Planning a trip to LEGOLAND California with your kids? You’re in the right place! This blog is part of our San Diego with Kids series, and here, we’re focusing solely on everything you need to know about spending two days at LEGOLAND California Resort. From where to stay and what to bring, to how to divide your time between the theme park, water park, and aquarium, we’re sharing our firsthand experience and tips to help you plan a trip your kids will never forget.
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Where to Stay for Easy Access to LEGOLAND California
When it comes to accommodations, you’ll find plenty of great hotel and vacation rental options near LEGOLAND. While vacation rentals can be great for extended stays or large groups, we opted for a hotel stay for this trip—and here’s why:
Convenience and proximity to the park (some hotels offer private entrances!)
Kid-focused amenities like early park access, themed rooms, and on-site entertainment
Daily housekeeping and on-site dining, which helped us save time and stay relaxed during a packed two-day itinerary
Especially when traveling with younger kids, being able to walk to the park, grab breakfast without prepping, and take mid-day breaks was a total game-changer for our family. Here are some of the best family-friendly options:
1. Hilton Grand Vacations Club Marbrisa
This is where we stayed with our 3- and 7-year-old during our most recent LEGOLAND trip, and we absolutely loved it! The resort is located on a peaceful hill overlooking the park and has a private pedestrian entrance to LEGOLAND, which made it incredibly easy to get in and out without any hassle—especially with young kids in tow.
We stayed in a one-bedroom villa with a full kitchen, spacious living area, and private patio. The kids had space to play and wind down after long days in the park, and we enjoyed the flexibility of making easy meals or snacks. The resort grounds feature multiple outdoor pools, a splash zone, hot tubs, fire pits, and a playground, making it feel like a vacation within a vacation.
🌟 Why Families Love It
- Private LEGOLand Entrance – Skip the main entrance crowds.
- Spacious Family Suites – Ideal for families who need more room.
- Multiple Pools & Resort Amenities – A great place to relax after a busy day at the park.
If you want to be close to LEGOLand but prefer a quieter, more spacious stay, Hilton Grand Vacations Club Marbrisa is a fantastic choice. It offers family-friendly suites with kitchens, which is a game-changer for saving money on meals.
A family friendly hotel walkable to Legoland! With its spacious accommodations, resort amenities, and unbeatable location near LEGOLAND, Hilton Grand Vacations Club MarBrisa is a fantastic choice for families looking for comfort and convenience during their San Diego getaway!
2. LEGOLand Hotel & LEGOLand Castle Hotel (Carlsbad)
For the ultimate LEGO adventure, LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Castle Hotel deliver a magical, themed stay that your kids will talk about long after the trip is over. Located just steps from the park entrance, these hotels are more than just a place to sleep—they’re an extension of the park experience itself.
Rooms are fully themed with kid-friendly favorites like Pirate, Kingdom, Ninjago, Adventure, and LEGO Friends, and feature bunk beds, treasure hunts, and separate sleeping areas for kids and parents. The lobby is a giant LEGO play area, and there are to keep the fun going after park hours.
Guests also enjoy exclusive early park access, making it easy to hit popular rides before the crowds. Plus, the on-site restaurants like Bricks Family Restaurant and Dragon’s Den serve up buffet-style meals with options for picky eaters.
If you’re looking for a truly immersive LEGO stay where the hotel is part of the adventure, this is the perfect choice—especially for first-timers or kids who are all-in on the LEGO world.
The ultimate LEGO-themed stay for families visiting LEGOLand California! Enjoy themed rooms, nightly entertainment, early park access, and interactive play areas, all just steps from the park entrance. A dream stay for little LEGO fans! 🏰🧱✨
-- Other Nearby Hotel Options to Consider --
If you’re looking for alternatives that are still close to LEGOLAND and offer excellent family-friendly perks, here are two more options we seriously considered:
3. Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa
This hotel offers its own private entrance to LEGOLAND, plus a beautiful pool with a waterslide—perfect if your kids somehow still have energy after a day in the park! Spacious rooms, on-site dining, and a relaxed resort vibe make this a fantastic all-around option.
4. The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa
Sharing many of the same perks as the Sheraton (they’re neighboring sister properties), the Westin offers a more upscale feel with access to the same LEGOLAND entrance, pools, and dining options. A great choice for families wanting a touch of luxury.
Both hotels offer the convenience of proximity, family-friendly amenities, and resort comforts, and they were high on our list before we ultimately chose MarBrisa for the space and kitchen setup.
