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Posts Tagged ‘legoland’
Thursday, October 27th, 2011
Ever heard of Carlsbad? It’s probably not the first place that pops to mind when you think of a California vacation…but maybe it should be. Often overlooked in favor of its popular neighbor, San Diego, Carlsbad has plenty of fun for families. This laidback town is just 36 miles north of the San Diego International Airport and less than an hour’s drive south from Orange County’s Irvine, making it an easy destination for those hailing from Los Angeles, Phoenix, and beyond. Here are some of the best attractions, restaurants, and accommodations Carlsbad has to offer families.
The Carlsbad Seawall beach walkway
Beaches, Beaches, Beaches!
Carlsbad is home to seven miles of beaches, where families can splash, swim, build sand castles, and maybe even learn to surf. If you’d rather just go for a seaside stroll, the Carlsbad Seawall stretches for about a mile along Carlsbad Blvd, with several beach access points along the way.
Carlsbad Lagoon
For some wave-free water fun, head to the Carlsbad Lagoon to rent stand-up paddle boards, canoes, jet skis, speed boats, and more. Float past luxury waterfront homes and into an inlet lined with condos and their docked boats.
Carlsbad Flower Fields
Carlsbad Flower Fields
Every spring families pose for pretty pictures amongst row upon row of brightly colored ranunculas at the Carlsbad Flower Fields. Gem-mining, free concerts, tractor-pulled wagon rides, and a maze made of sweet peas add to the fun.
Museum of Making Music
Discover the history of musical instruments from the 1890s to today at the Museum of Making Music. This attraction features over 500 instruments. Push the plentiful exhibit buttons to hear what the instruments sound like in the hands of masters. The best part is an interactive room where you can make your own music using an electric piano, drums, guitars, and more.
Carlsbad Premium Outlets
With over 90 stores to visit, save some time in your schedule and money in your vacation budget for trip to the Carlsbad Premium Outlets. Choose from favorites like Banana Republic Factory Store, Kenneth Cole, Coach, and Barney’s New York Outlet plus stores that cater to kids like Baby Gap Outlet, Gymboree Outlet, and Carter’s.
The Dragon roller coaster at LEGOLAND California
LEGOLAND California
Carlsbad is probably most well-known as the home of LEGOLAND California. This amusement park for families with children ages 2-12 offers mellow roller coasters, interactive rides, colorful play areas, and other fun for kids. The park’s centerpiece, Miniland USA, is filled with recreations of famous U.S. landmarks like the Las Vegas Strip and the Empire State Building as well as Star Wars scenes, all formed entirely from LEGO bricks.
Located inside LEGOLAND California, the LEGOLAND Water Park is a must-do if visiting during the warmth of summer. The whole family can float down the Build-A-Raft River, while stacking huge foam LEGO bricks on their inner-tubes. There are special splash areas with fountains and mini waterslides just for toddlers and young children while big kids and grown-ups can zip down four giant swirling slides.
SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium
Located next door to LEGOLAND California, SEA LIFE Carlsbad Aquarium is a fabulous attraction in its own right. Add SEALIFE Aquarium to your LEGOLAND visit by purchasing a park hopper, or purchase an entrance ticket just for the aquarium. Innovative pop-up underwater viewing stations give kids a chance to see what the fishies see. Make it a learning adventure by encouraging children to play the Quiz Trail, a scavenger hunt of sorts that teaches about marine life while children make their way through the aquarium’s exhibits.
Pop-up bubble at SEA LIFE Aquarium
Family Dining
Just above the flower fields, you’ll find the Karl Strauss Brewing Company. Each year this family-friendly restaurant and brewery creates 30 beers, including seasonal and and specialty brews. Stop in for lunch or dinner or just to get a side of their to-die-for fries with a nice, cold brew (or a lemonade for the kiddies).
Another dining option is Pizza Port with arguably the best pizza in San Diego County, a handful of video games for kids, and plenty of beers on tap for grown-ups.
If your kids dig Mexican food, there are a couple of tasty options for families. Rena Crawford-Payne, a Carlsbad resident and mom, recommends Norte because, “they have a nice outdoor patio and you don’t have to worry about the kids being too loud or making a big mess.”
Los Olas is the Carlsbad Mexican restaurant of choice for Aimee Steckowski, a mom and author of the FancyLittleThings.com blog. She says, “They have wonderful food choices for both adults and children. Their food smells and tastes wonderful — true authentic Mexican food served in big portions for great prices.”
Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach pool
Kid-Friendly Accommodations
The Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach makes a wonderful choice for families. This particular Hilton Garden Inn ranks highly among mid-range hotels year after year, not only for its gorgeous Southern California location across from the beach, but also for its above-and-beyond customer service. Complimentary shuttles cart guests anywhere within a five-mile radius of the hotel. During the summer, child guests are greeted with a stuffed sea animal like a dolphin or seal. In warmer months, guests can munch popcorn and cookies while watching family-friendly Movies on the Lawn on an inflatable screen. They even pass out free Otterpops to cool down guests at the hotel pool!
You could win a two-night stay at ANY Hilton Garden Inn in the world (including the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach). Enter the Hilton Garden Inn Vacation Wishes Giveaway now!
What is your favorite Carlsbad attraction or restaurant? Tell us in the comments below!
You might also like:
• Halloween Fun for Families at LEGOLAND California
• Hilton Garden Inn Vacation Wishes Giveaway
• 7 Reasons to Visit LEGOLAND Florida
• Restaurants, Drinks & Sweets in Freeport, Maine
A Note from The Travel Mama: I received a complimentary stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach. As a travel writer, I have also received media discounts/passes from a few of the other attractions mentioned above.
Tags: beach, California, Carlsbad, Carlsbad Flower Fields, carlsbad lagoon, children, families, Hilton Garden Inn, kids, legoland, museum of making music, sea life aquarium
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews, Restaurant Reviews | 4 Comments »
Tuesday, October 18th, 2011
Lovers of the little interlocking LEGO bricks whooped it up under a shower of brightly colored confetti before rushing toward the gates of the new LEGOLAND Florida at the park’s grand opening this past weekend. Having been at the park the day prior during a preview for media, and as a former LEGOLAND California annual pass holder, I was on a mission to get to the best rides in the park.
LEGOLAND Florida Grand Opening
“What suckers,” I thought as I whizzed past families posing with huge sculptures of Albert Einstein, dinosaurs, Darth Vader, giraffes, and southern belles formed entirely from thousands of those ingenious LEGO bricks. I, much like Charlie Sheen, was winning. I would avoid the insane lines that were sure to form as the throngs crowded the park.
