Legoland California

Last updated

Legoland California Resort
Legoland California logo.svg
Legolandcaliforniaentrance.JPG
Legoland California main entrance
Legoland California
LocationLegoland California Resort, Carlsbad, California, United States
Coordinates 33°7′36″N117°18′40″W / 33.12667°N 117.31111°W / 33.12667; -117.31111
StatusOperating
OpenedMarch 20, 1999;25 years ago (1999-03-20) [1] [2]
Owner Merlin Entertainments
General managerKurt Stocks
Theme Lego toys and childhood amusement
Operating seasonYear-round
Attendance1.4 million (2004) [3] [ needs update ]
Area128 acres (52 ha)
Attractions
Totalmore than 60 rides
Roller coasters4
Water rides8
Website Official website

Legoland California Resort is a theme park, miniature park, and aquarium [4] in Carlsbad, California, based on the Lego toy brand. Opening on March 20, 1999, it was the first Legoland park to open outside of Europe. [1] The park is currently owned by Merlin Entertainments, which took a controlling interest in 2005. [5] The second park in the United States is Legoland Florida, which opened in 2011. A third park, Legoland New York, opened in May 2021.

Contents

Resort

The Legoland California Resort currently encompasses:

The resort site includes two hotels:

History

Lego opened the first Legoland theme park in Billund, Denmark in 1968, followed by a second park in Windsor, England in 1996. The Carlsbad park was the third to open, in March 1999. [1] [13] At the time, Lego was considering an additional United States Legoland to be located somewhere on the east coast. [14] When the park opened, there were eight themed areas. Starting at the entrance (at the central southern part of the park) and proceeding clockwise, they were: [15]

Legoland California
Invisible Square.svg
Invisible Square.svg
Mapscaleline.svg
75m
80yds
Red pog.svg
Legoland Hotel
Red pog.svg
Ninjago World
Red pog.svg
Imagination Zone
Red pog.svg
Land of Adventure
Red pog.svg
Miniland USA
Red pog.svg
Castle Hill
Red pog.svg
Pirate Shores
Red pog.svg
Water Park
Red pog.svg
LEGO/DUPLO Fun Town
Red pog.svg
The LEGO Movie World
Red pog.svg
Sea Life Aquarium
Red pog.svg
Dino Valley
Red pog.svg
Main entrance
Themed areas and key locations within Legoland California Resort

By 2002, Village Green and The Ridge had been combined into an area called Explore Village [25] and the Aquazone and LEGO Technic Test Track rides had been installed at Imagination Zone. [26] The fourth Legoland, built in Germany, opened in 2002. Dino Island and Coastersaurus opened in April 2004; [27] the park also added Fun Town Fire Academy, a Florida-themed Miniland area, and the Block of Fame for its fifth anniversary. [28]

Legoland California installed the first KUKA RoboCoaster in the United States in 2005. [29] However, the weak retail toy market led to the sale of the four Legoland theme parks in July 2005 for $456 million [30] to Blackstone Capital Partners, a private equity firm based in the United States. Blackstone had previously purchased Merlin in May 2005, which owned the Sea Life Centres and London Dungeon; [31] the two assets were combined as Merlin Entertainments, with Lego taking a 30% ownership share in the combined Merlin Entertainments. [32] Collectively, the four theme parks had approximately 5 million visitors per year at the time. [33]

Under Merlin, Legoland California would add Pirate Shores (2006), [34] a Las Vegas-themed Miniland area (2007), [35] the Egyptian explorer-themed Land of Adventure (2008), [36] and the 5.5-acre (2.2 ha) Legoland Water Park (2010). [37] In 2009, Merlin requested permission to develop an onsite Lego-themed hotel in the existing parking lot; [38] permission was granted in October [39] and plans for the 250-room hotel were announced in 2011, making the site a resort in 2013. [40] The first fictional Miniland area, themed with scenes from the six (at the time) Star Wars movies and the Clone Wars television series, [41] opened in March 2011. [42] The water park was expanded in 2014 with a Chima-themed area. [43] A second 250-room hotel with a castle theme was added in 2018. [44]

Attendance at Legoland California reached 2.5 million visitors in 2013 and nearly 3 million by 2015, nearly double the attendance of Legoland Florida. More than $20 million was spent per year on sales tax on food and merchandise. The park employed more than 2200 workers in total: 600 full-time, nearly 500 part-time, and more than 1100 seasonal. [45]

In mid-March 2020, in line with other Legoland parks, the park was indefinitely shut down because of the COVID-19 pandemic and reopened on April 1, 2021.

Theme park

Dino Valley (formerly Explorer Island)

Dino Valley is a section [46] with themes of dinosaurs and exploration. It contains a large sand area where children may dig for "fossils" and the Gerstlauer-built Coastersaurus [47] mini steel roller coaster, a close copy of the Legoland Germany junior coaster Drachenjagd, with a ride duration of approximately 2 minutes. It was installed in 2004 [48] by Ride Entertainment Group, who handles all of Gerstlauer's operations in the Western Hemisphere. [49] [50]

Explorer Island was previously named Dino Island. [51] When the Village Green/Explore Village area was taken over by Heartlake City, the Fairy Tale Brook boat ride and Safari Trek on-rail driving ride (originally a walking trail showing life-size African animals built with LEGO bricks) were counted as part of the renamed Explorer Island. These rides date back to the opening of the park. [52] [53] [54]

Explorer Island was rethemed and renamed "Dino Valley" and opened on March 22nd, 2024. [55]

AttractionAddedManufacturerImageDescription
Coastersaurus2004 Gerstlauer Gerstlauer Junior Coaster, installed in 2004. [27]
Explorer River Quest2024Boat ride featuring large-scale LEGO models of various Dinosaurs.
DUPLO® Little Dino Trail2024On-rail driving ride featuring life-size DUPLO dinosaurs.

