Sesame Place Philadelphia Admission Ticket

Visiting Sesame Place Philadelphia promises a day filled with colorful characters, lively rides, and water splashes for the whole family. Located just a quick 30-minute drive north of Philadelphia, this theme park is the only one in the U.S. where Sesame Street comes to life. It’s a favorite for families with young children who adore Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and the familiar neighborhood scenes.

One thing that stands out is the park’s unique focus on Sesame Street, which means you get to meet your favorite characters up close, enjoy cheerful shows, and watch parades that are designed to delight little ones. The admission ticket, priced at $81.62 per person, grants access to all rides, shows, and characters, making it a good value especially if you’re visiting with kids who love the TV series.

However, potential visitors should consider that the reviews point to some common issues like long wait times and the need for careful planning around food and crowd management. This experience is best suited for families with young children who prioritize character encounters and water fun over thrill rides or quick-paced attractions.

Key Points

• Family-focused theme park centered around Sesame Street characters and themes.
• Good value when compared with other ticket options, especially with inclusive meals.
• Crowding and wait times can be significant, especially on busy days.
• Water rides and shows add a splash of excitement and entertainment.
• Limited food options mean budgeting extra time and money for meals.
• Accessible facilities including stroller rentals, lockers, and service animals allowed.

What to Expect at Sesame Place Philadelphia

If you’re planning to spend a day here, knowing what to expect can help you make the most of your visit. The park is designed to entertain kids with a combination of gentle rides, water slides, and engaging shows. Its main appeal is themed characters, which appear for meet-and-greets, parades, and photo opportunities.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Sesame Place Main Area
The core of the park is dedicated to Sesame Street replicas, with colorful streetscapes themed around the TV show. You’ll find rides for all ages, from gentle carousels to more interactive attractions. We loved the way the environment fosters a sense of familiarity and joy, especially for younger children.

2. Rides and Slides
While not overly adrenaline-pumping, the water rides are a highlight, especially during hot weather. Reviewers mention that some children only manage to use the slides a few times due to long lines—one reviewer noted they waited over an hour for a single slide, which can be frustrating if your kids are eager for more. Proper swimwear and water shoes are recommended; inside the park, swim suits and water shoes are available for purchase, and life jackets are provided on water attractions.

3. Shows and Parades
Colorful shows are scheduled throughout the day, featuring Sesame Street characters singing, dancing, and engaging with the audience. The Neighborhood Street Party Parade is a fun highlight, with lively music and floats that keep kids entertained. One reviewer appreciated the cheerful, energetic guides who made the experience memorable, although crowd management sometimes posed challenges.

4. Water Rides and Splash Areas
The water rides are designed for cooling off and splashing around. They are suitable for most children, but proper swimwear and swim diapers for little ones are essential. Some visitors mention that the water attractions can be crowded, and waiting in line can take up a lot of your visit time.

Additional Facilities and Tips

• Stroller Rentals: Available if you want to avoid lugging around or if tired little legs need a break.
• Lockers: Can be rented for the day, handy for storing valuables while enjoying water rides.
• Food and Drinks: Not included in the ticket price, and outside food is generally not permitted—except baby formula, snacks, and medically necessary items. Food options are basic, with hot dogs, pizza, and burgers, but critics note prices are steep—around $20 for a burger, which might feel pricey for the quality.
• Accessibility: Service animals are welcome, and the park offers accommodations for guests needing assistance.

The Real-World Experience: Pros and Cons

While many visitors highlighted good value—especially when purchasing multi-day tickets or including meals—there are some consistent drawbacks. One reviewer pointed out that long queues can lead to frustration, with children only managing to enjoy rides a handful of times during longer waits. Another noted that staff shortages sometimes mean less efficient crowd control and service, which can negatively impact the experience.

On the positive side, the friendly guides and the park’s focus on children make it clear this is a place built around family fun, not thrill-seeking. The shows and character meet-and-greets are top-notch for creating memorable moments, especially if your kids are Sesame Street fans.

Pricing reflects the park’s niche appeal—$81.62 per ticket might seem steep, but when you factor in the included shows and character interactions, it can be justified for a family outing. Still, some reviews suggest that bringing your own snacks outside the designated picnic areas could help stretch your budget further.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for families with young children who adore Sesame Street characters and are looking for a day of gentle rides, shows, and water fun. It’s a good choice if you want to avoid the crowds of larger theme parks and prefer a more themed, character-driven environment.

However, be prepared for long waiting times and basic food options—if you’re after a quick-paced adventure or gourmet dining, this may not be the best fit. If your kids are water-loving and enjoy meeting characters, this will definitely create some cherished memories.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Sesame Place Philadelphia offers a fun, character-filled experience tailored for the little ones, with the allure of meeting beloved Sesame Street characters, enjoying lively shows, and splashing in water rides. The park’s focus on creating a memorable environment for young children makes it a hit for families, especially those who plan ahead and manage expectations around wait times and food costs.

On the downside, the crowds and lines can eat into your day, and some reviewers have expressed frustration over the limited food choices and high prices. Still, if you’re looking for a place where your kids can see Elmo and Big Bird in real life, and enjoy a playful water day, Sesame Place is worth considering.

To sum it up, it’s a value-oriented family outing that delivers fun for children who love Sesame Street—but be prepared for a busy day and pack patience alongside your picnic snacks.

FAQs

Is the ticket only valid on the selected date?
Yes, your admission ticket is only valid for the date you select at booking, so plan accordingly.

Are there options for stroller rentals?
Yes, strollers are available for rent if you prefer not to bring your own or need a break during the day.

What food is available inside the park?
Food options are mainly standard fast food like pizza, burgers, and hot dogs. Prices tend to be high, and outside food is usually not permitted, except for baby or medically necessary items.

Can I bring outside snacks?
Outside food is generally not allowed, except for baby formula, snacks, or medically necessary items. Picnic areas outside the park are available if you want to bring your own.

Are water shoes or bathing suits necessary?
Water shoes and bathing suits are highly recommended for water rides and splash areas. These are available for purchase inside the park if needed.

Are service animals permitted?
Yes, service animals are allowed but must remain on a leash or harness at all times and behave appropriately.

What should I know about wait times?
Long lines are common, especially for water rides, with some reports of waits over an hour. Planning your day to hit popular attractions early can help.

Is there parking available?
While not explicitly detailed in the data, most theme parks offer parking options, including preferred or VIP parking for an additional fee.

Overall, Sesame Place Philadelphia offers a colorful, character-driven day for families with young kids, with some considerations for crowds and costs. Planning ahead and managing expectations can help you enjoy a memorable, fun-filled visit.