Legoland Discovery Center is a destination that seems to promise a day of fun and creativity for families, especially for those with younger children.
However, reviews are mixed from some of our readers.
Located conveniently near the iconic IKEA, this playful attraction can be a full day’s affair or a quick stop, depending on your schedule and your children’s engagement.
What to Expect
- Travel & Tolls: From Milwaukee, it’s roughly a 90-minute drive on a good day, but budget for tolls – they can add up.
- Duration: A typical visit lasts about 2-3 hours.
- Attractions: You’re in for a visual treat with large Lego sculptures greeting you at the entrance, including a towering giraffe and a life-size replica of former President Barack Obama.
Highlights
First off, prepare for giant lego sculptures that will leave your kids in awe. You’ll be welcomed by a giant LEGO giraffe at the entrance and inside there’s a safari through a jungle of giant Lego animals.
And, there are rides! If your kids are into the knighthood and quests, they’ll get a kick out of Merlin’s Apprentice and Kingdom Quest.
The Chicago Miniland? Simply wow. Over 1.5 million Legos creating a mini Windy City that transitions from day to night—now that’s something you don’t see every day.
And while some attractions like the 4D movie theater might be a tad intense for the youngest crew, others like the Duplo Village and Pirate Adventure Island are safe harbors for those who still count their age on their fingers.
Here are the highlights to check off your list:
- Chicago Miniland: A meticulous Lego replica of Chicago that will impress both young and old.
- Lego Jungle Expedition: An indoor jungle teeming with Lego-built wildlife.
- Interactive Rides: ‘Merlin’s Apprentice’ and ‘Kingdom Quest’ provide entertainment with an age range sweet spot of 3-10.
- Virtual Reality Experience: A LEGO virtual reality race for those who are 40″ tall
- Play Areas: ‘Pirate Adventure Island’ and ‘Duplo Village’ offer physical play structures for different age groups.
- 4D Cinema: Short Lego-themed films with sensory effects; a heads-up for parents of younger children who might find it intense.
- Master Builder Workshop: Witness the magic of Lego building on a professional level.
- Dining & Shopping: A café is on-site for refreshments, and the exit conveniently leads through a Lego store.
Reader Feedback
Now, let’s talk real talk.
Feedback from the trenches (aka our readers) is as diverse as the Lego creations themselves. While some kids are all thumbs up, finding the stations to build and rides engaging, others might feel it’s a “been there, done that” vibe after a few hours.
- The Good: Many parents praise the engaging activities and the creativity sparked in their children.
- The Meh: Some visitors feel the center is best for a few hours rather than a full day, citing limited activities for older children. One reader described it as “lackluster”.
- The Ugly: Overstimulation and crowding can be issues, with some reporting a less-than-ideal experience for very young children.
Tips for Your Visit
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
- Snacks & Budgeting: Pack snacks to avoid pricey food purchases and set clear expectations for the gift shop to manage spending.
- Safety First: Keep a close eye on little ones, as the center can get crowded.
- Post-Visit: Wind down at Jamba Juice next door for a healthy treat on the ride home.
In conclusion, Legoland Discovery Center in Schaumburg offers a range of fun, albeit more geared towards the under-10 demographic.
The key to a successful visit seems to lie in planning: understanding the potential costs, navigating the crowds, and matching the attractions to your child’s interests.
With a strategic approach, this Lego haven can offer an enjoyable and memorable experience for the entire family.
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Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
