We all played with them as kids – those famous Lego bricks, the building blocks of our youth. Tiny plastic pieces in different shapes, colours, and sizes, all ready to be clicked together to create buildings, landscapes, characters, and so much more.
But for years now, Lego has also meant theme parks, which have been popping up in various countries. And now, the brand’s largest “Legoland” in the world is set to open its doors on the 5th of July in Shanghai, China.
85 million Lego bricks
An incredible 318,000 m²! After years of construction and millions of dollars spent, Legoland Shanghai is poised to become the Danish brand’s most expansive park. It will feature eight themed zones and 75 interactive attractions, where roller coasters will sit alongside a little Lego train and Lego boat rides on man-made lakes, as well as shows and entertainment areas.
And, of course, there will be thousands of models built from more than 85 million Lego bricks. It’s an exciting prospect for fans of all ages, and this eleventh global site is, in concept, not unlike the famous Disneyland parks.
The history of Lego
It’s a little-known fact, but Lego was created in 1932 by a Danish carpenter named Ole Kirk Kristiansen. One day, he decided to make wooden toys, giving them the name “Lego” as an abbreviation of the Danish words “leg godt,” meaning “play well.” As time went on, in the late 1950s, plastic bricks began to replace the wood, introducing the interlocking system we still know today.
At the same time, the Lego range diversified, opening up to new products and markets, themed productions, and anything that could foster children’s creativity and imagination in their building possibilities. So much so that Lego has today become more than just a toy; it’s a true cultural and popular phenomenon that touches millions of people across the globe.
And then, of course, since the first Lego park opened in 1968 in Billund, Denmark (the company’s headquarters), these Legoland parks have sprung up all over the planet. Just like the new one in Shanghai, which will be the manufacturer’s eleventh and largest theme park.
Hello! I’m Ben Fischer, a travel enthusiast who has journeyed far and wide to bring you unique and inspiring stories. Each destination is a new adventure for me, a chance to explore diverse cultures and share unforgettable experiences.
In my articles, I take you beyond mere descriptions of places. I share the encounters, special moments, and anecdotes that make each trip unique. My writing is an invitation to see the world through my eyes, blending practical tips with personal insights.
As a lifelong traveler, I approach each journey with respect and curiosity, eager to uncover the stories hidden in every corner of the globe.