The LEGO Movie World (formerly LEGO Friends Heartlake City and DUPLO Village)

The Heartlake City section, which opened on May 21, 2015, [51] is based on the Lego Friends brand marketed to girls. The area features Heartlake Fountain, a water play area; Friends Forever Stage, where musical performances occur; Heartlake Stables, a play area and building zone; and Mia's Riding Camp, a carousel.

Heartlake City replaced Duplo Village, which included a set of musical fountains and water features collectively called the "Water Works". [17] A temporary installation of the sets from The Lego Movie opened in 2014 at Duplo Village. [56]

"DUPLO Playtown", a play area for little kids, and "LEGOLAND Express", a mini locomotive ride through the Playtown used to be in the Duplo Village/Heartlake City area. When Heartlake City opened, "DUPLO Playtown" and "LEGOLAND Express" became part of the nearby area, Fun Town. On May 9, 2019, DUPLO Playtown reopened in the queue of the Kid Power Tower. In that same year, Heartlake City was removed and replaced with a Lego Movie themed area in 2021.

Entrance to Emmet's Flying Adventure Emmet's Flying Adventure - Masters of Flight 01.jpg
Entrance to Emmet's Flying Adventure

In spring 2020, LEGOLAND California Resort was scheduled to open their biggest addition in the history of the park, The Lego Movie World. The opening was delayed until May 27, 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The area features Emmet's Flying Adventure – Masters of Flight, a flying theatre attraction (similar to Soarin' at EPCOT and Disney California Adventure). Unlike Florida and Billund, this version will include two theatres rather than one. This area will also feature Unikitty's Disco Drop, a drop attraction where riders seated in four pairs raise, drop, and spin around a pole. It features two towers. There is also a carousel called Queen Watevra's Carousel, from LEGO Friends Heartlake City. Additionally, there is also a build area, Build Watevra You Wa'Na Build, and small playground, Benny's Playship, with two tall twisty slides that look like a rocket. There is also a splash pad with fountains, a convenience store, three dining locations, Everything is Ramen (a ramen quick service location), Cloud Cuckoo Crêpes (a crêpe stand), and Benny's Rocket Fuel (basic food stand with popcorn and pretzels).

Attractions:

Fun Town

Fun Town is a role-playing amusement area where guests simulate adult skills or professional identities, such as driving cars, steering boats, or fighting fires. [19] [57]

[58]

AttractionAddedManufacturerImageDescription
DUPLO Playtown1999 Old-fashioned roses line the walkways by a Lego toddler play area called Duplo Playtown.jpg Playground for young children
Legoland Express1999Small train ride within Playtown
Driving School1999SB International Volvo Driving School (9420690654).jpg Children aged 6 to 13 years drive self-propelled Lego cars on a closed circuit featuring multiple intersections, two way traffic and traffic signals. It is designed to promote safe driving and skills. [59] Volvo became the sponsor shortly after the park's 5th anniversary in 2004. [28]
Junior Driving School1999SB International On Your Mark 2387 (5341578281).jpg Children aged 3 to 5 years drive similar self-propelled Lego cars on a simple oval.
Sky Patrol1999 Fire Flighter 5689 (4264595959).jpg Lego helicopter-themed ride that moves up and down and can spin in place
Skipper School1999SB International Legoland - DSC06945 (31883387098).jpg Self-propelled boat-ride that travels a winding water course
Kid Power Towers1999Heege Legoland California (5476532207).jpg Tower ride where riders pull themselves up the ride with a rope
Adventurer's Club1999 Adventurer's Club 11262010818 (5270175068).jpg Walk-through attraction with scenes such as ancient Egypt, a rainforest, and the arctic
LEGO Factory Tour1999 Legoland California (5461614075).jpg Walk-through attraction that teaches young children how LEGO models are made
LEGO Life Zone1999A room where you can build your own LEGO models with occasional classes teaching children techniques on building LEGO models
A Lego man using the toilet in Legoland California's Grand Central Station model. Easter Egg 0899 (7674403198).jpg
A Lego man using the toilet in Legoland California's Grand Central Station model.

Miniland USA

Miniland USA is a 1:20 scale model miniature park featuring prominent architecture and symbols from seven areas in the United States. [60] Certain models are visible throughout the Legoland park. It was constructed over the course of three years using more than 20 million LEGO bricks. [61] The Coast Cruise ride, which departs from Miniland USA, travels through the lake in the center of Legoland. The lake covers 1.73 acres (0.70 ha). [22]

Miniland includes the Model Shop, the main design and building office for Legoland's US parks. A large viewing window allows guests to watch master model builders working on new models. Repairs and refurbishment of existing models are also conducted in the Model Shop. [62]

Certain model builders have inserted incongruous scenes into the Miniland vignettes, including a businessman mooning the presidential motorcade and a man using the toilet in the Grand Central Station model. Miniland officials insist all such scenes are incorporated with full management knowledge and approval. [63]

The Star Wars-themed Miniland was expanded with a life-size model of an X-wing starfighter, on display in 2013. [64] A large-scale model of the Death Star was added in 2015, along with a recreation of the trench run scene from the climax of Episode IV. [65] Scenes from The Force Awakens were added in 2017, [66] including what was billed as the longest LEGO model for Star Wars Miniland, a 16 ft (4.9 m) long Resurgent-class Star Destroyer Finalizer. [67]

On January 6, 2020, Star Wars Miniland was permanently closed. [68]

