{"id":32320,"date":"2016-08-18T13:40:48","date_gmt":"2016-08-18T20:40:48","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/?p=32320"},"modified":"2023-04-04T17:24:28","modified_gmt":"2023-04-05T00:24:28","slug":"what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Do at Legoland Chicago and What Not to Do ~ Best Tips"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>What to do at Legoland Chicago &#8211; We love Legoland Discovery Center in Schaumburg, IL. There are some who feel it is too crowded and expensive.<\/p>\n<p>If you follow these tips, you will have a great experience and want to return again.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s what to do at Legoland Chicago to enjoy the best possible experience.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_do_at_Legoland_Chicago_%E2%80%93_Best_tips\"><\/span>What to do at Legoland Chicago &#8211; Best tips<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_65 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#What_to_do_at_Legoland_Chicago_%E2%80%93_Best_tips\" title=\"What to do at Legoland Chicago &#8211; Best tips\">What to do at Legoland Chicago &#8211; Best tips<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Discounted_price_for_Legoland_Chicago\" title=\"Discounted price for Legoland Chicago\">Discounted price for Legoland Chicago<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Tips_for_Legoland_Schaumburg\" title=\"Tips for Legoland Schaumburg\">Tips for Legoland Schaumburg<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Have_your_child_bring_mini_figures_to_trade_with_the_staff\" title=\"Have your child bring mini figures to trade with the staff\">Have your child bring mini figures to trade with the staff<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Check_Legoland_Chicago_hours\" title=\"Check Legoland Chicago hours\">Check Legoland Chicago hours<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Visit_during_slow_times\" title=\"Visit during slow times\">Visit during slow times<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Go_during_the_school_day_when_schools_are_in_session\" title=\"Go during the school day when schools are in session\">Go during the school day when schools are in session<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Go_after_school\" title=\"Go after school\">Go after school<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Less_crowded_times_at_Legoland_Schaumburg\" title=\"Less crowded times at Legoland Schaumburg\">Less crowded times at Legoland Schaumburg<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Have_a_plan_for_the_Lego_Store\" title=\"Have a plan for the Lego Store\">Have a plan for the Lego Store<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Bring_some_quarters\" title=\"Bring some quarters\">Bring some quarters<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Eat_before_you_arrive\" title=\"Eat before you arrive\">Eat before you arrive<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#What_to_do_at_Legoland_Chicago\" title=\"What to do at Legoland Chicago\">What to do at Legoland Chicago<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Register_early_for_Lego_Master_Builder_Academy\" title=\"Register early for Lego Master Builder Academy\">Register early for Lego Master Builder Academy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Have_patience\" title=\"Have patience\">Have patience<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Ask_to_see_a_different_Lego_movie\" title=\"Ask to see a different Lego movie\">Ask to see a different Lego movie<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Take_the_Lego_Factory_Tour\" title=\"Take the Lego Factory Tour\">Take the Lego Factory Tour<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Take_the_Legoland_Schaumburg_survey\" title=\"Take the Legoland Schaumburg survey\">Take the Legoland Schaumburg survey<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Enjoy_the_new_Legoland_attraction\" title=\"Enjoy the new Legoland attraction\">Enjoy the new Legoland attraction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#What_not_to_do_at_Legoland_Chicago\" title=\"What not to do at Legoland Chicago\">What not to do at Legoland Chicago<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Dont_wait_in_line_if_you_will_be_staying_a_long_time\" title=\"Don&#8217;t wait in line if you will be staying a long time\">Don&#8217;t wait in line if you will be staying a long time<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Dont_come_on_a_weekend_and_expect_it_to_be_empty\" title=\"Don&#8217;t come on a weekend and expect it to be empty\">Don&#8217;t come on a weekend and expect it to be empty<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Dont_fear_the_restrooms\" title=\"Don&#8217;t fear the restrooms\">Don&#8217;t fear the restrooms<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#What_to_do_at_Legoland_Chicago_is_to_have_fun\" title=\"What to do at Legoland Chicago is to have fun\">What to do at Legoland Chicago is to have fun<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Legoland_Chicago_Pirate_Adventure_Island_Exhibit\" title=\"Legoland Chicago Pirate Adventure Island Exhibit\">Legoland Chicago Pirate Adventure Island Exhibit<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Legoland_Chicago_pirate_fun_awaits\" title=\"Legoland Chicago pirate fun awaits\">Legoland Chicago pirate fun awaits<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Legoland_Chicago_pirate_ship\" title=\"Legoland Chicago pirate ship\">Legoland Chicago pirate ship<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Water_table_on_Pirate_Adventure_Island\" title=\"Water