America’s most visited destination, Orlando is known worldwide as an iconic family destination, attracting 75 million visitors annually. For decades, Disney’s Florida theme parks have captivated families for generations, but many believe that magic has dulled.
Frequent traveler and theme park visitor Richard Campbell has visited Disney and Legoland amusement parks abroad and in the United States nine times in the past five years.
“I didn’t like Disney until I had kids, but my first family trip to Disney in 2014 was such a wholesome family trip that I changed my mind. But in the last 10 years, The experience has changed and unfortunately gotten worse,” he says.
“We worked hard to travel the odd week with no school, using a crowded calendar, and yet, it’s always packed.”
“Overall, Legoland is a clear winner for young children because of the price, the experience, and the ease of use.
He is not alone in thinking this way.
Even Disney’s CEO thinks it’s costing too much
At a Morgan Stanley press conference in March, Disney CEO Bog Iger said, “We always believed that Disney was an accessible brand.” In our enthusiasm, I think we may have been a little too aggressive about some pricing.”
With admission prices fluctuating based on demand, a base ticket to Disney World for 1 park per day averages $141.74. Lending tree analysisHowever, buying tickets during popular travel periods, park hopping, and reserving ride times to avoid crowds can double the cost of your ticket.
“Our Spring Break Disney World tickets were $1,646 with a two-day Park Hopper Pass and ride reservations for two adults and two children,” says Daniel, a New Jersey father. “Our cost per person for him was $205.75, almost double the average ticket price. I don’t think we’ll be returning to Disney any time soon.”
Unlike other theme parks, Disney does not offer discounts on 1- or 2-day park tickets, but slightly discounts on bundles of 3 or more days.
However, LEGOLAND Florida tickets start at $84 on the website, and you can add admission to the on-site water park for $5 more. Plus, AAA, Undercover Tourist, and Working Advantage all offer discounted LEGOLAND tickets at the ballpark for 35% off. Legoland’s previous Black Friday deals have included big discounts like $59.50 park tickets and half-price hotel stays.
Low-key crowds at Legoland Florida
Legoland Florida is significantly less crowded by design. He’s 50% bigger than the Magic Kingdom and has 150 acres of land, but he has a capacity of 12,000 people, or 12% of his in the Magic Kingdom. Differences in crowding at the two theme parks were reflected in all families interviewed.
“Spring Break at Legoland Florida was the difference between day and night for Disney,” Daniel continues. “Our Disney days were spent waiting in line and not even getting to experience so many attractions in the end. For example, the Frozen Ever After line is one of his most popular . Epcot ride, was two hours long. On the contrary, most ride lines at Legoland were 15-30 minutes long. ”
“Overall it feels more relaxed and low-key. We went to Legoland Florida before Disney World and we all felt spoiled,” said Shelly Marmore. says. travel blogger“The huge crowds and queues at Disney were no fun compared to Legoland.”
“I prefer taking my kids to Legoland because the parks tend to be less crowded than Disney World. I’m sure,” admits Larry Snider. Redwood Vacation Rentals“It’s a huge advantage because you’re enjoying the park without spending half the time waiting in line.”
Legoland brings leisure back to vacation
With an on-site hotel, large water park and the new addition Peppa Pig Land, LEGOLAND Florida offers an all-in-one experience without the need for buses, monorails, gondolas or taxis to enter the park.
“We love staying at the Legoland Hotel. A magical family travel guide“When you go to Disney, most resorts are far from the parks.”
Located 130 steps from the Legoland gates, Pirate Island Hotel offers nightly entertainment, an outdoor heated pool, restaurant, bar with built-in Lego play space, and fine dining beyond typical resort offerings .
A unique attraction for kids, parents and grandparents
Legoland Florida was built on the site of Cypress Gardens, Florida’s first theme park. Twenty years after its closure, the historic canal boat is back with a Lego twist. The park’s newest ride, the Pirate River Quest, uses many of the same canal routes as the original attraction, and the finale takes guests to Lake Eloise for a view of the rarely-seen gardens.
Plus, those who have enjoyed the world-famous Cypress Gardens Ski Show in the past will now enjoy a new Lego-themed show in the same waters.
With over 50 rides, live shows and themed attractions inspired by popular LEGO sets and characters, there’s a ride and activity for every family.
For older kids, Legoland Florida has four roller coasters. magic kingdomYoung children have many options for enjoying the rides alone or with a parent.
For kids who don’t like vehicles, Legoland has enough places to keep builders and makers entertained for more than a day. In addition to activities spread throughout the park, there is a newly expanded Imagination Zone with five different activity areas, thousands of Lego bricks, and a restaurant all in one building.
Travelers can find Legoland theme parks around the world
With two more amusement parks in the US and seven overseas locations, you can combine a trip to Denmark. DuvaMe, South Korea, England, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, San Diego, California, or enjoy a day or two at Legoland theme parks in New York.
“Legoland UK is 15 minutes from Heathrow Airport. It’s a beautiful resort that’s easy to get to. Plus, Windsor is 10 minutes away which is a lot of fun for the family. The tour of Windsor Castle was spectacular.” 10 adventures.
This article is heart planner Syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.
Monica Fish helps her fellow adventurers live financially savvy lives so they can travel and explore beautiful worlds on any budget. She writes about smart timeshare ownership, vacation tips and tricks, NYC Metro her area trips and activities, and her frugal yet rich life on PlannerAtHeart.com.