DAY TRIP Legoland

Legoland is a theme park based on the popular building-block toys, Legos. The park, geared toward children, includes various attractions and themed sections, all incorporating Legos in some facet. Dino Island has life-sized Lego brick dinosaurs while Fun Town is styled around real-life joys without the age limits, such as driving. Pirate Shores, the newest attraction, is a water park. Imagination Zone features some of the larger and more fast-paced rides.

 HISTORY

Lego originated in Denmark as Ole Kirk Christiansen, a carpenter, created wooden toys. When he fashioned a name, he combined two Danish words that meant “play well” into Lego. Then in 1947, a plastic molding machine was purchased and the Lego company created its first plastic brick. Since then numerous innovations have allowed the toy to thrive while becoming more flexible in its capabilities. The first Legoland opened in 1968 in Billund, Denmark.

 HOURS

The park is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. most days. It is closed most Tuesdays and Thursdays during the fall. For specific special event times, visit www.legoland. com/California.htm.

 ADMISSION

Tickets are $57 for adults and $44 for children between 3 and 12 and seniors older than 60. Parking is $10 for cars, $5 for motorcycle, $11 for campers/RVs, and preferred parking is $20.

 GETTING THERE

Go south on the CA-73. Exit onto the I-5 south toward San Diego. Exit at Cannon Road and turn left. Turn right at Legoland Drive. Stay left on Legoland Drive and take the second exit on the traffic circle. Continue to parking lot.

 BRICK OR TREAT

If you are looking for a more linear Halloween, Legoland has a some haunting right angles featured at its “Brick or Treat” event. Children will receive treats and prizes throughout the day, including Wonka candy.

Events surrounding the ghoulish holiday match special attractions created for the month, such as a Howlin’ Howlie in Castle Hill and a scavenger hunt for Lego brick candy corn. Trick or treaters are encouraged to dress appropriately as the costume contest will look for the most dreadful and haunting-looking children to win prizes.

“Brick or Treat” runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every weekend for the rest of October. A special event, “Brick or Treat After Dark” runs from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturdays. It features much of the same activities, illuminated by the haunting appeal of the park after the sun goes down.

 MINILAND LAS VEGAS

If the full-scale version of the sinful desert, Las Vegas, is too indulgent, venture to Miniland Las Vegas, for a smaller bite. There is one slot machine, 11 individual hotels, and more than 20 million bricks within the model city.

Don’t fret, parts of the real Vegas experience still exist. In fact, engineers recorded sounds from Vegas and patrons can hear them as they walk down Miniland’s version of The Strip.

 NEW YEAR’S EARLY

Legoland has a kid’s version of New Year’s Eve that allows those too young to experience the late-night festivities without missing bedtime.

The event features a live concert from the Not Ready for Naptime Players and a fireworks show at 6 p.m. Following the fireworks there are a number of other attractions and shows that give children the joy of New Year’s partying with a family-orientated atmosphere.

— Daniel Tedford