Legoland Florida Resort and Theme Park Tips & Honest Review
Nestled in the heart of Winter Haven, Florida, Legoland Florida Resort and amusement park stands as a perfect place and vibrant testament to the boundless world of creativity and imagination that awaits for visitors of all ages. Planning a family vacation to a destination for the first time can be overwhelming, so let me share tips and tricks for a great time at Legoland Resort and theme park and so much fun!
Legoland Florida Review: Resort and Theme Park Tips
Geared towards families with children aged 2 to 12, this whimsical Central Florida theme park promises a day filled with colorful LEGO bricks, best rides, and captivating attractions in the imagination zone for the entire family. From intricate LEGO sculptures to thrilling adventures inspired by popular LEGO themes, LEGOLAND Florida is a haven for families seeking a unique and immersive experience in the world of bricks. Huge Lego fans need to plan a trip to Legoland Theme Park to experience this great place for yourself for your next vacation.
Key factors When Planning a Trip to Legoland Orlando:
1. Time of Year to Visit -
We visited Legoland twice, both times in December and during the week. Crowds were nonexistent because we steered clear of school holidays. The weather was so enjoyable and perfect for lots of walking in the direct sunlight. Especially at Peppa Pig Theme Park, there is very little shade, so I would recommend not going in the heat of summer if you can avoid it. Visiting Legoland during the week during the off season meant we rode every single ride at Legoland with no lines multiple times which was the best time for our family and was worth missing a few days of school for vs waiting in long lines during hot summer months. The special events geared around holidays are so much fun but do typically draw a bigger crowd!
2. Cost of Visiting Legoland Theme Park:
Legoland Florida is located in Winter Haven, which is approximately 45 minutes southwest of Orlando. Consider the travel time and transportation options, especially if you plan to visit other attractions in the area. We flew into Orlando and rented a car to drive and it was a great easy experience!
The primary expense for visiting Legoland Resort and Theme Park is the admission ticket. Prices vary depending on factors like age, time of year, and the specific park location. Typically, there are various ticket options available, including single-day passes, multi-day passes, annual passes, and combo tickets for accessing multiple Legoland parks or attractions.
Accommodations / Lodging
If you're planning an extended stay, accommodation costs are a significant consideration. Legoland offers on-site resort options at Legoland Pirate Island Hotel and Legoland Beach Retreat, providing themed rooms and convenient access to the park. Alternatively, nearby hotels might offer package deals that include park tickets.
Food and Beverage costs - Inside the park, food and beverage costs can add up, especially for families. Consider dining plans or meal packages offered by the park to potentially save on eating expenses. We packed food and snacks with us and ordered Instacart groceries to our Legoland resort room to save on food costs at the resort.
Souvenirs and Extras - While exploring the park, the temptation to bring home a Lego set or souvenir is hard to resist. Factor in some extra budget for these purchases or consider setting limits in advance. Legoland has exclusive Lego sets only sold on site, so plan space in luggage to take home these awesome sets. Read more details about how to save money at Legoland here.
3. Must Do Attractions
- Legoland Theme park
Legoland Theme park offers a diverse range of attractions catering to various age groups. From gentle rides suitable for younger children to exhilarating roller coasters for the more adventurous, Legoland Florida ensures that every member of the family can find an experience tailored to their liking. I will highlight all of the Legoland Florida rides in the 150-acre theme park as well as minimum height requirement and other key information to plan your visit. Legoland Florida features more than 50 rides, attractions, and shows. These include a mix of family-friendly rides, roller coasters, water attractions, and interactive experiences, all themed around the iconic LEGO bricks. :Be aware of height restrictions for certain rides and attractions, especially if you're traveling with younger children. This information is crucial for planning your day and avoiding disappointment at the park.