table on Pirate Adventure Island\">Water table on Pirate Adventure Island<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Build_a_boat\" title=\"Build a boat\">Build a boat<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Changes_to_the_Lego_Racers_Build_Test_section\" title=\"Changes to the Lego Racers: Build &amp; Test section\">Changes to the Lego Racers: Build &amp; Test section<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Fun_in_this_section\" title=\"Fun in this section\">Fun in this section<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#A_recap_of_our_day\" title=\"A recap of our day\">A recap of our day<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Miniland_and_Jungle_Exhibition\" title=\"Miniland and Jungle Exhibition\">Miniland and Jungle Exhibition<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Kingdom_Quest_Laser_Ride\" title=\"Kingdom Quest Laser Ride\">Kingdom Quest Laser Ride<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Second_floor_at_Legoland_Chicago\" title=\"Second floor at Legoland Chicago\">Second floor at Legoland Chicago<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Lego_4D_Cinema\" title=\"Lego 4D Cinema\">Lego 4D Cinema<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Buying_an_annual_pass\" title=\"Buying an annual pass\">Buying an annual pass<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/#Lego_is_timeless\" title=\"Lego is timeless\">Lego is timeless<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>Planning your visit to Legoland Chicago: Before you go, make sure to&#8230;.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Discounted_price_for_Legoland_Chicago\"><\/span>Discounted price for Legoland Chicago<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If you pay full price and it&#8217;s crowded, you may be disappointed.<\/p>\n<p>Look online on the Legoland website for the base price so you know the maximum you will need to spend.<\/p>\n<p>Then work from there.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Costco Travel: You can check your local Costco or Costco Travel to see if they have Legoland admission tickets.<\/li>\n<li>Coupon on the Legoland crown: If your child received a crown from a prior visit to (any) Legoland, there is a coupon on it for &#8220;Buy one adult and get a child free.&#8221;<\/li>\n<li>Local library: Many Chicagoland libraries also offer passes that local residents can &#8220;check out&#8221; with their library card.<\/li>\n<li>Annual Pass at Legoland Chicago: If you will be able to go at least twice during the next year, it may be worth it to get an annual membership. Legoland&#8217;s membership price varies throughout the year. Check online before you go.<\/li>\n<li>Search online<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips_for_Legoland_Schaumburg\"><\/span>Tips for Legoland Schaumburg<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Go Chicago Card is not a good deal for Legoland Discovery Center.<\/p>\n<p>The single day price for a Go Chicago Card is much more expensive than the most expensive admission fee to Legoland.<\/p>\n<p>Also, you will be rushed to do two Go Chicago attractions on the same day if one of them is Legoland Discovery Center.<\/p>\n<p>It will take 35 &#8211; 45 minutes (on a good day) to travel from Chicago to Schaumburg.<\/p>\n<p>Plan to spend the day at Legoland without rushing to additional paid Chicago attractions the same day.<\/p>\n<p>Lego Club magazine: If you are going to <a href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/best-tips-legoland-california\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Legoland California<\/a>, Legoland Florida or another Legoland (not one of the Legoland Discovery Centers) you may find a &#8220;Pay for an adult and the child is free&#8221; coupon.<\/p>\n<p>You should subscribe to this awesome <a href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/ideas-for-long-car-rides-kids-besides-electronics\/\" rel=\"noopener\">free magazine<\/a> for kids. There are two different versions, depending on your child&#8217;s age.<\/p>\n<p>Now that both my kids are in the older age bracket, we just subscribe to one Lego Club magazine in order to reduce the environmental impact and to minimize clutter.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" title=\"Legoland Chicago Miniland\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travel\/GoGreenTravelGreen-2014\/i-SCwcx5Q\/0\/O\/Legoland%20Chicago%20Miniland.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago Miniland\" width=\"320\" height=\"240\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Have_your_child_bring_mini_figures_to_trade_with_the_staff\"><\/span>Have your child bring mini figures to trade with the staff<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>While the Chicago Legoland staff probably won&#8217;t have as many choices as they will at Legoland California, it is still worth bringing some Lego mini figures to trade.<\/p>\n<p>In order to trade mini figs at Legoland Chicago, your child needs to bring a mini figure that includes a Lego head, body and legs.<\/p>\n<p>If you have an accessory to go with it, that&#8217;s great; however, it&#8217;s not a requirement.<\/p>\n<p>Look for the Lego employees with mini figures on their name tags. It&#8217;s a nice experience for your children because the employees will accept the trade.