Line the streets for the Sesame Street Party Parade, then take a break at musical stage shows featuring songs and dancing with the gang.
Pro tip: Use the daily schedule to stack parade and showtimes back-to-back near lunchtime.
Sesame Place Philadelphia Tickets
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Quick overview
- Ticket options: Tickets provide full-day self-guided access; choose single-day, flexible Any Day, multi-day, or season passes, plus dining-inclusive variants.
- Zones & rides: One compact park mixes dry rides and water attractions; coasters, spinners, splash pads, lazy river, wave pool, slides.
- Unique experiences: Daily shows, a Sesame Street parade, and character meet-and-greets anchor visits; Spring, Halloween, and Christmas events change the feel.
- Queues & access: Entry uses one main gate with security and ticket scanning; ride and slide queues spike on summer weekends.
- When to book: Demand peaks from late May through August, plus October weekends and late-December events; book 1–2 weeks ahead for weekends.
- Good to know: Most families spend 6–8 hours; tickets are typically non-refundable, date changes may cost more, and water attractions operate seasonally.
- Best upgrade: For one-day visits, pairing admission with the all-day dining add-on simplifies meals; multi-day tickets or passes fit realistic repeat plans.
What to expect at Sesame Place Philadelphia
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First steps onto Sesame Street
You’ll walk through the main gates after quick security and ticket scans, with Sesame Street music already playing. Colorful banners, character statues, and stroller-friendly paths immediately signal this is a park built for little legs. Straight ahead, the Sesame Street Neighborhood façades make it feel like you’ve stepped onto the TV set.
Compact park, simple to navigate
The park fans out from the Sesame Street Neighborhood, with dry rides clustered on one side and the water park on the other. Landmarks like Count’s Splash Castle and Big Bird’s Rambling River anchor the water zone, while smaller kiddie rides ring the central pathways. Distances stay short, so you’re rarely far from a restroom, shade, or a familiar backdrop.
Rides sized for little thrill seekers
Dry rides range from gentle spinners and the Sunny Day Carousel to Oscar’s Wacky Taxi, a family wooden coaster that gives just enough zip for first-time riders. In warmer months, kids graduate to Elmo’s Silly Splashy Slides or Abby’s Fairy Falls for enclosed tube-slide fun. Height markers at entrances help you see quickly which attractions each child can enjoy.
Parades, shows, and furry friends
Across the day, expect musical stage shows where Elmo, Cookie Monster, and Abby Cadabby sing and dance to familiar songs. The Sesame Street Party Parade sends giant floats and a full cast of characters winding through the park, with lots of waving and dancing along the route. Between scheduled entertainment, roving meet-and-greets create spontaneous photo and hug moments.
Breaks, bites, and a quick reset
Quick-service spots serve kid-friendly staples plus treats, with plenty of high chairs and stroller parking nearby. Shaded seating clusters near major hubs, so adults can rest while kids watch fountains or small rides. A smart move is to rent a locker near the water attractions so you can switch between swimsuits and dry clothes without lugging bags.
Late-afternoon goodbyes or seasonal nights
On regular operating days, many families wind down after one last lazy float on Big Bird’s Rambling River or a final spin on a favorite ride, then browse Sesame Street shops near the exit. On select seasonal evenings, like A Very Furry Christmas, extra lights, music, and decor keep Sesame Street Neighborhood glowing a bit longer before you head out.
Things to know before booking your Sesame Place Philadelphia tickets
Booking window
- Sesame Place Philadelphia operates from spring through the holiday season, with daily operations during summer and select dates during spring, fall, and winter events.
- Popular dates such as summer weekends, holiday celebrations, and special events like The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular and A Very Furry Christmas can sell out, so booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended.
- Purchasing park tickets online before arrival helps you avoid ticket booth queues and gives you access to the best available pricing.
The big decision
- The Single-Day Ticket is the best choice if you have a fixed travel date and want one full day to enjoy the rides, water attractions, shows, parades, and character experiences.
- The Single-Day + $10 Card option adds extra value if you plan to purchase food or snacks during your visit.