AttractionAddedManufacturerImageDescription
Coast Cruise1999 Morgan Manufacturing Staten Island Ferry 6939 (2897823440).jpg 8-minute-long boat ride where guests can view many monuments such as the Sydney Opera House, Taj Mahal, Eiffel Tower, London Eye, and Mount Rushmore, as well as a few other interesting models such as the depiction of a scene from Gulliver's Travels
New England1999 Legoland (775149636).jpg Depicts a New England harbor and local architecture
Las Vegas2007 Lego Las Vegas (3169637692).jpg Depicts the Las Vegas Strip with its famous hotels such as Tropicana Las Vegas, Mirage Las Vegas, and the Stratosphere Tower. [34] [35]
Washington, DC1999 Lincoln Memorial - Legoland California (2897879482).jpg Depicts the National Mall with monuments such as the U.S. Capitol, Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian Castle
Block of Fame2004Park walkway with LEGO busts of famous individuals such as George Washington, Marilyn Monroe, and Winston Churchill. Installed in 2004. [28]
Ferndale1999 Legoland CA MiniLand Ferndale CA.jpg Depicts the Ferndale Main Street Historic District in Ferndale, California
Model Shop1999 Model Maker 3947 (5501253973).jpg Viewing area for the park's model shop, where many of Legoland California's models are built
New Orleans1999–2023 Lego New Orleans (3169626296).jpg Depicts New Orleans and its many waterways. Replaced by San Diego in 2023.
New York1999 Manhattan Island - Legoland California (2896974469).jpg Depicts Manhattan Island of New York City with models of places like Central Park and Times Square. The model of Downtown Manhattan included the 2002 design of One World Trade Center; the model has since been updated to match the finished skyscraper.
San Francisco1999 San Francisco at Legoland California (Panorama) (4452607119).jpg Depicts San Francisco with models including Pier 39, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Transamerica Pyramid
Southern California1999 Legowood (3169620026).jpg Depicts Southern California with models including the TCL Chinese Theatre, Oceanside Pier, and Mission San Luis Rey. In 2018, the entire area aside from the Hollywood Sign and the Griffith Observatory was taken down to be replaced.
Star Wars Miniland2011–2020Depicted seven Star Wars movies, including the Clone Wars movie [61] Opened in 2011, [69] replacing a Florida-themed Miniland whose models were moved to the Winter Haven park. [70] [71]
San Diego2023 Miniland-san-diego-padres-petco-park-4x3-2mb.webp Depicts San Diego landmarks such as Petco Park, Santa Fe Depot, San Diego Convention Center, Coronado Island (including Hotel del Coronado) There is also a LEGO MTS trolley that runs around the area.

Castle Hill

Castle Hill is a medieval castle-themed area. [23] The area includes one roller coaster and a wooden playground for little kids.

In 2005, Legoland opened the Wild Woods Golf putting course decorated with off-green LEGO models on the west side of Castle Hill. [72] Wild Woods Golf and the neighboring Enchanted Walk were replaced by the submarine ride LEGO City: Deep Sea Adventure, which opened in July 2018. [73]

AttractionAddedManufacturerImageDescription
The Dragon 1999 Vekoma Dragon Coaster Returning to the station..jpg Family steel roller coaster with the first segment of the ride acting like a dark ride through a castle. 20 riders per 10-car train. [74]
The Hideaways1999 Hideaway 20091129 010 (4235351417).jpg Large multi-level wooden playground designed for younger children, structure with slides, rope ladders, and bridges.
LEGO City: Deep Sea Adventure2018 Mack Rides 12 riders per submarine on a voyage through a 350,000 US gal (1,300,000 L) aquarium populated with LEGO-themed decorations and 2,000 live animals. [75] Similar to submarine rides at Legoland Dubai and Windsor; costliest single upgrade to any Legoland park at the time it opened. [76]
The Royal Joust1999Metallbau EmmelnRocking horse ride where guests ages 4 to 12 ride fiberglass horses that rock back and forth above a track.

Imagination Zone

In the Imagination Zone, visitors can ride a Wild Mouse-style roller coaster called the Technic Coaster-Test Track (formerly named Project X), Bionicle Blaster (a variant of a teacup ride). Kids can also build and race Lego cars down a ramp at Build 'n Test (younger children have a similar build and play area in the same building, named Duplo Play), play LEGO PC games at the Maniac Challenge (later converted to consoles and renamed the Xbox Family Gamespace after its corporate sponsor), [77] and program robots in Mindstorms. At the park's opening in 1999, the Imagination Zone only referred to the Maniac Challenge/Mindstorms and Build & Test/Duplo Play buildings; the other rides had not yet been built. The Maniac Challenge/Mindstorms building was distinguished by large LEGO models of Albert Einstein's head, a submarine, and a Technic Tyrannosaurus rex. [24]

The LEGO Show Place theater screens 4-D films. In the initial incarnation, the movie was interactive and the audience could decide the ending. [24] Later, more movies were added, including Bob the Builder and Clutch Powers (a racing movie). Racers 4-D began alternating with the new Spellbreaker 4-D film in May 2006. [78] Bob the Builder in 4-D: Bob the Builder and the Roller Coaster was added in March 2009. [79] The Legends of Chima debuted on March 7, 2014. [43] The LEGO Movie™ 4D A New Adventure was added to Legoland California on February 6, 2016. [80] LEGO NINJAGO – Master of the 4th Dimension opened on January 12, 2018. [81] LEGO City 4D – Officer in Pursuit! was added on April 12, 2019. [82]

In February 2019, sets from The Lego Movie 2 were installed in the Imagination Zone. [83]

AttractionAddedManufacturerImageDescription
Technic Coaster 2001 Mack Rides Ygtkc 1b (9637216066).jpg Wild mouse roller coaster; single-car ride with four riders per car. [84]
Bionicle Blaster2003Mack Scott, Aidan and Christian in their Bionicle Blaster.jpg Bionicle-themed tea cups ride.
LEGO Show Place19994D theater that shows seasonal movies.
LEGO City Space Finished-lego-city-space-rocket-4x3.webp Area where guests can build either a rocket or a moon rover that could help with NASA's Artemis mission. A LEGO model of the Space Shuttle Discovery is on display at the entrance of the room. [85]
LEGO Mindstorms Lego Immaginations area.jpg Classes that teach children how to operate Mindstorms robots
Ferrari Build & Race2022 Race2.webp A Ferrari themed room where guests can either build LEGO models of Ferrari vehicles, or build their own creation. A life-sized LEGO model of a Ferrari F40 can also be seen there. [86]

