15 best Lego sets for adults to build in 2023
Who says LEGO is just for kids? Millions of adults play and build LEGO every day with one floral set going viral on TikTok.
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There’s no denying that most kids love LEGO – but what happens when those kids grow up?
Generally, they become adults who still love LEGO – and now thanks to so many amazing adult-friendly LEGO sets, they’re able to continue building, creating and having fun.
“There is something special about the LEGO brick that has meant it has a vast fan base,” says Angie Tutt, Senior Director Head of Marketing at LEGO Australia. “The versatility and enduring appeal of the LEGO play system transcends language, culture, age, gender and interests.
According to Tutt, grown up LEGO fans weren’t always grown-ups. “We often hear stories of parents and grandparents passing on their LEGO bricks to their children, grandchildren, neighbours and friends,” she says “There is a clear spark of joy when people are able to share memories with someone and something they love.”
And now there are so many great ways for adults to build with LEGO. You can assemble your favourite car from the TECHNIC range, recreate an iconic architectural building, even produce a bouquet for your upcoming wedding. The choice is endless. In fact, the challenge is not so much trying to build the 9036-piece set of The Colosseum – but deciding which LEGO set to do next.
So, whether you’re needing mindful down time, revisiting childhood memories or simply looking for your next exciting project, there’s a LEGO set to suit every occasion and obsession including the viral LEGO Wildflower Bouquet that has over 99 million views on TikTok with users saying they are “obsessed”.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the best ADULT LEGO for your needs and budget, we asked Angie Tutt, Senior Director, Head of Marketing at LEGO Australia for her expert advice and recommendations on what to look for. In addition, we examined all the available options and read countless LEGO-devoted customer reviews in order to identify the best LEGO sets for adults from premium to budget to help you find the right one.
OUR TOP PICKS
In this article
- What’s so appealing about LEGO?
- How do adults benefit from LEGO?
- Are adult LEGO sets more challenging?
- How many pieces are usually in an adult set?
BEST LEGO TECHNIC SETS
BMW M 1000 RR, $389.99 at LEGO
What You Need To Know
The TECHNIC range, developed back in the 70s is less about brick building and more about engineering and creating cars, trucks, motorbikes and planes, with lifelike working parts and mechanics. The options are plentiful, however one super popular choice is the BMW M 1000 RR. Motorbike enthusiasts can create this 1:5 scale replica with details including a functional three-speed, gearbox, steering, front and rear suspension, chain transmission and inline four-piston engine. You also get two display stands to show off your creation once it’s done.
One LEGO fan was thrilled with this set and left the following five-star review: “This set is everything you want out of a Lego Motorcycle. The gear box from 1st, neutral, 2nd, and 3rd gear is impressive along with a visually appealing presentation display once completed. It was cool to have a set from a motorcycle manufacturer such as Yamaha, who also have a good reputation on their dirt bike side of things with their yz selections. All in all loved the design and building experience of this Yamaha bike from Lego!”
McLaren Formula 1 Race Car, $299.99 at LEGO
What You Need To Know
A collaboration between LEGO experts and McLaren Racing, this racing car was created in time for the 2022 racing season and captures its many authentic details such as a V6 cylinder engine with moving pistons and a unique gearbox that allows the driver to shift gears using the paddles on the steering wheel. An absolute treat for all LEGO fans of Formula 1 car racing.
One happy builder left a review saying, “I was so beyond excited when I saw McLaren F1 and LEGO teaming up to make this set, I stayed up release night just to assure I could get my hands on it and it was the best 8-10 hours I could have spent money on! Don’t hesitate if you’re a fan of F1, it was so fun and cool to get a deeper look into the technology of formula 1 albeit in LEGO form. I’m looking forward to hopefully more sets in conjunction with F1 in the future!”
BEST LEGO CREATOR SETS
Boutique Hotel, $349.99 at LEGO
What You Need To Know
This elaborate hotel, spread over three levels captures the charm of European turn-of-the-century architecture with beautifully decorated guest rooms, penthouse suite, lobby, terrace, staircase and roof complete with decorative dome and skylight. Pieces are all patterned, not a sticker in sight, and there are seven minifigures included to bring all manner of stories to life. (I’m thinking an Agatha Christie murder mystery …)
One happy builder left a detailed review saying, “The flooring on the main ground floor is exquisite, and I love the way the base plates are configured to achieve the shape of the building. The large flower pot is just elegant and absolutely love the Mondrian & the Picasso style paintings. It’s so nice to see different ways of creating interior furniture, for example the various beds within the hotel and the cabinets. I am truly in my element! Other features I love are the mini figures especially the one with the pull along luggage, the coffee cart and the bath with the consideration for the plug hole. The mini figures within the Lego world are truly catered for in this well needed hotel …”
What You Need To Know
This is a new addition to the LEGO family and just as impressive as the other many members. Now you can recreate the iconic supersonic jet with all its amazing details such as a tiltable droop nose, functioning landing gear, a retractable tail bumper wheel, delta wings with movable elevons and hinged upper and lower rudders. There’s also an accessible seating area and a stand for display in flight, takeoff or landing modes.
