Categories > Guides and Tips
It’s LEGO time! Here’s a Complete Guide to a Day of Fun at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Phoenix
- What is the Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix known for?
- Best Time to Go to Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
- Things to Know About Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
- How to Get to Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
- What to Do Near Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
- Where to Stay Near Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
- Where to Eat Near Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
- Where to Shop Near Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
Don’t you just miss the pure joy of clicking LEGO bricks together? There’s something truly magical about watching a creation come to life, piece by piece.
And guess what? If you’re a LEGO lover, there’s a place in Phoenix that takes your LEGO experience to the next level.
It’s called LEGOLAND Discovery Center Phoenix! This indoor wonderland is packed with LEGO, from awesome builds and exciting rides to 4D movies and creative play areas.
If you’re ready for a day filled with brick-building fun for the whole family, keep reading for our complete guide to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Phoenix!
What is the Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix known for?
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Phoenix is an indoor area where visitors can unleash their creativity in themed building zones. One highlight is Miniland, which showcases Phoenix landmarks built from LEGO bricks.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Phoenix offers interactive rides and a 4D LEGO Cinema, where viewers can experience popular LEGO characters coming alive in a multi-sensory movie experience.
It’s a captivating display of detail and a fun way to recognize some of the city’s most famous spots. The center offers workshops led by Master Builders, allowing visitors to learn building techniques from LEGO experts and advance their skills.
Best Time to Go to Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
Weekdays outside school holidays and breaks are the best time to visit Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are quiet, offering shorter wait times and fewer crowds.
Mornings are less busy than afternoons, especially on weekends and school holidays. The busiest times are typically from opening until lunchtime and late afternoon after school.
If you prefer a more relaxed experience with shorter wait times for rides and attractions, consider planning your visit to Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix during the quieter weekdays and mornings.
Things to Know About Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
1. Dress comfortably.
Since it’s an indoor play area with rides and building activities, opt for clothes that allow easy movement. Think loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes.
Closed-toe shoes are ideal for safety reasons. Avoid sandals or flip-flops that could come off quickly. Comfortable sneakers are an excellent choice for both children and adults.
2. Download the Legoland App.
Make sure to download the LEGOLAND Discovery Center app. It provides ride wait times, schedules for shows and events, interactive games, and even digital building challenges to keep your creativity flowing throughout the day.
Essential Information: Remember, children under 2 enter for free. Check the official website for ticket prices, special events, and ride height requirements.
3. Plan your meals and snacks.
Bringing your food and drinks is only allowed at Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix if you have a baby or a child with a food allergy. However, their on-site cafe offers snacks and refreshments to keep you fueled throughout your Lego adventure.
The LEGOLAND Cafe boasts a selection of kid-friendly snacks, hot and cold beverages, and even some fresh meals. You can find options for everyone in your family, from sandwiches and salads to pizza and kid-sized portions.
How to Get to Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
1. Car
Legoland is conveniently located near the I-10 and US Highway 60 intersection, making it easily accessible from most parts of the Phoenix area. Ample parking is available at the Arizona Mills Mall, where Legoland is situated.
Once you arrive at the Arizona Mills Mall, follow signs for Legoland Discovery Center in Neighborhood 1. Parking is available at the mall, and there are plenty of options close to the center.
2. Ridesharing Services
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Phoenix area and can be a convenient way to get to Legoland, especially if you want to avoid parking.
Consider scheduling your ride a few minutes before, especially if you’re visiting during peak hours or on weekends. You can also check for any promotions or discounts offered by the ridesharing service you choose.
3. Bus
The closest bus stop to the Arizona Mills Mall is the “Apache Blvd / Rio Salado Pkwy” stop. Several Valley Metro bus routes, including routes 56, 111, and 112, service this stop.
It’s about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop to the Arizona Mills Mall, where the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Phoenix is located.
What to Do Near Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
1. Explore the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium.
Address: 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir Suite 145, Tempe, AZ 85282, United States
Phone: +14805657072
SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium is an interactive aquarium that offers a fascinating underwater adventure for the whole family. Explore over 30 breathtaking exhibits that showcase thousands of amazing aquatic creatures from the world’s oceans.
Walk through a 360-degree ocean tunnel and come face-to-fin with sharks, stingrays, and rescued sea turtles. Touch a sea star at the interactive touch pool and be mesmerized by the colorful jellyfish.
2. Learn about sea creatures at the OdySea Aquarium.
Address: 9500 East Vía de Ventura Suite A-100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, United States
Phone: +14802918000
OdySea Aquarium boasts the title of the largest aquarium in the Southwest United States. It showcases a wide variety of marine life across over 65 exhibits. You’ll be amazed by the over 370 species and 6,000 creatures at the OdySea Aquarium home.
