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  >  Theme Parks in San Diego   >  Sesame Place San Diego Guide: Rides, Shows, Tickets & Tips
Sesame Place San Diego

Sesame Place San Diego is where Sesame Street comes to life! Families can step into a colorful world filled with Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and all their friends. It’s the West Coast’s only Sesame Street theme park—perfect for kids, nostalgic parents, and everyone in between.

About the Park

Sesame Place blends childhood nostalgia with family fun. Whether you’re soaring on rides, splashing in the water park, or enjoying live shows, every moment feels magical.

Location & How to Get There

📍 Address: 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, CA
The park is just a short drive or rideshare from downtown San Diego. Public transit options are also available, making it easy to get there without a car.

Park Layout & Zones

Sesame Place is designed like a real-life Sesame Street. Highlights include:

  • Elmo’s World – full of bright rides and activities.
  • 123 Stoop & Hooper’s Store – the heart of Sesame Street.
  • Abby Cadabby’s Garden – a magical space for little ones.
  • Big Bird’s Nest – the perfect photo spot.
  • Cookie Monster’s Foodie Fun – treats for the whole family.

Top Rides & Attractions

Every ride is family-friendly and sized just right for kids. Popular favorites include:

  • Elmo’s Flying Fish
  • Abby’s Fairy Flight
  • Big Bird’s Rambling River
  • Cookie Climb
  • Super Grover’s Box Car Derby (great for first-time roller coaster riders!)

Water Park Fun

Cool off at Bert and Ernie’s Splash Zone, water slides, and splash pads. Perfect for hot San Diego days, so don’t forget swimsuits and towels.

Shows & Entertainment

Live entertainment keeps the fun going all day:

  • Sesame Street Party Parade – music, dancing, and colorful floats.
  • Storytime with Big Bird – a calm, cozy moment for kids.
  • Character Meet & Greets – hug Elmo, high-five Cookie Monster, and take lots of photos.

Seasonal Events

Sesame Place goes all out for the holidays:

  • Halloween Spooktacular with costumes and trick-or-treating.
  • A Very Furry Christmas with festive shows and decorations.

Dining Options

From quick snacks to sit-down meals, there’s something for everyone:

  • Sunny Day Café – indoor dining with comfort food.
  • Elmo’s Pizza Party – kid-approved favorites.
  • Big Bird’s Beach Bites – tasty bites near the water park.
  • Dine with Elmo & Friends – a buffet with singing, dancing, and photo ops.

Tickets & Passes

Choose from:

  • Single-Day Tickets – perfect for first visits.
  • Season Passes – great value for locals.

💡 Tip: Check the park’s seasonal schedule before you go, as opening dates vary.

Tips for Visiting

  • Arrive early to enjoy shorter lines.
  • Bring swimsuits & towels for the water park.
  • Download the Sesame Place app to check ride times and buy tickets.
  • Stroller & locker rentals are available on-site.

Accessibility & Guest Services

Sesame Place is designed for all families:

  • Wheelchair & ECV access throughout the park.
  • Service animals are welcome (with some restrictions in water areas).
  • Quiet Rooms and noise-canceling headphones for guests with sensory needs.
  • First Aid and guest services are always nearby.

Park Rules & Policies

For a smooth visit:

  • Outside food and drinks are limited.
  • Children under 13 must be with an adult.
  • Proper swimwear is required for water attractions.

Nearby Attractions

Make it a multi-day family trip! Nearby highlights include:

  • SeaWorld San Diego
  • San Diego Zoo
  • Balboa Park
  • Sunny San Diego beaches

FAQs

Q: What is the history of Sesame Place?

  • The first Sesame Place opened in 1980 in Langhorne, Pennsylvania.
  • Sesame Place San Diego opened in 2022, making it the second Sesame Place theme park in the U.S.

Q: Is Sesame Place part of SeaWorld San Diego?

  • Sesame Place San Diego is operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, but it is a separate park with its own location in Chula Vista.

Q: Which is better, LEGOLAND or Sesame Place?

  • LEGOLAND California is larger with more rides and attractions, suited for ages 2–12.
  • Sesame Place is smaller, more focused on younger kids (toddlers–age 7), with a mix of rides, shows, and water play.
  • Best choice depends on your child’s age and interests.

Q: Is Sesame Place Disney?

  • No, Sesame Place is not part of Disney.
  • It is licensed by Sesame Workshop and operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.

Q: What age is good for Sesame Place?

  • Best for kids 2–7 years old.
  • Older kids may still enjoy water attractions and live shows.

Q: Can adults go to Sesame Place San Diego?

  • Yes! Adults are welcome.
  • Many parents, grandparents, and caregivers enjoy the nostalgia and attractions.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Sesame Place?

  • Spring and Fall – lighter crowds, mild weather.
  • Summer – great for water attractions, but more crowded.
  • Holiday Seasons – fun seasonal events like Halloween and Christmas.

Q: Does Sesame Place have character meet and greets?

  • Yes! Kids can meet Elmo, Cookie Monster, Big Bird, Abby Cadabby, and more.
  • Check the app or park schedule for daily character appearances.

Final Thoughts

Sesame Place San Diego is a dream destination for families with young children. From exciting rides and splash zones to live shows and character meet-and-greets, every corner is filled with joy and laughter.

It’s the perfect park for kids ages 2–7, but adults will find plenty of nostalgia too. Whether you visit during the summer for water fun or during the holidays for seasonal magic, Sesame Place guarantees lasting memories for the whole family. 👉 Plan your visit here: Sesame Place San Diego

Esteban Villanueva, Travel Advisor. I have lived in San Diego for 51 years, except for a few when I went to college and law school! My wife and I have traveled together to 58 countries. I grew up in San Diego and love to explore every corner of the County. As magazine publishers and travel advisors, we get to visit every venue, museum, restaurant, hotel and neighborhood and discover what makes it unique and exciting. I enjoy living other cultures, walking new neighborhoods, driving new journeys and eating new foods! Travel is accessible to everyone – whether driving out to a National Forest, or flying to other side of the planet, travel is the experience of exploring somewhere new, enjoying it and learning from it.

info@escapadita.travel