Photo: Ryan Nunes
Photo: Derrick Aloys
Photo: Tim Poon
Sesame Place Philadelphia
★4.1(12,512 reviews)$$$Amusement Park
🕑 Full day (5-7 hours)👶 Best for ages 2-10. Toddlers and preschoolers are at the sweet spot for the Sesame Street characters and gentler rides, while elementary-aged kids will love the water slides and roller coasters. The park's design and attractions cater specifically to younger children rather than teens.🧡 Saved by 60+ families
About
Sesame Place Philadelphia is the only Sesame Street-themed amusement park on the East Coast, offering 28+ rides, water attractions, and live character shows featuring Elmo, Cookie Monster, and the entire gang. As a Certified Autism Center, the park provides sensory guides, quiet spaces, and specially trained staff to ensure all families can enjoy a magical day together.
Highlights
- ✓Character meet-and-greets with Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and other beloved Sesame Street friends
- ✓The Count's Splash Castle,a multi-level water play structure with slides and water jets
- ✓Elmo's World LIVE show and the Neighborhood Street Party Parade
- ✓Oscar's Wacky Taxi roller coaster designed for first-time coaster riders
- ✓Cookie Mountain splash zone and lazy river perfect for family floating
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right at opening (10:00 AM) to meet characters with minimal wait times and hit popular rides before lines build up
- 2.Download the Sesame Place app before your visit to check real-time ride wait times, show schedules, and character meet-and-greet locations
- 3.Bring swim diapers and water shoes for little ones, and consider packing your own sunscreen and towels to save money inside the park
- 4.The park offers a Birthday ticket special where kids can visit free during their birthday month with a paid adult admission
- 5.Take advantage of the sensory guide available at Guest Services if you have a child with autism or sensory sensitivities,it maps out quiet areas and sensory-friendly experiences
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekends during early spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when weather is pleasant but summer crowds haven't peaked. Arrive at opening time for shortest lines, and save water attractions for afternoon when it's warmest.
What to Know
Currently open Saturdays and Sundays only (10 AM-5 PM). The park includes both dry rides and water attractions, so bring swimsuits and towels. On-site dining is available though many families bring coolers to leave in their cars. Parking fees apply separately from admission.
Seasonal Notes
The park operates seasonally, typically open weekends in spring and fall, with daily operations during summer months (check schedule as hours vary). Water attractions may have limited availability during cooler months. Special events include Halloween celebrations in October and holiday festivities during select winter weekends.
Nearby Eats
Oxford Valley Mall (5 minutes away) has a food court with kid favorites like Chick-fil-A and Auntie Anne's. For sit-down dining, Bahama Breeze Island Grille is nearby and offers a fun tropical atmosphere with a kids menu featuring familiar favorites.
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