Philadelphia: Official Sesame Place Entry Ticket

Planning a family trip to Philadelphia and considering a visit to Sesame Place? This ticket offers access to the only theme park in the U.S. dedicated entirely to Sesame Street, promising a day filled with character encounters, rides, live shows, and water fun. We’ve gathered insights from actual visitors and the official details to help you decide if this experience fits your plans.

What we like about this ticket is that it provides unlimited access to all rides and shows with an easy entry process, making it straightforward for families to jump right into the fun. Plus, the option for a 2-day pass within a year offers flexibility—if your kids are really into the park, you can spread out the adventure. On the flip side, some reviews highlight issues like parking costs and interactions with staff, which are worth considering as you plan.

If your family loves Sesame Street characters and enjoys theme parks with a mix of rides and entertainment, this ticket could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for those looking for a dedicated children’s theme park with a focus on live character interactions and water attractions. That said, if you’re sensitive to extra costs or parking fees, you’ll want to weigh those factors into your overall trip budget.

Key Points

• All-inclusive access to rides and shows simplifies planning.
• Flexible ticket options (1-day or 2-day within 1 year) give you some scheduling wiggle room.
• The park is autism-friendly, being a Certified Autism Center, which is a big plus for families needing accommodations.
• Parking and lockers might add extra costs, so budget accordingly.
• Visitors appreciate friendly staff and reasonable wait times, though some note less positive interactions at the entrance.
• The water attractions are a highlight, perfect for warm days, so pack swim gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect When Visiting Sesame Place

When you buy an official Sesame Place ticket, you’re paying for access to everything the park has to offer—rides, shows, character photos, and the parade. The experience is built around the beloved characters from Sesame Street, making it a delightful spot where kids can see Elmo, Cookie Monster, Grover, and others come to life.

Entrance and First Impressions

As you arrive, you’ll show your ticket at the entrance, and from there, the park is laid out with vibrant, colorful zones dedicated to different Sesame Street neighborhoods. The atmosphere instantly feels cheerful, and you’ll notice how well the park incorporates the show’s aesthetic into its design.

One thing to keep in mind is the parking fee—$38.50—which is a common complaint in reviews. If you’re driving, budget extra for this, or consider other transportation options if available. Once inside, the park is wheelchair accessible, which is thoughtful for all visitors.

Rides and Attractions

With your ticket, you’ll gain access to 15 attractions—including three seasonal options. Key rides include the Elmo’s Cloud Chaser, which gives a gentle thrill for little ones, and the Flyin’ Fish, perfect for slightly older kids who want to feel like they’re flying. For the adrenaline junkies, the Vapor Trail coaster offers a quick adrenaline rush.

The water attractions are a particular highlight, with Big Bird’s Rambling River and Elmo’s Silly Splashy Slides providing cooling fun on hot days. Make sure to bring swimwear and water shoes—these are recommended to enjoy the water features comfortably and protect little feet.

Live Shows and Parades

The live entertainment is a core part of the Sesame Place experience. Visitors can expect to see three live shows, which often include singing, dancing, and interactive segments. The Sesame Street Party Parade is a lively procession of characters that kids love to watch and photograph.

From reviews, it seems the shows are well-choreographed and engaging, adding a lot of value to your ticket. Staff members are generally described as friendly and helpful, which enhances the experience.

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Food and Rest Areas

When hunger strikes, there are multiple on-site restaurants. While the details on menus aren’t extensive, the availability of food means your family can take a break without leaving the park. Since the park is quite manageable in size, you can plan to eat in stages rather than all at once.

Water Fun and Practical Tips

The water attractions are a major draw, but you’ll want to prepare by bringing swimwear and water shoes. Diaper-wearing children are required to wear swim diapers, so pack those in advance. If you’re visiting during warmer weather, the water rides are a perfect way to cool off, but be sure to stay hydrated and apply sunscreen.

Cost and Value

At $51 per person, the ticket is priced similarly to other theme park options but offers the advantage of unlimited rides and shows. The 2-day ticket is especially appealing if you want to extend the fun or if your kids are obsessed with Sesame Street—they have a full year to use it, which adds flexibility.

While some reviews mention the parking fee and locker costs, the overall value depends on how much your family plans to enjoy the rides and shows. If you’re only visiting for a day, it might feel a little steep, but for longer stays, the ticket becomes more cost-effective.

Additional Considerations

• Accessibility: The park’s certification as a Certified Autism Center indicates a commitment to inclusive experiences, which is reassuring for families with special needs.
• Booking flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, making last-minute plans easier.
• Cancellation policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.
• Park hours: Be sure to check online for official opening times since hours can vary.

Who Is This Ticket Best For?

This ticket suits families with young children who are fans of Sesame Street and enjoy theme parks that blend rides with live entertainment. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a full-day or multi-day experience that’s manageable in size and caters to younger ages. Those who prioritize inclusive environments and organized shows will find it particularly appealing.

However, keep in mind that parking costs and potential long lines might be a consideration, especially during peak times. Also, if you’re visiting with older kids or thrill-seekers, the coaster and water rides are accessible, but some might find the overall vibe more suited to the preschool set.

FAQs

Is the ticket valid for a full year?
Yes, the ticket is valid for 1 year from the date of purchase. If you buy the 2-day option, you have a full year to use both visits.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.

Are there different ticket options?
Yes. You can choose a 1-day ticket or a 2-day ticket within 60 days, giving you flexibility depending on how much time you want to spend there.

Is the park accessible for guests with disabilities?
Absolutely. The park has partnered with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to become a Certified Autism Center, and it is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring for water attractions?
Bring swimwear, water shoes, and swim diapers if needed. These will help you enjoy water rides comfortably and hygienically.

Are there food options inside the park?
Yes, there are multiple on-site restaurants to grab a meal or snack, so you won’t need to leave the park for sustenance.

What about wait times?
According to reviews, wait times are reasonable, which helps keep the day enjoyable without long lines ruining the fun.

Is parking included?
No, parking costs $38.50 extra, which is a notable expense to plan for in your trip budget.

Final thoughts

The Philadelphia Sesame Place ticket is a good option for families seeking a dedicated, character-filled experience with plenty of rides, water attractions, and live shows. It offers good value if you plan to spend more than a day or two, especially with the flexible ticket options. While some visitors find parking costs and entrance interactions to be less ideal, the overall experience—especially for young children—is positive, full of vibrant visuals and kid-friendly entertainment.

If your kids adore Sesame Street or you’re looking for a manageable yet engaging theme park day, this ticket could turn your Philadelphia visit into a memorable, fun-filled outing. Just remember to factor in parking and plan for water gear if you want to make the most of the water attractions.

Enjoy your trip, and embrace the playful, cheerful spirit of Sesame Place—it’s a place where the characters truly come to life!

You can check availability for your dates here: