Plan your LEGOLAND vacation or catch one of the LEGO exhibits coming to a city near you

Your LEGO-obsessed kids break new ground with their creative builds every day. Now it’s your turn! Push the LEGO boundaries with innovative travel ideas your kids are gonna love. From LEGOLAND’s newest location and a tricked-out LEGO house to traveling exhibits that inspire and awe, we’ve got 13 places LEGO fans of all ages need to experience during their lifetime.

LEGOLAND | CA, FL & NY

LEGOLAND

The first stop on any Brick Head’s bucket list is the most LEGO-ist place of all. Full immersion is how it’s done at LEGOLAND Florida, LEGOLAND California, and the newest addition LEGOLAND New York. Rides, water parks, and plenty of brick-tastic builds to explore and participate in are what these theme parks are all about. Add in LEGO-themed hotels and you’ve got a not-to-miss 24/7 experience. 

Online: legoland.com

LEGOLAND - Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Kristina Moy

If you really want to blow your little LEGO lover’s mind, head to LEGOLAND Dubai where you will find the biggest and best attractions from all other LEGOLAND theme parks from around the world. Let your kid's imagination soar in the six themed areas that cover everything from medieval dragons to underwater adventures. Experience over 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions, including LEGO models of the world's most iconic buildings inside the theme park’s first, fully covered MINILAND. Finish your visit off with a trip to the LEGOLAND Water Park where you can take on the Joker Soaker, build your very own LEGO raft, go on a splash safari or slip and slide your way down 20 different water slides and attractions. To learn more, check out our Insider's Guide to Dubai and Emirates’ abundance of family offerings.

Online: legoland.com/dubai

The LEGO House - Billund, Denmark

This totally original Denmark build brings new meaning to the phrase “brick house.” Constructed from over 25 million LEGO bricks, it commemorates the birth of a legend—LEGO (psst...Billund is LEGO's hometown!). Visitors can explore six Experience Zones when they make the pilgrimage, shop the LEGO store, bounce around the playgrounds, and explore the colorful rooftop spaces. Talk about house envy!

Online: legohouse.com/en-gb

LEGOLAND Holiday Village - Billund, Denmark

LEGOLAND Billund Resort

Book a sweet spot in Billund at the LEGOLAND Holiday Village to really blow your bitty brick lover's mind. Overnight in one of their Wilderness Barrels (think: Frodo's Hobbit House) surrounded by LEGO-built wild animals and decor. Or maybe you'd prefer a LEGO NINJAGO or Wild West-themed cabin for your night's stay? But if creature comforts are more your style, the Pirates' Inn Motel can't be beat. No matter which totally tricked out LEGO experience you choose, expect plenty of outdoor play space and family-friendly activities too!

Onlinelegoland.dk/legoland-holiday-village

BrickCon | Seattle, WA

Homan L. via Yelp

This is a LEGO celebration West Coasters won’t want to miss! It spans over two days in October and features thousands of models built by adult LEGO hobbyists. Each year offers a different theme that will surely leave lots of room for builders of all sizes to be inspired and create their own masterpieces in the expansive Building Zone. Brick Heads unite!

Online: brickcon.org

The Art of the Brick

Art of the Brick

Attorney-turned-LEGO artist, Nathan Sawaya, is taking his exquisite brick creations on the road, and families across the globe are invited to check it out. This unusual LEGO experience mixes fine art with bricks to create a playful, innovative experience that appeals to LEGO lovers of all ages. Just think of the inspiration you and your kids will find here! Check out the upcoming tour schedule to find out if the exhibition’s coming to your city.

Online: brickartist.com

FIRST LEGO League

nash1101 via flickr

If LEGO MINDSTORMS is your kid’s jam, being a participant or spectator at a FIRST LEGO League tourney is where you want to be. The name of the game here is STEM, challenging kids ages 4-16 to solve real-world problems and super cool missions. Three divisions help little learners develop their LEGO skills and build teamwork. 

Online: firstlegoleague.org/events

Brickfest Live!

And you thought your kid had a ton of LEGO. You don’t know the half of it until you’ve hit a Brickfest Live! event. Imagine a warehouse full of your favorite LEGO including new, rare and vintage sets. Plus photo ops, mosaic walls, a racing arena, mini golf (LEGO style), robotics and much more. A serious playground for LEGO fiends of any ages, find out if it’s headed your way this year.