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" title=\"Chicago Legoland's new City Builder\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travel\/GoGreenTravelGreen-2014\/i-tNCfdPh\/0\/O\/Chicago%20Legoland%27s%20new%20City%20Builder.jpg\" alt=\"Chicago Legoland's new City Builder\" width=\"270\" height=\"202\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Check_Legoland_Chicago_hours\"><\/span>Check Legoland Chicago hours<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>During the school year, Legoland Discovery Center in Chicago usually opens at noon.<\/p>\n<p>On school days off and during winter break, spring break, and other times, they open at 10 am.<\/p>\n<p>They are open at 9 am on Saturday and Sundays during the summer and 10 am other times during the year.<\/p>\n<p>Bottom line: Check their website for their hours before you go.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Visit_during_slow_times\"><\/span>Visit during slow times<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When are the least crowded times at Legoland Chicago? Whether you live in the area or are visiting from out of town, keep these tips in mind.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Go_during_the_school_day_when_schools_are_in_session\"><\/span>Go during the school day when schools are in session<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If there is any way of going during a school day, go! Those days are typically the least crowded. When my kids were preschoolers, we went to <a href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/legoland-chicago-discovery-center\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Legoland Chicago<\/a> a lot because it was empty during the school year.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Go_after_school\"><\/span>Go after school<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If you can&#8217;t go during the school day because your child has school, go after school and stay until 7 pm when it closes.<\/p>\n<p>Go after 2 pm<\/p>\n<p>If you are visiting during the summer, a day off from school, or on Saturday or Sunday, the best time to arrive is in the afternoon. Stay until 7 pm, and you&#8217;ll have plenty of time.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Less_crowded_times_at_Legoland_Schaumburg\"><\/span>Less crowded times at Legoland Schaumburg<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A great time to come is if your child has a fall break or a different spring break than when the local schools are off; it will be less crowded.<\/p>\n<p>Summer day camps often have their field trips on Friday so avoid those in the summer if you can.<\/p>\n<p>They will usually leave by the early afternoon; however, so plan to come at 2 pm and stay until closing at 7 pm.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" title=\"Lego Store Legoland Discovery Center\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travel\/GoGreenTravelGreen-2014\/i-zW38p7W\/0\/O\/Lego%20Store%20at%20Legoland%20Discovery%20Center.jpg\" alt=\"Lego Store Legoland Discovery Center\" width=\"275\" height=\"206\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Have_a_plan_for_the_Lego_Store\"><\/span>Have a plan for the Lego Store<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When you exit the Legoland Chicago attraction, you have to exit through the Lego store. Talk with your child in advance of your visit.<\/p>\n<p>After an exciting day at Legoland Chicago, he or she will want a lot of things from the store. It&#8217;s important to make a plan in advance so you end your Lego experience on a positive note.<\/p>\n<p>Will this be your child&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/how-to-find-sustainable-souvenirs-25-days-to-green-travel-day-23\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">souvenir<\/a> from their vacation?<\/p>\n<p>Will you agree to pay for half if your child pays for half?<\/p>\n<p>Can they pick something as a reward for grades, chores, as a gift, or just because?<\/p>\n<p>While we love Lego sets and pieces and all the things you usually can&#8217;t find in stores, it&#8217;s easy to get caught up in the shopping. We&#8217;ve spent hundreds of dollars there &#8212; we&#8217;ve been there so many times &#8212; because my kids are huge Lego fans.<\/p>\n<p>They played with everything, and so for us, it was fine. Also, because we had season passes, my thoughts were the visit was &#8220;free.&#8221;&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bring_some_quarters\"><\/span>Bring some quarters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You will not probably not find a major attraction anywhere in Chicagoland that charge only 25 cents (!) for a locker.<\/p>\n<p>Bring a few quarters if you want to access the locker multiple times during your visit.<\/p>\n<p>They do have a change machine right next to the lockers in case you forget.<\/p>\n<p>Bring some pennies too and buy a flat penny souvenir for your child for just 51 cents.<\/p>\n<p>There is one machine outside the food area and another in the gift shop.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" title=\"Legoland Chicago cafe\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travel\/GoGreenTravelGreen-2014\/i-Bgq5RTb\/0\/O\/Legoland%20Chicago%20cafe.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago cafe\" width=\"220\" height=\"165\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Eat_before_you_arrive\"><\/span>Eat before you arrive<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You are not allowed to leave and re-enter, so plan to eat before you arrive.<\/p>\n<p>There are some easy places to walk in the Streets of Woodfield Plaza which is the center that Legoland is in. Chipotle, Jamba Juice, and Starbucks are right there.