Family rides, live shows, parade, interactive Sesame Street Neighborhood, furry friends, & more!
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Sesame Place San Diego

4
·5k reviews·Chula Vista, United States

A sunny, family-friendly theme park where Sesame Street characters come to life with rides, shows, and a splash-tastic water park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays during summer

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdMedium
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Family rides, live shows, parade, interactive Sesame Street Neighborhood, furry friends, & more!

Sesame Place San Diego

Best Time

Weekdays during summer

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sunny, family-friendly theme park where Sesame Street characters come to life with rides, shows, and a splash-tastic water park.

4
(5k reviews)

"The most amazing time! My 2 year old loved it. Elmo! Elmo! She wanted to go back already lol"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Rent a Locker!

All-day lockers are available for rent, perfect for stashing your gear while enjoying the water park.

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and consider rash guards for extended water play.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Water Park Fun

Water Park Fun

Water Park Area

Splash and play on thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and interactive water play areas perfect for all ages.

Character Meet-and-Greets

Character Meet-and-Greets

Various locations throughout the park

Hug your favorite Sesame Street friends like Elmo, Grover, and Cookie Monster for unforgettable photo opportunities.

Themed Rides

Themed Rides

Amusement Park Area

Enjoy gentle rides designed for young children, including carousels and family-friendly coasters.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat & the Crowds

Sesame Place San Diego is a fantastic spot for little ones to cool off. To maximize your fun and minimize wait times, consider visiting on a weekday during the summer break. Arrive early to snag good seats and beat the midday heat, especially if you plan on hitting the water park attractions.

Lockers & Essentials

If you're planning to spend a lot of time in the water park, renting an all-day locker is a smart move to keep your belongings secure and dry. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, towels, and swim diapers, though some items are available for purchase within the park.

Best Times

When
Weekdays during summer
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Mornings
Why
Beat the heat & crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings (seasonal)
Why
Special events, cooler
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

First visit questions

🎯 Rent a Locker!

All-day lockers are available for rent, perfect for stashing your gear while enjoying the water park. Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and consider rash guards for extended water play. Instagram

reddit.com

How is Sesame Place San Diego?

reddit.com

Is there a way to park near Sesame Place waterpark and walk in??

🎟️ Consider Dining Pass

The all-day dining pass can be a good value if you plan to eat multiple meals in the park. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the park. [:athletic_shoe:]

reddit.com

Help getting to sesame place - could someone please tell me if the 933 bus goes into sesame place or if we’ll have to walk from Palm Ave and Dennery as my maps app tells me!

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Rent a Locker!

All-day lockers are available for rent, perfect for stashing your gear while enjoying the water park. Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and consider rash guards for extended water play. Instagram

🎟️ Consider Dining Pass

The all-day dining pass can be a good value if you plan to eat multiple meals in the park. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the park. [:athletic_shoe:]

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring refillable water bottles or purchase drinks to stay hydrated, especially on hot days. [:droplet:]

What Travellers Say

4
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sesame Place San Diego is a hit with families, especially those with young children, thanks to its beloved characters and water park fun. While some visitors note areas for improvement in cleanliness and toddler-specific amenities, the overall experience is often described as magical and memorable, with many planning return visits.

"visited the park on Tuesday, August 19. Lots of life jackets hanging for free for children. There were few people, no queues. We went to all the children's attractions quickly. The park is clean and tidy. Three big slides were closed. All the other three or four adult slides were open. Of the minuses, I did not like the inattention and lack of empathy on the part of the instructor in the children's area to some children, my shy son could not get to the green water slide in the children's area in order to go down it, other children ran in front of him, pushed my son aside and stood in front of him and my son always remained behind the queue, and the instructor standing there did not react in any way, the children slid down the slide, ran again and again pushed my son aside, the instructor did not observe the order of the queue. Then I suggested that my son slide down the pink slide, because there was no one there. Then when I had already climbed the slide, she again did not observe the queue order and then I told her: "No, my son is first!" I had to repeat this phrase to her three times, because my son let everyone pass and should not let anyone pass again, although the instructor decided that he should wait again. But everything should be fair and it was about 2:30 pm"

KATIYURA

"What a neat place. Loved the shops and setup as you're walking into the park/site. Plenty of shops to purchase anything you may have forgotten at home. Towels, cups, hats, glasses, swimwear, souvenirs. Food & drinks. What a wonderful place. There are rides for the kids to enjoy! But we came to beat the heat and there is plenty of water activities. Kiddie area with plenty of low water squirts. Lazy river for those who feel like drifting. And the bigger water play area for everyone even parents. We went on a Wednesday during summer break. The site was busy but not overcrowded. Had a great time and will visit again. The staff was very friendly, and entrance was a smooth process with bag checking in place."