You’ll encounter sharks, sea turtles, playful otters, majestic manta rays, and even cuddly penguins. The aquarium offers various interactive experiences, including touch pools where you can gently interact with particular sea creatures.
3. Return to the prehistoric world at Pangaea: Land of the Dinosaurs.
Address: 9500 East Vía de Ventura c100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, United States
Phone: +14803623466
Pangaea: Land of the Dinosaurs is an interactive exhibit that boasts over 50 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. You’ll encounter iconic giants like Tyrannosaurus Rex, Stegosaurus, and Triceratops, all recreated with educational information.
The venue features realistic habitat dioramas, dinosaur-themed rides, fossil-digging activities, and a gift shop filled with dino-mite souvenirs. It’s a fun and educational way for kids to learn about these fascinating creatures.
4. Ride the train at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park.
Address: 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, United States
Phone: +14803122312
The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a 30-acre park that is a paradise for train enthusiasts of all ages. You can ride on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad, a 15-inch gauge miniature train that winds through the park.
You can also hop on the 1950s Allan Herschell carousel for a classic amusement park experience. The park also has two children’s playgrounds, one with a Southwestern theme, to keep the little ones entertained.
5. Visit the Butterfly Wonderland.
Address: 9500 East Vía de Ventura F100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, United States
Phone: +14808003000
Butterfly Wonderland, the largest butterfly conservatory in the United States, allows you to step into a world teeming with thousands of vibrantly colored butterflies from all over the globe.
The temperature and humidity are carefully controlled to mimic a tropical rainforest. In the Tropical Waters Gallery, you can observe fascinating insects and spiders up close, marvel at colorful fish, and learn about reptiles in the Rainforest Reptile Gallery.
Where to Stay Near Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
1. GreenTree Inn & Suites Phoenix Sky Harbor
Address: 4234 S 48th St, Phoenix, AZ 85040, United States
Phone: +16024388688
Pricing:$$
The GreenTree Inn & Suites Phoenix Sky Harbor is a 3-star hotel near major freeways. It offers easy access to the Arizona Mills Mall, where the Legoland Discovery Center is located.
It offers guests a variety of amenities, such as free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. It also boasts an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and comfortable guest rooms with features like microwaves, refrigerators, and TVs.
2. Comfort Suites Phoenix Airport
Address: 1625 S 52nd St, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States
Phone: +14804469500
Pricing: $$
Book Now
The Comfort Suites Phoenix Airport caters well to families with amenities like a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel offers spacious guest rooms with amenities like microwaves, refrigerators, and flat-screen TVs.
The Comfort Suites Phoenix Airport is just a short distance away. This allows for easy access to Legoland Discovery Center and the shops and restaurants of Arizona Mills Mall.
3. DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix-Mesa
Address: 1011 W Holmes Ave, Mesa, AZ 85210, United States
Phone: +14808335555
Pricing: $$
Book Now
The DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix Mesa offers various amenities to suit travelers’ needs. Guest rooms are spacious and well-appointed, featuring comfortable beds, TVs, and private bathrooms.
The hotel also boasts a swimming pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Additionally, guests are welcomed with the brand’s signature warm chocolate chip cookie.
4. Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Tempe, University Research Park
Address: 7290 Price Rd, Tempe, AZ 85283, United States
Phone: +14808975100
Pricing: $$
Book Now
The Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Tempe, University Research Park, offers a relaxed atmosphere with warm rooms. It features free Wi-Fi, comfortable bedding, and a work desk for those needing to catch up.
You can unwind by the pool or hot tub or enjoy a meal at one of the two on-site restaurants. The hotel provides amenities that cater to families, including in-room microwaves and mini-refrigerators for storing snacks and drinks.
5. Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe at The Buttes
Address: 2000 W Westcourt Way, Tempe, AZ 85282, United States
Phone: +16022259000
Pricing: $$
Book Now
The Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe at The Buttes is a 25-acre resort with panoramic mountain views. It offers lavish amenities like two outdoor pools with waterslides, tennis courts, a spa, and a fitness center.
The resort offers stylish and modern guest rooms with stunning mountains, city, pool, and patio views. On-site, the Top of the Rock Restaurant is a popular spot for contemporary American cuisine with unbeatable views of Phoenix.
Where to Eat Near Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
1. Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant
Address: 4601 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States
Phone: +16028404007
Pricing: $
Website
Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant is a family-friendly option near the Arizona Mills Mall, where Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix is situated. It’s a perfect spot to grab a delicious and satisfying meal before or after your Lego adventures.
Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant boasts a vibrant atmosphere and serves up classic Mexican fare in a casual setting. Their menu features various dishes to please everyone’s taste buds, from enchiladas and fajitas to burritos and chimichangas.