Pirate Shores

Pirate Shores is a splash park with water-oriented rides and attractions. [87] This area was added in 2006, and Captain Cranky's Challenge was added in May 2007. [34]

AttractionAddedManufacturerImageDescription
Captain Cranky's Challenge2007 Zamperla Boat Ride (775160178).jpg A ride with a mock pirate ship that sways in an u-shaped track and rotates bi-directionally
Pirate Reef 2012 Hopkins Rides A "shoot the chutes" attraction with interactive components including a splash bridge, water cannons and brick building play area. This attraction is accessible from both Pirate Shores and the Legoland Water Park and only operates seasonally. [88]
Soak n' Sail2006Whitewater West Lego 19 20140322 14-32-08 Lego N D31DSC 6251 (13343215644).jpg The larger of the two water playgrounds. [89] [78]
Splash Battle2006Preston & Barbieri Splash Battle Ride (1) (3838902110).jpg A water ride where guests spray each other with water on-ride and off-ride; up to four passengers per boat and each seat is equipped with a water cannon. [89]
Swabbie's Deck2006A small water play area for small children, developed as "Squabbies Deck". [78]

Land of Adventure

This section is designed to replicate the 1920s in Egypt, drawing inspiration from the LEGO Adventurers line (Egypt sub-theme). [90] Land of Adventure opened in March 2008. [91] [36]

AttractionAddedManufacturerImageDescription
Beetle Bounce2008 S&S Worldwide Beetle Bounce. (4771424449).jpg Guests bounce nearly 15 feet (4.6 m) to nearly touch the enormous beetles above
Cargo Ace2008 Zamperla Legoland (3108045151).jpg Guests board one of eight planes to fly six feet into the air
Dune Raiders2009 Dune Raiders 11282010850 (5270177712).jpg A tall slide in which guests race each other to the bottom.
Lost Kingdom Adventure 2008 Sally Lost Kingdom Adventure entrance.jpg Guests board and ride a roadster to recover stolen treasure by blasting targets with laser guns along their journey. First interactive dark ride at Legoland California, designed by Bill Vollbrecht. [90]
Pharaoh's Revenge2008 Pharoah's Revenge area.jpg Guests fire foam balls at targets and at each other

LEGO Ninjago World

The Lego Ninjago World opened in May 2016. [92] The area features Ninjago: The Ride along with new retail and dining options. Ninjago: The Ride is controlled by hand motions using "Maestro" technology developed by Triotech, [93] who had previously developed the interactive Voyage to the Iron Reef dark ride at Knott's Berry Farm. [94] [95] This area also features Ninjago Training Camp, a playground that opened in December 2022. [96]

Retired rides and attractions

AttractionYearsAreaImageDescription
Aquazone Wave Racers2000–2021Imagination Zone Legoland California (5494337867).jpg Dual water carousel. Replaced by Ninjago Training Camp in 2022.
Enchanted Walk2005–2018Castle HillWoodland animal models built from LEGO bricks. [97] Replaced by LEGO City: Deep Sea Adventure in 2018.
Flight Squadron1999–2017Fun Town Legoland California (5477075842).jpg LEGO airplane-themed ride that move up and down while moving in a circle
Knight's Tournament2005–2019Castle Hill Knights' Tournament (3) (3838050201).jpg Robotic arm-like ride where guests can select their level of intensity, with level one being the least intense and level five being the most intense. First Kuka RoboCoaster in the United States. [29]
Miniland Florida2004–11Miniland Miniland FL (2170563449).jpg Florida-themed section of Miniland, including a model of the Daytona International Speedway. [28] Replaced by Star Wars Miniland in 2011.
Sky Cruiser1999–2018The Ridge
(Fun Town)
Legoland California (5494932664).jpg Pedal-powered track ride with panoramic views of the park.
Spellbreaker2000–03Castle HillSingle-car with tandem riders suspended roller coaster; steel Batflyer model manufactured by Caripro. Dual tracks, maximum 5 cars per track at one time. [98] [99] Legoland California's shortest lived attraction
Water Works1999–2015Village Green
(Heartlake City)
Legoland California (5476535209).jpg Pressure-activated musical fountain and interactive water features. Replaced by "Heartlake Fountain"
Treasure Falls2006–16Pirate Shores Legoland California (5476464657).jpg A small log flume ride that showed "what pirates do on their vacation". [78] Closed in 2016. [100]
Wild Woods Golf2005–18Castle Hill Lego deer and animals along the mini-golf area.jpg Miniature golf-sized course using putting greens with off-green LEGO-themed decorations. [72] Replaced by LEGO City: Deep Sea Adventure in 2018.
Safari Trek1999–2023Explorer IslandSafari attraction where you see Lego Created Animals. Removed Permanently For Dino Valley in 2023
Fairy Tale Brook1999–2023Explorer IslandBoating track guests enter that shows Lego their favorite Fairy Tales. Removed Permanently for Dino Valley in 2023
Police and Fire Academy2004Metallbau EmmelnCompetitive team attraction where groups propel a hand pumped truck in a race down a street, accomplish a task, and return. In the original incarnation named Fun Town Fire Academy, all vehicles were fire trucks rushing to douse a simulated building "fire". [28] A police theme was added in 2011, and the task for the police trucks was to knock down robbers. [101]

Sea Life Aquarium

The lost city of Atlantis in the Sea Life Aquarium in Carlsbad, California Sea Life Aquarium - Legoland CAlifornia (6497747809).jpg
The lost city of Atlantis in the Sea Life Aquarium in Carlsbad, California

