LEGOLAND California
LEGOLAND California, located in Carlsbad, just north of San Diego, is a vibrant, hands-on theme park designed especially for families with children. With more than 60 rides, attractions, and shows, plus an adjacent water park and LEGO-themed hotel, it’s a full-day adventure for LEGO lovers of all ages.
History & Background
Opened in 1999, LEGOLAND California was the first LEGOLAND park built outside of Europe. Owned and operated by Merlin Entertainments, the park was developed to bring LEGO’s creativity, imagination, and brick-building culture to life. Over the years, it has expanded to include themed zones, a SEA LIFE Aquarium, and interactive play areas, making it one of the top kid-focused parks in the United States.
Ticket Prices & Packages
One-day admission typically ranges from $89 to $119, with discounts for online purchases and multi-day packages.
You can bundle your ticket to include:
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LEGOLAND + Water Park
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LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE Aquarium
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Resort Hopper (all three)
Annual passes are available with varying access levels and perks.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round, though hours vary by day and season. Most days operate from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours during summer and holidays.
Best times to visit:
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Midweek in spring or fall
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January and early February (low crowds)
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Avoid spring break, summer weekends, and holiday weeks
Top Rides & Attractions
The Dragon – Family coaster through a LEGO castle
Driving School – Kids earn a LEGO license in mini electric cars
LEGO Ninjago The Ride – Interactive, gesture-based dark ride
Coast Cruise – Boat ride past LEGO mini landmarks
Emmet’s Flying Adventure – 4D ride through LEGO Movie scenes
Safari Trek – Jeep ride past life-size LEGO animals
Lost Kingdom Adventure – Indoor shooting ride through an ancient LEGO temple
Pirate Reef – Splash ride with interactive water cannons
Water Park & SEA LIFE Aquarium
LEGOLAND Water Park – Seasonal add-on with wave pools, slides, and a lazy river with LEGO brick floats
SEA LIFE Aquarium – Small but well-themed aquarium with sharks, rays, and LEGO elements throughout
Dining Options
Granny’s Apple Fries – A LEGOLAND original with warm apple treats and whipped cream
Burger Stop – Quick and easy family meals
Pizza & Pasta Buffet – All-you-can-eat spot with indoor seating
Knights’ Smokehouse BBQ – Ribs, brisket, and pulled pork
Wok n’ Bowl Ramen – Kid-friendly noodle and rice bowls
Dietary options include vegetarian and gluten-free meals, and kids’ combos are available at nearly all restaurants.
Hotels & Accommodation
LEGOLAND California has two on-site hotels:
LEGOLAND Hotel – Pirate, Kingdom, Adventure, and Ninjago-themed rooms, located at the park entrance
LEGOLAND Castle Hotel – Fairytale-themed rooms with free breakfast and nightly kids’ activities
Nearby Carlsbad hotels also offer shuttle services and ticket packages.
Getting There & Parking
Address: 1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Located just off I-5, about 30 minutes north of San Diego and 90 minutes south of Los Angeles.
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General parking: $30
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Preferred parking: $45
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EV charging stations are available
Tips for Visiting
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Arrive early, especially if visiting the water park — it reaches capacity fast
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The park is perfect for kids ages 2–12, with height requirements clearly marked
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Download the LEGOLAND app for wait times and mobile food ordering
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Bring swimsuits and towels if visiting the water park
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The park is very stroller-friendly, and rentals are available on-site