Families with young children should head toward the left after entering the park, to take advantage of Explorer Island and Fun Town. If there are older kids in your group, head toward the right and start your day in the Imagination Zone and Land of Adventure. 

Dining options inside the park are surprisingly good. Granny’s Apple Fries are delicious, as are the pizzas at Fun Town Pizza and Pasta Buffet. You’ll also find barbecue over at Knight’s Smokehouse, familiar comfort foods in the Fun Town Market, and gourmet ramen bowls at Wok'n Bowl Ramen. 

Consider joining AAA. In addition to receiving discounts at many area hotels, AAA members receive discounts on admission, food, and merchandise at LEGOLAND.

Height requirements vary from 34"/86cm to 42"/ 107cm,  but while very young children may not be able to experience the attractions, there are still plenty of play areas they are likely to enjoy.

LEGOLAND never has the crowds the Disneyland Resort does, so even the busiest summer weekends are relatively uncrowded and comfortable. There's a very laid-back vibe at LEGOLAND. Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the summer are best for the lightest crowds. During the rest of the year, be sure to check the park calendar, as the water parks have limited days and hours during cooler weather.  

Most people think of LEGOLAND as a kid’s park, but we must confess we’ve visited sans children and still enjoyed ourselves. It’s so well-constructed, with Disney-like attention to detail, that we were utterly charmed and delighted. It's definitely fun with children, too.  

For more information about LEGOLAND, call 760-918-5346 or visit the LEGOLAND website. LEGOLAND is located at One LEGOLAND Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008.

Best Places to Cool Off—Pirate Shores, Water Works, AQUAZONE Water Racers, Water Park, Chima™Water Park 

Best Places to Relax—Miniland, Coast Cruise

Best Places to Burn Off Energy—The Hideaways, Playtown, Fun Town Fire Academy, Dig Those Dinos

Best Place to Snack—Granny’s Apple Fries

Best Places for a Meal—Knight’s Smokehouse, Wok'n Bowl Ramen