Online: brickfestlive.com

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Jim Sulley/newscast

They’re touted as the “ultimate indoor LEGO playground” but your kids know them as that “place with all the LEGO bricks.” And they want to go there...like yesterday. Each location has its own twist, but families can always count on being able to build and test LEGO race cars, explore architectural wonders in Miniland and meet and greets with your favorite LEGO characters. To see what the buzz is about, check out one of the US locations.

Online: lego.com/en-us/attractions/discoverycenter

The AWESOME EXHIBITION

Kate Loweth

If you want to see LEGO build of your favorite local landmarks, watch for the AWESOME EXHIBITION to come to a city near you. Recently it had residence in Seattle where you could see everything from the Space Needle to a massive orca to the Back to the Future Delorean. The massive creations in this exhibition are going to awe LEGO fans of all ages and there are even interactive LEGO building stations where you can make your own LEGO creation. 

Online: awesomeexhibition.com

Additional reporting by Allison Sutcliffe & Kristina Moy

These LEGO storage ideas are genius; you might never step on a rogue minifig again

We know, the struggle that is LEGO organization is real. Even if you think you’ve managed to get them all contained, there are bound to be missing pieces that somehow find their way under your bare foot when you least expect it. In order to help you out, we rounded up genius LEGO storage ideas that range from sleek LEGO bags and bins to the ultimate DIY LEGO table. When you’re done looking, check out our other favorite ideas for toy storage.

Take Advantage of Unused Space

If you’ve got wasted space in your home, consider making it LEGO HQ. We love how there’s a space to build, pull-out shelves, bins for bricks, and a place for displaying completed sets in this playroom closet.

Use Stylish Storage Cabinets

lego storage ideas from The Container Store
Container Store

You don't have to sacrifice style when it comes to storing LEGO. This sharp-looking five-drawer metal cabinet from the Container Store is offered in several bright colors (red, orange, green, aqua, and more). Simply add in some of the drawer dividers, and you've got a place for every last brick.

Available at thecontainerstore.com, $120. 

Stash Them Away in a Storage Pouf

a toy storage pouf is a good LEGO storage idea
Mimish Designs

This stylish pouf is also a storage container! You kids can stash their bricks, zip, and sit! Offered in four colors, the pouf makes a great seat at a play table. 

Available at mimishdesigns.com, $70

Store Them Under the Bed

under the bed LEGO storage idea
The Happy Housie

We get it, you dream of a clean look when it comes to LEGO organization. Whether you’re dealing with a small space or just want to maximize playable square footage, this DIY under-the-bed LEGO storage idea designed by The Happy Housie will make things easy. Just load them in and slide them for a quick, clean storage option.

Buy LEGO Bag Organizers

LEGO Bags

When it comes to organizing all those LEGO bricks, why not turn to the creators themselves? LEGO Bags is ready to rock your world with three super cool systems you can try out: The 4 Piece Organizer Tote ($50), which features a playmat and three zip bins to keep everything (including those “in-process” projects) in place. We also love the Cinch Buckets ($22) for travel.

Designate a LEGO Cupboard

If you’d rather not have them on display, but still want to use bins, pick a cupboard, measure the space, and find containers that are the right fit. And then, label, label, label.

Display the Minifigs

a minifig display case is a great LEGO organization idea

We love this minifig display case that’ll hold up to 16 of your master builder’s favorite characters. Baseplates are included inside each individual slot, you can mount it to the wall, place it on a shelf or flat surface, and best of all, each case is designed to look like a LEGO and is stackable, for easy storage! 

Available at Amazon for $35

Related: Genius Toy Storage Ideas to Contain the Madness

Keep Them in a Rolling Cart

a rolling cart is a good LEGO storage idea
courtesy The Container Store

Sometimes your kids will want to build with LEGO in their rooms, sometimes they'll want to build in the living room, kitchen, or wherever else strikes their fancy. An arts and crafts storage cart will also work for their bricks, especially if you find bins to organize the pieces. This one from The Container Store is great because it comes with the organizers included in the total price. 

Available at containerstore.com, $87

Keep Track of the Instruction Manuals

a cool LEGO storage idea for instruction manuals
My 4 Misters & Their Sister

Now that all the bricks have a place, find a spot for those building manuals, too. Believe us, once one of those suckers disappears, the chances of re-building that set are slim to none. We love the simple but brilliant idea from My 4 Misters & Their Sister. Even busy parents (meaning all of us!) can manage this one. 

