Sesame Place San Diego vs LEGOLAND Water Park

See what the neighborhoods around the parks have to offer for families.

People Enjoying the Afternoon at Bayside Park

Explore Chula Vista

Sesame Place is in Chula Vista, on the site of the old Aquatica San Diego. Known for its beautiful views, the neighborhood sits between the San Diego Bay and the area’s more mountainous region.

There’s lots for families to do in Chula Vista, such as visiting the Living Coast Discovery Center. Kids will also enjoy go karting at the K1 Speedway and Speed Circuit Family Fun Center.

Surfers at Warm Water Jetty Beach

See the Sights in Carlsbad

LEGOLAND Water Park is in Carlsbad, a seaside neighborhood with plenty of beaches for families.

See our list of the best things to do in Carlsbad for more ideas, from shopping at Carlsbad Premium Outlets to touring the flower fields at Carlsbad Ranch.

As part of LEGOLAND California, LEGOLAND Water Park is best experienced when staying at a hotel nearby. For a truly special experience, stay on-site at one of LEGOLAND’s themed hotels, at either the LEGOLAND California Resort Hotel or the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel.

See the rides, shows, and more that make each park unique.

Legoland Waterpark Ride

Water Rides

LEGOLAND Water Park currently has 17 different water rides and activities, with plenty to do for all ages. Younger kids can play at the DUPLO Splash Pad, float down the Build-a-Raft River, and build LEGO creations at the Imagination Station.

For older kids, thrill rides like the Crug’s Run slide at Cragger Swamp, the Riptide Racers slide, and the giant raft ride Orange Rush are sure to delight.

Sesame Place has 10 water rides to enjoy, including a series of slides, rafting rides, races, and wave pools. Kids can climb around at The Count’s Splash Castle, race each other on Honkey Dinger Dash slides, and kick back as they float down Big Bird’s Rambling River. There are even attractions just for little kids, like Elmo’s Silly Sand Slides.

Ride at Sesame Place San Diego

Dry Rides

Sesame Place offers 8 dry rides and activities. They include swings, a Sunny Day Carousel, a kid-friendly coaster, some thrill rides, and hands-on opportunities for play and exploration throughout the iconic Sesame Street neighborhood.

Unlike Sesame Place, LEGOLAND’s regular and water rides are separated between the parks. However, since a park hopper pass gets you admission to all three LEGOLAND parks, you can easily head to the main LEGOLAND theme park if you’re feeling a little waterlogged. Rides include family-friendly roller coasters, a drop ride, playgrounds, and movie rides.

Ernie at Sesame Place San Diego

Shows and Other Performances

At LEGOLAND, most LEGO-themed shows are held in the main theme park. These include stage shows like Once Upon a Brick and interactive activities like Benny’s Dance Party. However, the water park does offer performances and meet-and-greet events during special events, like 2024’s Lego NINJAGO Weekends.

Sesame Place brings the locations and characters of Sesame Street to life through a series of shows and meet-and-greet events all year round. The most popular of these is the Sesame Street Party Parade, where kids can sing and dance with all their Sesame Street friends.

Other shows include Storytime with Big Bird, the Welcome to Our Street performance, and the Furry Friends Dance Party, alongside chance meetings with costumed characters roaming the park.

Sesame Place is a bit bigger than the LEGOLAND Water Park, at 17 acres compared to LEGOLAND Water Park’s 10 acres. Still, both parks are packed with enough things to do that it will take a few hours to see it all.

Since you can easily spend all day at either park, where to get lunch is an important consideration.

Cookie Monster Bubble Maker at Sesame Place San Diego

Where to Take Breaks

Both parks have multiple places to grab snacks and drinks, or even enjoy a sit-down meal. Chow down at Beach Front Grill in LEGOLAND’s water park, or meet Elmo and friends at Sesame Place’s character dining experience.

Though neither water park offers tours in the traditional sense, both parks have optional upgrades for families looking for an elevated experience.

Inside Legoland Waterpark

Feel Like a VIP

Want to feel like true royalty at LEGOLAND? With the Ultimate VIP Experience, you’ll have a personal tour guide who will assist with booking and transportation all day. The experience also comes with a behind-the-scenes tour of the factory, model shop, or an encounter with reptiles or marine life.

Big Bird at Sesame Place San Diego

See and Do More

At Sesame Place, optional add-ons are designed to make your visit simpler and more convenient. You can reserve a spot at different activities and meet-and-greet events held at the park, or even skip the line at rides with priority access.

Here are a few pointers to know before booking your trip to Sesame Place San Diego or LEGOLAND California Water Park.

Water Slide at Sesame Place San Diego

Best Time to Visit Either Park

While Southern California is warm year-round, it heats up during the summer, which is when the water park will feel most refreshing. Some water rides at both parks close during the cooler months, so stop by in the summer to see and do everything.

Rides vs. Character Experiences

The biggest difference between the parks comes down to the balance between rides and character experiences. With a greater focus on its water rides, LEGOLAND Water Park is best for kids who love to swim and splash. On the other hand, Sesame Place offers a more well-rounded experience with dry rides and character-centric activities.