- The Any Day Ticket offers more flexibility by allowing you to visit on a date within its validity period, making it useful if your plans may change or you're monitoring weather conditions.
- The 2-Day Ticket is ideal for families who want a slower-paced experience or wish to enjoy both the dry rides and water attractions without rushing through everything in a single day.
- Bronze and Silver Annual Passes are designed for repeat visitors. If you expect to visit multiple times throughout the season, a pass can provide better long-term value than purchasing separate admission tickets.
Add-ons & upgrades
- Sesame Place Philadelphia tickets primarily cover admission, while most upgrades and experiences are purchased separately.
- Optional add-ons such as reserved seating for select events, character dining experiences, stroller rentals, lockers, and souvenir packages can enhance your visit.
- During busy summer weekends and holiday events, upgrades that reduce waiting or add convenience may be especially worthwhile for families with younger children.
Transfers & logistics
- Sesame Place Philadelphia is located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, approximately 30–40 minutes from downtown Philadelphia and about 90 minutes from New York City by car, making it a popular day-trip destination.
- Most visitors arrive by personal vehicle, and on-site parking is available for an additional fee. Silver Annual Pass holders receive free general parking, which can increase the value of an annual pass.
- Arriving before opening time allows families to enjoy popular rides, character greetings, and water attractions before peak crowds arrive.
Discounts & ways to save
- If your visit date is confirmed, Single-Day Tickets generally offer the lowest admission price compared with flexible ticket options.
- Families planning two visits often find that a 2-Day Ticket provides better value than purchasing two separate Single-Day Tickets.
- For local families or frequent visitors, Bronze and Silver Annual Passes can quickly become cost-effective thanks to unlimited admission and additional passholder benefits.
- Children under 2 years old receive free admission when accompanied by a paying adult, making Sesame Place Philadelphia especially budget-friendly for families with toddlers.
Policies & restrictions
- Many rides and water attractions have height and safety requirements, so it's worth reviewing attraction restrictions before your visit to understand which experiences are suitable for your children.
- Water attractions operate seasonally and may be affected by weather conditions, so attraction availability can vary throughout the year.
- Outside food and beverages are generally restricted except for baby food, infant formula, and medically necessary items. The park also uses cashless payment options at most locations.
- Sesame Place Philadelphia is a Certified Autism Center and offers sensory guides, quiet spaces, and accessibility resources that help create a more comfortable experience for guests with sensory sensitivities and their families.
Park zones at Sesame Place Philadelphia
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Sesame Island
Theme: Tropical water-play zone – slides, splashes, and family fun
Highlights:
- Home to several of the park’s larger water slides and aquatic attractions
- Features colorful island-inspired theming and interactive water elements
- Popular destination during warm summer afternoons
Tip: Visit early in the day to enjoy shorter waits on the water slides before crowds build.
Big Bird’s Beach
Theme: Relaxed beach-style water area – family splash and play
Highlights:
- Anchored by Big Bird-themed water attractions and splash features
- Close to sandy-themed play spaces and family-friendly water activities
- Offers plenty of opportunities for younger children to cool off
Tip: A great place to alternate between active water play and relaxing breaks with the family.
Sesame Street Neighborhood
Theme: Iconic Sesame Street setting – characters, photos, and family rides
Highlights:
- Features the famous 123 Stoop and recognizable Sesame Street landmarks
- Prime location for character meet-and-greets and photo opportunities
- Home to several classic family attractions and entertainment offerings
Tip: Arrive early for character greetings before lines become longer later in the day.
Sesame Plaza
Theme: Central gathering area – entertainment and special events
Highlights:
- Hosts seasonal shows, dance parties, and live entertainment
- Conveniently located near dining, shopping, and guest services
- Serves as a hub connecting multiple areas of the park
Tip: Check the daily entertainment schedule so you don't miss parades or character performances.
Sesame City
Theme: Urban adventure zone – family rides and interactive fun
Highlights:
- Features a mix of rides designed for children and parents to enjoy together
- Bright city-inspired streetscape themed around favorite Sesame Street characters
- Easy access to nearby attractions and family amenities
Tip: Ideal for families looking to experience several rides without crossing the entire park.
