Visiting the Wildlife Learning Center in Los Angeles, California
Wildlife Learning and Conservation Center (WLCC) is located in Sylmar, California and is home to over 100 displaced, rescued, and zoo-born wild animals.
WLCC was founded in 2007 to give a home and care to animals in need and to provide public education in the life sciences, conservation, and the environment.
The animals who call WLCC their home are either rescues or part of the SSP breeding program mentioned below. You can read the stories of the animals as you walk around the center on a self-guided tour, or hear about them from their keepers on a guided tour. You can read a bit about their stories here, as well. There are some extremely sad stories from some of the animals regarding their previous lives. They are certainly leading a much happier, enriching life at the WLCC.
WLCC participates in species conservation efforts called Species Survival Plans (SSP), which are managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). SSP programs cooperatively manage threatened and endangered species within AZA-accredited Zoos and Aquariums, Certified Related Facilities, and Sustainability Partners.
SSP’s preserve species from extinction by maintaining sustainable and genetically diverse populations of species. As part of their conservation mission, Wildlife Learning Center is an active participant in the SSP programs for the two-toed sloth (Cholopous didactylus), 3-banded armadillo (Tolypeutes matacus), and North American porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum).
WLCC is open to the public for general admission, private tours, and special events. WLCC offers life science outreach programs to schools, libraries, scout groups, and private events.
Oga’s Cantina at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Disneyland Resort California
One of the galaxy’s most infamous watering holes comes to life at Oga’s Cantina. The cantina specialises in fantastical drinks that will delight even the youngest crew members (that’s right, this is a family-friendly bar inside Disneyland!).
A drink at Oga’s Cantina is one of the hottest tickets at Disneyland. There is no point lining up for this experience at this time – reservations are essential and can be made 60 days in advance online or on the app. Walk-ins will be accommodated when possible.
Oga’s Cantina serves drinks and very basic snacks. There is a menu with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available – plus “secret” items that aren’t listed on the menu (ask the bar staff for current items not listed on the menu).
Kids are welcome at Oga’s Cantina, but I wouldn’t say it’s very kid-friendly. Oga’s is a small, tight space with very little room to move around and no room for kids to play. Oga’s is definitely aimed at adults and tolerant towards kids.
What to expect inside Oga’s Cantina
Due to its extreme popularity there are lots of rules regulating this themed bar.
If you have a reservation, check in no earlier than 15 minutes prior to your booking. We lined up for around 15-20 minutes and were eventually admitted inside.
In order to manage the crowd inside the cantina, guests are shown to a spot where they can either stand or sit. You will be placed right next to strangers even if you are sat at a table, so be prepared to get squishy and make some new friends.
There is very limited seating – Oga’s Cantina mostly consists of standing room. Large parties may be separated.
You will need to show your ID to order alcoholic drinks. There is a two-drink maximum per person.
Be prepared for how expensive the drinks will be! They are pricey but they are also good. We ordered the .
Drinks arrive fast and you pay your server directly.
There is a 45 minute time limit to time spent inside the Cantina. After that time you must leave or you will be gently reminded to do so.
If you want to take a look around the Cantina (and you absolutely should!) do so after you’ve finished your drinks and are ready to leave – as soon as you vacate your designated spot, new people will be shown in.
There are some fantastic details around the bar that deserve a closer look. It is a bit tricky to navigate with the sheer number of people.
The coasters are very cool and yes you may take them home as a souvenier. Ask your server for a few brand new ones to take.
Oga’s Cantina Rules
At least one person in the party must be 14 years of age or older.
Reservations are non-transferrable and may not be sold or bartered.
Each person in your party must be present upon check-in. Please be prepared to present your reservation confirmation email, photo ID and the credit card provided at the time of booking.
Alcoholic Beverages: Guests must be 21 years of age or over to consume alcohol; valid photo ID is required. There is a maximum of 2 drinks per Guest.
Cancellations: You must cancel at least one day prior to your reservation to avoid a per person cancellation fee. If you fail to timely cancel and are a no-show, the credit card provided at the time of reservation will be charged $10 per person.
Savi’s Workshop Lightsaber Building Experience, Disneyland Resort California
Build your own lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop – Handmade Lightsaber Building Experience, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Disneyland Resort California.
The Savi’s Workshop Lightsaber Building Experience, located in the Black Spire Outpost, is as much of an immersive experience about joining the Force as it is about taking home a fancy souvenir.
The journey to becoming a Jedi is a covert one. It was quite tricky to find the workshop entrance as it’s not signed anywhere – look for a small group of people gathering in a little alcove area (pictured above). This area is a hotspot for storm troopers and Kylo Ren to drop by and interrogate people, so prepare your promises to serve the dark side incase of an encounter.
The lightsaber experience must be booked in advance. Limited amounts of walk-ins are taken each day, depending on how booked out they are. Bookings open 60 days in advance and I suggest making your booking then to ensure you get the time slot you want.
The experience was running behind when we checked in and we ended up having to wait around 30 minutes. I would suggest not having anything booked or scheduled after the lightsaber building for an hour in case of this.
