Autism–Friendly Sesame Place Theme Park Opens in Southern California
The new Sesame Street-themed park debuted in San Diego County as a Certified Autism Center.
Big Bird, Elmo, Abby, Cookie Monster, and more bring their brand of friendly neighborhood joy to Southern California’s newest theme park.
Sesame Place invites families with young kids to meet their favorite characters, hop on kid-friendly rides, and splash in several water play areas.
As a Certified Autism Center, Sesame Place posts sensory guides for many attractions. These signs rate experiences based on touch, taste, sound, smell, and sight, aiding parents with planning their visit. Staff members are also trained for autism “sensitivity and awareness.” If a child needs a retreat, staff can guide families to quiet rooms (with seating) located around the park.
Sesame Place San Diego earned its certification from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), an organization dedicated to partnering with companies to expand their accessibility and access. According to IBCCES, there is a growing need for autism-friendly experiences as 1 in 44 children receive a diagnosis on the spectrum.
Though other theme parks, like Disneyland and Legoland, offer disability access services, Sesame Place appears to have the edge. Parents may find that a smaller theme park — with specially trained staff — a better fit for their needs.
The 17-acre Sesame Street theme park opened on Saturday, March 26, 2022, in Chula Vista, one of San Diego County’s southern cities. Sesame Place takes over the former Aquatica water park owned by SeaWorld. Many of the park’s 18 attractions are rebrands of Aquatica’s water rides. New additions include the Super Grover’s Box Car Derby roller coaster and a character-filled “Welcome to Our Street” stage show.
The change from SeaWorld’s Aquatica to a Sesame Street park is a big move. While water parks appeal to all ages, Sesame Street themes are mostly aimed at kids younger than kindergarten. Though some of the water rides, like family-friendly Oscar’s Rotten Rafts, appeal to all ages, Sesame Place hyperfocuses on younger kids. Having a park with more than just water rides could also keep the spot popular year-round.
Guests can purchase single-day tickets starting at $59.99 for ages 2 and older or season passes starting at $132.00 each. Sesame Place may have some unavailable dates during the off-season outside of spring break and summer. However, the park plans to host The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular in the fall and A Very Furry Christmas Celebration at the end of 2022.
