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Sesame Place San Diego water park in San Diego, CA
Photo: Sesame Place San Diego
View of Sesame Place San Diego in San Diego, CA
Photo: Roberto Garcia
View of Sesame Place San Diego in San Diego, CA
Photo: Penny OnTheGoOC

Sesame Place San Diego

4.0(5,446 reviews)$$$Water Park
🕑 Full day (5-7 hours)👶 Rides and attractions are specifically designed for young children; most have height requirements of 36-42 inches, making it ideal for the Sesame Street demographic rather than thrill-seekers

About

The only Sesame Street-themed park on the West Coast brings beloved characters to life through interactive shows, meet-and-greets, and over a dozen kid-friendly rides. The water park side features age-appropriate splash zones and slides, while dry rides include a gentle roller coaster, parade floats, and Elmo's cloud-chaser ride.

Highlights

  • Character meet-and-greets with Elmo, Cookie Monster, Big Bird, and the whole Sesame Street gang
  • Water play areas with multiple splash zones sized for different ages
  • Sesame Street parade featuring all favorite characters on colorful floats

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive 15 minutes before opening to catch the opening show and be first in line for character meet-and-greets before crowds build
  2. 2.Bring swim gear year-round - even in cooler months, kids will want to play in the water areas which have some heated sections
  3. 3.Download the park app before visiting to check wait times, show schedules, and character appearance locations in real-time

Best Time to Visit

Weekdays during the school year (September-May) or first thing at opening during summer; avoid peak summer weekends when waits are longest

What to Know

Multiple dining locations with kid favorites like pizza, chicken tenders, and healthier options; outside food allowed in designated picnic areas Paid parking lot ($30-35); arrives early as it fills quickly on weekends and summer days Family restrooms and nursing stations throughout the park; changing tables in all facilities Stroller-friendly pathways throughout; rentals available but bring your own for naptime flexibility with younger kids Fully accessible with wheelchair rentals available; most attractions accommodate guests with disabilities

Seasonal Notes

Water attractions operate seasonally (typically April-October); Halloween Spooktacular in October features trick-or-treating and costume parades; winter holiday celebrations in November-December with special shows

Nearby Eats

Located in Chula Vista near the Otay Ranch Town Center mall with dozens of chain restaurants and fast-casual options within 5 minutes, perfect for dinner after a park day.

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