Choosing and building a lightsaber
When checking in for the experience with the “Gatherers”, you will be asked to choose from one of four hilt themes and will receive a special cloisonné pin to identify your selection
Peace and Justice
Salvaged scraps from fallen Jedi temples and crashed starships in these Republic-era designs honor the galaxy’s former guardians. Power and Control
Originally forged by dark side warriors, this style features rumored remnants from the Sith homeworld and abandoned temples. Elemental Nature
This theme embodies the Force—an energy created by all living things, like Brylark trees, Cartusion whale bones and Rancor teeth. Protection and Defense
Hilt materials bear mysterious motifs and inscriptions that reconnect users with the ancient wellspring of the Force.
Once the group has been called inside the workshop, the experience begins in earnest.
The lightsaber makers gather around the long table while guests can stand at the edges of the room.
The Gatherers help each participant select the heart of their lightsaber – a kyber crystal, which is available in red, blue, green or violet.
Next is assembling the hilt. Each theme receives its own box of parts to choose from.
Upon hilt completion, the unused parts are collected by the Gatherers and returned to Savi’s inventory.
The final step is the lightsaber blade. The Gatherers provide instruction on how to correctly do this and assist with this step. Each hilt is connected to a 31” lightsaber blade that can be lit and removed from the table.
The whole experience is so immersive that if feels like you are becoming a Jedi and about to join the ranks of Skywalker (or Kylo Ren if you’ve chosen the Dark Side). There were more adults than children in the room, experiencing their childhood Jedi dreams coming to life right there in their hands.
The lightsabers themselves are amazing quality. Extremely sturdy and with excellent lights and sounds.
Upon leaving the room, each participant is given a carrying case for their lightsaber that can be slung over their back for transportation. Be warned that is is very big and bulk and I would suggest taking it back to the hotel if that is an option.
Need to know details about building lightsabers
The lightsaber experience does not come cheap. The cost is $199.99 per lightsaber, plus tax.
Reservations can be made 60 days in advance and a credit card is needed to secure the booking. You must cancel at least one day prior to your reservation to avoid a per builder cancellation fee. If you fail to timely cancel and are a no-show, the credit card provided at the time of reservation will be charged $199.99 per builder.
One lightsaber per builder per experience.
There are additional lightsaber customisation items available for purchased at Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities.
The age recommendation for this experience is 5 years or older and I would absolutely agree with this and add that if you have a child under the age of 10 then it would be advisable to have someone accompanying them who can assist them if needs be as the constructing can be quite tricky and move quickly along – at times too quickly for your kids to keep up.
Younger children may accompany builders as a guest and watch the experience, however the workshop is inside a small, dark room with lights and noises that may frighten younger children (and did in fact terrify a toddler in our group to the point where he had to be removed for the remainder of the experience).
The experience area is limited to the builder and 2 Guests. At least one person in the party must be age 14 or older.
Check in no earlier than 15 minutes before your reservation time but also be prepared for the experience to be running late. Present your reservation confirmation, photo ID and the credit card provided at the time of booking on arrival.
The whole experience goes for around 30 minutes.
Transporting the lightsabers home
We took our lightsabers on an international flight from LA to Sydney with Qantas. We removed the hilts easily on our hotel and wrapped them in thick clothes, then placed the hilts in our hard cased suitcase.
We then took the blades onboard as a carry-on item. With the hilt removed the blades fit inside the overhead bins easily. We had no issues with security or customs on either end of our trip, and the lightsabers arrived safely and were easily reassembled on our arrival.
The Best Things To Do In San Diego With Kids (Or Without!)
San Diego is a coastal city of California, well-known for its beaches, parks and warm weather. There are so many things to do in San Diego with kids (and without!).
Balboa Park
The 1,200-acre urban park is an icon in San Diego. Balboa Park contains more than 16 museums, theatres, open spaces, fountains, gardens, trails and the famous San Diego Zoo.
While there are many gorgeous gardens in Balboa Park, this is this is the most famous and one of the most photographed spots in the park. The Botanical Building was built for the 1915-1916 Exposition, and is now home to vibrant flower displays and more than 2,100 plants.
The lily pond outside the Botanical Building is a tranquil place to stroll and watch ducks (and take a photo or two!). A visit to the Botanical Building is one of the must-see things to do in San Diego.
On El Prado walkway adjacent to the Timken Museum of Art.
Japanese Friendship Garden
The beautiful 12-acre Japanese Friendship Garden features stone arrangements, koi ponds, water features, and sukiya-style buildings. It was built as an an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama.
The San Diego Air & Space Museum is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, and home to a collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft from all over the world. Exhibits include a replica of Charles Lindbergh’s “Spirit of St. Louis,” the actual Apollo 9 Command Module, and the only real GPS satellite on display in the world. There are also artefacts from the Wright Brothers, Charles Lindbergh, Amelia Earhart, Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Wally Schirra, a 3D/4D movie theater and a series of hands-on, interactive exhibits. Children will love the the Kid’s Aviation Action Hangar.
A cultural anthropology museum, The San Diego Museum of Man explores the human experience from multicultural perspectives. A collection of unique and interactive exhibits covering human history and culture provides the opportunity to learn about our relationship to the world around us and reflect on what it means to be human.