Count’s Court
Theme: Character-focused courtyard – shows and interactive experiences
Highlights:
- Dedicated to Count von Count-themed entertainment and activities
- Often used for seasonal events, character appearances, and family programming
- Offers open spaces for relaxing between attractions
Tip: Visit during scheduled character appearances for some of the best interaction opportunities in the park.
Elmo’s World
Theme: Toddler-friendly play area – gentle rides and discovery
Highlights:
- Designed especially for younger children and first-time park visitors
- Features colorful play elements inspired by Elmo’s television world
- Includes gentle attractions suitable for preschool-aged guests
Tip: Perfect for toddlers who may not yet meet height requirements for larger rides elsewhere in the park.
Cookie’s Monster Land
Theme: Playful attraction zone – rides, games, and Cookie Monster fun
Highlights:
- Home to family rides themed around Cookie Monster and his friends
- Features interactive experiences and colorful character theming
- Popular with younger children thanks to its approachable attractions
Tip: Pair this area with nearby character meet-and-greets to maximize your Sesame Street experience.
Rides and attractions at Sesame Place Philadelphia
| Ride name | Zone | Description | Thrill level | Avg. wait time | Ride type | Best time to ride |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Oscar’s Wacky Taxi | Dry Rides Zone | Mild wooden coaster with quick dips and turns. Watch for Oscar’s taxi weaving past bright Sesame Street scenery. | High | 30–60 min | Family wooden coaster | Early morning |
The Count’s Splash Castle | Water Attractions Zone | Multi-level splash fortress with slides and a huge tipping bucket. Notice how different jets trigger surprise soakings. | Medium | 15–30 min | Water play structure | Mid-afternoon |
Big Bird’s Rambling River | Water Attractions Zone | Gentle lazy river float in tubes. Look out for bubblers, mini waterfalls, and shaded stretches to cool everyone down. | Low | 15–30 min | Lazy river | Late morning |
Elmo’s Silly Splashy Slides | Water Attractions Zone | Enclosed tube slides with moderate speed. Watch color shifts in the tubes as you twist toward the splash pool. | Medium | 15–30 min | Tube water slide | Late morning |
Abby’s Fairy Falls | Water Attractions Zone | Pink, fairy-themed tube slide. Notice light effects and cool mist as you spiral into the landing pool. | Medium | 15–30 min | Tube water slide | Late morning |
Sunny Day Carousel | Central Area | Classic carousel with Sesame Street characters. Spot favorite Muppets on the mounts as the theme song plays. | Low | 0–15 min | Carousel | Lunchtime window |
Sesame Street Neighborhood | Sesame Street Neighborhood | Walk-through version of Sesame Street. Look for Mr. Hooper’s Store, brownstone stoops, and Big Bird’s nest. | Low | 0–15 min | Themed walk-through area | Late afternoon |
Sesame Street Party Parade | Parade Route | Colorful daily parade of floats and characters. Watch dancers and Muppets pass close along the route. | Low | 15–30 min | Parade / street show | Afternoon |
Character Meet & Greets | Neighborhood & Various | Hug and pose with Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby, and friends. Notice themed backdrops matching each character’s world. | Low | 0–15 min | Character meet-and-greet | Late morning |
Things to do at Sesame Place Philadelphia
Enjoy parades and live shows
Meet Sesame Street friends up close
Kids can hug, high-five, and pose with Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird, and more at scheduled meet-and-greets across the park.
Pro tip: Morning and early afternoon time slots usually mean shorter photo lines.
Explore the Sesame Street Neighborhood
Stroll past brownstones, peek at Mr. Hooper’s Store façade, and step near Big Bird’s nest in the Sesame Street Neighborhood, a photo-ready replica of the TV set.
Pro tip: Visit between rides for relaxed photos without wet swimsuits.
Celebrate seasonal events and holidays
Across the year, the park transforms for events like Elmo’s Springtacular, The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular, and A Very Furry Christmas, with themed decor, music, and entertainment.
Pro tip: Check the events calendar; some dates feature unique shows and costumes.
