This European import set up shop in California in 1999, but Legoland's namesake plastic bricks have been entertaining young builders for many decades. Focusing on kids 2 to 12, the relatively new park with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions has already won numerous awards, such as Best Children's Theme Park in Amusement Today magazine for the past four years. Whether savoring sights like LEGO models of Mt. Rushmore and the Manhattan skyline or relishing a ride on Coastersaurus, surrounded by life-size LEGO dinosaurs, you'll find the famous colorful little plastic bricks everywhere. What's new: Wow your kids with a tour of a tamer version of the Las Vegas strip, the newest LEGO-built model in Legoland's Miniland USA. Or venture over to Pirate Shores and ride its newest addition, Captain Cranky's Challenge, so you and your young swashbucklers can sail the "open seas" (sometimes stormy ones) on this dizzying experience. This March, Legoland unveils the Land of Adventure, where families can enjoy rides like the Lost Kingdom Adventure as they travel in desert jeeps through 1920s Egypt and marvel at ancient ruins. The biggest 2008 event, though, is the July opening of the 36,000-square-foot Sea Life Legoland aquarium (with separate entrance and admission fee), where your child can learn about local California aquatic life and mingle with water creatures. Even in this natural sea space, kids can build a coral reef using—what else?—LEGOs. Bargains: Price details weren't available at press time, but Legoland promises a great combo ticket for the summer so families can frolic in both the main park and the new aquarium. 760-918-5346, legoland.com. Where to stay: Another major expansion project is the Legoland California Resort. Enjoy grand resort grounds, ocean views and kid-friendly features like play areas with fountains and pools, along with package deals for Legoland when you stay at either the Grand Pacific Palisades Resort & Hotel (rooms from $149 per night), 800-725-4723, grandpacificpalisades.com) or the brand-new Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa (rooms from $189), 760-827-2400, sheratoncarlsbadresort.com.