Winners aside, here are seven reasons you should visit LEGOLAND Florida.
1. Interactive attractions for children
LEGOLAND Florida General Manager Adrian Jones bragged that while most other amusement parks offer primarily passive entertainment, LEGOLAND’s attractions are interactive. Kids drive mini cars around two-lane streets featuring a round-about and stop signs at Ford Driving School. They build and race LEGO vehicles and can even build and program computerized LEGO MINDSTORMS robots in the Imagination Zone. And they get a work-out pulling themselves up a rope pulley on Kidpower Tower or romping through play areas (DUPLO Village and DUPLO Barn for little kids and the Forestman’s Hideout and Pharoah’s Revenge for big kids).
Another interactive favorite for all ages is the Lost Kingdom ride in Land of Adventure. Riders rack up points for shooting targets throughout the Egyptian-themed dark ride with their own laser guns. Hint: shoot the light on the cobra in the pot in the final room over and over to boost your score.
Kidpower Tower is one of 50 rides, shows, shops, and attractions at the new Florida theme park
2. Roller coasters
No amusement park would be complete without roller coasters. LEGOLAND Florida is home to four coasters (one more than is offered by its California sister). All are gentle, yet exciting enough to please both youngsters (my 6-year-old would love them all!) and adults. True thrill seekers may find the coasters a bit too tame but I enjoyed each ride’s unique theme and different feel, from the wooden dinosaur-themed Coastersaurus to the suspended steel Flight School on which riders’ feet dangle below them as the coaster soars across the tracks.
The Flight School roller coaster is more mellow than it appears
3. Cypress Gardens
Thirty-nine of LEGOLAND Florida’s 150 acres make up the historic Cypress Gardens. Originally opened in 1933, Cypress Gardens (which has retained its name), became famous for its gigantic Banyan Tree, southern belles sporting hoop skirts, and water ski shows with skiers forming daring human pyramids as they swooshed across the adjacent Lake Heloise. Jones said, “Some people see this as the end of Cypress Gardens. I prefer to see it as a new beginning.”
During a tour with proud Landscape Manager Nigel Dunning, I learned all about the native and exotic plants of the garden. The Cypress trees have “knees” (roots that grow as tall as flood waters reach, allowing the trees to breathe). The beautiful but thorny Silver Bell trees bloom pink in the fall (during my visit) and turn fluffy like dandelions to spread their seeds. The park’s treasured Banyan tree, brought here in 1936, is a native to India and Asia but must be kept alive with an army of 36 turbo jet heaters when the temperature dips below 35 degrees Fahrenheit here in Florida.
To understand how big the Cypress Gardens Banyan tree is, look for the people in the left bottom corner of the picture (and, yes, this is one single tree)
4. Water ski show
Although there is no pyramid of water skiers, LEGOLAND is keeping the water ski show tradition alive with a pirate-themed, upbeat show on Lake Heloise. The Battle for Brickbeard’s Bounty has children and adults laughing, cheering, and gasping as Captain Brickbeard and his band of pirates are defeated by Miss Miranda and her imperial soldiers in a showy display of water ski jumps and tricks. The first five rows get splashed so guard your cameras and cell phones!
Miss Miranda’s imperial soldiers in the Battle for Brickbeard’s Bounty water ski show
5. Locally sourced, healthy food options (& sinful treats!)
As far as theme park food goes, LEGOLAND Florida menu options are tasty, fresh, and reasonably priced. (Ex: $7.99 for a cheese hamburger made from never-frozen, local beef served with lettuce, tomato, a pickle and a side of fries). According to Executive Chef Robert Sit, the park’s food is locally sourced and seasonal as much as possible, which is better for nutrition, flavor, and the environment. While traditional amusement park treats like ice cream cones and pizza can be purchased at the park, an effort is made to provide healthy dishes as well, like juicy rotisserie chicken served with roasted vegetables. Plus, all kids’ meals come with a whole piece of fruit and choice of water or milk instead of French fries and soda.
Eat a healthy meal and then splurge on an order of LEGOLAND’s signature Granny’s Applefries: granny smith apples coated in a flour mixture before being deep fried and dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with whipped cream.
LEGOLAND’s signature treat, Granny’s Applefries
6. More LEGO fun to come
Located in Winter Haven, the new theme park is a good hour drive from Orlando’s airport and most tourist attractions and hotels. According to Jones, the goal is to expand LEGOLAND from its current one-day draw to a multi-day destination.
I couldn’t get anyone to spill all the LEGO bricks about specific attractions on the docket but LEGOLAND Spokesperson Jackie Wallace said, “This is just the beginning for us. So many plans are on the drawing board for LEGOLAND Florida.” By next year, you can expect to see a LEGOLAND Water Park added. Additional rides and interactive attractions plus a LEGO-themed resort hotel are also in the works.
A southern belle built from LEGO bricks is a nod to the history of Cypress Gardens, the botanic garden preserved within the amusement park
7. LEGO brick creations
The star attraction of any LEGOLAND park is Miniland, where famous buildings and structures from around the real (and imaginary) world are brought to life. Unique to the Florida park are LEGO brick representations of various home-state cities and sites like Miami Beach, the Kennedy Space Station, the Daytona International Speedway, and Key West.
I shouldn’t have been surprised by the excitement over all things LEGO as I dashed past photo-snapping families on opening day. It’s those plastic sculptures formed from 50 million LEGO bricks that make this park different from all other non-LEGO amusement parks. Orlando residents and visitors are a spoiled bunch when it comes to theme parks. They’ve been there, ridden that. But the LEGO creations have visitors oohing, ahhing, and snatching up LEGO model kits from gift shops with abandon. Just like Charlie Sheen, it appears I wasn’t winning after all.
Miami Beach in Miniland USA
Can LEGOLAND Florida survive?
Ownership of this historic park has changed hands a few times over the years and there is much hope in the Orlando and Winter Haven communities that LEGOLAND Florida can revive this once popular tourist attraction. The question is…will LEGO be enough of a draw to lure visitors 60 minutes away from the king mouse of amusement parks?