If dinosaurs and fossils are your thing, check out the San Diego Natural History Museum (theNAT). The museum explores the natural history of Southern California through interactive exhibitions spread across five floors. Journey through 75 million years of natural history, from the time of the dinosaurs to today, and discover more about the fascinating world we live in.
Browse the San Diego Art Museum’s impressive collection of Spanish and Italian old masters, South Asian paintings and 19th and 20th century American paintings as well as their major art exhibitions from all over the world. The museum hosts family drop-in days and family workshops (check their calendar for details).
The San Diego Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals from over 650 species and subspecies. It’s often described as having set the standard for modern zoos with its natural habitats for animals, often with different species living together, and lush landscaping.
San Diego Zoo is 100-acres in size, making for a big day out if you want to see everything on offer.
A visit to the zoo is one of our top picks for things to do in San Diego with kids.
Explore more than 100 interactive exhibits at the Fleet Science Center. The science museum and planetarium is the perfect place to immerse yourself in science and enjoy an IMAX film.There are two floors of exhibits to discover, and the dedicated “Kid City” play area for kids under the age of five.
This historical navel aircraft carrier museum is one of San Diego’s top attractions. Inside the aircraft carrier Midway is housed an extensive collection of aircraft, many of which were built in Southern California. There are over 60 exhibits and displays and over restored aircraft to explore, as well as plenty of family-friendly activities. Kids can earn their own pilot wings as part of the Junior Pilot Program.
The San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum (SDCDM) is is full of hands-on educational exhibits and program that focusing on science, art, and world cultures. A visit to the SDCDM is all about play. Kids can explore, imagine, experiment, and discover through hands-on science, art, and cultural activities.
320 North Broadway, Escondido sdcdm.org
Image courtesy of the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum.
LEGOLAND California Resort
LEGOLAND California Resort is located in Carlsbad, about 30 mins north of San Diego or just under two hours south of LA. The resort has two official LEGOLAND hotels attached to it, however visitors are able to self-drive or get a day tour from San Diego or LA for a day at the park. LEGOLAND California is aimed at 2-12 year olds, with the “sweet spot” being 4-9 year olds. There are 30,000 LEGO models scattered all around the park.
LEGOLAND is without a doubt one of the top things to do in San Diego with kids.
Meet The La Jolla Seals at Children’s Pool, Casa Beach
No trip to San Diego is complete without a visit to meet the La Jolla seals. La Jolla is a seaside community located around 30 mins north of San Diego. The La Jolla Children’s Pool at Casa Beach is famous for its resident harbour seals and sea lions.
Read more about how to see the La Jolla Seals at Children’s Pool.
Meet The La Jolla Seals at Children’s Pool, Casa Beach
No trip to San Diego is complete without a visit to meet the La Jolla seals. La Jolla is a seaside community located around 30 mins north of San Diego. The La Jolla Children’s Pool at Casa Beach is famous for its resident harbour seals and sea lions.
Both harbour seals and sea lions enjoy a lazy life in La Jolla. The easiest way to tell them apart is to look for their ears. Sea lions have external ears while seals do not. Sea lion flippers are larger and stronger than those belonging to the harbour seals, who have small, webbed front flippers and have to wriggle on their stomachs to get around. Sea lions are able to stand up on their flippers and “walk” and are brown, while seals are a darker brown, grey or almost black with speckles. Sea lions are the noisier of the two mammals, making a loud barking sound, while seals grunt.
One of the best places to see the La Jolla seals is at Children’s Pool Beach, aka Casa Beach. This small beach has a curved protective wall that was built in the 1930s to hold back the rough waves and make a safe swimming spot for families.
The La Jolla seals, however, had other ideas and the cove is now filled with harbour seals and sea lions. You can visit the beach year-round to see the seals, and are allowed on the sand except from December 15 – May 15, which is when the babies are born.
The La Jolla seals can be viewed from the park at Coast Boulevard and Jenner Street, and from the breakwater wall. There is street parking nearby on Coast Boulevard.
There is a barricade on the sand to prevent close interaction with the La Jolla seals and sea lions.
The LEGOLAND® Hotel is a unique, family-friendly resort located in Carlsbad, California. The deluxe 250-room hotel opened in April 2013.
For any true LEGO fan, a stay at the LEGOLAND Hotel is an absolute must. A stay at the hotel includes themed rooms, free buffet breakfast, nightly children’s entertainment, and an in-room treasure hunt with LEGO surprises.
LEGOLAND® Castle Hotel vs the LEGOLAND® Hotel
LEGOLAND Castle Hotel
There are two LEGOLAND® hotels, the LEGOLAND® Castle Hotel and LEGOLAND® Hotel, both located a few steps from the park entrance. They both offer similar benefits: LEGO-themed rooms, exclusive early morning access to the park (when you book a package including tickets), free breakfast, nightly entertainment in the lobby and a daily in-room treasure hunt with LEGO surprises.
Both hotels are three-story with 250 rooms, so have the same amount of guests in each.
LEGOLAND Hotel
Compared to the LEGOLAND® Hotel next door, the LEGOLAND® Castle Hotel is a bit smaller and quieter. The lobby and play area is smaller, the evening entertainment a lot quieter and there is one restaurant vs two and a cafe at the LEGOLAND® Hotel. Both are excellent hotels, however, and guests can use the restaurants and facilities at both quite easily.