Our 2-Day LEGOLAND Itinerary
For the first leg of our San Diego family vacation, we spent two days in Carlsbad—and LEGOLand was the absolute highlight for our 5-year-old and 3-year-old! This park is perfect for younger kids, offering a mix of engaging rides that aren’t too scary, incredible LEGO displays, themed playgrounds, and, of course, tons of hands-on LEGO fun.
Since we wanted to get our money’s worth from the LEGOLand tickets, we spent full days at the park, which meant we didn’t have time to explore or enjoy the hotel pools. But honestly, the kids were having so much fun at LEGOLand, they didn’t even notice!
We found that splitting the visit into two focused days gave us plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Here’s how we spent our time:
Day 1: LEGOLAND Theme Park
Our first full day at LEGOLAND was all about riding, exploring, and building. With so many attractions designed specifically for younger kids, it was easy to fill an entire day with smiles, laughter, and nonstop LEGO-themed fun. If your kids enjoy live entertainment, don’t forget to check the show schedule and catch one of the park’s performances—from puppet-style adventures to high-energy musical acts, there’s something for every age group. You can find current showtimes and offerings here.
Traveling with toddlers? Be sure to visit the DUPLO Playtown! This area is perfect for kids ages 3 and under, with toddler-sized slides, interactive playhouses, and plenty of shaded seating for parents. It’s a fun and safe space for little ones to explore, especially if older siblings are off riding the bigger attractions.
Morning: Start the Day with Rides
We started our day bright and early (thanks to early park access through our hotel stay) and made a beeline for some of the most popular rides. LEGOLAND’s rides are perfect for younger kids—nothing too intense or scary.
- Skipper School – A calm, relaxing boat ride where kids take the helm of their own little boat and steer through a LEGO lagoon. It’s ideal for younger children who want a bit of independence without the speed or thrills—our 3 and 5-year-old loved feeling like the captain of his own ship!
- Coastersaurus – A fun and gentle roller coaster that gave just the right amount of thrill to get the kids excited but not overwhelmed.
- NINJAGO® The Ride – A 4D interactive ninja battle where you use hand gestures to “fight” villains. Our 5-year-old was absolutely thrilled to “train like a ninja!”
- Lost Kingdom Adventure – A slow-moving, laser-shooting ride through a LEGO desert temple where kids can aim for targets and rack up points. It’s Indiana Jones meets LEGO.
- Driving School – A favorite for little ones who want to get behind the wheel. Kids get to drive their own LEGO car and even earn a cute “driver’s license” as a souvenir!
Late Morning: Explore and Build
After riding a few attractions, we slowed the pace and spent some time soaking in the creativity and detail of the park.
- Miniland USA – This area was a big hit with our whole family. It features miniature LEGO versions of iconic American cities and landmarks, like the New York skyline, the Las Vegas Strip, and even scenes from Star Wars. Every structure is intricately built and full of hidden surprises that kept our kids pointing and giggling the whole time.
- Themed Play Zones – Scattered throughout the park are play areas designed to let kids blow off steam and be creative. Our kids loved stopping to build and race LEGO cars, climb play structures, and even cool off in shaded rest areas. These zones were a great way to take a break from lines and let them play freely.
- LEGO Sculptures & Photo Ops – As we moved from area to area, we couldn’t help but admire the massive LEGO sculptures—everything from fire-breathing dragons to life-sized LEGO characters. It’s a photographer’s paradise and the perfect backdrop for fun family photos.
Lunch Break
We grabbed a quick, kid-friendly meal at Knights’ Smokehouse BBQ, which had solid options like chicken tenders and pulled pork. If you’re traveling with picky eaters or looking to save a few dollars, packing small snacks or sandwiches is also a smart move—meals at LEGOLAND can add up quickly, and having your own stash gives you flexibility throughout the day.
And don’t forget to treat yourselves to the famous Granny’s Apple Fries! These warm, cinnamon-sugar dusted apple sticks are served with a sweet vanilla cream dipping sauce and are absolutely iconic at LEGOLAND. Our kids loved them—and okay, so did the adults. Perfect for sharing (or not!).
Afternoon: Build, Play, and Re-Ride Favorites
After lunch, we shifted into a more flexible rhythm that allowed us to mix high-energy fun with some downtime. Here’s how we spent our afternoon:
- Re-Ride Favorites – The kids couldn’t wait to hop back on their favorite rides from the morning. NINJAGO® The Ride was a must-repeat, and our little driver was thrilled to return to Driving School for another lap. Coastersaurus got a second ride too—clearly a top pick!