Cut the Cord and Keep Them in a Bag

Swoop Bags

If we're being honest, we know that even the best-laid-out LEGO organization idea is no match for a kid who isn't in a hurry to pick up and put away. Everything—eventually—winds up mixed all together, so make it easy on yourself by ordering a few Swoop Bags. These bags have a six-inch edge to help contain small pieces, are offered in small, medium, or large (this one doubles as an activity mat), and you can choose between all sorts of fun colors like royal blue, green grass, sunshine, and Seattle gray. Basically, it's a storage and carryall solution in one! 

Bonus: It comes with an easy pull cord that doubles as a carrying strap. 

Check out the entire stock over at Swoop Bags

Create the Ultimate DIY LEGO Table

IKEA lego table is a good way to store lego
That Mommy Blog

LEGO bricks are something kids love all the way through to middle school and beyond. When Michelle from That Mommy Blog was looking for a storage solution for her son’s exploding brick collection, she came up with this ingenious adjustable height LEGO table and storage unit, which can be used forever! We love the fact that Michelle covered one side of the shelf with green baseplates, and left the other smooth for the option of building without baseplates. For step-by-step instructions, visit That Mommy Blog.

Use a Bead Organizer Box for the Tiny Stuff

use a tackle box for lego organization
Gabby Cullen

Ever notice that LEGO sets come with a bit more, well, stuff, than when you were a kid? Yeah, us too. Using a tackle or jewelry-making box (snag one at your local crafting store) with tons of tiny compartments makes it easy to have a place for each little accessory: from food to sidekicks, tools, and more. We like this bead organizer for just $9 from Michaels. 

Go Basic with Plastic Bins

using bins are a good LEGO storage idea
Heidi Kundun via Happiness is Homemade

Forget fancy LEGO organizing systems. Get yourself to the local DIY store, pick up a package of plastic bins, and just like that, you’ll have an easily accessible solution to your kid’s brick collection. Get the detailed list of what you’ll need Happiness Is Homemade

 

Learn where to find discount LEGOLAND tickets and how to skip the lines for free

If you have a LEGO lover in your house, you need to plan your next family vacation in sunny Florida at LEGOLAND. You’ll enter a world filled with tradeable Minifigures, thrilling rides, and the best LEGO shopping in the world. So whether you want to find the best ticket price or the perfect LEGOLAND ride for a toddler, we’ve rounded up the top tips to plan the perfect family trip to LEGOLAND, Florida.   

How to save money on your LEGOLAND Florida vacation.

Chip Litherland for LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Find Discount Tickets
Start by choosing a time of year when LEGOLAND offers discount vacation packages. It's the perfect way to save on almost every part of your theme park getaway. And you can try your local big box store (Costco or Sam's Club) for the best prices if you just need tickets. 

Brave Hurricane and Back-to-School Season
LEGOLAND offers the best discounts in September. Yes, it is hurricane season, but the park also provides excellent inclement weather policies. If you choose to brave hurricane season after everyone is back in school, make sure you buy travel insurance in case of bad weather. September discounts include vacation packages with resort deals and meals.  

Pro Tip: If you plan to combine your visit to LEGOLAND with other theme parks, such as Disney World or Universal, January is the best time for discount prices, cooler weather, and fewer crowds. 

Pack a lunch (and snacks)
Thankfully, LEGOLAND offers a generous food policy. But the rules are pretty specific. You are allowed soft-sided insulated bags no larger than 8.4' wide x 6" high x 6" deep. So lunch for your crew can stay within your budget. The Publix across the street has affordable food options for the whole family. 

Top tips for making the most out of your LEGOLAND Florida visit

CHIP LITHERLAND for LEGOLAND Florida

Get the App
Before you even pack for your trip, download the LEGOLAND app. It has an interactive map to aid in exploring the park, a height guide for rides, directions, and even a car finder to help track where you've parked. Most importantly, the app lets you track ride wait times in real-time so you can skip the lines for free. You won't need to pay for FastTrack tickets if you follow the ride wait times on the app. You can get in line when the wait is short. The app is a must-have if you are willing to stay flexible with your schedule. 