Both hotels have swimming pools but only the Castle Hotel has play equipment and an outside movie theatre. The Castle Hotel’s pool is also considered the better of the two pools with its zero-entry and interactive water play features.
Both hotels offer package deals to stay that include park tickets.
The hotel offers five choices of themed rooms, each with an added “deluxe” option.
Pirate
Ahoy there, mateys! A breath-taking step into Captain Red Brick and his first mate’s pirate cabin. Your whole ship will be decked out with pirate bedding, curtains, wallpaper and even Polly, a LEGO parrot, can be found watching over you as you sleep! After a jolly adventure on the rides in the Park, send your junior shipmates up to their private bunks while you relax in the king-size cabin. So, me hearties, book your pirate room today for an unforgettable family treat. Shiver me timbers!
Adventure
Spend the night where the adventure never ends! Dare to follow in the footsteps of the famous LEGO hero adventurer, Johnny Thunder, and explore this adventure themed room… Send your junior explorers off to their very own bunks for a well-deserved rest as you kick off your desert boots and settle down in your comfy king-size bed, safe in the knowledge that Johnny is guarding all exits! Get ready for the ultimate adventure!
Kingdom
A royal welcome awaits you in the Kingdom themed rooms, fit for a king and his court. Bask in your luxurious surroundings and relax in your king-size bed, while your junior royals head off to their own sleeping quarters. With bunting, shields and flags above the bed, this LEGO kingdom is certainly up to royal standards. Little knights and maidens will love the LEGO models dotted around the room, but remember… whatever you do, don’t let them kiss the frog!
Friends
The LEGO Friends have invited you to the ultimate sleepover! Step into the world of Heartlake City where the girls are awaiting your arrival. After you and your friends spend the day in the Park, stay the night at Heartlake Stables with your favorite Friends. With a king-sized bed for parents and private bunk bed for the kids, it is sure to be a sleepover your family will never forget!
NINJAGO
Welcome young Ninja! Step into the temple courtyard, the cliff top overlooks all of NINJAGO as far as you can see. The bed lies at the bottom of a large shrine that holds all four of the epic elemental weapons. After a day in the Park, send your little Ninjas to their own private Dragon Cave while you relax in your king-sized bed. Ninja alike will love exploring the different powers of each Ninja… Which power will you choose?
Lobby
The LEGOLAND® Hotel lobby is a sensational space with a castle play area and giant pit of LEGO bricks.
This is also the area where the evening entertainment happens. Expect bright lights, lively hosts, plenty of music and dancing games.
The lobby is also filled with amazing little LEGO details like minifigures, and the merchandise store.
Bricks Family Restaurant
This fun restaurant is filled with cute restaurant-themed LEGO sculptures. A buffet breakfast at Bricks is included for hotel guests which features fresh fruit, smoothies, omelet station, bacon, sausage, hot and cold cereals and more.
Bricks is also open for dinner with a fab buffet for anyone who wishes to dine there. We loved the buffet because it had a huge range of food, including plenty of healthy options.
Kids’ buffet
The dinner buffet includes homemade soups, a California fresh salad bar, carved meats sliced to order, a variety of hot and cold entrees, side dishes, desserts and sweets and a “Just for Kids Buffet”. As a vegetarian I found loads of food to choose from. Children 2 and under eat free.
There is plenty of entertainment throughout the dining period too. We had a photo opp with a LEGO character on arrival, and a hilarious act by a few of the LEGOLAND® Hotel Heroes as we dined.
Skyline Cafe
This bright little cafe is a great spot for a casual meal or snack, offering a variety of made-to-order appetizers, lunch and dinner options. You can also order tap beers, wines and spirits here. We really liked the decorating – the cafe features a LEGO® skyline.
Mini’s Lounge
The lounge is located right next to the play area, so it’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee or snack while the kids are playing. Mini’s Lounge offers hot and cold beverages, fresh fruit, pastries and snacks.
Swimming Pool
The LEGOLAND Hotel features a large, heated swimming pool.
On-Site Amenities
24 Hour Front Desk and Security
Check-In: 4:00pm
Check-Out: 11:00 am
Concierge Desk
Full Breakfast Buffet Included
Bricks Family Restaurant
Skyline Cafe
Room Service 7am-10:30am, 12pm-10pm (Children’s Options Available)
Wi-Fi Included
Outdoor Heated Pool
Poolside Cabanas
Nightly Children’s Activities
ATM
Gift Shop
24-Hour Fitness Center (Treadmills, Elliptical, Weights, etc.)
ADA Accessible Rooms Available
Suites Available
Video Arcade
Resort Fee
All reservations are subject to a nightly Resort Fee of $28 plus applicable tax which is not included in your reservation total and will be collected upon check-in. Resort Fee includes nightly in-room refreshments, nightly surprises for the kids, luggage service, standard wireless internet, children’s entertainment, fitness center, pool access, pool towels, and local and domestic long-distance phone calls. Subject to change without notice.
Parking
Self-Parking: $25 / night
Valet Parking: $28 / night
The LEGOLAND Castle Hotel is located at LEGOLAND California Resort, Carlsbad. The deluxe 250-room hotel opened in April 2018.