<\/p>\n<p>Legoland Discovery Center has a snack bar with sandwiches, chips, ice cream novelties, etc.<\/p>\n<p>Due to my son&#8217;s allergies, we&#8217;ve brought in some easy snacks like fruit, Goldfish and pretzels.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_do_at_Legoland_Chicago\"><\/span>What to do at Legoland Chicago<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" title=\"Lego Master Builder Academy kits for sale\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travel\/GoGreenTravelGreen-2014\/i-8hGSfht\/0\/O\/Lego%20Master%20Builder%20Academy%20kits%20for%20sale.jpg\" alt=\"Lego Master Builder Academy kits for sale\" width=\"270\" height=\"202\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Register_early_for_Lego_Master_Builder_Academy\"><\/span>Register early for Lego Master Builder Academy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Legoland Discovery Center Chicago has a Lego build class that you have to reserve your time.<\/p>\n<p>As soon as you make your way to the second floor, go and reserve times for everyone in your group who wants to build so that you don&#8217;t miss out.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s usually kids who build but adults are welcome to build or to assist\/just sit there.<\/p>\n<p>The Lego staff will give you a ticket that you bring back at that time.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Have_patience\"><\/span>Have patience<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You are there for your child.<\/p>\n<p>Try your hardest to have patience and to not rush him\/her to see everything.<\/p>\n<p>It may seem like a waste of your time and money that your child wants to go up and down the slide or sit with a pile of Lego bricks and build because you can do that at home.<\/p>\n<p>Do your best to relax and enjoy what your child is enjoying.<\/p>\n<p>You may want to discuss in advance what your child really wants to do but know that Legoland Discovery Center isn&#8217;t that large so if you will be there for at least three hours when it&#8217;s not crowded, you will be able to thoroughly enjoy everything.<\/p>\n<p>My family stays at least five hours, and we&#8217;ve been there over 15 times in six years.<\/p>\n<p>Especially now that my kids are older, they spend time doing exactly what they want to do.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ask_to_see_a_different_Lego_movie\"><\/span>Ask to see a different Lego movie<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There are usually about four Lego movies that rotate throughout the week.<\/p>\n<p>On our last visit we were able to see the new Lego Movie 4D &#8211; A New Adventure and Lego Nexo Knights &#8211; The Book of Creativity.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" title=\"Lego Movie Theater\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travel\/GoGreenTravelGreen-2014\/i-QG7d58b\/0\/O\/Lego%20Movie%20Theater.jpg\" alt=\"Lego movie theater\" width=\"250\" height=\"187\"><br \/>\nEach movie is approximately 10 &#8211; 12 minutes.<\/p>\n<p>There is a sign which will countdown the time until the next Lego movie.<\/p>\n<p>This is great so that you know how long you have before waiting outside the theater.<\/p>\n<p>On our most recent visit, we sat through three different movies (one we saw on our last visit) as someone asked the friendly Lego staff member to play a certain one that wasn&#8217;t in the rotation.<\/p>\n<p>The theater was fairly empty which was great because we all enjoyed being able to sit in our seats without having to get back in line.<\/p>\n<p>The theater is fun. It&#8217;s 4-D which means there are some surprises like some snow or rain and wind, depending on the movie.<\/p>\n<p>When you enter the Legoland theater, the staff member will give you a pair of 3D glasses.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Take_the_Lego_Factory_Tour\"><\/span>Take the Lego Factory Tour<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The Lego tour is especially fun when it&#8217;s not crowded so your child will have a chance to push the button to make the machine run.<\/p>\n<p>We&#8217;ve been on the &#8220;tour&#8221; when it was crowded and when it wasn&#8217;t.<\/p>\n<p>You will enjoy it either way, and the Lego staff usually invites the children to the front.<\/p>\n<p>Everyone in attendance, even the adults, will receive a free Lego brick that is compatible with Lego bricks as well as Duplo bricks.<\/p>\n<p>Sometimes they give out a themed brick, such as when we went for Brick-or-Treat and over the winter holiday.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Take_the_Legoland_Schaumburg_survey\"><\/span>Take the Legoland Schaumburg survey<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Plan to take a few minutes to complete the survey at the kiosk when you leave the Legoland Discovery Center.<\/p>\n<p>There really aren&#8217;t that many places that ask for their customers&#8217; feedback, so be sure to take advantage of this opportunity to recognize great service from a Legoland Discovery Center employee or to leave constructive criticism.<\/p>\n<p>(On my most recent visit, I left plenty of compliments and was happy with my visit; however, I did complain about the broken bikes on the Merlin&#8217;s Apprentice ride, as full 1\/3 of them broken on a busy summer day &#8212; 4 out of 12 bicycles!)<\/p>\n<p>The kiosk is right outside the Legoland store as you are leaving from inside the attraction. Know that once you leave the attraction, you cannot re-enter Legoland.s<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" title=\"Legoland Discovery Center\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travel\/GoGreenTravelGreen-2014\/i-VjJKRLg\/0\/O\/Legoland%20Discovery%20Center.