the end of the day, my boys went on Pirate Reef, which is the newest attraction at the Water Park. Saying you’ll get wet is an understatement. Soaked is more like it! No complaints here, though. It was a warm day and the water was refreshing. It was so fun that the boys kept pleading to ride it again.
When you buy Park Hopper Tickets, you have a 9 day period during which you can visit the Sea Life Aquarium. Our intent was to do it all in one day, but when we got to the park and started having fun I realized that I had been kidding myself to thing that I could do it all in one day. One other helpful tip. It costs $12 for parking at LEGOLAND. However, if you plan to only visit the Sea Life Aquarium, you can visit Guest Services and you will be reimbursed $7. Not too shabby!
We had a great time during our adventure. It was a fun, refreshing and educational day that definitely created memories for all of us that will last a lifetime. If you are looking for something to do this summer, LEGOLAND is the place to go. In my opinion, this is a perfect getaway for kids of all ages. I loved the Lazy River (sadly, it’s the only time my name is ever associated with the word lazy). It was wonderful – the boys weren’t fighting but instead were happily playing with each other as they glided their tubes down the river. It was 15 minutes of bliss as my tootsies vacationed and I played with the little one as I listened to the music and observed the lush greens around me I was in my own tropical paradise.
Also, did you know that LEGOLAND is opening a hotel which is set to open in 2013? Conveniently, the hotel will be right next door to LEGOLAND and guests will be able to choose one of three themed rooms. Check out this video for more information on the behind the scenes footage for the LEGOLAND Hotel:
We had a great time and we will definitely be back – in fact, I’m considering upgrading to a season pass. Best of all, they have all sorts of deals going on – like them on Facebook so you can see for yourself!
