Why Sesame Place is the Perfect Overnight Trip for Toddlers near New York

If you’re looking for a toddler and kid-friendly theme park that blends fun, learning, and just the right amount of nostalgia for parents, Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pennsylvania is a must-visit. It’s the only theme park in the country based entirely on Sesame Street and is also a Certified Autism Center, making it a more inclusive destination that considers sensory needs and accessibility.

There are lots of fun photo opps at Sesame Street in Langhorne, PA!

One of the highlights of Sesame Place is its seasonal water park, open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. It’s the perfect place to cool off in the summer with splashy, colorful attractions like Elmo’s Surf ’n Slide, Little Bird’s Bay, Bert & Ernie’s Splash Castle, and Big Bird’s Rambling River. There are areas suited for toddlers as well as bigger kids who want more thrills.

The water park at Sesame Place is great for the summer!

For an extra special experience, families can book the Dine With Elmo & Friends buffet. This indoor buffet-style dining experience includes visits from Elmo, Cookie Monster, Grover, Abby Cadabby, and other beloved characters. It’s a memorable chance for little ones to meet their favorites up close without waiting on line, and is also a great break in the air conditioning while enjoying a meal. Meals are themed around events throughout the year like Elmo’s Birthday Bash or Fourth of July Festivities, and they tend to sell out—so be sure to reserve in advance.

The Dine with Elmo buffet is a great way to meet all the characters.

Beyond the rides and water play, Sesame Place offers an array of live entertainment, including indoor magic shows and musical performances that are perfect for younger audiences. Abby’s Paradise Theater hosts interactive shows like “Welcome to the Party,” while “Our Street is Sesame Street” brings the entire gang to the stage for singing, dancing, and storytelling. These indoor shows are not only fun—they’re also a great way to take a break from the sun or avoid the rain without missing out on the fun. You also can't skip the Sesame Street Parade that runs daily at 3PM.

Cookie's High Seas Adventure ride.

Where to stay: When it comes to lodging, staying close to the park can really simplify your trip. The Sheraton Bucks County Langhorne is located directly across the street and is an official Sesame Place hotel partner. It offers amenities like an indoor pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant with a great buffet breakfast. Rooms come equipped with mini fridges—perfect for snacks and sippy cups—and families love the convenience of being a 2 minute drive from the park. Staying overnight also gives you the option to return to the hotel for a midday break, which is ideal with little kids.

Educators will be happy to know that Sesame Place offers a Free Teacher Pass to certified K–12 teachers in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. This pass gives teachers free unlimited admission to the park through early January of the following year. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the park all year long.

We loved the Dine with Elmo experience.

Here are 5 bonus tips to make your Sesame Place trip even smoother:

1. Download the Sesame Place App – The app includes ride wait times, character appearance locations, show schedules, dining locations, and interactive maps. It’s a must-have for navigating the park efficiently.

2. Arrive Early – The park opens early for season pass holders and hotel guests. Arriving at or before rope drop gives you a chance to enjoy popular attractions before the crowds build and ensures decent parking.

3. Pack Water Shoes and Towels – While towels can be rented, bringing your own saves time and money. Water shoes are especially helpful on hot pavement or in crowded splash zones.

4. Reserve Dining and Experiences in Advance – Character meals and special events often sell out. Booking online ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable extras. If you do not want to pay for food, you can bring a cooler, store it in car, and exit the park to have your lunch, then re-enter.

5. Use a Stroller, Even for Older Toddlers – Sesame Place involves a lot of walking. Having a stroller gives little legs a break and provides a spot to stash snacks, water, towels, and purchases.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Sesame Place delivers a whimsical, high-energy experience that brings the magic of Sesame Street to life. With shows, rides, a water park, and character dining all designed for younger kids, it’s an ideal destination for a child’s first theme park adventure—and the memories you make will last long after you’ve said goodbye to Big Bird. Even as an adult, I enjoyed this experience. You can watch our entire recap on my Instagram page Kids Day Out LI.