Introduction
Sesame Place, the only theme park in the U.S. based entirely on the beloved Sesame Street television program, is a magical destination for families with young children. Filled with exciting rides, captivating shows, and unforgettable character meet-and-greets, Sesame Place offers a day of joy and wonder. But beyond the thrills and entertainment, the park also features a variety of dining options to fuel your little ones’ adventures and satisfy the entire family’s cravings.
Food and dining are integral parts of the theme park experience. After all, a hungry family is rarely a happy family! Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat between rides, a themed character dining experience, or a sweet treat to end the day, Sesame Place offers something for everyone.
This guide provides a comprehensive look at the food options available at Sesame Place, helping you plan your meals and make the most of your culinary adventure. From classic theme park fare to unique Sesame Street-themed creations, we’ll explore the restaurants, snack stands, and character dining experiences that make Sesame Place a delicious destination. Beyond the rides and shows, Sesame Place offers a surprisingly diverse culinary experience that can make your visit even more memorable. Get ready to discover the best eats the park has to offer!
A Quick Look at Sesame Place Dining
Stepping into Sesame Place, you’ll quickly notice that food is readily available throughout the park. From strategically placed snack carts to larger, themed eateries, there’s always something tempting nearby. The atmosphere varies depending on the location, ranging from casual outdoor seating areas to themed indoor dining spaces. Expect a family-friendly vibe everywhere, with bright colors and Sesame Street décor.
The variety of options at Sesame Place is surprisingly diverse. While you’ll find familiar theme park staples like burgers, fries, and pizza, you’ll also discover international flavors, healthy choices, and plenty of themed treats. There’s a conscious effort to cater to different tastes and preferences, making it easier to find something that everyone in your group will enjoy.
As for price range, dining at Sesame Place is generally comparable to other theme parks. Expect to pay a premium for convenience and themed experiences. A typical quick-service meal can range from around ten to fifteen dollars per person, while character dining experiences will be significantly more expensive. Planning a budget beforehand will help manage food costs during your visit.
Understanding allergies and dietary restrictions is crucial for many families. Sesame Place generally makes an effort to accommodate guests with special needs. Always check menus for allergen information and don’t hesitate to speak to a manager or chef about your specific requirements. Gluten-free options, vegetarian choices, and other dietary accommodations are usually available upon request.
Quick Bites and Casual Dining
When hunger strikes between rides, Sesame Place offers a variety of quick-service restaurants and snack stands to satisfy your cravings. These casual dining locations provide convenient and affordable options for a quick bite on the go. Let’s explore some of the popular spots:
Elmo’s Eatery
Elmo’s Eatery stands out as a central hub for classic American cuisine. This restaurant serves a range of familiar favorites, from juicy burgers and crispy chicken tenders to hot dogs and refreshing salads. Elmo’s Eatery is a great place to find something that everyone in the family will enjoy. This restaurant provides an enjoyable indoor seating area to enjoy your meal.
Cookie Monster’s Foodie Truck
Cookie Monster’s Foodie Truck brings fun and flavor to your Sesame Place experience. This colorful food truck offers a unique menu centered around… you guessed it… cookies! But don’t expect just ordinary cookies. This truck serves over-the-top cookie creations, cookie ice cream sandwiches, and other sweet treats that are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This is a must-try for any Cookie Monster fan.
Grover’s Grill
Grover’s Grill delivers classic BBQ fare, serving up options like pulled pork sandwiches and BBQ chicken. This is a great place to get more savory options.
Captain Ernie’s Bistro
Captain Ernie’s Bistro offers classic theme park fair and drinks for guests who may be hot and tired. This location also offers a variety of snacks to keep the kids energized.
Throughout Sesame Place, you’ll also find numerous snack kiosks offering a variety of treats. From classic popcorn and cotton candy to refreshing ice cream and frozen lemonade, these kiosks are perfect for a quick sugar fix or a refreshing drink on a hot day. Look out for Sesame Street-themed treats for an extra touch of fun.