The first Sea Life Aquarium in North America opened at Legoland California in August 2008. It has 36,000 sq ft (3,300 m2) of floor area on two stories, featuring a 35 ft (11 m) long acrylic walk-through tunnel and LEGO models in the tanks. [102]

Water Park

The first feature that users encounter when entering the Legoland Water Park is the Aquatune hydraulophone, an underwater pipe organ. The hydraulophone is the centerpiece of a series of interactive exhibits on either side of it that teach other elements of flow, such as water tables, and small water laboratory-like spaces where participants can explore hydraulophonic-like action (blocking water jets to create head, pressure, etc.), and also construct dams from Lego bricks. IMG 9760 aquatune crop.JPG
The first feature that users encounter when entering the Legoland Water Park is the Aquatune hydraulophone, an underwater pipe organ. The hydraulophone is the centerpiece of a series of interactive exhibits on either side of it that teach other elements of flow, such as water tables, and small water laboratory-like spaces where participants can explore hydraulophonic-like action (blocking water jets to create head, pressure, etc.), and also construct dams from Lego bricks.

This is a water park area in Legoland California. Planning for the water park began in September 2009, [91] and it opened on May 28, 2010. It is located next to the buildings in Fun Town, meaning admission to the water park is an extra cost ticket in addition to regular park admission. [37]

It is the first Legoland to feature a water park; a Legoland Water Park opened in Florida in 2012. [103] At Legoland California, a Legends of Chima-themed expansion to the water park opened in early July 2014. [43]

AttractionAddedAreaDescription
Build-A-Raft River2010LEGOLAND Water ParkLazy river where guests can build foam LEGO bricks on their inner tube [37]
DUPLO Splash Safari2010Kids area with small water slides
Imagination Station2010Interactive play area
Joker Soaker2010Tower that releases water onto the guests below
Orange Rush2010Large raft water slide
Splash Out2010Body slide
Splash Zoo2011Kids area
Twin Chasers2010Two body slides
Pirate Reef2012Shoot-the-chutes ride that has entrances in LEGOLAND Water Park.
Cragger's Swamp2014LEGO CHIMA Water ParkInteractive water playground
Eglor's Build-A-Boat2014LEGO building area where guests build small boats that they can place in a small artificial creek
Lion Temple Wave Pool2014Wave pool with a 30' Mount Cavora "floating" in the middle
Speedorz Arena2014–2016Interactive play area where guests can race their Speedorz

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Legoland</span> Global theme park chain based on the Lego brand of toys

Legoland is a chain of family amusement parks focusing on the Lego building toy brand. They are owned and operated by the British theme park company Merlin Entertainments, which shares a common owner with The Lego Group.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Legoland Windsor Resort</span> Lego theme park in Windsor, Berkshire, England

Legoland Windsor Resort, styled and also known as Legoland Windsor, is a theme park and resort in Windsor, Berkshire in England, themed around the Lego brand. The park opened on 17 March 1996 and is currently operated by Merlin Entertainments. The park's attractions consist of a mixture of Lego-themed rides, models, and building workshops targeted at children between three and twelve.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">The Lego Group</span> Danish multinational toy production company

The Lego Group is a Danish construction toy production company based in Billund, Denmark. It manufactures Lego-branded toys, consisting mostly of interlocking plastic bricks. The Lego Group has also built several amusement parks around the world, each known as Legoland, and operates numerous retail stores.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lego Pirates</span> Theme of LEGO toy bricks, 1989–2015

Lego Pirates was a Lego theme launched in 1989 featuring pirates, soldiers from the Napoleonic Wars, Pacific Islanders, sailing ships, and buried treasure, being influenced by the late Golden Age of Piracy. The theme has been seen in Lego System, Duplo and the 4+ theme.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Legoland Billund Resort</span> Original Legoland Park

Legoland Billund Resort, the original Legoland park, opened on 7 June 1968 in Billund, Denmark. The park is located next to the original Lego factory and Billund Airport, Denmark's second-busiest airport. Over 1.9 million guests visited the park in 2011, and 50 million guests have visited the park since it opened. This makes Legoland the largest tourist attraction in Denmark outside Copenhagen. The Legoland parks that have since been built are modelled upon Legoland Billund, most noticeably the Miniland area, which is made up of millions of plastic Lego bricks.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Legoland Deutschland Resort</span> Lego theme park in Bavaria, Germany

Legoland Deutschland Resort is a Legoland park located in Günzburg in southern Germany, roughly halfway from Munich to Stuttgart, which opened in 2002. It is 43.5 hectares in area, and it is one of the four most popular theme parks in Germany. The Miniland contains Lego reproductions of various German cities and rural landscapes.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lego City</span> Lego theme

Lego City is a theme under which Lego building sets are released based on city life, with the models depicting city and emergency services, airport, train, construction, and civilian services. It evolved from LEGOLAND Town as one of the three original themes that Lego produced upon its launch of the Lego minifigure in 1978 along with Castle and Space, with each of the three themes representing the 'Past' (Castle), 'Present' (Town) and 'Future' (Space). The Town brand was briefly replaced with Lego World City in 2003 and 2004 before it was simply rebranded as Lego City in 2005.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Legoland Florida</span> Lego themed resort in Winter Haven, Florida

Legoland Florida Resort is a vacation destination in Winter Haven, Florida. The resort features the Legoland Florida theme park itself, the Legoland Water Park, three on-site accommodations and a separately-ticketed on-site park based on the British children's animated series Peppa Pig that opened on February 24, 2022.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Legoland Malaysia Resort</span> Theme park in Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Legoland Malaysia Resort is a theme park in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia. It opened on 15 September 2012 with over 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions. It is the first Legoland theme park in Asia and sixth in the world upon its establishment. Legoland Malaysia was officially opened by Ibrahim Ismail, Sultan of Johor on 22 September.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lego Friends</span> Lego theme