What do you think? Will the new LEGOLAND park succeed in Florida? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
You might also like:
• Hilton Garden Inn Vacation Wishes Giveaway
• LEGOLAND California for All Ages
• Nickelodeon Suites Resort: A Hotel & Water Park for a Splashing Good Time
• The Travel Mama’s Guide to Orlando & Kissimmee with Kids
I took the photos of the Kidpower Tower, the Banyan tree, Granny’s Applefries, and Miami Beach in Miniland USA. All others were taken by Chip Litherland Photography and provided courtesy of LEGOLAND Florida.
A Note from The Travel Mama: As a member of the media, much of my visit to LEGOLAND Florida was hosted.
Tags: apple fries, banyan tree, cypress gardens, Florida, grand opening, legoland, orlando, water ski show, winter haven
Posted in Family Vacations, Theme Parks | 7 Comments »
Sunday, October 16th, 2011
Hilton Garden Inn wants to make your vacation wishes come true! Daydreaming of sipping margaritas with amigos in Mexico? Or might you fancy some fish n’ chips in jolly old England? Maybe you’d like to learn to surf in California, dude? Hilton Garden Inn is giving away a two-night stay to one lucky Travel Mamas reader at ANY of their 500 hotel locations in the world!
Lobby at the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach
Hilton Garden Inn is a favorite choice for families looking for above-and-beyond customer service and kid-friendly accommodations at an affordable price. I was recently invited to spend a weekend at the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach in Southern California. My husband and I left the kids at home with grandma and grandpa, and let me tell you, Hilton Garden Inn is a fabulous option for a romantic getaway as well!
Just a sampling of a Hilton Garden Inn breakfast spread
No matter which Hilton Garden Inn you choose, start your day off with their scrumptious breakfast of goodies like pastries, oatmeal, fresh fruits, yogurt, and made-to-order omelettes — all at a reasonable price in a family-friendly environment.
The beach at Hilton Garden Inn’s Carlsbad location
If you choose the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach as your destination of choice, your children will be welcomed with a gift like a stuffed toy dolphin or seal during a summer visit. After settling in, walk across the street to spend a day at the beach or relax poolside back at the hotel. After a tough day of sunning yourself, splashing in the pool, and relaxing in the hot tub you deserve a little treat. Luckily Hilton Garden Inn staff comes by every hour or so to offer up frozen Otter Pops to cool down hotel guests of all ages.
Complimentary poolside refreshments
Walk a few blocks into downtown Carlsbad to grab a bite to eat for lunch. If you’re too tired from all of that swimming, there’s a complimentary Hilton Garden Inn shuttle that will take you anywhere within a five-mile radius to see sites like the famous Carlsbad Flower Fields abloom in the spring or to LEGOLAND California year-round.
Carlsbad Flower Fields
Each hotel has a fitness center. If you prefer working out in the privacy of your own room, just request a Stay Fit Kit free from the front desk, which comes complete with Pilates band, yoga mat, ab ball, and weights. There are even free on-demand exercise videos available on in-room TVs.
Hilton Garden Inn fitness center
The on-site Carlsbad Beach Bistro is open nightly until 11 pm with soups, salads, sandwiches, and specials. Afterward, you can enjoy summer Movies on the Lawn, shown every Thursday, Friday, and Sunday evenings on an inflatable screen. Watch family-oriented films like Disney’s Up! The hotel provides free blankets for your comfort plus popcorn and cookies as snacks.
Enter to win!
If you could stay at any Hilton Garden Inn in the world, where would you go? Visit the Hilton Garden Inn Website and choose which destination appeals to you most. Leave a comment below stating which Hilton Garden Inn you’d choose and why. You can enter ONCE PER DAY. Choose a different location every time or make the same choice over and over; it’s up to you! THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. Find out who won now!
This contest ends on Sunday, October 30 at 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time. A winner will be chosen at random using Random.org. The winner will be notified via email. If the prize is not claimed within two days, another winner will be selected. Approximate prize value is $400.
Want to be notified of other giveaways and happenings on TravelMamas.com? Sign up for the Travel Mamas e-newsletter now! Mailings are typically sent out once per month.
For hotel updates, giveaways and specials, “like” Hilton Garden Inn on Facebook.
Want another chance to win a fabulous prize? Enter to win a $75 Baby Equipment Rental from Go Baby Go! Receive a free rental of a full-size crib, double jogger, high chair and more for your next trip to San Diego County. (Especially handy if you’re Hilton Garden Inn Vacation Wish is to visit the Carlsbad or other San Diego location!)
You might also like:
• Carlsbad Flower Fields with Kids
• Fall Beauty at Wolfe’s Neck Farm in Freeport, Maine
• Guide to Carlsbad, California for Families
• Weekend Getaway in Freeport, Maine
A note from The Travel Mama: The Hilton Garden Inn sponsored my weekend getaway to Carlsbad and this giveaway.
Tags: Carlsbad, Carlsbad Flower Fields, family, giveaway, Hilton Garden Inn, legoland, pool, vacation
Posted in Family Vacations, Giveaways, Grown-Up Getaways, Hotel Reviews | 735 Comments »
Wednesday, July 27th, 2011
There are stories on TravelMamas.com that I am incredibly proud of, and others…not so much. In a few, I let my heart hang a tad more open than I feel comfortable with. (Those are probably among the best.)
A blogging game of sorts has me reflecting on this site’s nearly 250 blog posts. This Tripbase project, entitled My 7 Links, is an effort to unite bloggers and their readers through lessons learned. Thank you to my fellow Best Family Travel Advice blogger, Mara Gorman of The Mother of All Trips, for nominating me to participate. Basically, I am supposed to pick re-read-worthy previous posts in 7 specific categories. Come along on this journey down Travel Mamas memory lane!
Most beautiful post
I wasn’t sure if I should pick the story with the most beautiful photos…or the one that is most beautifully written…or the one with the most beautiful message? In the end, I went with the one whose story encompasses the idea of beauty and a longing for it: Fall Beauty at Wolfe’s Neck Farm in Freeport, Maine.
Most popular post
This one was easy. The 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools in the World has been one of the most popular stories on TravelMamas.com every month since it posted in August of 2009. Apparently I am not alone in my love of great hotel pools!
Most controversial post
Despite my oft devil’s advocate stance in real life, I don’t write a lot of controversial posts. When I was quoted in an MSNBC.com story about meeting up with other traveling families, I was shocked to read the negative responses in the comments, like “What!!?? Aren’t family vacations supposed to be with family? This is patently stupid and ridiculous.” In response, I wrote Connecting With Other Families While Traveling – What’s Wrong With That?.