Only new to LEGO, this set is already attracting favourable reviews, such as, “If you’re questioning whether you should get this set or not, stop thinking and buy it. I have bought lots of Legos throughout my life and this set just felt amazing building it, It is surprisingly very sturdy for the size of this set, just buy it you wont regret it.”
BEST LEGO ARCHITECTURE SETS
What You Need To Know
Immerse yourself in one of the world’s greatest architectural delights with LEGO’s hugely popular Taj Mahal build. Bring this iconic building to life with authentic details including the crypt with tombs of Mumtaz and Shah Jahan, the central chamber with two cenotaphs, monumental iwans, the magnificent bulbous main dome, four chhatris and four slender minarets. As a large set, measuring 24cm in width and containing over 2,000 pieces, it not only makes an impressive display, but also offers great value for money.
There are plenty of five-star reviews on this set, including this one that says: “I knew it was going to be an incredible building experience from the very beginning! It took me roughly 6-7 hours in total to complete as I wasn’t rushing; just taking my time enjoying the build; especially with all the intricate pieces and thoughtful detail which really made this set. I missed out on the larger creator set of the Taj Mahal but managed to get my hand on one recently which I’m happy about! I really love anything to do with architectural/engineering marvels of the world! Keep up the good work Lego! Looking forward to the typewriter soon!”
Great Pyramid of Giza, $229.99 at LEGO
What You Need To Know
Go back in time and recreate one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Giza. This set offers a cross section revealing all its inner chambers and tunnels, even a system that might have been used to move the heavy stones. You can also establish the surrounding landscape of the River Nile with ancient boats, two small pyramids, two mortuary temples, Sphinx statues and an obelisk. Just so you know, you only build half a pyramid with this set (some builders have bought two sets for this reason).
One of many satisfied reviewers uploaded the comment, “The building experience and complexity of its design makes me believe it could have been more expensive. It now sits completed as a gorgeous decoration in my home. I highly recommend getting it.”
BEST LEGO CAR SETS
LEGO Technic Lamborghini Sián, $699.99 at LEGO
What You Need To Know
Car enthusiasts have many amazing options when it comes to LEGO sets, such as this Lamborghini from the TECHNIC range, a faithful replication of the real thing. Features include eight-speed transmission, V12 engine with moving pistons, steering, and front and rear suspension. Of course, there are the cool classic scissor opening doors of a real life Lamborghini and when you open the hood, you’ll see your own unique serial number.
There are over 350 five-star reviews on this car set, one of which says, “This car is brilliant value for money. My build time was around 30 hours and very satisfying when it was completed. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for a challenging build. The engineering by Lego is amazing. I’m grateful for the printed pieces rather than added stickers. Furthermore, the time and effort put into the packaging and instruction book is justified by the price.”
LEGO Technic Ferrari Daytona SP3, $699.99 at LEGO
What You Need To Know
Another fantastic LEGO car set, the 1:8 scale model of Ferrari Daytona from the TECHNIC range is a winner. With real life features such as butterfly opening doors, V12 engine, an 8-speed sequential gearbox with paddle shift, a removable roof and shock absorbers, you will be one step closer to owning your own version of this much-coveted luxury car. A little more expensive than other items, the TECHNIC car sets still continue to draw (and delight) the LEGO crowds with heaps of glowing reviews to prove it.
One enthusiast left a review on the Ferrari saying, “Build quality is a 10/10. This model is so visually pleasing and is easily the crown jewel of my collection!”
BEST DECORATIVE LEGO SETS
Wildflower Bouquet, $99.99 at LEGO
What You Need To Know
LEGO’s floral arrangements are incredibly popular with builders, who love to create blooms to use as home decorative pieces. Which makes sense as they don’t need looking after, they never die and they always look perfect. This set includes eight species of wildflower and can be assembled and arranged in many ways – or combined with other LEGO flower sets. The floral arrangements are endless and always everlasting. Makes a wonderful and more permanent gift alternative to the usual bunch of flowers.
One customer left a review saying, “I am a big fan of all of the different LEGO flower sets. This set is my favourite. These flower sets last a lot longer than real flower centrepieces, and they are always a conversation starter with our guests. Please make more!”
What You Need To Know
Have you ever longed to have your own beautiful and calming Bonsai tree, but have no idea how to look after it? Well, now you can build your own and have it on show forever with LEGO’s Bonsai Tree set. Create a sense of harmony and balance in the home with the tree’s green leaves that can be customer arranged, as well as detailed pick cherry blossoms to mark the change of season.