Shopping Made Easy
You don't need to worry about buying the 3000-piece LEGO set while in the park. Since you'll be able to browse the most extensive collection of LEGO products in the world, the park makes it easy to shop all day. You can purchase from any of the shops throughout LEGOLAND, and they will have your goodies waiting for you when you are ready to leave.

Timesaver Hack: Start at the Back
Any seasoned theme park goer knows the lines by the entrance are often much longer just after the park opens. After you arrive and stop at the Height Check for an armband, walk straight to the back of the park to skip the early lines. Use the app to check wait times, too. 

Pro Tip: If your kids missed the height mark this visit, you could stop at the Heigh Check Center for an armband. It makes ride choices so much easier. 

Plan your day at LEGOLAND around the best rides. 

Chip Litherland for LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Best rides for toddlers
Start your day with the Grand Carousel, and when you plan how much time to spend on this ride, triple it. Your little one will ask to ride this double-decker carousel with moving LEGO horses and sensory-friendly sleighs at least five times. Then, take the DUPLO® train ride around the city, where LEGO characters are fishing and enjoying family time. These LEGOLAND rides are perfect for toddlers. 

Best rides for big kids
Experience a dark castle, a massive dragon, and indoor and outdoor roller coaster fun when you ride The Dragon. And no LEGOLAND trip would be complete without a ride on The Great LEGO Race. The high-speed rollercoaster features a 50-foot drop and a lot of fun for the thrillseeker in your crew. Remember to check out the view of the lake at the very top of the ride. 

Pro Tip: LEGOLAND offers Parent Swapping when one child in your group doesn't meet the height requirement of a ride. Each parent gets a chance to ride; just ask.      

Sensory-friendly options
Don't forget the no-cost "Hero Pass" that allows you to skip lines or wait in quiet rooms equipped with noise-canceling headphones. In addition, the park stocks weighted blankets, squishy toys, and tables where kids can build with LEGO bricks. Finally, ask for one of the illustrated, step-by-step walkthroughs of rides and shows with loud noises, periods of darkness, bright lights, or other overwhelming or potentially frightening aspects.

Find the best hotels near LEGOLAND

LEGOLAND Florida

Where to stay
You'll want to choose one of three LEGOLAND hotels or you'll have to drive a bit further each day to stay at an Orlando-based budget hotel option. Unlike Disney World or Universal, the local hotel and rental options are limited. However, the LEGOLAND hotel room rates and vacation packages are reasonable, especially during a discount period. The nearby major hotel chains might be the best option if you have hotel points.    

Did you know?
LEGOLAND Florida offers all-inclusive vacation packages. In other words, you don't have to plan anything other than how you get there. The packages include everything from meals and accommodations to nightly scavenger hunts with LEGO souvenirs and photo memory packages. 

Plan Ahead: Trade Minifigures at LEGOLAND

LEGO

You can bring minifigs from home or build your own at the stop just inside the entrance of the park. Model Citizens (park staff) throughout LEGOLAND wear lanyards with tradable Minifigures. It's almost like a scavenger hunt that only ends when you stop trading. 

LEGOLAND Florida Resort
One LEGOLAND Way
Winter Haven, FL
Online: legoland.com

If you have an ever-expanding baby bump or a friend with a babe due any day, get ready to wow everyone. From an art center to a bakery to a rustic-chic office space (really!), we found baby shower venues in Chicago that mom-to-be and her guests will remember forever. Scroll down to see all of our picks — and read our list of top to-dos with baby in Chicago — and start the prep!

Ravenswood Loft

This fully furnished 2,000-square-foot open studio space in the heart of Ravenswood accommodates up to 150 people. It features two private bathrooms, kitchenette and reasonably priced hourly rates. They’re uber accommodating with catering—use your own or select from their preferred vendors—and they offer decor and event planning services should you need a bit of assistance.

4437 N. Ravenswood, Ravenswood; 312-479-1390; Online: ravenswoodloft.com

Catalyst Ranch

You'll "ooh" and "aah" when you walk in—promise. Catalyst Ranch is a unique space with a variety of rooms. It’s super-versatile, fun, large but not cavernous, cozy, bright and cheerful. In other words: everything you want in a baby shower spot. Also, it's perfect for people coming from the 'burbs, as it’s right off of the Kennedy.

