Did Elvis Presley visit Cypress Gardens?

Yes. Elvis Presley visited Cypress Gardens during its golden era, joining the many celebrities who helped make the attraction one of Florida's most famous tourist destinations.

What movie was filmed at Cypress Gardens?

The most famous movie filmed at Cypress Gardens was MGM's Easy to Love (1953), starring Esther Williams. The production led to the construction of the iconic Florida-shaped swimming pool that still exists today.

Did Johnny Carson visit Cypress Gardens?

Yes. Johnny Carson visited Cypress Gardens and hosted the 1968 NBC television special Johnny Carson Discovers Cypress Gardens, which introduced the attraction to millions of viewers across America.

Can you still see Cypress Gardens today?

Yes. Much of the original Cypress Gardens remains preserved within LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including the Historic Botanical Gardens, Giant Banyan Tree, Wedding Gazebo, Lake Eloise shoreline, and the famous Florida Pool.

Why is Cypress Gardens important to Florida history?

Cypress Gardens helped put Florida tourism on the map decades before the modern theme park era. Through movies, television specials, celebrity visits, and national publicity campaigns, it introduced millions of people to the Sunshine State.

Does LEGOLAND® Florida Resort offer free military tickets?

No. LEGOLAND® Florida Resort does not offer free military admission as part of its standard Military Offer. Instead, eligible U.S. military members, veterans, military spouses, dependents, and military families can receive 20% off select tickets and select LEGOLAND® Florida Resort hotel stays. Military guests can purchase discounted admission through the official LEGOLAND® Florida Military Offer or through participating military Information, Tickets & Travel (ITT) offices. Be sure to check the current offer before purchasing, as promotions and eligibility requirements may change.

Does LEGOLAND® Florida offer a military discount?

Yes. Eligible U.S. military members, veterans, and military families can receive 20% off select tickets and hotel stays through the official LEGOLAND® Florida Military Offer.

Who qualifies for the military discount?

The offer is available to eligible: Active Duty Military Veterans National Guard Reserve Members Military Spouses Eligible Dependents Military Families Eligibility requirements may vary, so be sure to review the current offer details before purchasing.

What's included with a Multi-Park Ticket?

A Multi-Park Ticket includes admission to: LEGOLAND® Florida Theme Park LEGOLAND® Water Park SEA LIFE Florida It's the best option for families who want to experience everything the resort has to offer in one visit.

Can military members save on LEGOLAND® Florida Resort hotels?

Yes. Eligible military guests can receive 20% off select hotel stays at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, making it easier to turn a day trip into a multi-day family vacation.

Where should I purchase military tickets?

For the latest pricing and eligible offers, purchase through the official LEGOLAND® Florida Military Offer or check with your local military Information, Tickets & Travel (ITT) office.

What are the best summer activities for kids at LEGOLAND Florida?

Popular summer activities include LEGO Festival, LEGOLAND Water Park, LEGO building experiences, family rides, live shows, character meet-and-greets, MINILAND USA, and the new Galacticoaster attraction.

How many days should families spend at LEGOLAND Florida in the summer?

Many families choose a two-day or weekend visit to experience the Theme Park, Water Park, LEGO Festival, SEA LIFE Florida, and Resort hotels without rushing. This allows more time for rides, water attractions, and seasonal entertainment.

Is the LEGOLAND Water Park included with admission?

The Water Park requires admission that includes Water Park access. Guests can purchase tickets and vacation packages that include both the Theme Park and Water Park.

Is LEGO Festival included with LEGOLAND Florida tickets?

Yes. LEGO Festival is included with regular theme park admission and eligible Annual Passes. No separate event ticket is required.

What is LEGO Festival at LEGOLAND Florida?

LEGO Festival is a limited-time summer event at LEGOLAND Florida Resort running from July 20 through August 16, 2026. Families can enjoy interactive play zones, LEGO building activities, live entertainment, character experiences, and creative challenges throughout the park.

How far is LEGOLAND Florida from Miami?

LEGOLAND Florida Resort is approximately 200 to 230 miles from Miami depending on your starting location. Most families can expect a drive of roughly 3.5 to 4 hours.