A stay at the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel is a must (in our opinion) for anyone visiting LEGOLAND California Resort. With every room given a LEGO theme and 2,100 LEGO models made out of more than three million LEGO bricks scattered throughout the hotel, an overnight stay turns a park day trip into an immersive LEGO experience.
LEGOLAND Castle Hotel vs the LEGOLAND Hotel
LEGOLAND Castle Hotel
There are two LEGOLAND hotels, the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel and LEGOLAND Hotel, both located a few steps from the park entrance. They both offer similar benefits: LEGO-themed rooms, exclusive early morning access to the park (when you book a package including tickets), free breakfast, nightly entertainment in the lobby and a daily in-room treasure hunt with LEGO surprises.
Both hotels are three-story with 250 rooms, so have the same amount of guests in each.
LEGOLAND Hotel
Compared to the LEGOLAND Hotel next door, the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel is a bit smaller and quieter. The lobby and play area is smaller, the evening entertainment a lot quieter and there is one restaurant vs two and a cafe at the LEGOLAND Hotel. Both are excellent hotels, however, and guests can use the restaurants and facilities at both quite easily.
Both hotels have swimming pools but only the Castle Hotel has play equipment and an outside movie theatre. The Castle Hotel’s pool is also considered the better of the two pools with its zero-entry and interactive water play features.
Both hotels offer package deals to stay that include park tickets.
The LEGOLAND Castle Hotel is shaped like a castle on the outside, which makes for an exciting experience from the moment you pull up into the car park. Note that parking is NOT included in the stay, nor is the daily resort fee.
Grand Hall
Inside the lobby, called the Grand Hall, the fun begins, with a large Merlin-themed brick pit and fun features to be discovered while waiting for your room key. The brick pit is also excellent for entertaining kids if it’s raining outside.
There are great photo ops in the lobby and up the stairs including tiny jail cell and a silly chair that makes funny comments. There is also a knock-knock wall that tells jokes and a Harry Potter located chair up the stairs.
The slide is a really fun way for kids to get back down to the lobby instead of taking the stairs. We suggest taking the elevator at least once as they’ve put a lot of effort into make the elevator ride itself a fun experience.
Themed Rooms
There are three different themed rooms to choose from: Knights & Dragons, Royal Princess or Magic Wizard.
(PHOTO / LOCK + LAND, Chip Litherland)
Knights and Dragons Room: Guests will defend the King’s Castle and help protect the King’s treasure from the approaching bad Dragon Knights and their fire-breathing dragons!
(PHOTO / LOCK + LAND, Chip Litherland)
Royal Princess Room: The Princess is no damsel in distress and she uses the help of the jester to prepare to sneak into the tournament and compete with the knights.
Magic Wizard: Full of curious potions, spell books, wands and magic mirrors, kids can use their imagination to believe their help is needed to protect these treasures and keep them safe from any bad Wizards or Dragon Knights.
Magic Wizard Room
We chose the Magic Wizard theme and loved our room, which was filled with spell books, wands, potions and even a magic mirror.
Each standard room as two bedrooms, one with a queen bed and one with single bunk beds. Both rooms have their own LCD TV screen.
The main bedroom has a light-up headboard that can be turned off thankfully at bedtime.
The room with bunk beds has a cool feature that, when turned on, shines stars onto the roof like a night light.
In between the two bedrooms is a bathroom. The bathroom had one sink and a combined shower/bath.
The room was a tight fit for the three of us with our luggage, but the theming was just incredible.
If you have a larger family, you might look into one of the 20 family suites at the hotel. The suites are roughly one and a half times larger than the standard rooms, sleeping up to seven people and including a lounge area with sofa bed, children’s sleeping area with a bunk bed and trundle and a king-sized bed for the adults.
The bathroom features two sinks and a separate bath and shower. There are closing doors for the children’s sleeping area and adults’ – something the standard rooms don’t have.
A cute added bonus of staying at the hotel is a daily treasure hunt. Reception hands over a map with four clues that are located around the lobby and restaurant. Find the answer to each clue and you will receive the code to the in-room safe. The safe is filled each day with a different LEGO surprise.
Also included in each room is a box of bricks and a cute LEGO ice bucket.
Dragon’s Den Restaurant and Bar
There is one sit down restaurant located inside the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, the Dragon’s Den Restaurant and Bar.
Dragon’s Den Restaurant and Bar is a full-service sit down restaurant. In the evenings guests can choose from an a la carte menu.
There is a large brick play area in the restaurant which makes is a great choice for families who want to linger over a meal while the kids play happily.
In the mornings there is a full, hot buffet breakfast on offers featuring fresh fruit, smoothies, omelet station, bacon, sausages and pastries.
Entertainment is offered inside the restaurant including singers and actors.
The Royal Courtyard
The Royal Courtyard area is located directly outside from the Dragon’s Den Restaurant. It has a DUPLO play area for younger kids, play structures movie screen for nighttime movies, a stage for live plays and shows, a gradual incline pool and hot tub.
The zero-entry pool has interactive water play features and whirlpool spa. For those that like to dine by the pool, Castle Pool Bar & Grille will offer smoothies, sandwiches and salads prepared fresh to order.
