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Countdown to Legoland opening

Posted Jul 7, 2011 by Courtney Cairns Pastor

Updated Jul 7, 2011 at 11:51 AM

My son got his first Lego set last weekend, an early birthday gift from his grandparents, and it’s now Legos all the time. He tries to drag them out as we’re getting ready in the morning, he asks the entire drive home from day care if he can play with them and he protests loudly when it’s dinner time and we make him leave the blocks behind to eat.

This thrills me.

I loved building with Legos when I was little, and I’m excited he has reached an age of toys that interest us both (teething rings and rattles are not so fun for parents to play with after the first 20 times). His dad and I do most of the construction – which is not unlike assembling Ikea furniture – while he does the playing and destruction. But that doesn’t bother me, either. I know he will grow into the toys and eventually move on to his own creations.

I’m watching the construction of Legoland Florida with excitement, too, after hearing for years from west-coast friends how much their kids enjoy the California park. At the site of the old Cypress Gardens in Polk County, the 150-acre theme park is designed for kids from 2 to 12 and will have child-friendly rides, Lego building areas and a factory tour. 

I can’t wait to take him (and myself). I have my eye on the Duplo area, geared toward toddlers.

Today I got an e-mail teasing me that we have just 100 days left until the grand opening on Oct. 15. They just released new photos of some of the rides that are being completed. Take a look:

The Royal Joust takes kids on Lego horses through medieval scenes to other riders where there’s a simulated joust. It’s part of “Castle Hill,” which features knights, dragons and an enchanted castle.

The Technic Test Track roller coaster involves sudden acceleration as visitors race a Lego Technic vehicle down a twisty track.

And here’s the beginnings of Safari Trek, where you can explore Africa and seek out Lego animals.

If you know you’ll love it, Legoland Florida is already selling tickets and season passes. Find the details here.