Often referred to by Americans as “Korean Disneyland” – Lotte World Adventure is a theme park right in the heart of Seoul. And while it has no affiliation with Disney, it definitely gives off “Disney Vibes” – from its Magic Castle to its attractions, it’s not too hard to see where they drew some inspiration from. As an avid Disney fan myself, you can imagine why I was dying to take a trip to this little gem. And we were finally able to make it happen. Today I’m sharing all about our experience – the good AND the bad – as well as helpful information to help you make your visit absolutely magical!
Lotte World Adventure & Magic Island in Seoul
Lotte World is a massive [mostly] indoor amusement park with two main sections: Adventure and Magic Island. Adventure refers to the entire inside area (including 5 floors of attractions), while Magic Island encompasses the entire outdoor area of the park (where the very Disney-esque Magic Castle is located, along with some of the bigger rides). Unfortunately, the day we visited was a rainy one (complete with thunder and lightning) so Magic Island’s attractions were closed for the majority of our visit. They finally opened a few of the rides about an hour before closing, so the kids and Brandon got to ride the Swing Tree before it was time for us to call it a day. But even with the rainy weather, there was plenty for us to spend the day doing – and it was enough fun that we’re already trying to figure out how to go back!
There was no shortage of indoor attractions, including two large coasters, multiple 4D experience rides, and rides for smaller kids. PERSONALLY I think this park is best suited for pre-teens and older, as it didn’t feel like it was as catered to younger kids as other parks we’ve visited. That being said, I will forever compare every theme park I’ve ever been to Disney, who of course provides plenty of entertainment for all ages. *sigh* Someday we will make it back to the Happiest Place on Earth. For now, we’ll enjoy exploring the other parks that the world has to offer.
Despite visiting on a stormy weekday, the park was busy – although I hear it’s even busier on weekends. We waited in line for 80 minutes for the Pharoah’s Fury (which is reminiscent of Indiana Jones at Disneyland) and, honestly, it was worth the wait. We also loved the Adventures of Sinbad (think Pirates of the Caribbean… but with more severed limbs), Jungle Adventure (where you ride a raft through a raging river), and the Conquistador (one of those giant rocking ships). And while we were initially disappointed to find that NONE of the roller coasters were open the day we went – I’m looking at you French Revolution (closed for maintenance) and Across Dark (only open on weekends) – we did end up having a lot of fun.
One day was definitely not even close to enough time to do everything that we wanted to do. Honestly, with the lines the way they are, it would take a solid three days to ride everything that we’d want. Still, it was a fun change from the norm and a good experience. The environment at Lotte World Adventure is really something. You can tell they strive to create a full experience, rather than just throw a bunch of rides into a mall.
After dark we headed out to Magic Island, where it was still sprinkling. We wanted to see the castle all lit up and get a view of Lotte World Tower from the park. Is it weird to say that seeing these two things were my favorite part of the entire day? Not because the rest of the day was lame, but because I’m a weirdo and a sucker for this kind of thing.
Overall, it was a successful trip to Lotte World. We kept ourselves entertained, managed to ride some really fun rides, and made awesome memories with our kids. One of our children who has been pretty set lately on having a crummy time no matter what we’re doing even said as we got into the car to go home: “That was a fun day.” If that’s not a win, then I don’t know WHAT is.
’til next time…
Ash
Things to know about visiting Lotte World Adventure
Directions & Parking:
Driving
We parked at the Lotte World Adventure Parking Garage (click on the name to receive directions from Naver or paste 서울 송파구 올림픽로 240 into Naver). See the “Cost” section for information on parking fees. From the parking garage, it’s a short walk to the main entrance of Lotte World and to the gate for Lotte World Adventure. (See Picture 1 at the bottom of post for instructions on getting to the main entrance.) Once you enter the main building, head to floor B1 and follow the signs for the Main Ticket Counter (see note below).
Public Transportation
It’s easy to take public transportation to Lotte World Mall. From there, it’s a short walk through the mall to get to the South Gate of Lotte World Adventure. For detailed instructions on using public transportation and getting to the park from the mall, visit the Lotte World Website.
***NOTE: If you purchased your tickets ahead of time through Klook, Discover Seoul, or any other foreigner discount program then you MUST redeem your voucher at the Wild Tours Ticket Counter and NOT the Main Ticket Counter. From the Main Ticket Counter, you’ll see signs directing you around the corner to the Wild Tours Ticket Counter.
Cost:
NOTE: We purchased our tickets through Klook because it was less expensive than buying them at the gate. Check out their daily prices and purchase ahead of time for a small discount.
Park Ticket Only (Adventure, Magic Island, and playing facilities)
Adults – ₩59,000
Youth (13-18) – ₩52,000
Child (3-12) – ₩46,000
*Baby (1-2) – ₩15,000
Infant (under 12 months) – FREE
*Babies 1-2 years old can enter the park for free, but they cannot use the Kidstoria or other attractions. If you wish for them to participate in any rides and attractions, the ₩15,000 entrance fee must be paid. BRING A PASSPORT OR SOMETHING CONFIRMING THE BABY’S BIRTHDATE.
Park Ticket & Folk Museum Entrance
Adults – ₩62,000
Youth – ₩54,000
Child – ₩47,000
Baby – ₩15,000
Infant – FREE
Park Ticket & Folk Museum Entrance AFTER 4:00pm
Adults – ₩50,000
Youth – ₩43,000
Child – ₩36,000
Baby – ₩15,000
Infant – FREE
For information regarding Magic Pass Purchases, please visit the Lotte World Website.
Parking
This varies by where you park and for how long, but we were parked in the Lotte World Adventure Parking Garage for about 10 hours and it cost ₩48,000.
*Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 10:00am – 9:00pm
Friday – Saturday: 10:00am – 10:00pm
*Hours of operation are subject to change at any time without notice. Hours may change during different seasons and the next month’s hours only become available at the end of the previous month. For specific hours, please visit the Lotte World Website.
Accessibility: The entire park is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Keep in mind, however, that the park has 5 different levels to it and strollers and wheelchairs are not allowed on the escalators. We found that there was often a long wait for the elevators. It wouldn’t keep us from going back, but it’s something to be aware of when you visit.
Amenities: There are bathrooms on every level of the theme park. Every bathroom I went in included an accessible stall with a baby changing station in it (diapers and wipes not included). There are restaurants and snack bars aplenty and we found the food to be reasonably priced for a theme park. On level 3 right by the exit for Jungle Adventure, there is a Muslim Prayer Room for anyone who needs to utilize it.
Know before you go: Outside food IS allowed, although online it was stated that outside food can only be eaten at a specific picnic area. We had a hard time finding it, but when we finally did, it was basically a normal food court. Still, we pulled out our sandwiches and chips and nobody said anything to us, so we’re assuming it was fine.