LEGOLAND Castle Hotel Amenities
24 Hour Front Desk and Security
Check-In: 4:00pm
Check-Out: 11:00am
Concierge Desk
Full Hot Breakfast Included at Dragon’s Den Restaurant
Wi-Fi Included
Outdoor Heated Pool
Hot Tub/Jacuzzi
Poolside Cabanas
Nightly Children’s Activities
ATM
Laundromat
Gift Shop
Fitness Center
Service Animals Only
ADA Accessible Rooms Available
Suites Available
Resort Fee
All reservations are subject to a nightly Resort Fee of $28 plus applicable tax which is not included in your reservation total and will be collected upon check-in. Resort Fee includes nightly in-room refreshments, nightly surprises for the kids, luggage service, standard wireless internet, children’s entertainment, fitness center, pool access, pool towels, and local and domestic long-distance phone calls. Subject to change without notice.
Parking
Self-Parking: $25 / night
Valet Parking: $28 / night
Have a LEGO-lover in your family? Then a visit to LEGOLAND California Resort in absolutely has to be on your family’s bucket list.
LEGOLAND California Resort is located in Carlsbad, about 30 mins north of San Diego or just under two hours south of LA. The resort has two official LEGOLAND hotels attached to it, however visitors are able to self-drive or get a day tour from San Diego or LA for a day at the park.
It’s designed for little kids
This is an excellent theme park for little kids. LEGOLAND California is aimed at 2-12 year olds, with the “sweet spot” being 4-9 year olds. What this translates to are rides and facilities geared towards this age group throughout the whole park, so kids who are at the older end of the age bracket will be able to go on every single ride and enjoy every attraction.
It’s really nice for little kids to have a park geared towards their needs and entertainment. We found as a result the whole atmosphere of the park was calmer, a result of the younger aged visitors (mostly families with kids under the age of 8), easy to manage, and also very do-able to see all the attractions in one day.
Big kids will love it too
If you’re an adult who loves LEGO, then you will enjoy your experience at the park, too. When we visited in December there was a dedicated Star Wars-themed Miniland area (which has sadly since been removed) which my Star Wars-loving husband absolutely geeked out over. As adults we also appreciated the incredible work that goes behind building the LEGO masterpieces. They are such works of art!
There is LEGO literally everywhere
There are 30,000 LEGO models scattered all around the park. We wanted to stop and take photos of or with basically everything.
Inside the front entrance, visitors meet Bronte, the dinosaur. Bronte is made from 2 million bricks, the most of any model in the park. In total, sixty million LEGO pieces have been used throughout the park.
Ride your heart out
LEGOLAND California Resort is filled with more than 60 rides, shows and attractions. There are rides to suit kids of all ages and interests, from very gentle rides to thrilling rollercoasters.
Our daughter’s favourite however was the new Deep Sea Adventure, an interactive ride featuring more than 2,000 life sea creatures. We spotted sharks, rays and plenty of fish interspersed with sea-themed LEGO models.
Burn off steam in the play areas
There are several play areas around the park for kids to run and climb, as well as a dinosaur dig area and the popular LEGOLAND Build-a-Boat – a water play area where kids (and adults!) can build a LEGO boat and sail its around a water play table.
Get tiny at Miniland USA
It’s hard to tell who loves Miniland USA more, kids or adults! The incredible detail in the recreated famous buildings appeals to big and littles alike.
Around 32,496,352 LEGO bricks have been used to recreate landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the capital building in Washington D.C., Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Grand Central Station in New York and the strip in Las Vegas.
Also in Miniland USA is the Model Shop, home of the LEGO builders and more than three million LEGO bricks. The workshop is the headquarters for maintaining and repairing the models in the park, as well as the creative centre for developing new models and displays.
Cuddle up to a character
The LEGO character meet and greets are adorable! We met a very cute gingerbread LEGO character when we visited and it made for a very cute photo opp.
Enjoy seasonal delights
LEGOLAND California Resort is even more fun during the holidays. We visited at Christmas for example and enjoyed the special LEGO decorations, builds and character meet-and-greets at that time of year. Halloween would be an amazing time to visit.
Get a driving licence at Driving School
Driving School is technically a ride but it was the absolute favourite activity at the park for our daughter, so it deserves its own mention. Kids ages 6-13 can drive their own car and earn your own LEGOLAND Driver’s license.
Make a mini figure (or 10!)
Make mini figures to your hearts’ delight at the Minifigure station!
Go under the ocean at SEA LIFE® aquarium
Attached to LEGOLAND California Resort is SEA LIFE® aquarium, a great option for kids who love aquatic creatures. SEA LIFE® aquarium is a combination of active hands-on learning with up close encounters with sea creatures including sharks, octopi and rays. SEA LIFE® aquarium also has a new exhibit, Sea at Night, where visitors can stroll in a gentle surf under a starry sky, and frolic in a simulated bioluminescent tide.
Admission to SEA LIFE® aquarium is included in a LEGOLAND SEA LIFE Park Hopper ticket, or any LEGOLAND ticket can be upgraded to include SEA LIFE Aquarium admission for $25.
Splash in the water parks
During the warmer months, a visit to the LEGOLAND and CHIMA Water Parks are a must! There are plenty of slides and rides to enjoy – admission to the water parks is an additional $30.