F. Acostaa

"The most amazing time! My 2 year old loved it. She was able to get on 4 rides and then she got to play in the water park. The lazy river was so relaxing it made her take a good long nap so we had to leave. She woke up screaming, “Elmo! Elmo!” Her way of saying she wanted to go back already lol Sesame Place will definitely be added to our annual vacation from now on just like Disney. Tip get the all day dinning pass. It pays for itself. The bacon burger, chicken tenders and pizza were good!"

Cindy Arellano

What People Like

Beloved character interactions
Fun water park attractions
Manageable park size

What People Dislike

Cleanliness concerns
Limited toddler water areas
High parking costs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sesame Place San Diego is located at 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, CA 91911. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is generally recommended for most visitors. TikTok

Yes, parking is available at Sesame Place San Diego. General parking can be quite expensive, so factor this into your budget. Some reviews suggest looking into VIP or 'up close' parking options, though clarity on these can sometimes be an issue. Reddit

Operating hours for Sesame Place San Diego vary by season and day. It's essential to check the official Sesame Place San Diego calendar on their website before your visit to confirm the exact opening and closing times. TikTok

Yes, Sesame Place San Diego has a relaxed policy on bringing in outside food and snacks, which is a big plus for families. This can help save money on dining expenses. Reddit

Sesame Place San Diego is designed with young children in mind, featuring many rides and water play areas suitable for toddlers. However, some visitors have noted that dedicated toddler sections might be less extensive compared to other water parks. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can purchase Sesame Place San Diego tickets directly from their official website or through authorized third-party vendors. Keep an eye out for potential discounts or special offers, especially if you're planning a visit during off-peak times. TikTok

While not always guaranteed, discounts for Sesame Place San Diego tickets can sometimes be found through various promotions or by purchasing in advance. Checking the official website or looking for package deals with SeaWorld San Diego might offer savings. Instagram

The all-day dining pass allows you to enjoy multiple meals and snacks throughout the day at participating locations within Sesame Place San Diego. Many visitors find it to be a cost-effective option if they plan on eating several meals in the park. Reddit

Typically, you do not need to reserve a specific time slot for general admission to Sesame Place San Diego. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates or changes to their entry policies, especially during peak seasons. TikTok

Re-entry policies can vary. It's best to confirm with park staff or check the official Sesame Place San Diego website for their current policy on leaving and re-entering the park on the same day. Instagram

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

Sesame Place San Diego offers a variety of rides suitable for young children. Popular choices include the Sunny Day Carousel, Elmo's Flying Fish, and various water slides in the water park area. The park also features roller coasters for those seeking a bit more thrill. TikTok

Absolutely! Sesame Place San Diego boasts a dedicated water park area with numerous water rides, including a lazy river, splash zones, and larger water slides for both kids and adults. It's a great way to cool off during warmer months. TikTok

The water park at Sesame Place San Diego features a lazy river for a relaxing float, a wave pool, and various interactive water play structures with slides and sprinklers. There are also areas with lower water levels suitable for younger children. Reddit

Yes, Sesame Place San Diego provides free life jackets for children at the water park. This is a great safety feature, ensuring that younger or less confident swimmers can enjoy the water activities safely. Reddit

Sesame Place San Diego hosts live shows featuring Sesame Street characters and energetic parades throughout the day. These entertainment offerings are a highlight for many families, bringing the magic of the show to life. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Sesame Place San Diego offers a range of dining options, from quick service to sit-down meals. Popular choices include burgers, chicken tenders, and pizza. Some visitors have noted that certain condiments like ranch might not always be available. Reddit

As is common in theme parks, food at Sesame Place San Diego is generally considered overpriced. However, the all-day dining pass can offer good value if you plan to eat multiple meals. Bringing your own snacks is also a recommended way to save money. Reddit

While many options are typical theme park fare, you can often find some healthier choices like fruit or salads. It's always a good idea to check menus in advance or ask staff about available options. TikTok

Dining locations vary, but popular spots often include those serving classic theme park favorites like burgers and pizza. The all-day dining pass can be used at several locations, offering flexibility. Reddit

While specific baby food might not be readily available at all locations, you can typically bring your own baby food and formula. Check with guest services upon arrival for any designated family areas or feeding stations. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture magical moments with characters, vibrant park decorations, and exciting rides. The water park areas offer great shots of families splashing and playing. Don't miss the iconic Sesame Street scenes for memorable photos. TikTok

Yes, character meet-and-greets are a major highlight, offering fantastic opportunities for photos with your favorite Sesame Street friends. Be patient, as characters often provide brief but meaningful 1:1 attention. Reddit