For those seeking healthier options, look for salads, fruit cups, and yogurt parfaits at select locations. While theme parks are known for their indulgent treats, Sesame Place does offer some lighter choices for health-conscious guests. Keep an eye out for these options when browsing menus.
Character Dining Experiences
One of the most magical dining experiences at Sesame Place is the opportunity to dine with your favorite Sesame Street characters. These character dining events offer a unique opportunity to meet, greet, and take photos with Elmo, Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and the rest of the gang while enjoying a delicious meal.
Big Bird’s Brunch
One popular option is Big Bird’s Brunch. This buffet-style brunch features a wide variety of breakfast favorites, from scrambled eggs and bacon to pancakes and waffles. While you feast, Big Bird and his friends will wander around the dining room, interacting with guests, posing for photos, and signing autographs. Big Bird’s Brunch is a great way to start your day at Sesame Place with a memorable and entertaining experience.
Elmo’s Eatery Character Dining
Another character dining option is offered at Elmo’s Eatery. Themed around Elmo, this experience features a buffet with kid-friendly favorites and a chance to meet the furry red monster himself. Reservations are highly recommended for character dining experiences, as they tend to sell out quickly. Check the Sesame Place website or app for booking information and pricing. These experiences are pricey, but if your children are big Sesame Street fans, this is a memory that will last a lifetime.
Character dining experiences at Sesame Place provide unique and magical interactions, which are sure to be a family favorite.
Special Treats and Desserts
No trip to Sesame Place is complete without indulging in some special treats and desserts. The park offers a wide array of sweet creations that are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Keep an eye out for Sesame Street-themed cupcakes, cookies, and other baked goods adorned with your favorite characters’ faces. These treats are not only delicious but also incredibly adorable, making them perfect for photos and souvenirs.
Character-shaped ice cream treats are another popular option. From Elmo popsicles to Cookie Monster ice cream sandwiches, these frozen treats are a fun and refreshing way to cool down on a hot day.
No theme park experience is complete without funnel cakes and other carnival-style desserts. Sesame Place offers these classic treats with a Sesame Street twist, making them even more appealing.
For a truly Instagrammable treat, look out for the oversized Sesame Street cookies. These massive cookies are big enough to share (or not!) and are sure to impress your friends and followers on social media. Kids will especially love the colorful and whimsical desserts that are unique to Sesame Place.
Tips for Dining at Sesame Place
To make the most of your dining experience at Sesame Place, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
Before your visit, take some time to check the Sesame Place website or app for menus, hours of operation, and special offers. This will help you plan your meals and make informed decisions about where to eat.
If you’re planning to attend a character dining experience, make reservations well in advance. These experiences are popular and tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak season.
Dining at theme parks can be expensive, so it’s a good idea to set a food budget for your trip. Decide how much you’re willing to spend on meals and snacks, and stick to your budget as best as possible. Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks to help save money.
To avoid long lines at restaurants, consider mobile ordering (if available) or eating during off-peak hours. Lunchtime and dinner rush can be particularly crowded, so try to eat earlier or later than the typical mealtimes.
Staying hydrated is essential, especially on a hot day. Bring a refillable water bottle and take advantage of the water fountains located throughout the park.
If you plan to eat multiple meals in the park, consider purchasing a dining deal or meal plan. These deals can often save you money compared to buying individual meals.
Check for allergy information and speak with a manager or chef if you have any dietary restrictions. Sesame Place is generally accommodating to guests with special needs.
Conclusion
Food plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall Sesame Place experience. From quick bites between rides to magical character dining experiences, the park offers a variety of options to satisfy every palate. With a little planning and these helpful tips, you can make the most of your culinary adventure and create lasting memories with your family. So, go ahead, explore the restaurants, indulge in some special treats, and enjoy the delicious side of Sesame Place! By taking just a little time to plan, you can be sure to make dining at Sesame Place memorable.
