Sesame Place celebrated the official grand opening of its all-new Sesame Street Neighborhood. The Sesame Street Neighborhood at Sesame Place reflects the show’s vibrant set of today, offering visitors an authentic experience that makes them feel as though they’ve stepped right onto the street.
The celebration kicked off with a performance featuring two stars of the children’s program, Sonia Manzano (who portrayed Maria for 44 years) and Alan Muraoka, who joined the Sesame Street ensemble 20 years ago. The park is also taking part in a season-long celebration honoring Sesame Street’s 50th anniversary with several photo opp spots throughout the park. This season also sees the debut of a new live show and the addition of Snuffy and Gonger to cast of characters at Sesame Place.
“It was incredible to see the looks on our guests’ faces as the Neighborhood came to life,” said Cathy Valeriano, Sesame Place park president. “Sesame Street has touched so many lives over the past five decades. It’s an honor to have even a small part in helping to bring that special magic to all those who visit Sesame Place each season.”
“As Sesame Street celebrates its golden anniversary, we’re thrilled to continue working with dedicated partners like Sesame Place who share our commitment to creating engaging and joyful experiences for families,” said Scott Chambers, senior vice-president and general manager, North America media and licensing, Sesame Workshop. “The new Sesame Street Neighborhood allows children and families to have a closer connection with the Sesame Street characters they love, while helping the Workshop sustain its mission to help kids everywhere grow smarter, stronger, and kinder.”
All-new interactive character elements and famous spots including Hooper’s Store, the 123 Stoop, Abby Cadabby’s Garden, and Big Bird’s Nest. The new live show, “Our Street is Sesame Street,” featuring Elmo, Abby Cadabby, and Big Bird can now be seen several times daily, in addition to other live shows and a daily parade.
For the first time, visitors can also meet and take photos with Mr. Snuffleupagus and his best pal Big Bird in Abby’s Paradise Theater. Or grab a photo with Cookie Monster and Gonger in their chef outfits.
More amenities have been added throughout the park this year to enhance guest visits, including:
Culinary Enhancements
- An all-new Marketplace at Mr. Hooper’s Emporium will offer grab-and-go options including hoagies, wraps, salads, fruit, and more.
- A brand-new look to the character dining facility along with an enhanced, kid-friendly menu
Additional Conveniences
- Adult changing tables will be added in the men and women’s restrooms near Sesame Studio
- The women’s restroom near Big Bird’s Rambling River will be renovated and will include toddler-size toilets
- For nursing moms, the Family Care Center has four private nursing areas, bottle warmers, and changing stations
- Two quiet rooms for guests in need of some quiet time and relief from sensory stimulation. One will be located near the men’s restroom by Big Bird’s Rambling River. Guests who would like to use the Quiet Rooms can visit the Welcome Center to receive the code needed to enter.
- Non-invasive metal detectors to enhance security measures.