Is LEGOLAND Florida worth a day trip from South Florida?

Yes. LEGOLAND Florida is one of the best day trips from Miami and South Florida for families with children ages 2-12. The park offers rides, shows, water attractions, interactive experiences, and family-friendly entertainment all in one destination.

What is the closest South Florida city to LEGOLAND Florida?

West Palm Beach is one of the closest major South Florida cities to LEGOLAND Florida Resort, with a drive time of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic.

Can you visit LEGOLAND Florida and the Water Park in one day?

Yes. Many families successfully experience both the theme park and water park in a single day, especially when arriving at opening and planning their itinerary in advance.

What age is LEGOLAND Florida best for?

LEGOLAND Florida is designed primarily for children ages 2-12, though LEGO fans of all ages can enjoy the attractions, themed lands, shows, and interactive experiences.

Where is the Banyan Tree at LEGOLAND Florida?

The historic Banyan Tree is located within the Botanical Gardens at LEGOLAND Florida Resort in Winter Haven, Florida.

How old is the Banyan Tree at LEGOLAND Florida?

The Banyan Tree has been part of the property's historic landscape for decades and predates many of Florida's modern theme parks, making it one of the Resort's most fascinating living landmarks.

What makes Banyan Trees unique?

Banyan Trees are known for their aerial roots, which grow downward from branches and eventually become additional trunks, allowing the tree to spread across a large area.

Can guests visit the Banyan Tree during their LEGOLAND Florida visit?

Yes. The Banyan Tree can be viewed while exploring the Botanical Gardens, which are included with admission to LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

Why are the Botanical Gardens important to LEGOLAND Florida?

The Botanical Gardens preserve the historic legacy of Cypress Gardens and allow guests to experience nearly a century of Florida history while visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

Is LEGOLAND Florida food suitable for families with allergies or dietary needs?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available across the Resort. For more information or if you have queries before you visit, download the Dietary Guide or email LLF-Food@legoland.com .

Is there quick food or snacks available in the park?

Absolutely. Most food at LEGOLAND Florida is quick-service – no reservations needed. Granny’s Apple Fries, Fun Town Treats, and the Funnel Cake Pit Stop are all fast, kid-approved stops that keep the energy up between rides.

Are the restaurants and food places all family-friendly?

Yes! LEGOLAND is packed with some of the best family-friendly restaurants in Winter Haven, Florida. If you’re looking for convenient food to grab-and-go or even to sit down and enjoy together, there are fun and popular options right on the Resort.

Is LEGO Festival one of the best festivals for kids?

Yes. LEGO Festival combines hands-on LEGO building, live entertainment, themed Play Zones and rides, making it one of the best festivals for kids looking for a full family day out.

Is LEGO Festival a good summer activity for kids?

Yes. LEGO Festival offers live shows, Play Zones, LEGO building and family entertainment, making it a popular summer activity for kids.

Looking for summer holiday activities for kids near me?

LEGO Festival at LEGOLAND Florida Resort is a popular choice for families looking for summer holiday activities for kids near London and the South East.

Is LEGO Festival a family-friendly music festival?

The Music Zone features Battle of the Bands, DJ GoodVibes and interactive entertainment, giving families plenty of music-filled fun throughout the day.

What music activities can children enjoy?

Children can sing, dance, enjoy live performances, meet LEGO characters and join interactive entertainment in the Music Zone.

Are there activities for children that combine music and dance?

Yes. The Music Zone combines music, dancing and creative play through interactive performances and family activities.

Can we experience LEGO Festival and the rides in one day?

Many families enjoy both LEGO Festival and the Resort's rides in a single day, depending on queue times and the experiences they choose.

Is LEGO Festival running at all LEGOLAND theme parks?

No, the LEGO Festival is a limited event available only at select parks. You can experience the festival—including the headline LEGO F1 zone, live entertainment, and exclusive build activities—at the following locations: United States: LEGOLAND Florida, LEGOLAND California, and LEGOLAND New York UK: LEGOLAND Windsor and LEGOLAND Deutschland Asia: LEGOLAND Shanghai Please check your specific park's official events page for exact dates, operating hours, and ticket information, as schedules vary by resort.