656 W. Randolph St., West Loop; 312-207-1710, Online: catalystranch.com

Free Range Office

Yep, a baby shower in an office -- and one you'll always remember for it's flexibility and rustic-chic appeal. You can bring in your own food and drinks, so it's the most reasonably priced of the bunch. They have tables, chairs, a sofa lounge area, an outdoor terrace, a kitchen and an assistant to help with your bash. This private loft space is a great option for those who want room to roam and a creative vibe.

2141 W. North Ave., Bucktown; 312-725-3063; Online: freerangeoffice.com

Beverly Arts Center

We'll let you in on a little southside secret: This is truly a gorgeous building that not enough people know about. On staff are wonderful party planners that pretty much do everything, including budgeting, working with your vendors, decorating and more. Parking is plentiful and there are several rooms within the space that will change the vibe of your event (including an art gallery with rotating exhibits — fun!). Plus, they have in-house bartenders.

2407 W. 111th St., Beverly; 773-445-3838; Online: beverelyartcenter.org

Blue Sky Bakery

This adorable café and bakery has excellent brunch and afternoon tea options, with food served family-style (perfect for a cozy gaggle of ladies). You can also feel good about booking as they provide homeless and at-risk youth with jobs.

3720 N. Lincoln Ave., Northcenter; 773-880-9910; Online: blue-sky-bakery.org

The Clubhouse

Big, bold and club-y like no other, Oakbrook's go-to has a whopping six private dining rooms. The menu choice is vast, with a wide variety of platters, stations, buffets and plated meals (think steaks, bacon-wrapped scallops and the like). This is definitely “the spot” if price is no object.

298 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook; 630-472-0600; Online: theclubhouse.com

Urban Icing

If you're looking for bright and cheerful, this ray of sunshine in Bucktown is your spot. Total bonus that you can have an incredibly beautiful — and delicious — cake waiting for you when you arrive. They'll even help with the logistics of catering, decorations, setup and all those little tiny details that go into making an event memorable for mama-to-be.

1944 N. Damen Ave., Bucktown; 773-384-4418; Online: urbanicing.com

Space 1858

This loft-style brick building was designed to pay homage to the urban essence of Chicago with exposed wood beams, large windows and a brick focal wall. It's beautiful, fresh simplicity provides the perfect blank canvas for your party. And an upside for a city location, parking is ample and guest access is convenient.

1858 W. Grand Ave., Ukranian Village; 312-651-6619; Online: space1858.com

The Lytle House

Have a baby shower that oozes cool at this 2,800 square foot space that has free-flowing indoor-outdoor spaces separated by a full-glass garage door and featuring high ceilings, exposed brick, factory windows, original industrial features and green space. You can even color customize the interior and landscape lighting — perfect for a gender reveal, perhaps?

5517 N. Broadway, Edgewater; 872-228-5591; Online: thelytlehouse.com

—  Maria Chambers & Christa Reed

Cover photo: Kelly Sikkema via Unsplash

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And when baby comes and you can’t muster the energy to cook one.more.meal. . . Dinner Is Served: Meal Delivery Services for Busy Chicago Families.

If you want to add a little beauty to your brick stash, you’ll love the LEGO Botanical collection. Not only does this gorgeous lineup make for great therapeutic afternoon of building, but it’s also the perfect way to say “I Love You” this Valentine’s Day.

With florals that won’t die, the LEGO Creator Flower Bouquet ($50) and LEGO Bonsai Tree ($40) are the gift that keeps on giving. Each set has over 700 pieces each and is geared more towards adults than kids.

The Creator Flower Bouquet comes with 756 pieces to construct a variety of flowers, including snapdragons, roses, poppies, asters, daisies, and different grasses. The set comes with elements that feature new shapes and colors to make that perfect petal shape, and each bud can be arranged in a vase to your liking.

Harness your inner zen with the 878 piece Bonsai Tree set. It comes with with a rectangular pot and a slatted wood-effect LEGO stand. If you look close enough, you may even spy the little frogs that make up each blossom piece.

Both sets are sold out on LEGO.com, however, you can use the site to check your local store inventory to snag your own set. You can also find both the bouquet and Bonsai tree on Amazon.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of LEGO

 

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If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


If you have a LEGO fanatic on your shopping list, you’ll definitely want to check this out. We reviewed all the new LEGO sets for 2021 and picked out our favorites including LEGO DUPLO sets for toddlers, LEGO Star Wars for older kids and tons of super-cool LEGO sets for adults who never outgrew their love of all things LEGO (we totally get it). Be sure to scroll down and check out the interactive LEGO Super Mario sets as they top our list. Happy shopping!

