Arrival and First Impressions

As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for new adventures that promise fun and bonding for the whole family. So when I heard about LEGOLAND® New York, I knew it was time to pack up the kids and head to Goshen for a weekend of LEGO® magic. We arrived on a crisp Sunday morning in April, and the excitement was palpable. The drive was a bit long, but the anticipation of what awaited us made the journey worthwhile.

Upon arrival, we parked at the LEGOLAND hotel, which was conveniently close to the park. The kids were thrilled to see the LEGO-themed decor right from the lobby, complete with a small castle play area and plenty of LEGO bricks to keep them entertained. After a quick check-in, we made our way to the park entrance, just a short walk away. The park opened with a delightful little show, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Exploring the Park

LEGOLAND New York is designed as a big circle, making it easy to navigate without missing any attractions. We decided to start our adventure by heading left, which led us to a series of rides that were perfect for my 4 and 6-year-olds. The Dragon Coaster was a hit with my 6-year-old, while my 12-year-old enjoyed the more thrilling aspects of the park. The rides were well-suited for younger children, and the lack of long lines meant we could hop from one ride to the next with ease.

One of the highlights for me was the impressive LEGO-built cities in MINILAND. Seeing iconic skylines like New York and Chicago recreated in LEGO bricks was a treat for both the kids and me. We also enjoyed the various playgrounds scattered throughout the park, providing a perfect spot for the kids to burn off some energy.

Dining and Accommodations

When it came time for lunch, we found ourselves in the pirate-themed restaurant, where the prices were surprisingly reasonable for a theme park. The kids’ meals were a hit, and the indoor seating provided a nice break from the sun. After lunch, we received a text that our hotel room was ready, so we took a short break to recharge.

Our pirate-themed room was a delight, complete with a scavenger hunt that led to a treasure chest filled with LEGO sets for the kids. The room was spacious and comfortable, with thoughtful touches like a Keurig machine and complimentary drinks. After a day of fun, we ordered room service for dinner, enjoying a delicious pizza feast in the comfort of our room.

Overall, our experience at LEGOLAND New York was nothing short of magical. The park was manageable, even with a midday break, and the staff went out of their way to make our visit special. It’s a perfect destination for families looking to create lasting memories, and I can’t wait to return for another adventure!