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Discovery Center\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Enjoy_the_new_Legoland_attraction\"><\/span>Enjoy the new Legoland attraction<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>It&#8217;s always great to see what will be new at Legoland Discovery Center.<\/p>\n<p>They work hard to improve their guests&#8217; experience and are often adding to, changing or modifying their exhibits.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_not_to_do_at_Legoland_Chicago\"><\/span>What not to do at Legoland Chicago<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You know what to do at Legoland Chicago, now here&#8217;s what not to do.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" title=\"Legoland Racers Build and Test\" src=\"https:\/\/photos.smugmug.com\/Travel\/GoGreenTravelGreen-2014\/i-5Ngd4pV\/0\/O\/Legoland%20Racers%20Build%20and%20Test.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Racers Build and Test\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_wait_in_line_if_you_will_be_staying_a_long_time\"><\/span>Don&#8217;t wait in line if you will be staying a long time<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The crowds will thin out so don&#8217;t wait in a line longer than 10 minutes for Merlin&#8217;s Apprentice Ride or Kingdom Quest Laser Ride.<\/p>\n<p>There will be a time during your visit when you should be able to not have to wait in line at all for a ride and ride it again and again.<\/p>\n<p>This is also important for other crowded attractions, including the Pirate Adventure Island playset and the Legoland Racers Build and Test section.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_come_on_a_weekend_and_expect_it_to_be_empty\"><\/span>Don&#8217;t come on a weekend and expect it to be empty<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Again I repeat, Legoland will be crowded on the weekend as are most Chicagoland area attractions.<\/p>\n<p>If you do go on the weekend, your best bet is to come mid-afternoon (1:30 pm\/2 pm) or later and stay until closing (7pm).<\/p>\n<p>Or come for the majority of the day, and watch a Lego movie.<\/p>\n<p>Reserve your spot for the Lego Master Builder Academy early, when it is crowded.<\/p>\n<p>Then, when it&#8217;s less crowded, you can enjoy the rides, the Legoland Pirate Adventure Island exhibit (playland and interactive Lego section) and Build and Test section.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Dont_fear_the_restrooms\"><\/span>Don&#8217;t fear the restrooms<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The restrooms are fun, colorful and clean the Legoland restrooms.<\/p>\n<p>There is even a family bathroom which is very convenient.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_do_at_Legoland_Chicago_is_to_have_fun\"><\/span>What to do at Legoland Chicago is to have fun<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Come with a smile and your camera as your child enjoys a very hands-on experience playing with Lego bricks in new ways.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t rush your child through the areas. Let them explore at their own pace. Yes, there is a tendency to rush to maximize everyone&#8217;s experience but do your best to let them lead.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>If you plan what to do at Legoland Chicago in advance, you will be sure to have a great visit.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Legoland_Chicago_Pirate_Adventure_Island_Exhibit\"><\/span>Legoland Chicago Pirate Adventure Island Exhibit<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>We had another chance to visit one of my kids&#8217; favorite places!<\/p>\n<p>What I love about Legoland Chicago Discovery Center is that they are always working to improve and enhance their customers&#8217; experience. We experienced another positive change on our last visit.<\/p>\n<p>On their second floor, they transformed the huge play structure. Their Construction Zone themed playset is no longer.<\/p>\n<p>What awaits Lego fans? Legoland Chicago Pirate Adventure Island&#8230;. It&#8217;s a must-see exhibit!<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Legoland-Chicago-Pirate-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago Pirate\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Legoland_Chicago_pirate_fun_awaits\"><\/span>Legoland Chicago pirate fun awaits<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Located on the second floor in the &#8220;big room,&#8221; my kids eagerly went up to the large pirate ship.<\/p>\n<p>There is so much to do in this updated section as well as on this entire floor.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Legoland-Chicago-pirate-ship-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago pirate ship\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Legoland_Chicago_pirate_ship\"><\/span>Legoland Chicago pirate ship<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There is a huge pirate ship for the kids to climb on, in, through, under, and around. There are rope nets to climb, and planks to walk.<\/p>\n<p>All of the kids participating in this exhibit were having fun building, climbing, and playing. They can look out the telescope, fire a cannon, and have fun climbing and crawling through the ship.<\/p>\n<p>Kids can play &#8220;pirate&#8221; or whatever they like.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, on the ground, under and surrounding the ship, there were also a lot of kids enjoying themselves. They were building with the large Lego rubber bricks and also playing on and with the ship itself.