I also stirred up some fiery feelings amongst travel writers in TBEX 2011 in Vancouver – A Stunning Conference in a Charming City of Contrasts. (I know that brings My 7 Links now to 8. But what can I say? I’m rebellious and controversial like that.)
Most helpful post
This is the 7 Links category that I struggled with the most. Google Analytics can tell me which stories are read the most, but it can’t tell me which stories resonate the most deeply with readers or which ones you find most helpful.
So, I asked Travel Mamas Facebook fans which post they found most helpful. Regular reader Jenn Huff said she found the LEGOLAND stories on TravelMamas.com most helpful because, “There isn’t much info out there about LEGOLAND except that it exists and people have gone there. Your posts, on the other hand, were insightful and actually had lots of great info about the park, weather, food, activities and advice.” I’ve written seven stories about LEGOLAND on this site so far, including LEGOLAND Water Park: Joy Is Good, Right? and LEGOLAND for All Ages. I hope you’ll find them helpful too!
Post whose success surprised me the most
New Zealand in the Footsteps of the Lord of the Rings is the most popular guest post ever written for this site. When Travel Mamas Guest Blogger Maria Berkestam of The Extended World Travel Blog proposed this story idea to me, I knew it would be popular amongst Lord of the Rings fans. However, I underestimated the number of Lord of the Rings fans out there and the depth of their passion. My husband is a die-hard LOTR fan and begs me to watch the movies with him, but I have to admit I’ve neither seen any of the films nor read the J.R.R. Tolkein books. Maybe I should get on that?
Post that didn’t get the attention it deserves
When I teach classes on how to travel with babies and toddlers, I start by asking parents what they are most concerned about regarding travel with young children. Besides “everyone else on the airplane hating me,” the most common worry is that children will not sleep well while away from home. Therefore, I was a tad surprised this post on Travel Sleep Tips for Babies, Toddlers & Children did not get a lot of interest. Based on an interview with Davis Ehrler, child sleep specialist and author of the 3-Day Sleep Solution Workbook and DVD, this story offers some terrific advice to traveling parents. This was one of the first stories on the site so I blame my lack of search engine optimization knowledge. Inspired by this 7 Links story, I recently updated the post a bit; I hope it will now get the love it deserves.
Post I am most proud of
Why We Travel with Children was the welcome post when Travel Mamas first launched in March 2009. It is the essence of why I write this blog.
Now it’s my turn to nominate five fabulous bloggers to participate in the My 7 Links project. I hope you’ll go check out their sites when you get a chance!
Andrea Fellman of Savvy Sassy Moms
Anjanette Porter of Anj Writes About
Candice Broom of Mom Most Traveled
Debi Huang of Go Explore Nature
Katie Dillon of La Jolla Mom
Well, how’d I do? Do you think I chose the right 7 Links? Leave a comment below with your thoughts on any of these blog posts or other Travel Mamas stories. Heck! Leave a comment the number 7, travel with children, my hair, whatever! (As long as it’s not SPAM, people. No one likes SPAM.)
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• Give a Little…Get a Lot!
• How Did I Become The Travel Mama?
• The Day My Life Changed Forever in France’s Luberon
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Tags: best hotel pools, legoland, Lord of the Rings, my 7 links, Travel Mamas
Posted in Family Vacations, Grown-Up Getaways, Travel Tips | 3 Comments »
Friday, June 24th, 2011
Get this…your family could win a trip to the new LEGOLAND Florida! As a SoCal resident and LEGOLAND California fan, I was thrilled when I recently received a big ol’ box of goodies in the mail that announced the opening of this theme park, set for October 15, 2011. Now YOU have a chance to experience this brand spankin’ new park for free!
A glimpse at LEGOLAND Florida’s rides and attractions
This will be the largest LEGOLAND in the world, located on 150 acres in Winter Haven, Florida – just southwest of Orlando. LEGOLAND is designed specifically for families with children ages 2 to 12. A lot of the rides and attractions will be the same as the park my family knows and loves here in our Southern California backyard. Be sure to eat some yummy apple fries with cinnamon whipped cream and take a spin on my daughter’s all-time favorite amusement park ride, the Dragon roller coaster. There will be more than 50 rides, shows, and attractions plus restaurants, shopping, and beautiful botanical gardens.
The box of LEGOLAND Florida treats I received in the mail
Parenting Magazine is giving away a trip for a family of four to LEGOLAND Florida including airfare, two-day park passes, meal vouchers, three nights accommodations in a one-bedroom suite at Best Western Auburndale, an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour with a Master Model Builder, and a bunch of other fantastic vacation goodies. All you have to do is “like” Parenting Magazine on Facebook and click the “Parenting Giveaway” tab on the left-side of the page to fill out an entry form. You could also win an array of other prizes like a $500 Old Navy gift card or a $510 Fisher Price Summer Fun Prize Pack. Contest ends August 31, 2011. See the official rules.
The Dragon roller coaster is one of my family’s favorite LEGOLAND rides
Find out more about LEGOLAND Florida at florida.legoland.com.
Why do you want to visit LEGOLAND Florida? Leave a comment below. (NOT TO WIN, to satisfy my curiosity!)
You might also like:
• LEGOLAND for All Ages
• LEGOLAND Splash Zoo for Toddlers & Beyond
• LEGOLAND Water Park: Joy Is Good, Right?
• The Travel Mama’s Guide to Orlando & Kissimmee with Kids
A Note from The Travel Mama: I have no affiliation with Parenting Magazine, although I have written for Parenting Younger Years, which was then called Babytalk Magazine. LEGOLAND Florida did not ask me to write this post. I just thought this looked like a SWEET prize that I wanted to share with you!
Tags: dragon roller coaster, Florida, giveaway, legoland, parenting magazine
Posted in Giveaways, Theme Parks | 10 Comments »
Wednesday, June 1st, 2011
Splash Zoo in the LEGOLAND California Waterpark is beyond adorable. This new water play area is outfitted with DUPLO animals (a lion, a zebra, a giraffe, a polar bear, and two penguins). Each animal has an interactive feature, like a wheel on the giraffe that makes water spout from its mouth and ears. A seesaw sprays riders when toddlers make it teeter up and down. There’s also a crawl-through tunnel and a fountain that shoots water 25 feet in the air.
LEGOLAND Water Park Splash Zoo
Although built specifically for children ages one to three, there were plenty of other kids splashing around in the Splash Zoo on its opening day. At first my six-year-old balked at this attraction being “for babies” but after she saw other big kids hamming it up on the water features, she joined in the fun.