- Legoland Water Park -
The Legoland water park is at the very back of the Legoland Theme park located near Flying School and Ford Driving School. We spent a half day at the Legoland Water Park and that was plenty for our family! It was a great way to take a break from walking and rollercoasters and dip our toes in the water, hang out by the wave pool, and relax on the lazy river for a bit. Depending on how old your children are and how many times they want to do the water slides, a half day may feel rushed for some families. Since our family traveled to the Legoland Water Park in late November a few of the larger water slides were closed and there were no lines at all for the slides. This made it extremely realistic to do everything in the park in a half day.
Peppa Pig Theme Park
The bright colors, songs, and sounds that await you in the themed play areas at Peppa Pig Theme Park will have your family ready to splash in muddy puddles with your favorite characters from the well-loved Peppa Pig live action show. Join unexpected adventure with this new park in Central Florida with interactive rides, water themed play, delicious dining, live shows, play area, and family friendly thrill ride options. Read this post for ways to save at Peppa Pig Theme Park.
Cypress Gardens Botanical Garden
Inside the park is the beautiful and historic Cypress Gardens botanical gardens that have been a Florida staple since 1939. The gardens are a horticultural masterpiece with exotic plants from all over the world such as over 30 kinds of palms, 10 varieties of banana trees, 15 types of azaleas, 10 kinds of camelias and more and are kept in pristine condition. The gardens are also home to a giant Banyan tree that was planted as a seedling in 1939!
Entertainment: Live shows, interactive experiences, and character meet-and-greets add an extra layer of entertainment to the park. Families can enjoy a variety of performances that bring the LEGO universe to life, creating cherished memories for all.
4. What to Pack -
Legoland hotel stay is such a perfect time start to end. Packing for an entire family for a big trip can be overwhelming, but no need to stress! Comfortable clothing and shoes are essential, especially if you plan on exploring the park extensively. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the Florida sun. Pack some snacks for energy boosts between meals or while waiting in lines. Ensure your devices stay charged with a portable charger.
Check out this list of 15 items to be sure and pack as you are getting ready for your trip!
5. Dining -
The park offers a range of dining options, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants, providing diverse choices to suit different tastes. Amenities such as stroller rentals, baby care centers, and accessible facilities contribute to a family-friendly experience. Legoland park and Legoland resort offers a variety of dining options throughout the park to cater to different tastes and preferences. Keep in mind that availability and specific offerings may change, so it's a good idea to check the park's website or inquire on the day of your visit. Here are some general dining options you might find at Legoland Florida:
Market Restaurant:
Offers a selection of salads, sandwiches, and other quick-service options.
Pizza Pasta Buffet:
As the name suggests, this restaurant provides an all-you-can-eat buffet with pizza and pasta.
Castle Burger:
A spot for burgers, chicken tenders, and other classic theme park fare.
Fried Chicken Co.:
Specializes in fried chicken and southern-style sides.
Granny's Apple Fries:
A popular snack option serving up apple fries with dipping sauce.
Fun Town Pizza & Pasta:
Another place for pizza and pasta dishes.
Taco Everyday:
Offers a variety of tacos and Mexican-inspired dishes.
Panini Grill:
Features paninis and other grilled items.
Grill 'N' Grub:
Located in the water park area, offering grilled items and snacks.
I-Zone Panini:
A good spot for paninis and grab-and-go options.
Dino Dogs:
Features hot dogs and sausages in a dinosaur-themed setting.
Dragon's Den:
Serves Asian-inspired cuisine, including sushi and stir-fry.
Wok 'N' Bowl Ramen:
Offers ramen bowls with various toppings.
Be-A-Master Pizza Maker:
An interactive experience where you can make your own pizza.
Dessert and Snack Stands:
Various kiosks and stands throughout the park offering snacks, ice cream, and sweet treats.
6. Staying on resort vs Off resort
Whether to stay on the resort or off when visiting Legoland Florida depends on various factors, including your preferences, budget, and the overall experience you're looking for. Here are some considerations for both options:
Staying on Resort:
Staying on the Legoland Florida Resort offers the convenience of being close to the park. Some accommodations are within walking distance, while others may provide shuttle services. Some Legoland resort packages may include early access to the park, allowing you to enter before the general public. The Legoland Hotel and Legoland Beach Retreat offer themed rooms with a Lego-inspired atmosphere, creating a unique and immersive experience for guests, especially children. Guests staying on the resort may have access to exclusive activities and events. Legoland often offers package deals that include both accommodations and park tickets, potentially providing cost savings.