<\/p>\n<p>Another positive about the Legoland Chicago pirate ship area is that kids now keep their shoes on.<\/p>\n<p>When my kids first went up to it they immediately started to remove their shoes as they have done for years. But now, kids now keep their shoes on&#8230; a very positive change! It is more sanitary and just cleaner-feeling all around.<\/p>\n<p>Now they don&#8217;t have to constantly put their shoes back on when they want to go to another exhibit.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Legoland-pirate-water-table-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago pirate\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Water_table_on_Pirate_Adventure_Island\"><\/span>Water table on Pirate Adventure Island<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In all the years we have been coming to Legoland Chicago, there hasn&#8217;t ever been a water table&#8230; until now.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;ve ever been to the children&#8217;s museums in the area, you will have seen them before. This is a smaller version of the Legoland water tables at Legoland California but it&#8217;s really cool, and your kids will have a blast.<\/p>\n<p>This one is unique in that it slopes downward so that your boat can race against another boat or simply sail the course on its own.<\/p>\n<p>There are three separate &#8220;lanes.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>What is different about this water table from other water tables we&#8217;ve experienced is that this one isn&#8217;t so much about playing in the water as it is about creating and sailing a boat with the available Lego pieces.<\/p>\n<p>That&#8217;s great because your kids won&#8217;t get as wet!<\/p>\n<p>There are aprons available on the nearby hooks if you want your child to protect his\/her shirt.<\/p>\n<p>Their arms will still get wet so be sure to roll up their sleeves.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Legoland-water-table-pieces-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago pirate\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Build_a_boat\"><\/span>Build a boat<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Kids and adults will have a lot of fun constructing a Lego boat.<\/p>\n<p>There were lots of boat &#8220;base&#8221; pieces, large and small, to choose from, even when several kids were surrounding the water table building.<\/p>\n<p>There were also many unique and interesting sea pieces as well, including octopus, anchors, masts and many more.<\/p>\n<p>You can build your boat right by the water with the tubs of available Lego pieces.<\/p>\n<p>My kids enjoyed playing in these two sections which make up the new Legoland Chicago Pirate Adventure Island.<\/p>\n<p>What I noticed was how well the entire pirate area was able to accommodate so many children on a busy Saturday.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>It was crowded but what struck me was that many age ranges enjoyed themselves safely with this exhibit.<\/p>\n<p>Also, more than I noticed for the previous Construction Site play structure, there were a lot more children aged 5 and under enjoying it, though it is fun for older kids as well.<\/p>\n<p>On the day we were there it was also nice to see how many parents were being positively engaged with their kids, playing along side them, and not on their phones.<\/p>\n<p>Others were standing just outside the exhibit actively supervising their children, which was also nice.<\/p>\n<p>Read here for even more information about everything you need to know before going to Legoland Chicago or Legoland California trip<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Changes_to_the_Lego_Racers_Build_Test_section\"><\/span>Changes to the Lego Racers: Build &amp; Test section<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Also on the second floor in the big room is my boys&#8217; favorite exhibit, the Build &amp; Test section.<\/p>\n<p>When Legoland Chicago added the pirate exhibit, they changed some other things around, including this section.<\/p>\n<p>Although this area has a much smaller footprint now, it was still fun.<\/p>\n<p>They removed an entire ramp with slots for four racers and left the two ramps that adjoin together, allowing two racers to race simultaneously.<\/p>\n<p>This space has been modified many times, but luckily, they have never removed it from Legoland Chicago Discovery Center.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Legoland-Build-Test-ramp-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago pirate\" width=\"200\" height=\"300\"><br \/>\nThis section involves constructing vehicles out of Lego bricks and wheels and racing them down one of two ramps.<\/p>\n<p>There are a few steps to go up to the top of the ramp to launch your vehicle.<\/p>\n<p>However, even when there is a little bit of a line, the cars just take seconds to go down the ramp, and usually the person who raced the car rushes back down the steps to reclaim his\/her (hopefully intact) car.<\/p>\n<p>So the entire process is fast and the line moves along.<\/p>\n<p>The only thing that could be better was if somehow they had stairs going up to launch the car and then a set of stairs in the back to come down so that the person rushing down isn&#8217;t bumping into the people coming up.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fun_in_this_section\"><\/span>Fun in this section<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>But all in all, <a href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Legoland Chicago<\/a> has made this exhibit work with the smaller amount of space they have available.