Lego Friends is a product range of Lego construction toys designed primarily for girls that was launched in 2012. It introduced "mini-doll" figures, which are about the same size as traditional Lego minifigures but are more detailed and realistic. The original cast consisted of Andrea, Olivia, Stephanie, Mia and Emma. The theme was relaunched in January 2023 to focus on a more diverse cast of characters: Aliya, Nova, Zac, Liann, Paisley, Leo, Autumn and Olly.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lego Technic Test Track</span>

Lego Technic Test Track, Technic Coaster, Project X – Test Strecke and X-treme Racers are the names of five identical steel wild mouse roller coasters manufactured by Mack Rides at Legoland theme parks around the world.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Legoland Japan Resort</span> Amusement park in Minato-ku, Nagoya, Japan

Legoland Japan Resort is a theme park in Nagoya, Japan. Opening on 1 April 2017, it was the first Legoland theme park in Japan and the second in Asia, and the eighth worldwide. Upon opening, the park was projected to attract over two million visitors every year.

LEGO Discovery Center Boston is an indoor family entertainment center in Assembly Row, Somerville, Massachusetts themed around LEGO products and properties. The attraction opened in 2014, and is currently undergoing a $12 million renovation until Spring 2023 when it will become LEGO Discovery Center. Prior to closing for renovation, the attraction included a LEGO scale model of landmarks in Boston and other Massachusetts cities, such as Gillette Stadium and Fenway Park. It also included several other attractions, such as a 4D theater and several small rides. The attractions are to remain closed during the renovation, however the attached store will remain open. Legoland Discovery Center Boston is owned and operated by leisure group Merlin Entertainments.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Legoland Discovery Center Dallas Fort Worth</span>

Legoland Discovery Center Dallas Fort Worth is an indoor family entertainment center located at Grapevine Mills mall in Grapevine, Texas, which is situated between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas. The attraction includes Lego-theme rides, a soft play area, a 4D cinema and a gift shop. The center is owned and operated by British leisure group Merlin Entertainments.

Legoland Discovery Center Kansas City is an indoor family entertainment center located in the Crown Center in Kansas City, Missouri. The attraction includes Lego rides, a soft play area, a 4D cinema, and a gift shop. It is owned and operated by the British leisure company Merlin Entertainments. The center is over 128 years old.

Legoland Discovery Center Westchester is an indoor family entertainment center located at Westchester's Ridge Hill in Yonkers, New York in Westchester County. The attraction includes Lego rides, a play area, a 4D cinema and a gift shop. Legoland Discovery Center Westchester is owned and operated by leisure group Merlin Entertainments.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Dubai Parks and Resorts</span> Theme park in Dubai

Dubai Parks and Resorts is a resort located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Spread over 25 million square feet, it features more than 100 rides and attractions, and consists of three theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Real Madrid World and Legoland Dubai, and one water park: Legoland Water Park. It also encompasses Riverland Dubai, a themed retail and dining destination, as well as the Polynesian-themed family resort, Lapita Hotel Dubai.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Legoland New York</span> Lego themed resort in Goshen, New York, United States

Legoland New York Resort is a theme park in Goshen, New York owned by Merlin Entertainments. Consisting 150 acres (61 ha) of seven Lego themed lands on a property of 500 acres (200 ha). The park contains numerous structures and attractions made of Lego or designed to resemble Lego.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Legoland Dubai</span> Family theme park in Dubai

Legoland Dubai is a theme park in Dubai. It opened on October 31, 2016. It is the first Legoland park in the Middle East and was the seventh worldwide. The park was originally scheduled to open in 2011 in Dubailand as Legoland Dubailand, but was then delayed until October 2016 and is now located at Dubai Parks and Resorts as Legoland Dubai.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto</span>

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto is an indoor family entertainment center located in Vaughan Mills mall in Vaughan, Ontario just north of Toronto. The attraction includes 10 LEGO build & play zones, 2 LEGO-themed rides, a soft play area, a 4D cinema, the World's Largest LEGO Brick Flag, and a gift shop. The Centre features more than 3 million LEGO bricks, 500,000 of which are located in the MINILAND. The attraction is owned and operated by British leisure group Merlin Entertainments.