Shop Sesame Street souvenirs and photo keepsakes
Browse gift shops for plush Elmos, apparel, toys, and themed goodies to take Sesame Street home. Pair purchases with digital PhotoKey image downloads from rides and character spots.
Pro tip: Save shopping for late afternoon, when kids start winding down.
Visiting Sesame Place Philadelphia with kids
Worried about stamina, naps, or meltdowns? The park is built around young families, so most logistics are already thought through.
- Gentle rides & first coasters: Sunny Day Carousel and Oscar’s Wacky Taxi give little ones big-kid thrills without overwhelming them.
- Water play made simple: Count’s Splash Castle, Big Bird’s Rambling River, and shallow splash areas plus free life jackets keep water time fun and manageable.
- Family facilities: On-site stroller rentals, baby-care/nursing spaces, family restrooms, and lockers make diaper changes, feeds, and outfit swaps straightforward.
- Characters & shows: The Sesame Street Party Parade, live stage shows, and “Photos with Sesame Street Friends” (plus optional Dine with Elmo & Friends) break up ride time.
- Sensory support: As a Certified Autism Center, the park offers sensory guides and quieter areas for kids who need a reset.
With kid-sized rides, built-in breaks, and thoughtful support, you can focus on fun instead of logistics.
What’s new at Sesame Place Philadelphia
Elmo’s Silly Splashy Slides upgrade
Opened in 2021, Elmo’s Silly Splashy Slides and Abby’s Fairy Falls add newer tube attractions for confident kids, with bright character theming and moderate thrills. They’re a strong reason to plan a warm‑weather return if you last visited earlier. Visit this summer.
Elmo’s Springtacular and Eggstravaganza
Each year from late March through April, Elmo’s Springtacular and Eggstravaganza bring spring‑break energy with character‑led games, themed shows, and Easter‑style activities layered onto regular rides and water play (weather permitting). It’s an easy way to make a standard visit feel seasonal. Visit this spring.
The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular weekends
On select weekends in mid to late October, The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular overlays the park with family‑friendly décor, costumes, and themed entertainment instead of intense scares. Daytime stays gentle for little ones, while evenings feel more atmospheric. Secure an October visit before it ends.
A Very Furry Christmas nights
From late November through December, A Very Furry Christmas transforms the park with holiday lights, music, and limited‑run shows on a reduced seasonal schedule. It’s one of the few chances to experience Sesame Place after dark in full festive mode. Plan a winter visit.
Itineraries for a perfect Sesame Place Philadelphia visit
Morning
Start in Sesame Street Neighborhood for photos at the iconic 123 Stoop and early character meet-and-greets with Elmo, Big Bird, and Abby Cadabby. Then head to family favorites like Vapor Trail Express, Oscar’s Wacky Taxi, and Flyin’ Fish while wait times are at their shortest. Before crowds arrive, explore Elmo’s World and Cookie’s Monster Land for gentle rides and interactive play areas designed for younger guests.
Midday
As the park becomes busier, make your way to Big Bird’s Beach and Sesame Island to cool off on the water attractions, splash zones, and family-friendly slides. Take a break for lunch at one of the park’s dining locations, then enjoy a live stage show or character performance in Sesame Plaza. This is also a good time to browse nearby shops or relax in shaded seating areas.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon enjoying any attractions you missed earlier and revisit favorite rides with the family. Explore Count’s Court and Sesame City, where additional rides, games, and character encounters await. Be sure to secure a good viewing spot for the Sesame Street Party Parade, featuring colorful floats, music, dancing, and appearances by beloved Sesame Street friends.
Evening
As crowds begin to thin, take advantage of shorter lines for popular attractions and enjoy one final round on your favorite rides. Stroll through Sesame Street Neighborhood for family photos, visit the gift shops for souvenirs, and catch any remaining entertainment or character appearances before ending your day with a relaxed walk through the park as the lights come on.
Plan your visit
- Sesame Place Philadelphia opening hours: 10am (subject to change)
- Sesame Place Philadelphia closing hours: Between 5pm and 9pm (subject to change)
- Closed on: Opening days and hours vary by date and season, so always check the official calendar for the date you plan to visit.