I worried about keeping an eye on two young children all on my own so I didn’t bring my three-year-old son to opening day of this attraction. I was wracked with guilt the minute I laid eyes on Splash Zoo because I knew how much he would go bananas for this colorful, watery area. Apparently, Karissa felt a tad guilty too. Upon arrival, she said, “Mommy, I feel sad for Leo that he’s not here.”
Located near numerous lounge chairs and a handful of rent-able shaded cabanas, this attraction makes a great spot for parents to chat and relax without worry while little ones play since there is no pool of water here - just fountains galore.
Splash Zoo is a perfect spot for toddlers and preschoolers
Nearby is Splash Safari with its child-sized waterslides and Kid Creek, a mini lazy river built just for children. Life vests are available for kids of all ages at LEGOLAND Water Park, so really, I could have brought both and managed just fine.
To be honest, I was craving a mommy-daughter day. It turns out, Karissa must’ve wanted a special day for just the two of us too. She told me she loved me (unprompted) at least 10 times that day, while splashing at the water park or standing in line for the rides in the amusement park.
My six-year-old getting into the Splash Zoo spirit
After a long day filled with waterslides, roller coasters, and ice cream cones Karissa didn’t even complain when she got a blister from her shoe. But she did suggest, “Maybe next time you should take Leo to LEGOLAND for a special mommy-son day.”
Sounds like a good idea to me!
Splash Zoo opened over Memorial Day Weekend 2011. Read more about LEGOLAND Waterpark and LEGOLAND California amusement park.
What’s your favorite LEGOLAND attraction? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
You might also like:
• A Mommy-Daughter Vacation in Puerto Rico
• Huntington Beach with Kids – The Ultimate Surfer Town
• San Diego Zoo’s Best Beasts, Eats, and Treats
• Top 10 Disneyland Rides & Attractions for Babies & Toddlers
A Note from The Travel Mama: My daughter and I received free one-day entrance to LEGOLAND California and the LEGOLAND Water Park. I always share my honest opinions, no matter who pays!
Tags: California, children, fountain, kids, legoland, Splash Zoo, toddlers, water park, waterslide
Posted in Family Vacations, Theme Parks | 1 Comment »
Saturday, October 9th, 2010
When I was a kid, I had just one shot at wearing my Halloween costume each year while trick-or-treating through my suburban Minnesota neighborhood. Most years I had to wear a thick winter coat over my bunny rabbit, princess, or ballerina outfit. This often led to my crying, whining, and general tantrum-throwing. Not so for lucky kids visiting Southern California during October! Families can celebrate the holiday all month long at LEGOLAND California. In San Diego’s mild climate, kids can collect treats in their Halloween garb coat-free and maybe even snag a prize in the process!
My son on one of the Brick-Or-Treat Trails at LEGOLAND
Brick-Or-Treat Trails
Kids don’t need to wear a costume to gather goodies at the treat stations set up along two Brick-Or-Treat Trails in LEGOLAND, but what kid doesn’t like an extra chance to be a super hero or pirate? Trick-or-treaters aged 12 and younger can gather candies, apples, crayons, and more from one of the trails located along the Enchanted Walk (open weekends 12 to 5 pm plus Saturday evenings during October) or at the Miniland Overlook (open October Saturday evenings 5 to 9 pm).
If you didn’t have time to put together a costume or your kiddo wants to add a little flair to their ensemble, elaborate face-painting is available in Castle Hill. Choose from designs for fairies, monsters, animals, and more. Prices range from $12 to $19.
Mail Order Monsters
Mail Order Monsters Show
Starring ten-year-old Princess Playwright and some grown-up “monsters” like Jester Funny Bones, Mail Order Monsters is a not-too-scary slapstick show for families. My kindergartner and toddler laughed at the actors’ antics but they were not at all interested in meeting the monsters (especially the zombie!) when the characters climbed down from the stage after the show to mingle with the crowd. Of course, my daughter was fascinated by the princess and ran up to her get a better look at her sparkling orange dress.
Performances take place several times throughout weekend days and Saturday evenings in October at the Courtyard Theater. There are no seats besides a couple of benches at the back, but kids and adults didn’t seem to mind standing or sitting on the ground.
Special Halloween treats available for purchase
Halloween Sweets
If the kids didn’t get their fill of sweet treats from the Brick-Or-Treat Trails, you can purchase Halloween-themed goodies at eateries throughout the park. Choose from Jack-o-lantern cookies, caramel apples, orange-colored crispy rice treats drizzled with chocolate, Halloween cupcakes, and hot apple cider. Or, stop by Sir Scoops A Lot for a pumpkin ice cream shake.
My kids were afraid of these jack-o-lanterns until I pretended this one was eating my hand
“Spooky” Decorations
Everywhere you look you’ll find LEGO brick-shaped ghosts and skeletons plus live pumpkins and man-made jack-o-lanterns. You must stop by the Giant LEGO Pumpkin made entirely of LEGO bricks and the Giant Ghost to snap adorable photos of the kids.
One of the “hidden” candy corns at Haunted Hideaways
Candy Corn Scavenger Hunt
Halloween or not, one of my kindergartner’s favorite LEGOLAND attractions is The Hideaways, a gigantic playground perfect for kids five and older. At this time of year, it is transformed into Haunted Hideaways with spooky music and “hidden” candy corn pictures that kids can count while they climb across rope bridges and zoom down slides.
To participate in the Candy Corn Scavenger Hunt, just fill out a form with how many candy corns your child spotted and your contact information for a chance to win a family four pack of tickets to LEGOLAND California.
Howlin’ Howie’s Contest at Brick-Or-Treat Party Nights
Brick-Or-Treat Party Nights
There is no additional cost to attend the Brick-Or-Treat Party Nights, which take place 5 to 9 pm every Saturday in October. In addition to the Halloween fun outlined above, most of LEGOLAND’s regular attractions stay open. Plus, there are special shows, activities, and contests just for partygoers in Castle Hill.
Hubble Bubble’s Dance Party
Kids can compete to howl the loudest and proudest in Howlin’ Howie’s Contest at the Courtyard Theatre twice each night. Watch the Spirits of Brick-Or-Treat Light Show, where friendly spooks and pumpkin luminaries light up and sing on the castle rooftop in celebration of Halloween every half hour, starting at 6:30 pm. Hubble Bubble’s Dance Party starts at 5 pm and culminates in the Ultimate Dance Off at 8:30 pm, when six of the best dancers are chosen to dance onstage. A final winner is chosen by show of applause.
