The unrivaled destination for indoor family fun, American Dream in East Rutherford, NJ offers an experience for guests that’s nothing short of incredible. Just minutes from New York City, the entertainment and shopping complex fuses a mix of world-class attractions with unique dining and shopping, providing a true “Daycation” escape to fill all your entertainment needs.
The mega-sized mall currently houses over 3-million square-feet of immersive opportunities, with more stores and unique attractions opening each week. Here’s what you can expect:
Make a Splash!
One of the biggest draws for families and thrill-seekers, is DreamWorks Water Park – the current record holder for largest indoor water park and indoor wave pool worldwide. Boasting over 40 slides and attractions, a pineapple DJ booth for everyone’s favorite lemur King Julien, and super-luxe private cabanas designed by NJ’s own Jonathan Adler, you can lounge in the lazy river - or race your friends down the tallest body slide (14 stories high!).
In the “Nick” of Time
The thrills continue over at Nickelodeon Universe, the largest indoor theme park in the Western Hemisphere, with over 30 rides and attractions for the young and young at heart. Family-friendly coasters like the Slime Streak await guests, while The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shellraiser ride takes you to new heights (Literally. It’s the current record-holder for the steepest coaster!). A 9-level ropes course, live game shows, and bumper cars experience are in the works, with fast-pass availability to skip the lines coming soon. Don’t leave without snapping a shot with your favorite mascot, like Dora the Explorer and Spongebob.
Blade Action or Big Snow?
Whether you ski, skate or snowboard, American Dream is the place to go for winter amusements. North America’s first and only indoor, real-snow ski attraction, BIG SNOW, is open 365-days-a-year, so you can shred the slopes in any season and enjoy apres-ski treats like gourmet hot cocoa (think churros and fruity pebbles) and waffles when you’re done. Beginners and pros alike can glide down a 16-story slope, complete with gondolas and private lessons. There’s even a kiddie play area for sports-free snowy fun. Tired of the powder? Head on over to The Rink, an NHL-regulation size skating and hockey facility hosting daily ice-skating sessions, private events, and a learn to play program with the New Jersey Devils for boys and girls aged 5 through 9.
Endless Entertainment
Unique attractions currently include two themed mini-golf courses (Blacklight Mini Golf and Angry Birds Mini Golf), mind-bending Mirror Maze optical illusion and the world’s first tri-level candy department store, IT’SUGAR. With a business model that’s entertainment-focused, there’s an array of experiences to delight kids of all ages, like the newly opened attractions SEA LIFE® Aquarium and LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, along with the first-of-its-kind TiLT Museum - a street-chic 3D interactive art experience that lets you step into a life-size mural. Escape into a breathtaking underwater tunnel and explore over 10 aquatic exhibits inspired by New York’s most memorable landmarks and experiences at SEA LIFE® Aquarium. The day isn’t complete without a stop at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, where you can step into a world of color, creativity, and fun for children.
One-Stop Shopping & More
The mission to unite guests and their families by connecting them to the brands they love currently includes flagship shopping locations for Zara, Primark, and H&M – along with a brand-new Best Buy. Anticipated future openings are planned for a lavish luxury wing called “The Avenue”, featuring NJ’s only Saks Fifth Avenue plus Tiffany & Co., Gucci, and more. The one-of-a-kind shopping destination will also house a Walgreens, DSW, movie complex, and 300-foot-high Observation Wheel.
Safety First
Of course, safety is top-of-mind, as American Dream has protocols in place to protect its guests. The #DreamSafe strongly encourages those that are not vaccinated to continue wearing a mask (with a water park exception) It also initiated hand sanitizing stations throughout and contactless QR codes for ticket entry. A partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health is in place, including an upcoming Urgent Care Center at the facility. American Dream strictly adheres to guidelines from federal, state, and local government agencies like the CDC, so that you can focus on the fun without hesitation.
In-Transit
You can check the American Dream website for the latest updates on parking, hours and directions, as well as hotel and transportation options, such as the NY Waterway and NJ Transit buses. A rideshare zone is also available for easy accessibility. No matter which way you choose to arrive, American Dream can make your dreams a reality.
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