LEGO® DUPLO®


LEGO® DUPLO® Parking Garage and Car Wash

$100 BUY NOW

This fun set is packed with activities for car-loving toddlers.


LEGO® DUPLO® Happy Childhood Moments

$100 BUY NOW

This set celebrates two big family events: Chinese New Year and the first day of kindergarten.


LEGO® DUPLO® Tower Crane & Construction

$130 BUY NOW

Build, zip around in vehicles and knock down some buildings with this set that toddlers will love.

LEGO® City


LEGO® City Wildlife Rescue Camp

$100 BUY NOW

Little builders can create a mobile lab and treehouse camp to help save animals with this fun set.

LEGO® DOTS


LEGO® DOTS Creative Designer Box

$32 BUY NOW

Little creators can build loads of different items to decorate their rooms with this creativity-packed set.

LEGO® Super Mario™


LEGO® Super Mario™ Adventures with Luigi Starter Course

$48 BUY NOW

Whether your kid is a gamer or a builder, they'll love this LEGO set that comes with pieces that work just like the Super Mario Brothers video game. As kids embark on a digital coin-collecting spree through the self-constructed course, Luigi's tiny LCD screen displays various reactions, while his speaker plays songs from the video game.

LEGO® Friends


LEGO® Friends Heartlake City Grand Hotel

$100 BUY NOW

This 3-story hotel has lots to explore from a parlor piano bar to a spa and penthouse.

LEGO® Creator


LEGO® Creator 3-in-1 Ferris Wheel

$80 BUY NOW

This set really delivers as it has three buildable options: a Ferris wheel, bumper cars and swing boat ride.


LEGO® Creator 3-in-1 Surfer Beach House

$40 BUY NOW

Build a surf shack, lighthouse and a pool house with this fun set that also comes with three sea animals – a dolphin, sea turtle and baby sea turtle.

LEGO® Harry Potter™


LEGO® Harry Potter™ Hogwarts™ Chamber of Secrets

$130 BUY NOW

Harry Potter fans will love building and displaying this set that comes with 11 minifigs and a posable Basilisk.

LEGO® Star Wars


LEGO® Star Wars™ Attack of The Clones Yoda

$80 BUY NOW

Display this iconic character on your shelf after you build Yoda brick by brick.


LEGO® Star Wars™ Kylo Ren Shuttle Microfighter

$29 BUY NOW

This Star Wars set makes a fun stocking stuffer.

For Grown-Ups


LEGO® Volkswagen T2 Camper Van

$200 BUY NOW

Get ready to hit the road when you assemble this retro-fab set that lets you live out all your camper van dreams.

—Kate Loweth

Photos courtesy of LEGO. All items were available at the prices listed at time of publication. 

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Looking for a super family-friendly activity for Halloween? Head to LEGOLAND!

Brick or Treat is returning to San Diego, Florida and New York and boasts a safe alternative with plenty of candy, trick-or-treating, season shows, dance parties and meet and greets. The event is included with general admission and takes place on select dates through out October (be sure to check your local park for specific dates).

Starting at 11:30 on the day of your visit, the fam can experience six themed trick-or-treating locations, meet with spooky LEGO characters like Lord Vampyre and check out shows that include The Groovin’ Graveyard.

Depending on which park you visit, you may also be treated to nightly fireworks and the chance to win a costume contest! Also consistent with the last year, LEGOLAND resorts are offering heightened health and safety practices, with over 200 hand sanitizing stations so everyone stays safe this Halloween.

—Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of LEGOLAND

 

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Summer is nearly in the books, and if you’re looking for a festive LEGO-filled way to count down the holiday season, then you’re going to want to get your hands on all the new 2021 LEGO advent calendars!.

After a bit of a wait, the LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar is done orbiting the galaxy and is here. Great for kids six and older, the Mandalorian-inspired set it comes with 335 pieces that include seven minifigs and mini builds!

Included minifigures are The Mandalorian and the Child, a Scout Trooper, Stormtrooper, Tusken Raider, IG-11 and IT-O Interrogator Droid. Little builders can also construct The Razor Crest, TIE Fighter, Tusken ballista snow launcher, training targets and the Child’s hoverpram.