- Creative Play Zones – We carved out time for free play in the LEGO-themed playgrounds and building zones. These areas are a huge hit with younger kids and offer plenty of space to explore, climb, and build.
Cool Down Indoors – For a break from the sun, we visited the LEGO Factory Tour and the LEGO Ferrari Build & Race—a thrilling hands-on experience where kids (and grownups!) can build their own LEGO Ferrari and test it on three race tracks, including a digital racetrack for virtual racing. It’s the perfect mix of STEM learning and pure fun without leaving the excitement behind.
Wrapping Up Day 1
With happy kids, a few classic end-of-day meltdowns from all the walking, and lots of laughs, Day 1 was a big success. We packed in rides, LEGO play, and memorable moments—and somehow still had energy (barely!) to look ahead with excitement to everything Day 2 had in store.
Day 2: LEGOLAND Water Park + SEA LIFE Aquarium
After an action-packed Day 1, we were ready for a more relaxed—but still exciting—second day at LEGOLAND. We focused on the Water Park and the SEA LIFE Aquarium, which gave the kids a chance to splash, explore, and slow down the pace. Don’t forget your swimwear, sunscreen, and water shoes—this day is all about fun in the sun and hands-on discovery.
Morning: Splash into Water Park Fun
Even though it was a bit chilly during our visit, we couldn’t resist checking out the LEGOLAND Water Park! It’s a fantastic addition to your LEGOLAND adventure and a must-do on a San Diego family vacation. Admission is included with any Resort Hopper Ticket, making it a great value-packed experience. The park has something for all ages—from toddlers to thrill-seeking older kids—and promises a day filled with laughter, excitement, and fun in the sun (or even clouds!).
We arrived early to beat the crowds and grabbed lounge chairs right away—a smart move if you’re planning to stay for a few hours. There’s also the option to rent cabanas for extra shade and personal space.
Some of our favorite spots included:
- DUPLO® Splash Safari – Ideal for little ones (6 and under), this shallow splash zone has interactive features and gentle slides.
- Joker Soaker – A giant climbing and splash structure with a tipping bucket and small slides. Great fun for both toddlers and bigger kids.
- Lazy River – A relaxing float that gives everyone a chance to chill out.
- Pirate Reef – A splashy flume-style ride with a thrilling drop—be prepared to get soaked!
✔ Plan Your Route – Since the water park can get busy, it helps to arrive early and hit your must-dos first.
✔ Know the Rules – Be sure to check height and age restrictions ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
While we didn’t spend as long here as we would have on a warmer day, we definitely plan to return when the weather is hot and enjoy every attraction to the fullest!
Lunch Break
For lunch, we grabbed a quick bite from one of the water park snack bars—pizza slices, fruit cups, and cold drinks hit the spot after a morning of water play. We also packed some extra snacks and waters to keep everyone fueled and hydrated.
Afternoon: Explore SEA LIFE Aquarium
After drying off and changing, we headed next door to the SEA LIFE Aquarium, a perfect low-key, educational activity to wrap up our LEGOLAND experience. The aquarium is stroller-friendly, dimly lit (a blessing after a day in the sun), and full of interactive exhibits.
Highlights included:
- Touch pools where the kids got to feel sea stars and anemones
- Shark Tunnel Walkthrough – Always a crowd-pleaser, with fish swimming all around and overhead
- LEGO-themed marine displays – Colorful LEGO builds were cleverly integrated into the tanks
The aquarium wasn’t overly long, so it was ideal for younger kids with tired legs. It provided just the right mix of wonder and calm to wind down from a high-energy two-day adventure.
End of Day
By the time we exited the aquarium, we were all pleasantly exhausted. We stopped for a final family photo, promised the kids we’d come back again, and made our way back to the hotel with tired feet and full hearts. Day 2 was a perfect mix of water fun and underwater discovery—a great way to balance out the thrill of the theme park on Day 1.
LEGOLand Tips for Families
Want to make your visit even smoother? Here are some must-know LEGOLand tips:
- Arrive Early – The park opens 30 minutes before rides start, giving you time to get settled, take bathroom breaks, and snap a few photos before the crowds roll in.
- Stay Hydrated and Protected – You’ll be outdoors much longer than you expect! Bring refillable water bottlesand apply sunscreen frequently to keep everyone comfortable and sun-safe.
- Use the LEGOLAND App – It’s super helpful for real-time ride wait times, a park map, mobile food ordering, and show schedules.