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 Hall, Christopher (March 14, 1999). "TRAVEL ADVISORY; Danish Conquest: Legoland Comes to California". The New York Times. ISSN   0362-4331 . Retrieved January 20, 2017.
  2. Lothspeich, Jennifer (March 21, 2019). "News 8 Throwback: Legoland's grand opening 20 years ago & more San Diego attractions". CBS 8 San Diego. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  3. Jacoby, Edmond (January 28, 2005). "Legland California says visitors, revenues up sharply in 2004". San Diego Union-Tribune. Retrieved February 19, 2015.
  4. Kragen, Pam (December 20, 2008). "Legoland to reopen Sea Life Aquarium on Monday". San Diego Union-Tribune. Retrieved February 19, 2015.
  5. Kinsman, Michael (July 14, 2005). "Control of Legoland parks sold". San Diego Union-Tribune. Retrieved February 19, 2015.
  6. Fikes, Bradley J. (November 7, 2007). "Legoland details expansion plans". The San Diego Union-Tribune. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  7. "Legoland California Resort: Sea Life Aquarium Fact Sheet" (PDF) (Press release). Merlin Entertainments Group. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  8. Sim, Nick (May 25, 2010). "LEGOLAND California to open water park on May 28, 2010". Theme Park Tourist. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  9. Sim, Nick (September 16, 2013). "LEGOLAND California to open LEGO Legends of Chima Water Park in 2014". Theme Park Tourist. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  10. Sim, Nick (April 7, 2013). "Images: LEGOLAND Hotel welcomes first guests at LEGOLAND California". Theme Park Tourist. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  11. "What amenities are included in the LEGOLAND California Hotel rooms?". LEGOLAND® California Theme Park | LEGOLAND® California Resort. Retrieved December 12, 2024.
  12. "Hear ye, hear ye! Legoland® Castle Hotel is officially open!" (Press release). Merlin Entertainments Group. April 27, 2018. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  13. Brandon, Karen (April 25, 1999). "Legoland California Builds on Success". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  14. McQuaid, Kevin L. (September 18, 1996). "Arundeel site study for Lego put off | Theme park delay in Calif. leaves local project in limbo". The Baltimore Sun. Retrieved May 4, 2019.
  15. "Map of Legoland". Legoland California. 2000. Archived from the original on November 10, 2000.
  16. "The Beginning". Legoland California. 2000. Archived from the original on November 19, 2000.
  17. 1 2 "Village Green". Legoland California. 1999. Archived from the original on December 25, 1999.
  18. "The Ridge". Legoland California. 1999. Archived from the original on November 25, 1999.
  19. 1 2 "Fun Town". Legoland California. 1999. Archived from the original on November 24, 1999. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  20. "Garden". Legoland California. 2000. Archived from the original on December 3, 2000.
  21. "Miniland". Legoland California. 2000. Archived from the original on November 10, 2000.
  22. 1 2 "The Lake". Legoland California. 1999. Archived from the original on April 8, 2000.
  23. 1 2 "Castle Hill". Legoland California. 1999. Archived from the original on June 1, 2000.
  24. 1 2 3 "Imagination Zone". Legoland California. 1999. Archived from the original on November 24, 1999. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  25. "LEGOLAND California Explore Village". Legoland California. 2002. Archived from the original on December 4, 2002. Retrieved February 25, 2020.
  26. "LEGOLAND California Imagination Zone". Legoland California. 2002. Archived from the original on October 3, 2002.
  27. 1 2 Niles, Robert (April 7, 2004). "Lego's Dreadful Island: A Trip Report". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  28. 1 2 3 4 5 Niles, Robert (May 22, 2004). "Ready, Set, Go for Legoland's New Challenge". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  29. 1 2 Niles, Robert (May 19, 2005). "Innovative 'Robocoaster' Debuts at Legoland California". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  30. "Troubled Lego sells theme parks". BBC News. July 13, 2005. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  31. "London Dungeon in £103m US buyout". BBC News. May 23, 2005. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  32. Marriner, Cosima (July 13, 2005). "US swoop takes Legoland under Merlin's wand". The Guardian. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  33. Vincent, Roger (June 1, 2005). "Deal to Sell Legoland Parks Is Expected". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  34. 1 2 3 Niles, Robert (January 25, 2007). "Legoland California announces record attendance, plus plans for 2007". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  35. 1 2 Niles, Robert (March 29, 2007). "Miniland Las Vegas debuts at Legoland California". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  36. 1 2 Niles, Robert (March 20, 2009). "Legoland California celebrates its 10th birthday". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  37. 1 2 3 Niles, Robert (January 8, 2010). "Legoland California announces Water Park details, new 4D movie". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 2, 2019.
  38. Niles, Robert (January 19, 2009). "New official on-site hotel in works for Legoland California". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 2, 2019.
  39. Niles, Robert (October 29, 2009). "Legoland California can build its hotel... when it wants to". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 2, 2019.
  40. Niles, Robert (August 25, 2011). "Legoland California announces its Legoland Hotel". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 2, 2019.
  41. Niles, Robert (January 6, 2011). "Star Wars is coming to Legoland California's Miniland". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  42. Niles, Robert (March 31, 2011). "Star Wars Miniland debuts at Legoland California". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  43. 1 2 3 Forgione, Mary (April 23, 2014). "Carlsbad: Legends of Chima Water Park shapes up at Legoland California". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  44. Niles, Robert (April 27, 2018). "Legoland Castle Hotel opens at Legoland California". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 2, 2019.
  45. KPMG (February 2017). LEGOLAND Project Economic Impact Review: Final Report (PDF) (Report). Orange County IDA. Retrieved May 4, 2019.
  46. "Dino Island". Legoland California Resort. Retrieved February 19, 2015.
  47. "References: North America: Coastersaurus". Gerstlauer Amusement Rides GMBH. Retrieved February 19, 2015.
  48. Marden, Duane. "Coastersaurus". Roller Coaster Data Base. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  49. "Gerstlauer busy in 2011". Park World Magazine. December 29, 2010. Retrieved November 22, 2013.
  50. "Projects: 2004—Legoland California". Ride Entertainment Group. Retrieved November 22, 2013.
  51. 1 2 "LEGOLAND® California Resort Builds on Its Future with the Addition of LEGO Friends Heartlake City" (Press release). Merlin Entertainments Group. May 7, 2015. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  52. Sterngold, James (May 9, 1999). "Low-Key Thrills at Legoland". The New York Times. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  53. Kaltenbach, Chris (April 25, 1999). "Building fantastic fun, block by colorful block; Legoland: Kids have a great time playing, and adults take a nostalgia trip at the park in Southern California; Destination: California". The Baltimore Sun. Archived from the original on April 30, 2019. Retrieved December 9, 2022.