Address: 100 Sesame Rd, Langhorne, PA 19047, United States | Find on Maps
- Closest bus stop: Sesame Place, Langhorne, PA (2-minute walk)
- Distance from Langhorne city center: 10 minutes (3.4 miles)
- Distance from Philadelphia city center: 40 minutes (27 miles)
- Distance from New York City: 1.5 hours (73 miles)
- Distance from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): 40 minutes (36 miles)
Parking: Paid parking is available for all guests who do not have the Silver Annual Pass to Sesame Place Philadelphia.
- Daily entertainment: The park usually schedules several Sesame Street–themed live shows on operating days.
- Signature parade: The Sesame Street Party Parade typically runs once per day during regular seasons.
- Variable schedule: Show and parade times change by season and date; check the app or daily boards.
- Viewing tips: Arrive 10–15 minutes early for curbside spots along the main parade route.
- Seasonal offerings: Halloween and Christmas periods may feature special shows, costumes, and themed parades.
- Restrooms: Standard and family restrooms are located throughout both the dry park and water areas.
- Baby care: Designated baby-care and nursing spaces support feeding, changing, and quiet breaks.
- Lockers: Paid lockers near key zones let you store clothes, bags, and valuables between water rides.
- Stroller rentals: Stroller rentals are available near the entrance for guests who prefer not to bring their own.
- First aid: An on-site first aid station assists with minor medical needs during operating hours.
- Water safety gear: Complimentary life jackets are available at certain water attractions for children and non-swimmers.
- Food outlets: Multiple quick-service restaurants and snack stands serve kid-friendly meals, drinks, and treats.
- Guest Services: Guest services can help with accessibility questions, ticket issues, and lost-and-found.
- Gift shops: Retail locations around the park sell Sesame Street–branded toys, apparel, and souvenirs.
- Step-free arrival: Wheelchair users and stroller pushers can reach the main entrance via flat, paved paths.
- On-site mobility aids: Guests can rent wheelchairs and strollers, though numbers may be limited on peak days.
- Pathways: Most guest areas feature wide, paved walkways suitable for wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
- Accessible restrooms: Accessible toilet facilities are available in multiple locations across the park.
- Water zones: Water attractions may involve wet, slippery surfaces and stair access to slide towers.
- Ride details: Accessibility guides explain transfer needs, restraint types, and motion for each attraction.
- Autism support: The park is a Certified Autism Center and publishes detailed sensory guides for attractions.
- Quiet spaces: Guests with sensory needs can use identified quieter areas when crowds or noise feel overwhelming.
- Height rules: Most rides and slides have posted minimum heights at entrances and in official height charts.
- Younger riders: Many gentler attractions allow smaller children when accompanied by a supervising adult.
- Big Bird’s Rambling River: Children under 42 inches must wear life vests and remain with an adult.
- Water slides: Larger slides generally require guests to meet specific height minimums; always verify signs.
- Health advisories: Coasters and major slides list restrictions for pregnancy and heart, back, or neck conditions.
- Safety checks: Staff may re-measure children or deny boarding if safety requirements are not met.
- Security checks: All guests must pass through security screening before tickets or passes are scanned at the gate.
- Bags and coolers: Bag inspections follow posted rules, and oversized luggage or large coolers may be refused.
- Outside food: Outside food is restricted; confirm current allowances for baby and medical items on the policy page.
- Dress and swimwear: Proper swimwear is usually required on water attractions; review the latest swimwear guidelines.
- Photography: Personal photos are generally allowed, but drones and commercial shoots require prior park approval.
- Ride behaviour: Guests must follow team member instructions and posted safety rules on all rides and slides.
- Eating areas: Eating is expected in dining and seating zones rather than in active ride queues.
- Smoking and vaping: Follow any posted rules on designated smoking or vaping areas; assume rides and queues are smoke-free.
- Dine with Elmo and Friends: Enjoy a character dining experience with Sesame Street friends, available by advance reservation and not included with park admission.
