Planning a visit to New Jersey’s American Dream mall just outside New York City offers a unique chance to combine shopping, entertainment, and one-of-a-kind attractions. Among these, the Sesame Street Learn + Play stands out as the first of its kind in the country, providing a hands-on, interactive environment for young children. This review explores what makes the Sesame Street experience worth considering, what you can expect during your visit, and how to get the best value for your money.
We’re drawn to this attraction because of its engaging, kid-friendly setup that combines education with play—things that keep little ones entertained while giving parents a break. Its convenience as a pre-paid, mobile ticket makes planning easier, especially during busy weekends or holiday seasons. However, potential visitors should be aware that parking costs $5 per day, and food isn’t included, so planning a snack or meal outside the attraction might be wise.
This experience is particularly well-suited for families with young children who love Sesame Street characters like Big Bird, Elmo, and Abby Cadabby. If your kids thrive on hands-on activities and familiar characters, this could be a highlight of your visit to the New York City area.
Key Points

- Unique Experience: First of its kind in the U.S., offering a fully interactive Sesame Street environment.
- Convenient Access: Mobile prepaid ticket ensures prompt entry, avoiding long lines.
- Educational and Fun: Combines playful learning with familiar characters, ideal for preschoolers.
- Location & Cost: Situated in American Dream mall, with a reasonable price of $27.72 per person, plus parking and food costs.
- Duration & Setup: Approximate 1-hour experience, suitable for a quick yet memorable visit.
- Accessibility: Most travelers can participate, with service animals allowed.
An In-Depth Look at the Sesame Street Learn + Play Experience
The Sesame Street Learn + Play area at American Dream is designed as a vibrant, kid-centric universe where children can explore, learn, and giggle in equal measure. The fact that it’s the first of its kind in the country makes it a noteworthy destination for Sesame Street fans and families alike. From the moment you step inside, the environment is colorful, inviting, and packed with interactive exhibits.
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Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect
The core of this experience is walking through a recreated Sesame Street neighborhood, packed with recognizable landmarks and character encounters that little ones will love. The main stop is Hoopers Store, where children can pretend to shop for their furry friends. This tactile activity encourages imaginative play and social interaction—kids happily grocery shopping for Big Bird or Elmo, which in turn sparks conversation and role-playing.
Meeting Big Bird at his nest for storytime is another highlight. It’s more than just a photo op—children are invited to sit, listen, and engage with their favorite character in a cozy, story-filled setting. Such moments make Sesame Street characters feel more real, creating lasting memories.
A visit to Elmo’s World rainforest offers a sensory experience, with lush visuals and sounds that educate about nature and animals. The Bike Shop provides a simple cause-and-effect setup, where kids learn how different actions produce results—a subtle yet effective way to introduce early science concepts.
For energetic youngsters, the Sesame Street Playground is a hit, offering a chance to wiggle, climb, and burn off some energy. This area is designed for safe, supervised physical activity, which is crucial for keeping kids engaged and happy.
The Value of Interactive Learning
What sets this attraction apart from static displays or typical playgrounds is its focus on interactive, educational play. As many reviews note, children are not just watching characters or viewing exhibits—they’re actively participating. This approach deepens engagement and makes the experience both fun and meaningful.
Pricing and Value
At $27.72 per person, the ticket price is quite reasonable given the uniqueness of the experience and the included admission. While food and parking cost extra, the straightforward, prepaid ticket simplifies logistics. The attraction’s duration—about one hour—fits well into a busy day of shopping or sightseeing, giving families a memorable break without overcommitting.
Accessibility and Practical Tips
The experience is accessible to most travelers, with service animals allowed for children with disabilities. Since the experience is geared toward young children, it’s most suitable for preschoolers and early elementary age kids.
A practical tip: arriving early can help you beat peak crowds, especially on weekends or during holidays. Parking is $5 per day, so considering nearby parking options or public transit might save some hassle.
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Real-World Insights from Visitors

Although this experience currently has no reviews posted, the description and structure imply a well-done, engaging environment. The convenience of a mobile ticket is a plus—no need to worry about physical tickets or long lines. Families who have booked similar attractions appreciate the clarity of what’s included and the simplicity of the process.
What We Like
We love the way the environment transforms the familiar Sesame Street characters into active participants in a playful, educational setting. The variety of exhibits—from storytime to rainforest adventures—offers a well-rounded experience for children with varied interests.
What to Keep in Mind
Potential visitors should note that parking isn’t free, and food isn’t included, so plan accordingly. Also, the experience’s one-hour duration is perfect for a quick outing, but if your little one loves Sesame Street, you might want to plan for some extra time in the mall or nearby attractions.
Who This Experience Is Best For

This tour works best for families with children aged 3-7 who are fans of Sesame Street. It’s ideal for parents looking for a safe, clean, and educational environment where kids can be active and learn through play. Those staying nearby or visiting American Dream mall for shopping or other entertainment will find it a perfect, low-stress addition to their day.
The Sum Up

The American Dream Sesame Street Learn + Play offers a delightful, interactive experience designed to entertain and educate young children. Its emphasis on hands-on activities, familiar characters, and safe environment make it an excellent choice for families eager to combine fun with a bit of learning. The ticket price provides good value considering the quality and uniqueness of the experience, especially for Sesame Street fans.
While it’s a short visit—roughly an hour—it’s packed with memorable moments that will delight kids and give parents a break. The convenience of a prepaid mobile ticket, coupled with the charm of the exhibits, makes this attraction an easy, worthwhile addition for families exploring the New York City area.
If your kids love Sesame Street and you’re in the vicinity of American Dream, this experience is worth booking ahead. It’s a fun, authentic way to make your trip more playful and meaningful, with plenty of photo opportunities and stories to take home.
FAQ

Is the ticket valid for same-day entry?
Yes, your prepaid mobile ticket provides entry when you arrive, making it a flexible option for families hoping to fit it into a busy day.
How long does the Sesame Street Learn + Play last?
The experience is approximately 1 hour, which is ideal for young children with shorter attention spans.
What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket covers admission to the Sesame Street Learn + Play area. Food, drinks, and parking are not included.
Is parking available nearby?
Yes, parking costs $5 per day at the American Dream mall. Some visitors might find it convenient to plan for this additional expense.
Is the experience suitable for all children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s designed for young children, particularly in the preschool to early elementary age range.
Can I cancel my ticket?
Yes, the ticket offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, allowing for flexible planning if your plans change.
Are there any restrictions or considerations to keep in mind?
Since the experience is interactive and active, comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended. Also, consider arriving early to avoid crowds and maximize your visit.
Enjoy your trip to American Dream and the joyful, educational world of Sesame Street!
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