<\/p>\n<p>My kids sat for a long time creating cars, racing them, modifying them, and racing them again and again.<\/p>\n<p>Like at the pirate area&#8217;s water table, the tubs of Lego bricks and pieces are available right in the tables, and young and old alike can create vehicles sturdy enough to make it down the ramp.<\/p>\n<p>There are stools to sit on as well.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_recap_of_our_day\"><\/span>A recap of our day<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>I usually do not visit here or any major Chicago attraction on a weekend, but we were on a short vacation in the area and that was the only day we could make it.<\/p>\n<p>We really wanted to see the new Legoland Chicago pirate exhibit. It was crowded when we visited, but not as crowded as I expected.<\/p>\n<p>We were there from 12 pm &#8211; 3:45 pm on a Saturday. I brought my 8 and 9 year old sons and my 13 year old niece.<\/p>\n<p>As it is everywhere we go, my kids enjoyed seeing how many steps they walked on their <a href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/fitbit-for-kids-and-family-why-i-love-the-fitbit-zip\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Fitbit Zip<\/a>.<br \/>\n&lt;<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Legoland-Chicago-Miniland-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago pirate\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Miniland_and_Jungle_Exhibition\"><\/span>Miniland and Jungle Exhibition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After visiting the Lego jungle animals we were in a large room with full-sized figures of many popular characters, including Batman, Harry Potter, R2D2, and several more.<\/p>\n<p>It would be wonderful if they would put the Lego Racers: Build &amp; Test section, such an interactive area, in this large room instead of downsizing it on the second floor.<\/p>\n<p>They could populate the rest of the center with these characters instead of having them in such a large space.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Legoland-Jungle-Expedition-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago pirate\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kingdom_Quest_Laser_Ride\"><\/span>Kingdom Quest Laser Ride<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After exiting the characters&#8217; room, one comes upon the Kingdom Quest Lego Ride as well as the lockers, stairs and elevator to the second floor.<\/p>\n<p>The Kingdom Quest ride is always fun, and is meant to accommodate up to four people, though you can have one or two more.<\/p>\n<p>There are laser guns attached to just four of the seats, however.<\/p>\n<p>When we were there it was a little disappointing that after waiting in line for about 10 minutes, one of the laser guns in our coaster didn&#8217;t work.<\/p>\n<p>Also upsetting that once on the coaster enjoying the ride, there were several of the laser fields that weren&#8217;t registering when we shot them.<\/p>\n<p>I told a worker who seemed to already know about it.<\/p>\n<p>I left a review &#8212; outside the gift shop upon exiting Legoland Chicago &#8212; on the kiosk mentioning this.<\/p>\n<p>Another disappointment overall with this ride is that when they converted it to be a laser shooting game (in the past, it was just a ride through the kingdom) they didn&#8217;t put in more targets to shoot and get points for.<\/p>\n<p>As it stands, there are entire sections that you aren&#8217;t able to shoot at anything to register points.<\/p>\n<p>Overall, the ride is fun and engaging.<\/p>\n<p>It is fun for kids and adults to see how many points they have &#8212; it keeps an electronic total for each of the four seats &#8212; and could be made better with some additional targets.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Second_floor_at_Legoland_Chicago\"><\/span>Second floor at Legoland Chicago<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After riding the Kingdom Quest ride twice, we made our way upstairs and into the large room which consists of Pirate Adventure Island, Lego Racers: Build &amp; Test, Merlin&#8217;s Apprentice Ride, Duplo Village, and the Cafe.<\/p>\n<p>Please see above for descriptions of Pirate Adventure Island and the Build and Test section.<\/p>\n<p>After an hour of playing in the two sections, we took a break and bought some snacks from the Cafe.<\/p>\n<p>There are tables that are reserved for customers who buy food from the Cafe.<\/p>\n<p>There is also a taller table area which seems to be open seating which is nice to get out of the way of the kids playing and still mostly be able to see your (older) kids.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Legoland-Chicago-Cafe-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago pirate\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\"><br \/>\nThen the kids played a bit more in each of the sections as well as went on the Merlin&#8217;s Apprentice Ride.<\/p>\n<p>I was very happy to see my 13 year old niece having fun on the ride and also enjoying herself throughout the day building a car and a boat.<\/p>\n<p>The Duplo section is their toddler section.<\/p>\n<p>It is off to the side of the water table, on the end and out of the way from heavy traffic areas.<\/p>\n<p>It has seating for caregivers and lots of room for little ones to play.<\/p>\n<p>There is also a little slide to go down.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lego_4D_Cinema\"><\/span>Lego 4D Cinema<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>We left the large, main room and went to the 4D Cinema.