Overview
Welcome to Sesame Place San Diego, the only theme park on the West Coast based entirely on the award-winning show, Sesame Street.
Located in Chula Vista, this 17-acre park is a world of wonder for families and young children, combining the charm of the beloved characters with the excitement of a theme park and the splash-tastic fun of a water park.
Operated by United Parks & Resorts, Sesame Place is designed to be a place where kids and parents can play and learn together.
The park is a vibrant, interactive recreation of the iconic Sesame Street neighborhood.
Families can meet and take photos with characters like Elmo, Big Bird, and Cookie Monster, enjoy live character shows, and watch the spectacular Sesame Street Party Parade.
With a mix of gentle rides perfect for toddlers, a family-friendly roller coaster, and numerous water attractions open seasonally, it offers a complete day of entertainment.
Its designation as a Certified Autism Center ensures a welcoming and inclusive experience for all families.
What to Expect
A day at Sesame Place is a journey into the heart of Sesame Street. Upon arrival, you'll step into a colorful world filled with familiar sights and sounds. The park is cleverly divided into dry and wet attractions, allowing you to tailor your day.
You can start with the classic dry rides, like the Super Grover's Box Car Derby roller coaster or the sunny-day-carousel, before heading to the water park section to cool off.
Throughout the day, you can expect spontaneous character appearances, scheduled meet-and-greets, and high-energy stage shows that will have your little ones singing and dancing along.
The highlight for many is the Sesame Street Party Parade, a daily extravaganza of music, dancing, and colorful floats featuring all your favorite characters.
The experience is designed to last a full day, with plenty of dining options, shops, and facilities to keep your family comfortable and entertained from opening to close.
Prices & Booking
Ticket prices for Sesame Place San Diego vary depending on the date of your visit and whether you purchase online or at the gate. Single-day tickets start from approximately $47.99 when booked online in advance. Prices are typically higher at the front gate, so booking ahead is strongly recommended for the best value.
- Online Tickets: From $47.99
- Children (under 2): Free
- Season Passes: Various tiers are available for frequent visitors, offering unlimited admission and other perks.
Booking is simple via the official Sesame Place San Diego website. Advance reservations are advised, especially during peak season, as the park is subject to capacity limits.
Tickets are generally non-refundable, but the park offers a "Sunny Day Guarantee," which allows you to receive a complimentary return visit if inclement weather spoils your day.
Group discounts are available for large parties by contacting the park's sales department.
What's Included
Your admission ticket provides a full day of fun with access to a wide range of attractions and entertainment.
What's Included:
- Access to all dry rides and attractions.
- Entry to all seasonal water park slides and pools.
- All live character shows and performances.
- Viewing of the Sesame Street Party Parade.
- Opportunities for character meet-and-greets.
What's Not Included:
- Parking (this is an additional fee).
- Food, drinks, and snacks.
- Merchandise and souvenirs.
- Locker rentals.
- Stroller and wheelchair rentals.
- Photos with park characters (available for purchase).
- Special character dining experiences like "Dine with Elmo & Friends."
What to Bring
To make the most of your day, it's wise to come prepared. Pack a bag with essentials to keep your family comfortable and ready for all the activities.
- Comfortable Footwear: You'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must in the San Diego sun.
- Swimwear & Towels: Essential if you plan to visit the water attractions (during their operating season).
- Water Shoes or Flip-Flops: For walking around the water park areas.
- Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key.
- Credit Card/Cash: For food, souvenirs, and locker rentals.
- Change of Clothes: Especially for kids, even if you don't plan on swimming.
Safety & Requirements
Sesame Place is designed for families and prioritizes a safe and inclusive environment. While the park is suitable for all ages, some attractions have specific requirements.
- Age/Height: Many rides are open to all, but some have minimum height requirements for safety. These are clearly marked at the entrance to each ride.
- Children: Children under 2 enter for free. All children should be supervised by an adult.
- Water Safety: Life vests are provided free of charge for children and non-swimmers in the water park area.
- Accessibility: As a Certified Autism Center, the park provides resources like quiet rooms and sensory guides. The park is fully wheelchair accessible.
Getting There
Sesame Place is conveniently located in the South Bay region of San Diego County.
- Address: 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, CA 91911
- Parking: A large parking lot is available on-site for a fee. General and Up-Close parking options are typically offered.
- Public Transport: While accessible by some bus routes, driving is the most convenient way to reach the park. Check the San Diego MTS website for the latest route information if you plan to use public transit.
Best Time to Visit
To maximize your fun and minimize wait times, a little planning goes a long way. The park is open year-round, but the experience can change with the seasons.
- Best Season: Late spring and early fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the summer peak. The water park is open seasonally, so check the park's calendar if water slides are a priority.
- Best Day of the Week: Weekdays during the school year are significantly less crowded than weekends and holidays.
- Best Time of Day: Arrive at the park before it opens to be among the first in. Head to the most popular rides first or to the back of the park and work your way forward to avoid the initial crowds.
Tips & Insider Knowledge
Make your visit even more memorable with these insider tips.
- Buy Tickets Online: You'll save both time and money compared to buying at the front gate.
- Check the Schedule: Upon arrival, grab a park map and check the daily schedule for showtimes, parade times, and character appearances so you can plan your day around them.
- Consider the All-Day Dining Deal: If you have a hungry family, this add-on can offer great value, allowing you to eat at participating restaurants throughout the day for one price.
- Rent a Locker: If you're visiting the water park, renting a locker near the entrance is a convenient way to store your towels, clothes, and valuables.
- Meet the Characters Early: Lines for character photos can get long. Prioritize meeting your favorite furry friends early in the day.
