Are you planning a LEGOLAND vacation but are worried it’s just for kids? You won’t want to miss these tips to make LEGOLAND fun for adults too!
This list of LEGOLAND tips was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Hey fellow parents!
If you’ve got kids, chances are you’ve considered, if not already ventured into, the colorful, brick-built world of LEGOLAND.
As a mom of two LEGO-obsessed boys, I’ve got our family trips to LEGOLAND down to a science.
But I totally get why some of my parent friends are less than thrilled about the idea of spending a day (or two) in a theme park that, let’s face it, doesn’t quite capture the “magic” in the same way Disneyland does.
From the limited coffee stands (a big deal for us caffeine-dependent beings) to the smaller park size and shorter hours, there are a few reasons LEGOLAND might not top every parent’s theme park wishlist.
But don’t worry, I’ve also got some tips on how to turn that experience around and maybe, just maybe, have as much fun as the kids.
The Challenges at LEGOLAND
First off, let’s talk about why some parents might not be as enthusiastic about LEGOLAND:
Missing the Disney Magic
It’s true, the immersive, fairy-tale enchantment of Disney parks is hard to match. LEGOLAND has its own charm, focused on creativity and building, but it might not whisk you away to a fantasy land in quite the same way.
Where’s the Coffee?
For many of us, a day at a theme park is fueled by caffeine. Finding a good coffee stand at LEGOLAND can feel like searching for a rare LEGO piece in a sea of colorful bricks.
Shorter Park Hours
LEGOLAND’s operating hours can feel a bit limited, especially compared to Disney. This is a bummer when you’re used to spending a long day hopping from ride to ride.
Smaller Scale
LEGOLAND can feel a bit compact, especially if you’re used to the sprawling landscapes of other theme parks. This can be a plus for little legs but might make the park feel less adventurous for adults.
Turning It Around: Making LEGOLAND Fun for Parents Too
Despite these challenges, I promise there are ways to make your LEGOLAND adventure enjoyable for the whole family. Here’s how:
Embrace the LEGO Theme
Check out the world of LEGO! Even if it’s not Disney magic, there’s something pretty cool about seeing your kids’ favorite toys come to life in massive, intricate structures.
Take the time to appreciate the creativity and detail in the LEGO models throughout the park—it might just spark your inner child.
Plan for Coffee Alternatives
Since coffee spots are scarce, bring your own thermal mug filled with your favorite brew, or explore the local area for a coffee shop before you enter the park.
Some nearby hotels might have great coffee to grab on your way in. Consider it part of the adventure!
Maximize Your Park Time
With shorter hours, planning is key. Check the schedule ahead of time and prioritize the attractions you and your kids most want to see.
This can actually be a plus—you’ll have a more relaxed evening to unwind after a fun-filled day without the exhaustion that comes from longer park hours.
Discover the Hidden Gems
LEGOLAND might be smaller, but it’s packed with hidden gems. Look for interactive play areas, workshops, and smaller attractions that might not have the long lines but offer unique experiences.
These spots can be surprisingly delightful and give you a chance to sit back and relax while your kids play architect.
Enjoy the Shorter Lines and Less Walking
Take advantage of the park’s smaller size and shorter lines to really enjoy the rides and attractions without the overwhelming fatigue that comes from more extensive theme parks. This can be a big win for families with younger children.
Make It Educational
LEGOLAND is, at its heart, about creativity and building. Engage with your kids in the interactive areas where they can build and experiment.
Discuss the engineering behind the rides or the artistic creativity in the LEGO models. It’s a great opportunity for fun, hands-on learning.
Relax and Go with the Flow
Sometimes, the best memories come from the unplanned moments. Allow for spontaneity in your day.
Maybe you’ll end up spending an hour at a splash pad you hadn’t noticed on the map, or maybe your kids will be mesmerized by a LEGO-building demo. These moments can be just as magical in their own way.
LEGOLAND Tips for Parents Wrap-Up
So there you have it—while LEGOLAND might not be every parent’s cup of tea (or coffee) at first glance, there are plenty of ways to make the experience enjoyable and memorable for the whole family.
It’s all about adjusting expectations, planning ahead, and finding joy in the unique LEGO-themed adventure.
Who knows? You might just find yourself looking forward to the next visit as much as your kids surely.
Still not sure? Read our comparison between Disneyland vs LEGOLAND and see if it will help you make your decision.
Looking for more LEGOLAND resources? Check out My Ultimate LEGOLAND Packing List for Families, Is the LEGOLAND Hotel in California Worth it?, LEGOLAND for Toddlers: Guide to Rides, Activities + Hotels, and 10 Tips for LEGOLAND California: Know Before You Go!