Tips for visiting LEGOLAND California Resort
Buy tickets online in advance. If you book through Klook you can get a discounted rate.
Plan your visit by looking at the height restrictions map for attractions at LEGOLAND California Resort.
Pack lunch or try one of the restaurants.
We found plenty of healthy choices throughout the park including salads and toasted sandwiches.
Stay at a LEGOLAND Hotel for the full experience. We loved staying at the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel. You can also drop into the lobby of either hotel and play in the brick areas if you’re not a guest of the hotel.
If it look like rain, take a poncho and wear waterproof shoes! Rides can stop running during the rain however that are still plenty of inside rides that can be enjoyed, plus the SEA LIFE® aquarium.
Visit the LEGOLAND store! They have the most amazing LEGO merch, including some LEGO sets that are only available in LEGOLAND California Resort.
San Diego Zoo, located in Balboa Park, San Diego California, is a world-renowned, innovative zoo, with a strong conservation focus.
The San Diego Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals from over 650 species and subspecies. It’s often described as having set the standard for modern zoos with its natural habitats for animals, often with different species living together, and lush landscaping.
San Diego Zoo is 100-acres in size, making for a big day out if you want to see everything on offer.
San Diego Zoo Conservation Focus
Both San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park are havens for endangered species where animals are cared for and breeding programs are in place to help protect them against extinction. Studies of animal behaviour and health are also conducted at the zoos which would be difficult or impossible to perform in the wild, which provides invaluable information on these species that is shared with other zoos and wildlife parks globally to aid animal conservation in the field.
San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research generates, shares, and applies scientific knowledge that is vital to the conservation of animals, plants, and habitats worldwide. You can read about their excellent work online.
Plan your visit to San Diego Zoo
The zoo is absolutely huge, so good planning is a must. Take a good look at the map in advance and plan what animals are a must-see and plot your path. The very helpful volunteers at the entrance will let you know if there are any babies at the zoo and where you can find them.
I also suggest wearing good shoes for walking, arriving when the zoo opens to make the most of the entire day and pack sunscreen and a hat.
The easiest way to see the zoo is with a 35-minute narrated tour on a double-decked bus. The Guided Bus Tour presented by Go San Diego® Card is included with all admission tickets.
Hop on and off the Kangaroo Bus
A great option if you want a lift between stops around the zoo but want to see most of it as close as possible with some walking here and there. The Kangaroo Bus lets you hop on and off at four different stops throughout the Zoo.
There are well-signed stops around the zoo – simply wait at one of the stops for a bus with a yellow Kangaroo Bus banner to arrive. The buses run roughly every 15 minutes. All admission tickets include the Kangaroo Bus. You may bring an empty, folded stroller on the Kangaroo Bus, space permitting.
Catch the Skyfari Aerial Tram
We loved the Skyfari Aerial Tram. It’s a convenient and fast way to get from one side of the zoo to the other, as well as giving a beautiful view of the zoo as you go. The Skyfari Aerial Tram is included with all admission tickets. Note however that jogging, oversized, and double strollers cannot be accommodated and children younger than 8 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
Skyfari Aerial Tram will be closed for renovations during early 2020 so check the website for updates if taking it is a must for your visit.
Enjoy a show
The zoo runs some fun shows that are perfect for kids in particular. At time of writing the Dr Zoolittle Explores Australia show is running weekends at 12pm and 1pm.
There are three play spaces for kids spaced throughout the zoo.
The Elephant Play Yard is a hands-on play and exploration area for anyone who loves fossils. Enjoy the fossil dig play area, puzzles and maze of elephant satellite tracking collars in this space. Located at Elephant Odyssey
The Koala Klimber lets visitors snap some fun selfies with replica koalas in the Australian Outback section.
The Polar Play area has some super shiny polar bears to get up close to, plus a polar bear den that kids love crawling through. Located in Northern Frontier
Plan your meals
There are an overwhelming number of choices for dining at San Diego Zoo. Options range from casual to restaurant dining and quick bites. You also have the option to keep costs down by bringing your own lunch and snacks, however that’s always a challenge if, like us, you’re visiting and don’t have a kitchen to make your own meals.
Each of the dining options has a different menu and price point, so I highly advise taking a thorough look at the website in advance and exploring the dining options available before your zoo day, particularly if you have any dietary requirements or fussy eaters.
Kids’ Meal
Try and upgraded experience
If you want to make your day even more special, try an upgraded experience, which lets visitors get even closer to the animals.
Animals in Action
We loved the Animals in Action interactive experience. The one-hour experience took us behind the scenes to feed, touch and observe some of the Zoo’s animal ambassadors up close.
It was a fantastic opportunity to not just meet some animals that we would never have otherwise been able to see up close, but to hear stories from the keepers on the animals, how they ended up at the zoo, the part they play in animal conservation, and fun facts that we didn’t know. Some animals are only able to be viewed by attending the Animals in Action experience.
On our Animals in Action experience we met a rhino, flamingoes, hedgehog, zebra, cheetah and armadillo. The animals change in each experience based on their health.