  54. Rayburn, Jim (June 6, 1999). "Destination: Southern California's Legoland: Adults will enjoy watching their kids marvel". Deseret News. Archived from the original on September 26, 2018. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  55. "Dino Valley | NEW at LEGOLAND California".
  56. Niles, Robert (February 20, 2014). "The Lego Movie Experience opens at Legoland California". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  57. "Fun Town". Legoland California Resort. Retrieved February 19, 2015.
  58. "Legoland California is getting a new space-themed coaster – but not until 2025". January 20, 2024.
  59. Niles, Robert (January 21, 2013). "Attraction of the week: Legoland's Driving School". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  60. "Miniland USA". Legoland California Resort. Retrieved February 19, 2015.
  61. 1 2 "Tour Legoland California". CaliforniaResortLife.com. Retrieved August 13, 2015.
  62. Becraft, "Thanel" (February 6, 2010). "Behind the scenes at the LEGOLAND California Model Shop: an interview with Gary McIntire [part 2]". The Brothers Brick. Retrieved February 19, 2015.
  63. Dougherty, Conor (March 14, 2004). "Mature images Legoland builder's inside joke". San Diego Union-Tribune. Retrieved February 19, 2015.
  64. Diaz, Jesus (May 23, 2013). "This Incredible Full Scale Lego X-Wing Is the Largest Model In History". Gizmodo. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  65. Niles, Robert (March 4, 2015). "'That's No Moon. That's a Space Station... Made Out of Legos'". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  66. Niles, Robert (March 10, 2017). "The Force Awakens in Legoland's Star Wars Miniland". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  67. "LEGOLAND® California Resort proudly unveils the Longest LEGO Star Wars™ Miniland model ever built with grand opening of the LEGO Star Wars™: The Force Awakens Miniland model display!" (Press release). Merlin Entertainments Group. March 9, 2017. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  68. "Star Wars attraction closing soon at this California theme park". Los Angeles Times (Press release). November 18, 2019. Retrieved April 14, 2020.
  69. Sim, Nick (April 1, 2011). "Photos, video: Star Wars Miniland opens at LEGOLAND California". Theme Park Tourist. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  70. Suppa, Traci L. (September 27, 2018). "LEGOLAND Florida vs. LEGOLAND California". Family Vacation Critic. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  71. Graham, Chris (September 23, 2011). "Model of Daytona International Speedway unveiled at Legoland". The Daytona Beach News-Journal. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  72. 1 2 Niles, Robert (July 11, 2005). "'Wild Woods' Is Too Wild for Young Golfers". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  73. "LEGO City: Deep Sea Adventure submarine ride takes its maiden voyage at LEGOLAND® California Resort!" (Press release). Merlin Entertainments Group. July 2, 2018. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  74. Marden, Duane. "Dragon". Roller Coaster Data Base. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  75. Niles, Robert (July 2, 2018). "Legoland raises the standard for Deep Sea Adventures". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  76. Niles, Robert (May 8, 2018). "Legoland's new submarine ride will launch in July". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  77. "Xbox Family Gamespace". Technical Show Management, Inc. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  78. 1 2 3 4 Niles, Robert (January 19, 2006). "Legoland to build new park, probably in North America, within 3–5 years". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  79. Niles, Robert (November 17, 2008). "Bob the Builder 4-D film to debut at Legoland". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 5, 2019.
  80. "The LEGO Movie 4D – A New Adventure Brings Awesome Back Exclusively to LEGOLAND® Parks and LEGOLAND® Discovery Centers Worldwide in January 2016!" (Press release). Merlin Entertainments Group. October 12, 2015. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  81. "LEGOLAND® California Resort kicks off 2018 with new exclusive 4D film, LEGO® NINJAGO – Master of the 4th Dimension!" (Press release). Merlin Entertainments Group. October 12, 2015. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  82. "Lego City 4D – Officer in Pursuit! Debuts at Legoland California". Park World. April 25, 2019. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  83. "And... Action! LEGOLAND® California resort opens the LEGO Movie 2 Experience" (Press release). Merlin Entertainments Group. February 15, 2019. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  84. Marden, Duane. "Technic Coaster". Roller Coaster Data Base. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  85. LEGO CITY Space | LEGOLAND California Resort
  86. LEGO Ferrari Build & Race | LEGOLAND California Resort
  87. Richard Bilbao. "More Details on Legoland's Pirates Themed Expansion". Orlando Business Journal.
  88. Niles, Robert (January 19, 2012). "Legoland California announces pirate shoot-the-chutes ride for 2012". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  89. 1 2 Niles, Robert (June 17, 2006). "'Pirates Shores' debuts at Legoland California". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  90. 1 2 Niles, Robert (March 20, 2009). "New attraction spotlight: Lost Kingdom Adventure". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  91. 1 2 Martin, Hugo (September 5, 2009). "Legoland wants to add water attraction to its theme park". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  92. "It's Ninja Time!!! LEGO NINJAGO World® Officially Opens at LEGOLAND® California Resort" (Press release). Merlin Entertainments Group. May 5, 2016. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  93. "LEGOLAND California Resort and TRIOTECH Present Maestro Hand Gesture Technology at IAAPA Expo in Orlando for the New LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, Opening 2016!" (Press release). Merlin Entertainments Group. November 17, 2015. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  94. Niles, Robert (September 17, 2015). "The Next Generation of Interactive Theme Park Rides Comes to Legoland California Next Year". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  95. Niles, Robert (November 17, 2015). "First Look at the New Hand-Motion Technology Behind Legoland's Ninjago Ride". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  96. "LEGO NINJAGO Training Camp". LEGOLAND California. Retrieved February 22, 2023.
  97. Whiteaker, Michele (December 16, 2013). "6 Legoland California Secret Places Adults Might Find Boring, But Kids Love". Fun Orange County Parks. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  98. "Throwback Thursday–Spellbreaker (Legoland CA)". Coaster Kings. February 27, 2014. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  99. Marden, Duane. "Spellbreaker". Roller Coaster Data Base. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  100. "Treasure Falls At LEGOLAND California". themeparktourist.com. December 31, 2016. Retrieved May 10, 2020.
  101. Niles, Robert (January 6, 2011). "Star Wars is coming to Legoland California's Miniland". Theme Park Insider. Retrieved May 1, 2019.
  102. "The Lego Aquarium". Park World. September 23, 2008. Retrieved May 3, 2019.
  103. "Pictures: Legoland Florida water park". Los Angeles Times. 2012. Archived from the original on May 1, 2019. Retrieved May 1, 2019.