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed. However, professional photography equipment or extensive filming may require special permits. Always be mindful of other guests and avoid obstructing pathways. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer lighting for photos. Character meet-and-greets are scheduled throughout the day, so check the park's entertainment schedule for optimal times to capture those magical interactions. TikTok

You can find many visitor-shared photos and videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram by searching for hashtags like #SesamePlaceSanDiego and #SesamePlaceWaterPark. These can give you a great preview of the park's attractions. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Toddlers & Young Children

Sesame Place San Diego is a dream destination for families with toddlers and young children. The park is designed with their entertainment in mind, featuring numerous gentle rides and interactive water play areas perfect for little ones. Reddit The character meet-and-greets are a huge draw, offering precious moments for kids to connect with their favorite Sesame Street friends. Reddit The availability of free life jackets in the water park adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind for parents. Reddit

While the park is generally well-suited for this age group, some parents have noted that dedicated toddler sections in the water park might be less extensive than in other parks. Reddit Bringing your own snacks and drinks is highly recommended to manage picky eaters and save money. Reddit The park's manageable size also means it's less overwhelming for little ones, allowing them to experience more attractions without getting too tired.

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers

For travelers looking to manage their budget, Sesame Place San Diego offers a few key strategies. Firstly, take advantage of the park's policy allowing outside food and snacks. This can save a considerable amount on dining expenses throughout the day. Reddit Secondly, consider purchasing tickets in advance or looking for any available discounts or package deals, especially if you're visiting with a larger group. TikTok

While parking can be expensive, explore options for carpooling or consider if public transport is a viable alternative for your group. Reddit The all-day dining pass can also be a cost-effective solution if your family plans to eat multiple meals at the park, rather than purchasing à la carte. Reddit By planning ahead and utilizing these tips, you can make a visit to Sesame Place San Diego more affordable.

☀️ Beat the Heat Seekers

Sesame Place San Diego is the perfect place to cool off and beat the San Diego heat. The park features a dedicated water park area with a lazy river, water slides, and splash zones that are ideal for all ages. TikTok Visiting on a weekday during the summer can help you avoid the largest crowds and enjoy the water attractions with shorter wait times. Reddit

Arriving early in the morning is another excellent strategy to maximize your time in the water park before the peak heat of the day sets in. Reddit Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and consider bringing rash guards for extended water play to protect your skin from the sun. Instagram The park's manageable size also means you can easily navigate between dry rides and water attractions to stay cool throughout your visit.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Water Park

Sesame Place San Diego's water park is a major draw, especially during warmer months. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, from the relaxing lazy river to thrilling water slides and interactive splash zones. Free life jackets are available for children, which is a significant plus for families with younger swimmers. Reddit While the water park offers plenty of fun, some reviews mention that certain areas might feel a bit dated or could benefit from more frequent cleaning. Reddit It's also worth noting that seating areas, particularly around the wave pool, can be sandy, which might not be ideal for families with very young children. Reddit

To make the most of your water park experience, consider arriving early to secure a good spot and beat the crowds. Renting an all-day locker is highly recommended to keep your belongings safe and dry. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen and consider rash guards for extra sun protection. Instagram The park's manageable size means you can likely experience most of the water attractions without feeling overwhelmed. Reddit

Character Magic for Little Ones

The heart of Sesame Place San Diego lies in its beloved Sesame Street characters. For young children, meeting characters like Elmo, Grover, and Cookie Monster is a truly magical experience. TikTok Many visitors rave about the characters' patience and willingness to engage with children, especially those who might be shy or on the autism spectrum. Reddit These 1:1 interactions can create lasting memories and are a significant perk of visiting the park. Reddit

Beyond spontaneous encounters, the park offers scheduled character meet-and-greets and parades that bring the magic of the show to life. Checking the daily entertainment schedule is key to not missing these special moments. Instagram The characters' enthusiasm and friendly demeanor make them incredibly approachable, turning a simple hug into a treasured memory for many families. Reddit

Dining and Budgeting

When it comes to dining at Sesame Place San Diego, visitors can expect typical theme park prices. While the food quality is generally considered decent, with options like chicken tenders and pizza being popular, it can add up quickly. Reddit To manage costs, many guests opt for the all-day dining pass, which can be a good value if your family plans to eat multiple meals within the park. Reddit Another smart strategy is to take advantage of the park's relaxed policy on bringing outside food and snacks, which can significantly reduce your overall spending. Reddit

Some reviews mention that certain amenities, like specific condiments, might be unavailable, and restrooms could benefit from more frequent cleaning. Reddit However, the convenience of having food options readily available within the park, especially when managing young children, is a definite plus. Planning your meals and considering the dining pass or bringing your own food can help make your visit more budget-friendly and enjoyable. TikTok

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