Here’s Mikayla (age 11), a “Creative” Halloween Costume Contest entrant
The Costume Contest draws some truly innovative costumes in the categories of Heroes, LEGO, and Creative. Registration begins at 4 pm. The contest is open to kids aged 12 and younger. A panel of judges chooses one first-prize winner from each category.
Get Your Halloween On!
A regular admission ticket allows you to enjoy the daytime Halloween fun and includes entrance to Brick-Or-Treat Nights for $59 online or $84 at the door. If you only want to attend the nighttime activities, you can purchase a Brick-Or-Treat ticket for $30 online or $40 at the door. Go to the LEGOLAND California website to purchase tickets and learn more.
Where is your favorite place to celebrate Halloween? Leave a comment below!
You might also like:
• Halloween with a Disney Twist
• LEGOLAND for All Ages
• LEGOLAND Water Park: Joy Is Good, Right?
• San Diego Zoo’s Best Beasts, Eats, and Treats
A note from The Travel Mama: My family and I received complimentary passes to LEGOLAND California to experience the park’s Halloween festivities.
Want to read about more Halloween fun? Check out the Halloween blog carnival over at Best Family Travel Advice or on Trekaroo’s Spotlight Thursday.
Tags: brick-or-treat, California, costume contest, Halloween, legoland, San Diego
Posted in Family Vacations, Theme Parks | 12 Comments »
Sunday, August 8th, 2010
Oh, how I love water parks! To be an “authentic” traveler, I guess I’m supposed to only like nature-y, educational, culturally enriching, good-for-you stuff. But here’s the thing about water parks…they’re FUN! They induce pure joy for my children, and let’s face it, for me! Joy is good, right?
I kept seeing television ads and hearing radio spots for the new LEGOLAND Water Park, located at LEGOLAND in Carlsbad, California (just North of San Diego). I couldn’t take it any longer; I had to check that place out!
Build-A-Raft River
For the Whole Family
Looking for something to keep everyone happy? Head to the Build-A-Raft River. This lazy river meanders through the water park and welcomes guests of all ages, including lap-held babies. Be ready to get doused or hop off to steer your vessel away from squirting cannons and pouring buckets poised along the watery path. Upbeat, summery tunes like Beatles remakes and “Brown-Eyed Girl” bopping through speakers add to the fun. Kids and grown-ups alike enjoy stacking foam LEGO bricks on the perimeter of their rafts before setting sail. While waiting in line for the more daring slides, I was entertained watching floaters of all ages who busied themselves rearranging their LEGO creations while as they floated down the river.
Especially for Babies, Toddlers & Little Kids
My favorite part of this park is the DUPLO Splash Safari. True, this is partially due to the fact that my kids are the perfect ages (two and five) for this attraction. But, LEGOLAND shines best when catering to younger children, as evidenced by its abundance of kid-centric rides while offering just a few relatively tame “thrill” rides.
Our friend, Mat, sliding side-by-side with his daughter, Isabella (age three)
The three small-scale waterslides do not have any height requirements but curiously do not allow parents to ride with children in their laps. Instead, you must ride side-by-side. I found this to be a precarious way to keep my toddler, Leo, safe while sliding together and it resulted in him getting a noseful of water on one splashy entry.
Kids Creek, a lazy river just for children
My kindergartner, Karissa, appreciated the freedom (under her parents’ watchful, yet distant supervision) that this kids’ area allowed. She zipped down the slides again and again, without any help from mom or dad. She also loved setting sail on Kids Creek, a miniature lazy river, whenever she wanted, no parents’ permission or assistance required. LEGOLAND life guards help kids board their rafts and keep a close eye on them as they float along the circular river.
Polar bear-shaped splash fountain
The squirting polar bear, alligator, and elephant fountains provide oodles of entertainment to the youngest park goers. Plus, they allow for adorable photo opps to parents of tots.
Fun for Big Kids & Grown-Ups
There are five big waterslides at the LEGOLAND Water Park. The blue-colored Splash Out was closed the day of my visit, which I think added to our long wait times. Be forewarned that kids cannot wear life vests on any of the bigger slides besides Orange Rush. Karissa and I waited 10 minutes in line for one of the two red Twin Chasers tube slides before someone alerted us to this fact, at which point I had to walk back to DUPLO Splash Safari to deposit Karissa with her dad. I then rejoined the line and waited an additional 30 minutes before I could take a turn (it’s a tough job being a travel blogger, but someone’s gotta do it!). I liked the Twin Chasers well enough but they were’nt the zippiest of slides. In fact, I got stuck midway and had to scoot myself down to keep going.
The Joker Soaker and big kid waterslides
The most exhilarating slide, by far, is Orange Rush. My daughter and I sat in a gigantic inner tube to glide and spin our way down and around to the bottom. I thought Karissa might get nervous when we spent half of our journey backwards-facing, but it didn’t seem to phase her one bit. She tends to be a bit of a daredevil when it comes to amusement parks; if you have more timid ride-goer, take heed. I asked Karissa what was her favorite part about the LEGOLAND Water Park and she said, “Oh! Oh! Going down the slide with you!” Why? “Because I got to ride with you!” (Awww!)
My daughter and my favorite LEGOLAND waterslide, Orange Rush
Although we didn’t partake, the Joker Soaker near the big slides appears to be a big hit with grade school boys. It’s a big clock tower that gushes buckets of water periodically on those below it. There are also water guns the kids delight in aiming at one another. Another fun spot is Imagination Station, where LEGO fanatics can build creations in a watery environment.
Kids hard at play at the Imagination Station
Useful Stuff & Tips
There is no option to visit just the water park. You must pay for entrance into the main park plus an additional, nominal fee for the LEGOLAND Water Park. As someone who has been to LEGOLAND numerous times and whose family loves water parks, this extra fee makes sense. If you think you will be too busy riding roller coasters, eating apple fries, and building with LEGO bricks, you might not have time enough to squeeze the water park into your day. Keep in mind, you can always cool off in Pirate Shores, a splashy land that comes with the cost of admission to the regular park.
Bring your own beach towel. They aren’t provided but you can purchase one if you forget yours at home.
Lockers (at an additional cost) and changing rooms (for free) are available.
Kids’ life vests are available at no extra charge. Even if your child is a good swimmer, using a life vest for little kids can help you to relax a bit and enjoy the day. Life guards stand watch over all areas of the park but parents must still be vigilant to keep an eye on their children.