2. Aunt Chilada’s Tempe
Address: 2019 W Baseline Rd, Tempe, AZ 85283, United States
Phone: +16024316470
Pricing: $$
Website
Aunt Chilada’s boasts a lively atmosphere, perfect for families with children. The brightly decorated space features a charming cantina patio for a casual outdoor dining experience.
The menu showcases traditional Mexican cuisine made with fresh ingredients. It also offers crowd-pleasers like quesadillas and tortas, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
3. Joe’s Crab Shack
Address: 1606 W Baseline Rd, Tempe, AZ 85282, United States
Phone: +14803450972
Pricing: $$
Website
Joe’s Crab Shack is a casual seafood chain restaurant. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a fun and vibrant atmosphere focusing on delicious seafood dishes.
Known for its lively atmosphere, Joe’s Crab Shack offers a fun dining experience for families with kids. The menu boasts various seafood dishes, including their famous steamed buckets overflowing with crab legs, shrimp, and other shellfish.
4. Yard House
Address: 21001 N Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, United States
Phone: +14805639273
Pricing: $$
Website
Yard House is a casual yet upscale dining experience that caters to various tastes. It’s famous for its massive selection of draft beers, boasting one of the largest in the world.
With over 100 beers on tap, you’re sure to find something to quench your thirst, from classic lagers to hoppy IPAs and seasonal selections. They also serve various New American dishes, including burgers, pizzas, pasta, steaks, and seafood.
5. Rainforest Cafe
Address: 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir, Tempe, AZ 85282, United States
Phone: +14807529100
Pricing: $$
Website
Inside the Arizona Mills Mall, where Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix is located, Rainforest Cafe offers a unique dining experience perfect for families with kids.
Every 30 seconds, Tracy the Talking Tree spouts fun facts or environmental messages.
Rainforest Cafe is known for its fun presentation, so don’t be surprised if your meal arrives on a volcano-shaped platter or a boat. You’ll find classic American fare like burgers, pastas, and pizzas alongside some tropical-inspired dishes.
Where to Shop Near Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix
1. Arizona Mills Mall
Address: 5000 S Arizona Mills Cir, Tempe, AZ 85282, United States
Phone: +14804919700
The Legoland Discovery Center Phoenix is conveniently located inside the Arizona Mills Mall, making it a one-stop shop for entertainment, shopping, and dining. It’s a giant destination for shopping and fun and even houses the Legoland Discovery Center.
Arizona Mills boasts the title of Arizona’s largest indoor outlet mall. This means many stores offer discounted prices on popular brands.
2. Scottsdale Fashion Square
Address: 7014 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
Phone: +14809412140
Scottsdale Fashion Square is a premier shopping destination known for its luxurious ambiance and high-end stores. This upscale mall boasts a curated selection of world-renowned brands like Prada, Gucci, Bulgari, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Cartier.
The mall also features a variety of upscale restaurants, such as Nobu, Ocean 44, and Francine, perfect for a celebratory meal or a sophisticated dining experience. There’s also a Harkins Theatre complex for catching a movie after a long shopping day.
3. Desert Ridge Marketplace
Address: 21001 N Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, United States
Phone: +14805137586
Desert Ridge Marketplace offers a vibrant outdoor shopping experience. Here, you can stroll along charming pathways lined with palm trees and enjoy the beautiful Arizona weather.
The marketplace is designed to focus on pedestrian comfort, with misters strategically placed to keep you cool during the hot summer months. Desert Ridge Marketplace boasts various stores, from high-end retailers to popular brands.
4. Phoenix Premium Outlets
Address: 4976 Premium Outlets Way, Chandler, AZ 85226, United States
Phone: +14806391766
The Phoenix Premium Outlets is a haven for those seeking deals on designer brands. This upscale outlet mall boasts over 90 stores featuring popular brands like Michael Kors, Kate Spade New York, Coach, and Adidas at 25-65% off discounted prices.
It has wide walkways and plenty of benches for resting weary legs. Several dining options are on-site, including Starbucks, Charley’s Grilled Subs, and Villa Fresh Italian Kitchen, perfect for refueling after a shopping spree.
5. Biltmore Fashion Park
Address: 2502 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States
Phone: +16029558400
Biltmore Fashion Park is an open-air mall with a unique atmosphere and a curated selection of stores. Its lush green lawns, palm trees, and sparkling fountains create a relaxed and inviting ambiance.
The architecture is noteworthy, featuring a blend of Southwestern and Mediterranean influences. The park has high-end retailers and boutiques, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Anthropologie, Ralph Lauren, and Lululemon.
