Lego is one of the most well-known names in children’s toys, but the name also applies to a chain of theme parks throughout the world.  Legoland theme parks, owned and operated by Merlin Entertainment, opened its first location in Denmark, but also has locations in Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States.

On this day, March 20th, in 1999, the first American Lego theme park, Legoland California, opened in Carlsbad, California. The family oriented theme park features nine distinct, Lego incorporated sections: The beginning, Dino Island, Explore Village, Fun Town, Castle Hill, Miniland USA, Imagination Zone, Pirate Shores, and Land of Adventures.  One of the most notable attractions at Legoland California are several city replicas that include New York City and Las Vegas.

In 2010, the park added a water park, making it the only Legoland park to have one.  Legoland California receives 1.4 million visitors per year.  In October of 2011, another Legoland location was opened in Florida, making it the second American Legoland park.