My son, Leo, sporting his life vest
Go midweek if possible. On a Saturday, Karissa and I waited nearly an hour (in the shivering shade) for a chance to whoosh down Orange Rush. While it was worth the wait, if you want to make the most of your day, avoid Fridays and weekends when the park is more crowded.
Check for LEGOLAND online specials. You should never pay full price to go to LEGOLAND. There always seems to be a LEGOLAND discount somewhere.
The LEGOLAND Water Park hours vary from those of the amusement park. Check their website for the LEGOLAND schedule. You can always go early or stay late and spend some time enjoying the rides on dry land to round out your day.
What’s your favorite water park? Leave a comment below!
You might also like:
• Disney’s “World of Color” Premiere & My Red Carpet Hullaballoo
• LEGOLAND for All Ages
• Nickelodeon Suites Resort: A Hotel & Water Park for a Splashing Good Time
• 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools in the World
A note from the Travel Mama: My family received free 1-Day LEGOLAND/LEGOLAND Water Park passes. We have visited LEGOLAND many times on our own dime too. In fact, we have purchased two years worth of annual passes in the past.
Tags: Carlsbad, lazy river, legoland, San Diego, water park, waterslide
Posted in Family Vacations, Theme Parks | 2 Comments »
Sunday, May 16th, 2010
Thank you to everyone who entered the LEGOLAND Prize Pack Contest on TravelMamas.com! I enjoyed reading which attractions appealed to you the most.
The winner of the four LEGOLAND California/SEA LIFE Aquarium park hopper tickets plus a copy of The Unauthorized Guide to LEGOLAND is Chacoy, author of the Ma21cuteboy blog.
Here’s what Chacoy said she most wants to experience at LEGOLAND, “My son would love the Build & Test – as would I to see how much fun he is having. He has been wanting to go here for some time now!” Congratulations! I hope you and your son have as much fun exploring this unique amusement park as my family does!
Check back again soon for more fun travel-related giveaways!
Tags: California, contest, legoland
Posted in Family Vacations, Giveaways, Theme Parks | 1 Comment »
Sunday, May 2nd, 2010
From themed rides and LEGO brick building stations to musical fountains and roller coasters, LEGOLAND California has something to please everyone. Read on to learn about the best this park has to offer for babies, toddlers, tweens, teens, and grown-ups.
LEGOLAND California’s Miniland Cruise Ride
Last month I spent a day at LEGOLAND California with the woman who literally wrote the book on LEGOLAND. My daughter and I rode rides, explored play areas, and ate apple fries with the author of The Unauthorized Guide to LEGOLAND, Bridget A. Smith, and two of her three kids. It was like having our own personal tour guide to the park! From questions about the best rides for my five-year-old, to where we could find the closest bathroom, Bridget was there to guide the way.
Bridget is a LEGOLAND aficionado and mom to Justin (age 11), Destiny (age six), and Jared (age five). She decided to write this guidebook because, “I live down the street here in Carlsbad. LEGOLAND is a wonderful park but there were things I thought I could share that would help families with children. And there are a lot of undiscovered areas people may have never explored before.” The book helps you navigate varying height and age restrictions; which rides can only be ridden by a solo child; and when to hit certain attractions to avoid long lines. She even lists fun indoor activities for rainy days. You can read Bridget’s blog and purchase her book at FamilyAdventureGuidebooks.com.
Bridget with her daughter, Destiny, at LEGOLAND
While I am not as knowledgeable about this park as Bridget, I have been to LEGOLAND numerous times and I like this amusement park more each time I visit. I asked Bridget to share her thoughts on the LEGOLAND’s best attractions and food. Here are some of her picks with a few of my favorites sprinkled in.
Attraction that Makes You Fall in Love with LEGOLAND
Water Works Magical Fountain (Explore Village: All Ages)
While Bridget and I watched our kids playing at the Water Works Magical Fountain, I said, “This is my favorite attraction at LEGOLAND.”
Bridget said, “Me too!” She bubbled, “This fountain is why I fell in love with LEGOLAND. I came here with the kids and we saw this fountain and I thought, Why haven’t we been here before? This place is awesome!”
The Water Works Magical Fountain is made of musical instruments formed from LEGO bricks. Kids stomp on the circles in front of the drum, trumpet, harp, or other instrument and its musical sound chimes in. It’s just a joyful, unique experience.
My daughter, Karissa, making music at the Water Works Magical Fountain last year
Toddler Time
If you will be visiting LEGOLAND with a baby or toddler be sure to check out What to Do When You Are 2 for ideas to keep young children content.
DUPLO Playtown (Explore Village: All Ages)
This play area is filled with slides, pretend vehicles and buildings, and a crawl-through maze. This is a great place to relax a bit while the kiddies play.
My son, Leo, exploring DUPLO Playtown
LEGOLAND Express (Explore Village: All Ages)
This adorable train ride is tucked into a corner of DUPLO Playtown. Bridget recommends this train even for ride-phobic little ones. In her guidebook she says, “I love the mix of real California crops and LEGO brick produce. Make sure to point out the artichokes and fresh strawberries.”
Preschooler & Kindergartner Play
Volvo Junior Driving School (Fun Town: Kids Ages 3-5)
What kid doesn’t want to drive a miniature car around a track all by himself? To quote the Unauthorized Guide, “This ride is a great rite of passage. At the end of the ride your child will receive an official LEGOLAND driver’s license.” The Volvo Driving School is next door for kids ages 6-12.
The Royal Joust (Castle Hill: Kids Ages 4-12 & Height Restrictions)
This is a favorite of both Bridget’s daughter, Destiny and my daughter, Karissa. Kids straddle pretend horses that trot through a forest dotted with life-sized LEGO knights and other characters.
Destiny aboard a Royal Joust horse
Grade-Schooler Stuff
Build & Test (Imagination Zone: All Ages)
I never really understood the appeal of this attraction until I saw how much Bridget’s son, Jared, loved playing with LEGO bricks at this and other hands-on building stations. The guidebook advised, “At the main desk big kids check out a set of wheels with axles, then build vehicles with a wide assortment of big kid LEGO bricks. There are a number of tracks with timers, and the kids can race their vehicles to see who has the fastest car.”
