LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago Admission Ticket

Thinking about taking the kids (or just yourself) to LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Schaumburg? This spot is often billed as a family favorite, offering a mix of brick-building fun, rides, and mini landmarks. We’ve looked into it, sifted through reviews, and gathered the details so you can decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What we like about this experience is that it’s bright, interactive, and perfect for younger kids. The mini Chicago skyline made from LEGO bricks is a real highlight, especially for anyone keen to see the city’s landmarks reimagined in tiny bricks. Plus, the rides like Kingdom Quest and the 4D theater add some excitement beyond just building.

However, a potential downside is that for the price, some might feel it’s a bit small or that the overall value isn’t stellar compared to other attractions in Chicago. The reviews reflect this mixed feeling—some say it’s fun but not necessarily worth the hefty ticket price.

If you’re traveling with children aged 3-12, and especially if your kids love LEGO, this could be a good choice. Just keep expectations realistic about what’s included and remember it’s a pretty contained experience.

Key Points

• Great for younger kids: Ideal for children aged 3 to 12, with plenty of hands-on activities.
• Mini Chicago Landmarks: The miniature Windy City made from LEGO bricks is a must-see.
• Limited rides: The two main rides, Kingdom Quest and Merlin’s Apprentice, are fun but may not be enough for longer stays.
• Value considerations: At $26.24 per person, some feel it’s a bit pricey, especially if you’re looking for a day-long adventure.
• Indoor and weather-proof: Perfect for days when Chicago’s weather isn’t cooperating.
• Short duration: Expect to spend around 3 hours here, making it a good half-day activity.

What To Expect at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago

Once you arrive at the Woodfield Mall location in Schaumburg, you’ll step into what feels like the world’s biggest box of LEGO bricks. With over 3 million LEGO bricks under one roof, the space is vibrant and bustling with activity. It’s designed to entertain kids, but adults will find plenty to enjoy, especially if they’re fans of LEGO or Chicago’s landmarks.

The core of the experience revolves around interactive and visual attractions that keep children engaged. From building your own creations to rides and a mini-arch of Chicago, there’s enough to keep busy for about three hours.

The Rides & Attractions

Kingdom Quest is a standout—think of it as a shooting game where kids aim to save a princess by hitting targets with a launcher. It’s simple but surprisingly entertaining and very kid-friendly. The Merlin’s Apprentice Ride offers a gentle flight simulation, giving kids the chance to control their ascent, which is usually a hit with the younger crowd.

The 4D Theater is another highlight, showing LEGO characters in action-packed shorts with effects like wind and water, enhancing the story and making it more immersive. As one reviewer put it, “there’s a spot to build your own car with a ramp you can try it out on, and the kids loved it” — a simple, yet effective way to keep little hands busy.

The Mini Chicago Landmarks (MINILAND)

One of the most praised features is the miniature Chicago skyline made from over 1.5 million LEGO bricks. It’s quite impressive visually and offers a fun way to see the city in a different light. Kids and adults alike appreciate the detail, and it gives an interesting contrast to the larger-than-life rides.

Play Areas & Themed Zones

Beyond the rides, there’s a Pirate Adventure Island Playground, which is especially popular with kids who love to climb and explore. The LEGO Friends area is also a nice touch for fans of those characters, allowing children to add their own creations to a colorful cityscape.

The Factory Tour & Other Offerings

While not explicitly detailed in the overview, the attraction mentions an opportunity to see how LEGO bricks are made — a neat addition that can add some educational value to your visit.

The Real Deal: The Experience, the Reviews, and the Cost

Many reviews highlight that the attraction is quite small, especially compared to other major Chicago attractions. One reviewer called it “not worth the money,” citing that it’s basically a display of LEGO bricks and a large play area, ending up in a LEGO store. It’s true that this experience is more about visual and tactile fun than extensive rides or exhibits.

However, other visitors, like Tatiana, found it a great outing for families with kids aged 2-10, praising the masks handed out at the front desk and the overall atmosphere. Kejuan described it as “an amazing place for kids”, with plenty of adventures and exciting activities.

Pricing is around $26.24 per person, which might seem steep for what amounts to a few hours of entertainment. When you factor in that some rides are unlimited but others might be out of order (as one reviewer noted), you might question whether the ticket price matches the experience. Also, extras like photos come at an additional cost, which can add up if you want keepsakes.

Practical Considerations

• Booking ahead is highly recommended, as it’s often booked about 10 days in advance.
• The location is outside of downtown Chicago, in Schaumburg, so plan for a 45-50 minute drive if you’re coming from the city.
• The duration is approximately 3 hours, making it suitable for a half-day activity.
• It’s inside a mall, so you can combine this visit with some shopping or dining.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for families with young children who love LEGO and are looking for a weather-proof, indoor outing. If your kids are aged 3 to 12 and enjoy interactive, hands-on activities, they’ll likely have a good time. The miniature Chicago landmarks also add a local flavor, making it more meaningful if you’re familiar with the city.

For solo travelers or older kids and adults, it might feel a bit limited, especially considering the price. If you’re already planning a trip to Chicago’s bigger attractions, this could be a nice add-on, but don’t expect a full day of adventure.

Final Thoughts

Overall, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago offers a fun, colorful escape into the world of LEGO, especially suited for younger kids. It’s a place where children can build, explore, and enjoy some gentle rides, all within a safe, indoor environment. The mini Chicago skyline is a charming feature that adds a local touch to the visit.

However, many reviews point out that the experience might not justify the cost for everyone, especially given its size and limited ride options. It’s a good choice if you’re seeking a quick, engaging activity that keeps kids busy while you enjoy some relaxed family time. Just keep your expectations in check and plan to spend about three hours here.

If you’re exploring options around Chicago, this attraction pairs well with other city experiences, but don’t rely on it for a full-day adventure unless your kids are LEGO enthusiasts. It’s a pleasant, manageable outing—more fun than frustration, especially when the kids are in the LEGO mood.

FAQ

Is it necessary to book tickets in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended and often necessary, as the tickets are usually booked about 10 days in advance. This helps ensure you won’t be disappointed if it’s busy.

How long does the visit typically last?
Most visitors spend around 3 hours there. It’s enough time to enjoy the rides, explore MINILAND, and play in the themed zones.

Are there rides included in the ticket price?
Yes, the two main rides, Kingdom Quest and Merlin’s Apprentice, are included and are generally unlimited. Keep in mind that one reviewer mentioned one ride was out of order.

Is it suitable for all ages?
It’s best for kids aged 3-12. Adults can enjoy the mini Chicago landmarks and some of the activities, but it’s primarily designed for children.

What about accessibility and weather?
Since it’s indoors inside a mall, it’s accessible and a good option during bad weather or cold days.

Can I buy photos there?
Photos are available, but they cost extra. They are not included with the entry ticket.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, maybe a light snack or water, and an extra layer if you tend to get cold indoors.

Is the location convenient?
It’s inside Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, about 45-50 minutes from downtown Chicago, so plan your transportation accordingly.

In the end, whether this experience is worth your time depends on your kids’ love for LEGO and your expectations for what a three-hour indoor activity should be. It’s a cheerful, colorful outing that most younger children will enjoy, but if you’re looking for something more extensive or of higher value, you might want to explore other Chicago attractions as well.