The 2021 LEGO Harry Potter Advent Calendar is designed for kids seven and up, has 274 pieces and features 24 little gifts for your brick builders including six minifigures and buildable models like a Hogwarts letters arriving through the fireplace.

photo: LEGO

The minifigures include Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Draco Malfoy, Dudley Dursley and Griphook. Mini builders will also get two wizard card tiles to add to their collection.

You can order both calendars starting Sept. 1 from LEGO.com for $39.99 each.

—Karly Wood

All photos: LEGO

 

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LEGO is gearing up for the holiday season and after the last year and a half, we’re ok with that. The brick maker just launched another addition to its festive lineup, Santa’s Visit. It includes a light up Christmas tree and a chimney that Santa can slide right down!

Like the rest of the holiday sets, it will launch October 1 and it features tons of fun details. From the cozy table where the whole family enjoys a meal by candlelight, to Santa’s chair with milk and cookies by the fire, this set will definitely get you and your family in the Christmas spirit. Although it’s meant for adult builders, your kids will have a blast setting the scenes once it’s complete.

If you’re looking for something a bit smaller, you’ll have a hard time choosing between these cute  kits. The Polar Bear & Gift Pack ($9.99) is great for kids seven and up and comes with 142 pieces.

Mini builders will love constructing the adorable polar bear that comes with a scarf, gift box with movable ribbons and cute “with love to” sticker. Did we mention these make the perfect ornaments?

The LEGO Christmas Penguin ($14.99) is also bringing whimsy, with the ability to rotate, move its wings and stand next to a Christmas tree and three presents.

The penguin set is perfect for kids eight and older and comes with 244 pieces. Both sets will launch on Oct. 1 at LEGO.com and at LEGO stores.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of LEGO

 

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If there’s one thing we’re always looking for as parents, it’s a better way to store LEGO bricks. While we still haven’t found the perfect storage solution, we did find plenty of options to help get you started. From rolling carts to a bag that sweeps everything up in one swoop, here are our top picks for how to keep those bricks together and out from under your feet.

LEGO Bags Organizer

LEGO Bags

When it comes to organizing all those LEGO bricks, why not turn to the creators themselves? LEGO Bags is ready to rock your world with a super cool storage system. The 4 Piece Organizer Tote features a playmat and three zip bins to keep everything (including those “in-process” projects) in place. Best of all, it all folds up into one hand tote!

Buy it here, $50.

Stylish Storage Cabinets

lego storage ideas from The Container Store
Container Store

You don't have to sacrifice style when it comes to storing LEGO. This sharp-looking five-drawer metal cabinet from the Container Store is offered in several bright colors (red, orange, green, aqua and more). Simply add in some of the drawer dividers, and you've got a place for every last brick.

Buy it here, $99.99. 

Rolling LEGO Cart

Michael's

Sometimes your kids will want to build with LEGO in their rooms, sometimes they'll want to build in the living room, kitchen or wherever else strikes their fancy. An arts and craft storage cart will also work for their bricks, especially if you find bins to organize the pieces. This one from Michael's is great because you can choose white or color bins!

Buy it here, $29.99.

LEGO Minifig Storage Head

The Container Store

What better place to store bricks than a minifig head? Not only are they stackable, but they’re easy to clean, and they make great room decor for a master builder. 

Buy them here, $14.99 & up.

2-in-1 Toy Storage Basket and Play Mat

Amazon

We love this stylish toy storage basket that turns into a play mat. Simply pour the bricks out onto the play mat and use the handles to scoop them right back up when it’s time to clean up. 

Buy it here, $26.99.

Velvet Storage Bins

Crate Kids

These chic velvet storage bins can be part of your kids’ room decor! Offered in three colors, they make a statement in storage solutions. 

Buy them here, $49. 

LEGO Brick Storage Bin

Amazon

These fun brick storage boxes come in all sorts of colors, are stackable and are available in two sizes. 

Buy them here, $44.99.

Travel LEGO Storage Container

Amazon

Storage ideas for travel are important too! This little container not only has a small drawer for important bricks, but it also has a handle and a building plate on top, which is ideal for car or plane travel. 

Buy it here, $19.99.

Mesh Storage Bags

Amazon

If you want to try to keep LEGO sets together, these mesh bags are super helpful. You can store all the bricks in the set as well as the instructions, and they easily go into a bin or storage container. 

Buy them here, $20.95 for 12.

—Gabby Cullen

 

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