“I was so excited to get my own Lego set instead of a kids set,” commented one fan. “This set didn’t disappoint. The instructions are easy to follow and the parts are separated in numbered bags. I love that you can either have a green leave bonsai or pink flowers. I chose pink but it will be simple to change it to green when I want. This set took me about 2 hours to construct with interruptions. I do help put Lego together regularly with my kids so I have experience. And the best thing yet, the tool this set comes with to separate pieces put together incorrectly is a life saver. First set I’ve ever had it come with. I will be buying more of these adult sets. This tree looks so pretty on my dresser.”
Christmas Wreath Two-in-One, $59.99 at LEGO
What You Need To Know
We love this idea for an alternative to a plastic wreath on the door for Christmas. Aimed at nine years and beyond, this is not strictly an adult LEGO set, however, this is one the whole family can enjoy as you ease on into the festive season. You can decorate with either a buildable bow, or brick-built candles and of course add berry and leaf elements. The perfect Christmas gift for a LEGO enthusiast and one that will be lovingly built year after year.
BEST COLLECTIBLE LEGO SETS
What You Need To Know
This collectable item comes at a high price but is worth every penny for the opportunity to have your very own Eiffel Tower on display in your lounge room. It includes faithful details such as arches, supports, cross bracing and railings and with over 10,000 pieces and an impressive height of 149cm, it is one of the tallest LEGO sets yet. The chance to have your own little patch of Paris in the comfort of your own home.
Many reviewers loved this set, some have found it somewhat repetitive – but that’s the challenge of such a large build. One left the comment, “When I heard Lego was going to be releasing a new Eiffel Tower, I started saving up for it. Now I’m sure you’re asking, is it repetitive? And the answer is yes but it’s not as irritating as you think. I built this set over the weekend and I added the fair lights the following weekend but I honestly didn’t find the repetition bothersome at all. I saw a lot of bad reviews on this set online but It’s not nearly as they have suggested. But this is my personal experience. However even if you do find it extremely dull to build, you will be left with one of IF not the most beautiful set in Lego history. Plus the size of it makes it an excellent conversation piece. Overall I am extremely HAPPY and pleased with this set.”
What You Need To Know
Looking for another iconic LEGO build to create and keep forever? The Titanic is definitely one to consider with all the authentic detail and grandeur of the real thing. Create the ships bridge, promenade deck and swimming pool and via a cross section, appreciate the layout including the grand staircase, boiler room, smoking lounge and much more. A significant purchase and a remarkable addition to your LEGO collection.
One happy reviewer uploaded the comment, “I love my Titanic. It is such a beautiful tribute to the victims of that terrible disaster. The set itself is absolutely exquisite. LEGO did such an amazing job with this. It is a worthy display piece in any collection. I added some LED lights to my set though and it looks even more amazing. If you can get your hands on this set, I’d highly recommend this!”
BEST LEGO STORAGE
LEGO® 2x2 Blue Storage Brick, $12.99 at LEGO
What You Need To Know
There’s nothing worse than misplacing a brick that is crucial to your build, especially in the final stages. These cute stackable boxes are ideal for keeping all your precious bricks together and away from dogs, small children and whoever else should not be touching them. Buy a collection to separate bits and pieces for each section in your build – while creating a fun aesthetic in your home.
WHAT’S SO APPEALING ABOUT LEGO?
LEGO is universal with something for everyone, so naturally it appeals to a wide range of people. One day I was carrying LEGO’s Disney “Up House” on the way home from work and I was surprised by how many times I was stopped by not just kids, but adults as well, all wanting to know where I got it, how much it was, and what it was like. It took me ages to get home, let me tell you.
According to Tutt, the reasons for adults wanting to build are varied. “For many of our grown-up fans it is the nostalgia of play, others the incredible creativity and imagination they can display,” says Tutt. “For some, we know that LEGO building can be a focused, hands-on mindful practice, whereas many of our fans enjoy deep diving into their passions, whether that be a love of architecture or vehicles, there is something for almost everyone.”
HOW DO ADULTS BENEFIT FROM LEGO?
LEGO offers so many benefits, and according to Tutt, research shows that much can be gained when families play together. “As well as helping children develop key life skills like creativity, communication, problem-solving and confidence, play has a whole range of benefits for adults too,” she says. “It has the power to help adults unwind and find relief from their busy days with 87 per cent of adults (2022 Play Well Study) saying play helps them relax and feel calm, which is important in our busy lives.”
ARE ADULT LEGO SETS MORE CHALLENGING?
Adult-friendly LEGO is created specifically for adult hands and minds, so yes, if you’re a young child, these sets won’t appeal. Adult builds are aimed at those of 18 years and beyond, however there are many that you may be able to build together with older teenage kids.
HOW MANY PIECES ARE USUALLY IN AN ADULT SET?
In short, a lot! But each set varies depending on its size and complexity. The iconic Orchid has 608 pieces while the massive Eiffel Tower has over 10,000 – both are for adults with a certain degree of difficulty that is aimed at those over 18 years of age. However many adult sets such as the TECHNIC car range contain an average of 2000 – 3000 pieces. Which is why LEGO storage is such an important consideration – as well of course somewhere to display your masterpiece once it’s done!
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