Sesame Street has been a beloved part of childhood for generations, bringing laughter, learning, and furry friends into homes worldwide. But the Sesame Street experience extends far beyond television screens. For families seeking immersive adventures, Sesame Street Parks and attractions offer the chance to step right into this iconic neighborhood and create unforgettable memories. From thrilling theme park rides to engaging live shows and educational play centers, the world of Sesame Street comes alive in exciting and interactive ways at various locations around the globe. This guide will take you on a tour of the best Sesame Street park experiences, ensuring you know exactly where to find your favorite furry friends.
Sesame Street Theme Parks: Ride, Play, and Learn
Theme parks dedicated to Sesame Street offer a comprehensive experience, blending the charm of the neighborhood with the excitement of amusement park attractions. These parks are specifically designed for families with young children, providing a safe and engaging environment where kids can interact with their beloved characters and enjoy age-appropriate rides and shows.
Sesame Place Philadelphia: The Original Sesame Street Theme Park
Sesame Street parade featuring Elmo and friends at Sesame Place Philadelphia.
Sesame Place Philadelphia holds the distinction of being the very first theme park based entirely on Sesame Street. Located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, this park is a dream destination for young fans. With over 25 Sesame Street-themed rides, including gentle roller coasters and carousels perfect for toddlers, and captivating character shows and parades, there’s non-stop fun to be had. One of the park’s highlights is the interactive Sesame Street Neighborhood, a replica of the iconic TV set, allowing children to truly immerse themselves in the world of Elmo, Big Bird, and Cookie Monster.
Sesame Place San Diego: Sunshine and Sesame Fun
Sesame Street characters greeting visitors at the entrance of Sesame Place San Diego.
Bringing the Sesame Street magic to the West Coast, Sesame Place San Diego offers a similar experience to its Philadelphia counterpart but with a sunny California vibe. This 17-acre park in Chula Vista, California, is packed with 18 Sesame Street-themed rides, exciting water attractions to cool off on warm days, and family-friendly entertainment. Thrill-seekers in the family can even enjoy a kid-friendly rollercoaster, while everyone can splash around in the massive 500,000-gallon wave pool.
Sesame Street Lands within Larger Theme Parks
Beyond dedicated Sesame Place parks, Sesame Street also has vibrant and engaging lands within larger, well-known theme parks. These areas bring the beloved neighborhood to life, offering a taste of Sesame Street fun within a broader theme park experience.
Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando: Explore the Neighborhood
Elmo and family posing for photos at Sesame Street Land in SeaWorld Orlando.
Located within SeaWorld Orlando, Sesame Street Land is a fully realized neighborhood where families can stroll down Sesame Street itself. Visitors can pose for photos on the famous stoop of 123 Sesame Street, explore Hooper’s Store for themed merchandise, and enjoy a variety of gentle rides and play areas designed for younger children. This land offers a perfect blend of Sesame Street charm and the broader marine animal experiences of SeaWorld.
Sesame Street Forest of Fun at Busch Gardens Williamsburg: Adventure Awaits
A Sesame Street themed show with a castle backdrop at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Virginia is home to Sesame Street Forest of Fun, a whimsical area designed to spark imagination and adventure. This land features family-friendly rides that cater to various ages, from Grover’s Alpine Express, a mini-rollercoaster, to Oscar’s Whirly Worms and Prince Elmo’s Spire for gentler thrills. Character meet-and-greets are also a highlight, providing opportunities to capture special moments with furry friends.
Sesame Street Safari of Fun at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: A Wild Adventure
Sesame Street Safari of Fun entrance sign at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
For a unique Sesame Street experience, Sesame Street Safari of Fun at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay combines the charm of the neighborhood with an African safari theme. This area features kid-friendly attractions, cool water rides perfect for Florida’s climate, and interactive play areas like Elmo’s Tree House and Bert and Ernie’s Watering Hole. It’s a fun and engaging space where children can let their imaginations run wild while encountering their favorite Sesame Street characters in a vibrant setting.
Sesame Street Live Shows: Bringing the Stage to Life
Beyond theme parks, Sesame Street also comes to life through spectacular live shows, offering musical and theatrical experiences for fans of all ages.
Sesame Street Live!: A Musical Celebration
Promotional image for Sesame Street Live! featuring Elmo and friends.
Sesame Street Live! brings the energy and excitement of Sesame Street directly to audiences in theaters and arenas around the world. These touring productions feature original stories, catchy songs, and plenty of audience participation, making them a perfect first theater experience for young children. “Sesame Street Live! Say Hello” invites families to sing and dance along with Elmo, Cookie Monster, and the gang in an all-new celebration of friendship.
Sesame Street The Musical: Off-Broadway Fun
Promotional image for Sesame Street The Musical featuring Elmo, Cookie Monster, and Abby Cadabby.
For a unique theatrical experience, Sesame Street The Musical offers an Off-Broadway production in New York City. This show features Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, and a host of other Sesame Street favorites in a brand-new musical adventure created for the stage. It’s a perfect option for families visiting NYC who want a dose of Sesame Street magic in a live performance format.
More Ways to Experience Sesame Street
Sesame Workshop extends the Sesame Street experience beyond theme parks and live shows, offering even more ways for families to engage with their favorite brand.
Beaches Resorts: Caribbean Family Fun with Sesame Street
Elmo doing yoga with children and adults at Beaches Resorts.
For families seeking a relaxing vacation with a Sesame Street twist, Beaches Resorts in the Caribbean offer unique Sesame Street-themed activities. These resorts feature daily programs where children can participate in activities like baking with Cookie Monster, puppet making with Bert & Ernie, and dance parties with Zoe and Rosita. Character meet-and-greets and special shows are also part of the experience, making Beaches Resorts ideal for a family getaway.
Sesame Street Learn & Play Centers: Educational Fun
Exterior view of Sesame Street Learn & Play Center at American Dream.
Sesame Street Learn & Play centers provide a different kind of immersive experience, focusing on education through play. These centers, like the Sesame Street Learn & Play at American Dream in New Jersey, offer interactive exhibits designed to foster playful learning in areas like art, science, and music. Children can explore the world of Sesame Street while engaging in activities that encourage development and discovery.
Sesame Street Museums: Celebrating History and Culture
Sesame Street exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
For a more educational and historical perspective, Sesame Street has partnered with various museums around the world. Exhibits at institutions like the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and The Strong National Museum of Play showcase the history of Sesame Street, featuring original props, costumes, and Muppets. These museum exhibits offer a fascinating look behind the scenes of this iconic show and its cultural impact.
Elmo waving from a Sesame Street themed circus stage.
Whether you are looking for thrilling rides, engaging live entertainment, or educational experiences, the world of Sesame Street parks and attractions offers something for every family. Plan your visit to a Sesame Street park and step into a world of fun, learning, and furry friendships that will create cherished memories for years to come.
