5 Tips for Visiting Sesame Place in Bucks County, PA

Looking for a fun weekend trip for your family that brings your children's favorite TV characters to life? Here are our top five tips to getting the most out of your trip to Sesame Place in Bucks County, PA.

Living in the New York metro area, it’s not a matter of if you’ll take your kids to Sesame Place—more likely, it’s a matter of when. This family weekend getaway is a rite of passage for parents as much as children. I’ve returned from Sesame Place with ideas for how you can make the most of your own pending trip.

1. Pick your pleasure.

Does your family look forward to Halloween all year long? Then the Count’s Halloween Spooktacular is for you (Sept. 26-Oct. 31). If wintry holidays are more your speed, the park is transformed into a one-of-a-kind Christmas wonderland with millions of twinkling lights, special shows, and Santa in his Furry Workshop from Nov. 21-Dec. 31 (select days). Perhaps a day of water fun lights up your kids’ eyes? Then visit on a hot summer day for myriad “wet” attractions. For those who consider all of the above must-sees, then check out the multiple-visit offers at sesameplace.com/season-passes.

2. Get the best deal.

If your family has plans to go to Florida and to Sesame Place in the same year, you’d be wise to purchase the Super Grover Season Pass. Not only does it give unlimited visits, ride-again privileges to many attractions, discounts, and free parking at Sesame Place, but it also provides unlimited admission to 10 other parks including Seaworld, Busch Gardens, and Adventure Island ($184.80 per person).

3. Ensure an Elmo hug!

While your kids will be thrilled to interact with Abbie, Bert and Ernie, and all the Sesame Street friends who hang out in front of the park’s recognizable buildings, make a special trip to 123 Smile with Me, where Elmo can always be found.

4. Dine at Cookies Café.

A Pennsylvania mom we know swears the food at this indoor park dining option is the best—and she should know, as her annual pass ensures frequent visits with her two tots. “Even the hot dogs taste better!” she says. All the kid standbys are on the menu, from chicken tenders to mac and cheese; healthy options include an apple harvest salad or veggie wrap. The potato soup breadbowl is a nice choice for older kids or parents who want something hearty to fuel them throughout the day.

The massive Lite-Brite wall at Bucks County Children’s Museum in New Hope, PA

5. Make it a Bucks County weekend.

Sesame Place is in Langhorne, PA, making it a relatively easy day trip from our region—but there’s plenty to entice families to stay overnight. The Bucks County Children’s Museum features a host of interactive exhibits spot-on for targeting fun and learning, from a simulated hot-air balloon ride to the giant Lite Brite-like wall and the post office encouraging pretend play. Eat a great lunch right across the street before heading on a historic 45-minute tour on the New Hope & Ivy Railroad (it’s worth the upgrade fee for the outdoor car). And stroll the quaint streets for antiques and other small-town novelties before heading home. Go to visitbuckscounty.com.

Also see:

10 Tips for Traveling to Walt Disney World