What Is the LEGOLAND® Express Shuttle?

The LEGOLAND® Express Shuttle is an official, low-cost round-trip coach service that transports families directly from Orlando to LEGOLAND® Florida Resort in Winter Haven. At just $8 per person (children 2 and under are free), the shuttle departs on select dates between May and October from two convenient hubs: ICON Park at 8:30 AM and Disney Springs® at 9:00 AM. The coach returns exactly 30 minutes after the park closes, completely eliminating the stress of a 50-mile drive, highway tolls, and a $30+ theme park parking fee.

Does the LEGOLAND shuttle pick up from Disney Springs?

Yes. The LEGOLAND Express Shuttle offers pickup from Disney Springs® as well as ICON Park, providing convenient access from both major Orlando tourism areas.

How do I get from Orlando to LEGOLAND Florida Resort?

The easiest way is via the LEGOLAND Express Shuttle, which provides round-trip transportation from ICON Park or Disney Springs directly to LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

How long is the shuttle ride to LEGOLAND?

The ride typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.

Do I need a rental car to visit LEGOLAND Florida?

No. The shuttle is designed for guests who prefer a car-free day trip from Orlando.

Is the shuttle suitable for families?

Yes. It is designed specifically for families and provides a simple, stress-free way to reach LEGOLAND Florida Resort.

How far is LEGOLAND® Florida Resort from the Tampa International Airport (TPA) for a family vacation?

The resort is located approximately 56 miles east of the airport, making it an incredibly convenient addition to any Tampa family vacation itinerary. Traveling via Interstate 4 East and the Polk Parkway typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, making it an easy drive for arriving travelers.

Can we realistically experience both the main theme park and the water park in a single day trip from Tampa?

Yes, you can absolutely enjoy both if you plan strategically and arrive right at opening gate times, which is why it ranks among the best family day trips from Tampa. For the best strategy, explore the dry theme park rides during the cooler morning hours, transition to the water park in the afternoon to cool off, and return to the main park for evening entertainment before driving back home.

Is admission to the special 2026 events like the FIFA® World Cup Experience included with standard tickets?

Yes, access to major seasonal celebrations and cultural activations—including the FIFA® World Cup 2026 Experience, the Red, White, and BOOM! summer celebration, and the annual LEGO® Festival—is fully included with standard admission. Families planning the best family day trips from Tampa will appreciate that there are no hidden fees or secondary tickets required to participate in these world-class events.

What are the primary benefits of upgrading our day trip into one of the top family weekend getaways?

Upgrading your excursion transforms a quick drive into one of the ultimate family weekend getaways, giving your family exclusive early access to the theme park before it opens to the general public. Overnight stays also include complimentary full family breakfasts every morning, free creative master builder workshops, and nightly kid-centric entertainment programs at the on-site hotels.

Are there appropriate rides and dedicated attractions for toddlers on a Tampa family vacation?

The resort is uniquely engineered to cater to our youngest travelers, ensuring your Tampa family vacation is completely stress-free with entire lands like LEGO® DUPLO® Valley designed specifically for toddlers. Very young children can safely enjoy gentle tractor rides, interactive train journeys, indoor air-conditioned soft play areas, and shallow water splash pads with no minimum height restrictions whatsoever.

What happened to Cypress Gardens in Florida?

Cypress Gardens closed in 2009 after operating for more than 70 years. In 2011, the property reopened as LEGOLAND Florida Resort, preserving the historic Botanical Gardens while introducing new attractions designed for families with children.

Can you still visit the original Cypress Gardens?

Yes. Guests visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort can explore the original Cypress Gardens Botanical Gardens , which have been preserved as part of the Resort.

Why was Cypress Gardens famous?

Cypress Gardens became famous for its beautiful botanical gardens, Southern belles, and world-renowned water ski shows that helped put Florida tourism on the map.

LEGOLAND Florida Resort Blog: Events, Tips & Family Fun

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Welcome to the official blog of LEGOLAND Florida Resort – your place for all things TOTALLY awesome and 100% TOTALLY built for kids.

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