Ultimately, the decision between staying on or off the resort depends on your priorities. If you value the convenience, themed experience, and additional perks of staying on-site, it is worth the extra cost.
What to expect at Legoland Hotel and Resort and Theme Park?
LEGOLAND Florida is a celebration of all things LEGO, boasting a lively atmosphere that immediately captures the hearts of visitors. The Legoland Florida theme park is meticulously designed with a keen attention to detail, featuring LEGO-built structures, characters, and iconic landmarks that create a sense of wonder and delight.
Legoland Florida is divided into distinct themed areas, each inspired by popular LEGO franchises. Whether embarking on a ninja adventure in LEGO NINJAGO World or exploring the wonders of The LEGO Movie World, visitors can immerse themselves in the magic of their favorite LEGO themes.
Why Visit Legoland vs. Other Orlando Theme Parks?
Families may find several compelling reasons to choose Legoland Florida over other theme parks in the state. Here are some key factors that set LEGOLAND apart:
Targeted Towards Younger Children: Legoland Florida is specifically designed with families with little kids aged 2 to 12 in mind. This focus ensures that the park's attractions, shows, and interactive experiences cater to a younger audience, creating an environment where families with little ones can feel right at home. Navigating the park with younger kids is so easy. The park entrance is steps away from resort front door and it's a theme park a single adult could do with a kid with no issue. Even toddlers will enjoy Legoland in the duplo valley area.
Interactive Play and Building: Legoland Florida encourages hands-on creativity with various interactive play zones. Families can engage in building their own LEGO creations, fostering a sense of imagination and collaboration among children and parents alike. My kids thoroughly enjoyed the Lego creator classes both on resort property and within the theme park.
Smaller and Manageable Size: Legoland Florida is relatively smaller than some of the other major theme parks in the state. This can be advantageous for families, as it allows for a more manageable and less overwhelming experience, making it easier to navigate and explore with younger children.
Educational Elements: Legoland incorporates educational elements into its attractions, providing an enriching experience for children. Through LEGO-themed rides and exhibits, kids can learn about science, engineering, and creativity in a fun and engaging way.
Water Park Extension: In addition to the main theme park, Legoland Florida offers a water park extension, providing families with a refreshing break during warmer months. The water park features water slides, wave pools, and interactive play areas, offering an extra dimension of fun to the overall experience. This is not built into other theme parks, and water park tickets are very affordable to add on.
LEGO Character Encounters: Meeting LEGO characters, including beloved figures from various LEGO themes, is a highlight for many children. The opportunity for character encounters and photo opportunities adds a personal touch to the visit. The characters do not need reservations or long waits and you can easily find characters throughout the park to chat with and get photo opportunities without having to stress like at Disney parks.
Unique Atmosphere and Charm: Legoland Florida has a unique charm that sets it apart from other theme parks. The creativity displayed in the LEGO sculptures, the colorful landscape, and the overall whimsical atmosphere contribute to a memorable and distinctive experience.
While other Florida theme parks may offer different types of attractions and experiences, LEGOLAND Florida's focus on family-friendly entertainment, interactive play, and the magical world of LEGO makes it a standout choice for families with younger children.
Florida residents receive discounts on Legoland tickets and stays.
In summary, LEGOLAND Florida is a captivating destination that transports visitors into a world of endless possibilities, where imagination takes center stage. Whether you're a LEGO enthusiast or a family seeking a day of joy and exploration, LEGOLAND Florida promises an unforgettable adventure in the colorful realm of bricks and wonder.
With these tips and tricks, you're ready to embark on a brick-tastic adventure at LEGOLAND Florida. From thrilling rides to intricate LEGO creations, there's something for everyone in this whimsical world. So, grab your bricks and get ready to build unforgettable memories at LEGOLAND Florida!