- Big Bird’s Burgers & Bites: Stop by for burgers, chicken tenders, fries, and other family-friendly meal options.
- Monster Snacks: Grab quick treats, refreshments, popcorn, and sweet snacks for a break between attractions.
- Cookie Monster’s Foodie Truck: Pick up handheld favorites and themed snacks inspired by Cookie Monster’s love of food.
- Oscar’s Garage: Browse toys, apparel, and Sesame Street-themed souvenirs in a fun, character-inspired retail space.
- Sesame Place Store: Shop the park’s largest collection of Sesame Street merchandise, gifts, plush toys, and keepsakes.
- Mr. Hooper’s Gift Shop: Find character-themed apparel, accessories, and memorable souvenirs to take home from your visit.
Tips & guidelines
Skip starting at Count’s Splash Castle; head first to Oscar’s Wacky Taxi before school groups swell that queue.
Next, clear nearby dry rides like Sunny Day Carousel before changing everyone into swim gear all together.
Do Big Bird’s Rambling River while the Sesame Street Party Parade runs; parade crowds shrink tube waits noticeably on hot days.
Pick lockers nearest Count’s Splash Castle so you’re steps from Elmo’s Silly Splashy Slides and Abby’s Fairy Falls.
Schedule an indoor stage show right after lunch; shaded seating near the main theater lets overheated kids reset calmly.
Use Sesame Place’s sensory guides in the app before loud shows; pick calmer splash areas if your child’s overwhelmed.
Refresh the Sesame Place app for current Oscar’s Wacky Taxi waits instead of trekking back only to find closures.
If everyone’s comfortable splitting, use Oscar’s Wacky Taxi Single Rider line to trim that family-coaster wait significantly.
Don’t rush every meet-and-greet; target Sesame Street Neighborhood appearances mid-afternoon when many families linger at Big Bird’s Rambling River.
Frequently asked questions about Sesame Place Philadelphia tickets
Standard 1-day tickets work for most families doing a single visit. Multi-day tickets suit trips where you’ll return within a few days. Season passes only make sense if you’ll visit several times and value parking or in-park discounts.
Dated entry locks you to a specific day, usually at a lower price. Flexible entry lets you visit on any operating day during 6 months, helpful if your travel dates might change.
Yes, especially for summer weekends, school holidays, and seasonal events like Halloween or Christmas. Buying ahead secures your date, often beats gate pricing, and reduces the risk of your preferred day reaching capacity.
Standard 1-day tickets include admission to all open dry rides, water attractions, daily shows, and the Sesame Street Party Parade on your visit day. Parking, lockers, meals, character dining, and any express/fast-track passes are always extra.
Yes. Standard tickets include access to regular shows, the Sesame Street Party Parade, and scheduled character meet-and-greets around the park. Special experiences like sit-down character meals or reserved viewing areas need separately purchased add-ons.
The park is designed mainly for children about 2–8 years old. Toddlers love splash pads and gentle rides, younger school-age kids enjoy coasters and slides, while many tweens or teens may feel they’ve outgrown most attractions.
Yes. Each ride and slide has posted minimum height and sometimes adult‑accompaniment rules. To avoid disappointment, check Sesame Place’s official height chart and compare it with your child’s measurements before buying tickets or promising specific attractions.
Plan around 6–8 hours if you want to do dry rides, water attractions, and at least one show or parade. With younger kids or on crowded days, this pace feels comfortable without rushing every area.
The park usually operates in light rain, with indoor and many outdoor rides still running. Specific attractions, especially water slides, may close for safety or staffing. Weather or partial closures rarely trigger automatic refunds, so consider forecast and flexibility.
Sesame Place is a Certified Autism Center. The park offers sensory guides for each attraction, identifies quieter areas, and has generally step-free, stroller- and wheelchair-friendly paths. For specific accommodations, speak with guest services when you arrive.
Parking is almost always a separate cost from admission, unless you are a Silver Annual Pass Holder. General parking is fine for most visitors. Preferred parking shortens the walk to the gate, which helps if you’re managing strollers, grandparents, or lots of gear in summer heat.