<\/p>\n<p>The line for the movie was long but Legoland Chicago conveniently posts a countdown clock to show in how many minutes the next movie will start.<\/p>\n<p>My kids kept playing until there were two minutes to showtime, and then we got in line. So while there was a long line, it went quickly once the doors were open.<\/p>\n<p>It is a large theater so everyone was able to get a seat.<\/p>\n<p>Kids think it is fun to wear the 4D glasses which a staff member gives you when you enter the theater. You return the glasses when you exit the theater.<\/p>\n<p>My kids and I, even having seen this movie several times, still enjoyed it and loved the special effects. My niece loved it too.<\/p>\n<p>We still wanted time to visit the gift shop so we unfortunately didn&#8217;t have time to go into the Factory Tour to see how bricks are made and to get our free brick.<\/p>\n<p>Nor did we have time to make the project in the Lego Master Builders Academy.<\/p>\n<p>We got our stuff out of our locker &#8212; it is just a quarter to use! Then we made our way to the Lego shop.<\/p>\n<p>Each child picked one thing they were very happy with &#8212; a minifigure, a Mixel, and an engraved keychain.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Buying_an_annual_pass\"><\/span>Buying an annual pass<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Unfortunately, we don&#8217;t buy the season passes for Legoland Discovery anymore as we live several time zones away. But if you can afford to do it and know you will be back in the next 12 months, it is definitely worth it.<\/p>\n<p>Parking is always free so even if it is crowded, and you just stay for an hour or two, it is okay.<\/p>\n<p>Come when you can, and stay for as long as you can. You won&#8217;t feel compelled to get the full day, &#8220;do everything&#8221; experience.<\/p>\n<p>You won&#8217;t have to rush your child through each ride or exhibit.<\/p>\n<p>It is so great when you can let your kids take the lead and do as they wish, even if it means they hang out and play and enjoy just one or two sections during the visit.<\/p>\n<p>So much of their lives are structured and hurried. It is nice for them to just be and not be stressed about seeing everything if they are perfectly happy where they are.<\/p>\n<p>So try to get an annual pass or at least be sure to find a coupon or go on days they have better deals.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lego_is_timeless\"><\/span>Lego is timeless<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Much like <a href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-kids-learn-from-trading-cards\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">trading cards for kids<\/a>, Lego building is timeless.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s so worth it to have your child experience the Pirate Adventure Island exhibit.<\/p>\n<p>There are so many fun things to do in the Midwest, including seeing the sites and exploring Chicago, <a href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/things-to-do-in-milwaukee-with-kids-fun-for-all\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Milwaukee<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-in-iowa-with-kids\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Iowa<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/nebraska-with-kids-where-to-go-fun-road-trip-ideas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Nebraska<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Enjoy fun road trips for kids for lasting memories.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Legoland-area-under-the-pirate-ship-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"Legoland Chicago pirate\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\"><br \/>\nWe were very happy to have been able to check out Legoland Chicago Pirate Adventure Island.<\/p>\n<p>It always makes me happy to see my kids engaged, inventive, creative, and having a great time.<\/p>\n<p>They loved the playing on the pirate ship and building ships to sail in water.<\/p>\n<p>They also had fun in the other areas as usual.<\/p>\n<p>We look forward to our next visit to Legoland Chicago and are eagerly awaiting to see what changes we notice.<\/p>\n<p>Have you checked out the Pirate Adventure Island exhibit? What are your tips for visiting?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What to do at Legoland Chicago &#8211; We love Legoland Discovery Center in Schaumburg, IL. There are some who feel it is too crowded and expensive. If you follow these tips, you will have a great experience and want to &#8230; <a title=\"What to Do at Legoland Chicago and What Not to Do ~ Best Tips\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/what-to-do-at-legoland-chicago-what-not-to-do\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about What to Do at Legoland Chicago and What Not to Do ~ Best Tips\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":14,"featured_media":32424,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32320"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/14"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=32320"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32320\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/32424"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=32320"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=32320"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gogreentravelgreen.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=32320"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}