Bridget’s youngest son, Jared, playing with LEGO bricks at Build & Test
The Dragon (Castle Hill: Height Restrictions)
Karissa and I love this roller coaster! It starts out with a mellow riding tour through a castle filled with humorous LEGO medieval scenes. Then, as the guidebook explains, “Suddenly the roller coaster takes hold and you find yourself outside in a roller coaster that has some zip to it.” I like that it’s fast enough to get your heart pumping a bit, but not so scary to deter brave young children. I also appreciate the details of the funny markers on the gravestones in the make-believe cemetery through which you wind if the line is long.
The Hideaways (Castle Hill: All Ages)
Bridget and I had a grand ol’ time yapping away here while our kids zipped up, down, and through this play area. According to the book, “This is one of the best places to get a lot of energy out. Kids can climb, slide and wiggle through a variety of obstacles…Luckily the entrance to the Hideaways is also the exit so you can stake out a spot nearby and make sure you catch your little one before he or she can escape. Don’t plan to see your kids anytime soon however, this area is so engaging it may be a while before they are willing to leave.”
Teenager Rides
Knight’s Tournament (Castle Hill: Height Restrictions)
This is Bridget’s oldest son, Justin’s all-time favorite ride. The guide says, “It is not for the faint-hearted. I have never seen anything like it at another park. Giant robotic arms like the one used in automotive assembly plants to weld on car doors spin you around and almost dip you into a slimy moat.” Riders can pick the intensity level of the ride.
The Knight’s Tournament is LEGOLAND’s most thrilling ride
Lost Kingdom Adventure (Land of Adventure: Height Restrictions)
This is one of my family’s favorites. It’s like a ride plus a carnival game all rolled into one during which you explore Egyptian ruins made of LEGO bricks. In the Unauthorized Guide Bridget says, “Blast targets with laser guns in order to recover stolen treasure…A computer records every shot, so at the end you can compare scores with your riding companions.”
Family-Time Fun
Fairy Tale Brook (Explore Village – All Ages)
This is a ride all ages can enjoy it together. As described by Bridget’s guidebook, “Take a sweet boat ride through a LEGO world populated by many of your child’s favorite story book characters…This ride provides a quiet break and is good for small children.”
Miniland USA (All Ages)
Bridget says, “This signature attraction of LEGOLAND California is fun for the whole family. Miniland is a collection of American landmarks from seven different geographical regions of the United States constructed with more than 20 million LEGO bricks at a 1:20 scale.”
The U.S. Capital Building in Miniland USA
Tastiest Eats
Granny Apple Fries (Castle Hill)
Bridget describes this unusual sweet treat as, “The fried Granny Apples are dusted with cinnamon and sugar. They are served with a vanilla cream dipping cream. Everyone in our family loves this treat.”
Fun Town Market Restaurant (Fun Town)
My husband always insists we eat at this made-to-order buffet-style restaurant for its outstanding Philly cheese steak sandwiches. You can find something to meet everyone’s needs here from oriental chicken stir fry, to an extensive soup and salad bar, and kids’ meals. We save money (and room in our bellies!) by splitting a sandwich so we can indulge in Granny Apple Fries afterwards.
Best Way to Cool Off
Pirate Shores (Various Age and Height Restrictions)
On a hot day, you will definitely want to bring swimsuits and towels for the kids and head over to Pirate Shores. This area encompasses several splashing attractions. Bridget explains, “This is one of the most fun areas at LEGOLAND and a great place for parents to take a break. There is only one entrance to the area, so you can keep an eye on the kids. Any kid who loves water play will want to stay there for hours.”
SEA LIFE Aquarium
With a LEGOLAND/SEA LIFE Hopper pass you can visit the adjoining SEA LIFE Aquarium during a visit to LEGOLAND California. There are plenty of fish and marine life on display in educational, fun displays. Pop-up bubbles where kids can get a feel for what it would be like to live under the sea make this aquarium stand out from others.
Karissa peering at fish through a plastic pop-up bubble at the SEA LIFE Aquarium
Enter to Win!
Post a comment below about which LEGOLAND feature you would most like to experience and why to win a four-pack of 1-Day LEGOLAND/SEA LIFE Hopper passes plus a copy of The Unauthorized Guide to LEGOLAND. THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. Find out who won!
LEGOLAND will provide the park hopper passes (worth $308) and Bridget A. Smith will provide the guidebook (worth $17.95).
This contest ends at 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time on Saturday, May 15, 2010. The winner will be selected at random using Random.org and will be notified by email. If no response is received within one week, the first winner will forfeit the prize and another entrant will be selected.
You can enter a maximum of four times, using each method of entry once. The first option is required for entry. For each bonus entry, you must add an additional, separate comment to this blog post.
• REQUIRED ENTRY: Leave a comment below about which LEGOLAND feature mentioned in the post you would most like to experience and why. Please be specific! General comments like, “Thanks for the contest” or “I want to go to LEGOLAND” will be disqualified.
• BONUS ENTRY: Follow @TravelMamas on Twitter and tweet this contest. Be sure to add a link to your tweet below! Copy the following phrase into Twitter:
Win a 4-pack of @LEGOLAND_CA park hopper passes on @TravelMamas http://bit.ly/cemnsU
• BONUS ENTRY: “Like” Travel Mamas on Facebook and add a comment. Copy and paste the following phrase (filling in your answer) on the Travel Mamas Facebook Page. Be sure to come back here and repeat the phrase in a separate comment on this blog post!
I want to win tickets to LEGOLAND on TravelMamas.com because________________.
• BONUS ENTRY: Become a Travel Mama to receive bimonthly e-newsletter updates. If you already receive the e-newsletter, that counts! Just be sure to make a comment below saying that you are on the distribution list!
You might also like:
• Epcot’s Best Rides & Hidden Treasures for Kids
• San Diego’s Birch Aquarium: A Worthwhile Alternative to SeaWorld
• San Diego Zoo’s Best Beasts, Eats, & Treats
• Top 10 Disneyland Rides & Attractions for Babies and Toddlers
A note from the Travel Mama: My family recently received free 1-Day LEGOLAND/SEA LIFE Hopper passes to LEGOLAND California. We have visited many times on our own dime too. In fact, we have purchased two years worth of annual passes in the past. I also received a PDF version of The Unauthorized Guide to LEGOLAND from Bridget A. Smith for purposes of this blog post.
Tags: aquarium, babies, California, legoland, roller coaster, San Diego, sea life, teen, toddlers, unauthorized guide
Posted in Family Vacations, Giveaways, Theme Parks | 140 Comments »
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