- Pack Swimwear & Towels – If you’re planning to visit the water park or splash zones, a change of clothes is a must.
- Bring Snacks – LEGOLAND allows outside snacks (just no large coolers), which is a big win when traveling with hungry little adventurers.
- Take Advantage of Rider Swap – For families with kids of varying ages, Rider Swap lets one parent wait with the non-rider while the other enjoys the ride—and then swap without standing in line again.
- Stroller Rentals Available – Even if your kids don’t use strollers anymore, LEGOLAND is large and little legs get tired fast. Rentals are available at the entrance.
LEGOLand was such a hit that we’re already planning a return trip—especially to properly enjoy the waterpark slides when the weather is warmer!
What is Reserve 'n' Ride?
Reserve ‘n’ Ride is LEGOLAND California’s virtual queue system that allows you to reserve ride times via the LEGOLAND app, reducing your wait times. There are three tiers:
- Express: Reduces wait times by 25%
- Deluxe: Reduces wait times by 50%
- Ultimate: Reduces wait times by 90%
The pass covers 17 popular attractions, including Coastersaurus, NINJAGO The Ride, The Dragon, and Driving School. However, some rides have usage limits based on the pass tier.
When It’s Worth It
- Peak Times: During weekends, holidays, or school breaks, when the park is busiest, Reserve ‘n’ Ride can save significant time. For instance, on a crowded summer Friday, guests with the Ultimate pass reported minimal waits, often walking straight onto rides.
- Limited Visit Duration: If you’re visiting for only one day and want to experience as many rides as possible, the pass helps maximize your time.
- Families with Young Children: Avoiding long lines can prevent fatigue and meltdowns, making the experience more enjoyable for both kids and parents.
When It Might Not Be Necessary
- Off-Peak Visits: On weekdays during the off-season, the park is less crowded, and wait times are shorter. In such cases, the pass may not provide significant benefits.
- Budget Considerations: The cost can add up, especially for larger families. Prices start at $35 per person for Express and go up to $100 for Ultimate.
Tips
- Check the App: Monitor real-time wait times using the LEGOLAND app to decide if purchasing the pass is worthwhile during your visit.
- Purchase in Advance: Reserve ‘n’ Ride passes can sell out on busy days, so consider buying ahead of time if you plan to visit during peak periods
While it sounds super convenient, we ultimately chose not to purchase Reserve ‘n’ Ride since we went on a weekday during a non-peak season. Wait times were short enough, and we were able to enjoy most attractions without the need for a skip-the-line pass. If you’re visiting during a busy season or only have one day to visit, it may be worth the extra cost to maximize your time.
Dining Options Inside LEGOLAND California
The park features numerous eateries catering to different tastes:
- Pizza & Pasta Buffet: An all-you-can-eat spot offering a selection of pizzas, pastas, salads, and breadsticks.
- Knights’ Smokehouse BBQ: Serves Texas-style barbecue, including pulled pork, chicken, and beef brisket.
- Everything is Ramen: Offers homemade ramen, rice bowls, and salads.
- Ninja Kitchen: Features Korean fried wings, kimchi fried rice, and egg rolls.
- Granny’s Apple Fries: A signature treat of warm apple fries dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with vanilla cream dipping sauce.
While these options are diverse, some visitors have noted that certain meals can be pricey and may not cater to all dietary preferences.
Bringing Your Own Food
LEGOLAND California permits guests to bring in:
- Bottled water
- Small snacks that don’t require heating or refrigeration
- Baby food/formula
- Food for medical, religious, or specific dietary needs
However, large coolers, glass containers, and alcohol are prohibited.
Many families find bringing their own snacks and meals beneficial, especially for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions.
Tips for Dining at LEGOLAND
- Plan Ahead: Review the park’s dining options and menus before your visit to identify suitable choices.
- Use the LEGOLAND App: The app provides real-time information on restaurant locations, hours, and menus.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring refillable water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day. It can get hot!
- Snack Smart: Pack portable snacks like granola bars, fruit slices, or the kids favorite snack to keep energy levels up between meals.
Final Thoughts
LEGOLAND California is a perfect destination for families with young kids, especially between ages 2 and 10. We had a blast exploring the park at our own pace and making the most of the hotel perks. With two full days, your family will be able to enjoy everything LEGOLAND has to offer—and maybe even start planning your return trip before you leave!
Stay tuned for more from our San Diego with Kids blog series, where we cover other can’t-miss attractions and travel tips for family adventures!
