Building Memories at LEGOLAND Florida

As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for destinations that promise fun, adventure, and a sprinkle of magic for the whole family. So, when I heard about LEGOLAND Florida in Winter Haven, I knew it was time to pack our bags and set off on another family adventure. With my husband and our two kids, ages 11 and 6, we embarked on a journey that promised to be filled with LEGO bricks, laughter, and lasting memories.

A World of Imagination

Upon arriving at LEGOLAND Florida, we were immediately swept into a world where imagination knows no bounds. The park, nestled in a lush, shady landscape, was a welcome change from the bustling theme parks we’ve visited in the past. The kids were thrilled to explore the 150-acre wonderland, and I was relieved to find that the crowds were manageable, with wait times rarely exceeding 10 minutes.

Our first stop was the Coastersaurus, a thrilling ride that took us through a prehistoric jungle filled with life-sized LEGO dinosaurs. My son, who isn’t a fan of roller coasters, was hesitant at first, but his sister’s excitement was contagious, and soon he was enjoying the ride as much as she was. It was heartwarming to see them bond over shared experiences, even if some rides were more suited to one than the other.

The park’s attractions cater to a wide range of ages, but I found that the sweet spot is definitely for kids between 5 and 12. While my son was on the cusp of outgrowing some of the rides, he still found plenty to enjoy, especially when it came to the interactive play areas and themed attractions inspired by popular LEGO brands.

Splashing into Fun

No trip to LEGOLAND Florida would be complete without a visit to the water park. As someone who isn’t particularly fond of water parks, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of attractions available. From the lazy river to the wave pool, there was something for everyone. My daughter couldn’t get enough of the play structure, while my son enjoyed building boats to race down the slides.

One tip for fellow parents: bring water shoes! The concrete can get quite hot, and there’s a fair bit of walking between attractions. Also, while the park provides towels for hotel guests, it’s a good idea to bring your own if you’re not staying on-site. We found ourselves wishing for a bit more space to dry our towels and swimsuits, but that’s a small price to pay for a day of splashing fun.

The water park was a hit with the kids, and while I may not be a water park enthusiast, I appreciated the ample shade and seating options available. In hindsight, I would have opted for a cabana rental instead of the early check-in and photo pass, which didn’t quite live up to expectations.

Dining and Delights

Staying at the LEGOLAND Hotel was a treat in itself. Our adventure-themed room was a hit with the kids, who loved the semi-private nook with bunk beds and the LEGO-themed toiletries. The hotel’s proximity to the park made it easy to pop back for a quick rest or a dip in the pool, which was a welcome respite from the Florida heat.

Breakfast at the hotel was a highlight, with a family-style spread that kept us fueled for the day ahead. The kids especially loved the rotation of French toast, pancakes, and waffles, while my husband and I appreciated the hearty skillet of eggs, bacon, and breakfast potatoes.

For dinner, we decided to splurge on a meal at the family-style restaurant in the pirate hotel. The sea dog skillet was a feast for the senses, with a variety of meats and sides that left us all satisfied. The kids were thrilled with their souvenir napkins, and the skillet cookie dessert was the perfect sweet ending to our meal.

Overall, our trip to LEGOLAND Florida was a fantastic family adventure. It’s a destination that truly caters to families, with plenty of opportunities for bonding and creating memories. Whether you’re a LEGO enthusiast or just looking for a fun-filled getaway, LEGOLAND Florida is a must-visit for families with young children. Until our next adventure, happy travels!