Tips for guests with disabilities
San Diego Zoo have several services to help guests with disabilities. The Zoo provides special parking, rest rooms, and access to shows, tour buses, and exhibits for guests with disabilities.
Please note there are steep grades in parts of the Zoo. Free shuttle bus service operates inside the Zoo for those with limited mobility. Guests who use wheelchairs are not able to use the moving walkways.
Incredible Places To Stop On A San Francisco To Los Angeles Road Trip
The San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip down Highway 1 is an iconic drive through some of the most beautiful parts of California. Stretching 442 miles / 711 kms and taking around 8 to 9 hours non-stop to drive, the San Francisco to Los Angeles drive down Route 1 is scenic beyond belief. Voted as one of the Best American Road Trips by National Geographic, this is one of the most memorable road trips you can make.
While the fastest route to take between San Francisco and Los Angeles is the Interstate 5 Freeway (382 miles / 615 kms from Downtown LA to Downtown SF, taking approx 5.5 hours to 6 hours), if you have time to spend, I highly recommend taking the scenic LA to San Francisco road trip down Route 1 instead.
Please be aware that after the 2017 landslide there have been road closures on Highway 1 south of Big Sur / North of Piedras Blancas Lighthouse / San Simeon. The road is hopefully reopening in July 2018. Check here for updates and here for info on the detour.
This seaside town is famous for Cannery Row, the the waterfront street with now-defunct sardine canning factories, Fisherman’s Wharf, the fantastic Monterey Bay Aquarium and world-renowned PGA Golf Course at Pebble Beach.
We also enjoyed spotting sea lions basking on Del Monte Beach. If you have kids in tow, head to Dennis The Menace Playground, which features a maze and rock climbing wall.
The scenic 17-Mile Drive to Pebble Beach is a great detour, with dramatic cliffs, the iconic Lone Cyprus and wildlife to see.
One of our favourite little towns, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a must-visit on the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip. Often called Carmel, the town was founded in 1902 and is known for it’s artistic history and beautiful scenery. I would say it’s also known for it’s storybook houses that I would love to retire to one day.
Carmel is very dog-friendly, and you’ll see dogs literally everywhere – on the beach in hotels, restaurants and shops.
We also enjoyed a visit to the Mission San Carlos Borroméo del río Carmelo, also called the Carmel Mission. Built in 1797, the Mission is one o the best examples of Roman Catholic mission churches in California.
Take kids to the Cottage of Sweets, a traditional British-style sweets shop with homemade fudge and imported candies, and locally-owned Thinker Toys.
Sunset on the beach is a must in Carmel. It gets chilly, even in summer, so rug up.
Where to stay in Carmel
We stayed at the Best Western Carmel’s Town House Lodge for the night, which had all the basics we needed.
The 90-mile stretch of redwood-trimmed coast between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Simeon is where you’ll find Big Sur. The name Big Sur comes from the Spanish ““el sur grande” or Big South. The name refers to Big Sur’s location, 25 miles south of Monterey.
Bixby Bridge
The most instagrammable spot on the Big Sur coast, Bixby Bridge was built in 1932, 260 feet/79 metres above a canyon.
Pfieffer Beach and Keyhole Rock
A detour off the beaten path, but well-worth it, particularly at sunset. Pfieffer Beach is south of Big Sur Station, where Sycamore Canyon Creek meets the Pacific Ocean, framed by rocks at either end.
While tidal pools can be fin to explore at low tide, and the north end of the beach has unique purple sand, the beach is renowned for Keyhole Rock, an incredible natural rock arch formation that waves and the last light of sunset pass through. It’s an incredible place to watch the sunset.
San Simeon
The town itself doesn’t offer much, with the main draw cards to the area being Hearst Castle and the elephant seals at Piedras Blancas.
Hearst Castle
A National Historic Landmark, Hearst Castle was the private residence of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in the 1920s. The lavish mansion is accessible by tour only. Advance bookings are highly recommended.
Piedras Blancas is an excellent spot to observe the magnificent northern elephant seal. Spread over 6 miles of shoreline, the viewing areas provide access to the elephant seals as they bask on the shore at their land-based rookery. We saw literally hundreds of elephant seals when we visited. The elephant seal rookery was one of our favourite stops on the San Francisco to Los Angeles road trip.
There is a free car park at the view area, which is open daily and is wheelchair / stroller accessible.
Where to stay in San Simeon
We stayed at the Days Inn San Simeon, which was basic but catered for all of our needs.
We stopped at the family-owned Madonna Inn for lunch, but it’s an incredible spot to stay the night. The unique resort has been welcoming guests since 1958. The incredible interiors must be seen to be believed. We recommend dining at the Copper Cafe.
Visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History to see the 73-foot long blue whale skeleton, one of only five complete blue whale skeletons in the USA, or the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center for an interactive marine experience. Mission Santa Barbara, also known as Santa Barbara Mission, is also worth a visit. Walk down to Stearns Wharf and enjoy the seaside atmosphere.
The iconic Santa Monica Pier was built in 1909, the first concrete pier on the USA West Coast. Ride the Santa Monica Pier Carousel built in 1939, take a spin on the world’s only solar-powered ferris wheel, challenge each other to a game at Playland Arcade and don’t miss the gorgeous sunset.
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