The American Dream Mall, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is where the ordinary mall concept is turned on its head.
Sure, there are hundreds of shops to browse, but that’s only scratching the surface.
Think of it as an indoor theme park with some of the world’s best retail and dining scattered throughout.
For a mall that spent decades as an idea before finally opening in 2019, it’s fair to say the entertainment haven lives up to its name.
But how do you tackle a 3-million-square-foot entertainment behemoth?
Let’s dive into everything you need to know, with plenty of tips and insider details to make the most of your visit.
The Journey of the Dream Mall NJ
The story of the Dream Mall NJ is one of big ambitions, long delays, and even a bit of controversy.
First announced in 1996 as “Xanadu,” the idea was to create a one-of-a-kind mega-mall in the Meadowlands.
But for years, it was mostly just an unfinished shell—an eyesore along the Turnpike that became a punchline for stalled projects.
Everything changed when Triple Five Group, the team behind Minnesota’s Mall of America, stepped in.
They scrapped the earlier plans and poured over $5 billion into turning the site into a destination where the focus was on fun and, of course, shopping.
By the time it opened in 2019, the Dream Mall was a place where you could snowboard indoors, ride record-breaking roller coasters, and eat everything from quick snacks to gourmet meals—all under one roof.
That’s not to say the journey was smooth, though.
The exterior design, originally a chaotic mix of bright colors, was so disliked that it had to be repainted.
Even former Governor Chris Christie chimed in, calling it “the ugliest building in New Jersey.”
But step inside, and the criticisms fall away.
American Dream in New Jersey Has All the Entertainment You Could Want
When the developers of the American Dream Mall promised entertainment, they weren’t kidding.
Over half of its 3 million square feet is dedicated to attractions you won’t find in any other mall in New Jersey, so get prepared to be blown away.
Here’s what makes this a prime destination for thrill-seekers and families.
DreamWorks Water Park
The first thing you notice at DreamWorks Water Park is how enormous it feels.
You’ll find over 40 water slides and attractions tucked under an 8-acre glass dome.
Every detail feels larger than life, from the tropical climate (81°F year-round) to the DreamWorks characters peeking out from colorful backdrops.
The crown jewel here is the Tallest Indoor Body Slide in the World: Thrillagascar––a heart-stopping ride that drops you 142 feet before shooting you across the water.
Families tend to gravitate toward the massive wave pool and the lazy river, which winds through movie-inspired scenes that are a treat to experience.
Even the seating areas are thoughtfully planned. There are plenty of lounge chairs for parents to relax while keeping an eye on the kids, and private cabanas are available for those who want a little extra space.
Tip: Aim to arrive when the park opens. The lines for the biggest slides grow fast, especially on weekends. And if you’re planning a long day, spring for a cabana—it’s worth having a designated spot to regroup.
Nickelodeon Universe
If you ever dreamed of being slimed as a kid, Nickelodeon Universe is where those childhood fantasies come to life.
The park has over 35 rides packed into its bright, sprawling layout.
At its heart is the Shellraiser, a roller coaster famous for its 122.5-degree drop (the steepest in the world).
For families with younger kids, there are gentler options like the Rugrats-themed Reptar Go-Round.
And for anyone who grew up with shows like SpongeBob or Dora the Explorer, the live character appearances hit the nostalgia sweet spot.
Tip: The all-day wristband is a no-brainer if you’re planning to explore. Take breaks between rides, grab a snack, and so on. Also, check the daily schedule for live shows and character meet-and-greets.
Big Snow
Skiing in North Jersey used to mean a long drive to the mountains, but Big Snow changed all that.
This year-round indoor slope offers real snow and real trails—no matter the weather outside.
The 160-foot vertical drop may not rival Vermont’s toughest peaks, but it’s more than enough to make this a favorite for skiers who can’t make it up to the mountains.
Beginners love the dedicated learning area, where friendly instructors help them master the basics.
Meanwhile, experienced riders can head straight to the intermediate and advanced runs or hit the mini terrain park.
Rentals, lift tickets, and lessons can all be bundled into a single package, so you don’t have to bring your own gear or worry about logistics.
And the snow itself is surprisingly good—soft and forgiving, but firm enough to hold up for long runs.
Tip: If you’ve never skied before, book the beginner package—it includes everything you need, and the lessons are excellent. For experienced skiers, weekday visits are your best bet to avoid crowds.
More Attractions to Explore at the Mall of America, NJ
The American Dream Mall in NJ has plenty of hidden gems beyond the big-name parks.
These attractions might not steal the spotlight, but they’re worth your time.
- Sea Life Aquarium: Stroll through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and over 1,000 sea creatures.
- Dream Wheel: Take in sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline from this 300-foot observation wheel.
- Mirror Maze: A glowing labyrinth of mirrors and lights that’s equal parts fun and disorienting.
- TILT Museum: Dive into interactive 3D art installations by Tracy Lee Stum.
Shopping at the Dream Mall
The American Dream Mall has pulled out all the stops when it comes to shopping.
Whether you’re treating yourself to something luxurious or browsing for everyday essentials, you’ll find it here.
- The Collections: This is where you’ll find Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Tiffany & Co., and more. If you’re looking for high-end fashion or statement pieces, it’s worth taking the time to explore this sleek, two-level space.
- Everyday Favorites: For quick wardrobe updates or affordable options, head to Zara, Uniqlo, or Primark.
- Something Different: There are more than enough unique stores, too; Åland brings emerging designers from South Korea, and there’s also a flagship Toys “R” Us.
This is only a glimpse of what’s here. With so many stores, there’s always something new to stumble across.
Heads-Up: Due to Bergen County’s blue laws, retail shops close on Sundays, so plan accordingly if shopping is on your list.
Dining at the Biggest Mall in NJ
It will come as no surprise that this mall is a serious food hub.
With over 100 dining spots, you can grab everything from quick snacks to sit-down meals that rival what you’d find in NYC.
Here are a few standout places to check out:
- Carlo’s Bakery: Yes, that Carlo’s Bakery from “Cake Boss.” Whether it’s cannoli or cupcakes, this place knows how to do dessert.
- House of ‘Que: A Texas BBQ joint serving smoked brisket, ribs, and cornbread that’ll make you feel like you’re in Austin.
- Lady M: Famous for their 20-layer Mille Crêpes cakes, this spot is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth.
- H Mart Food Hall: Here, you’ll find Korean BBQ, bubble tea, and even a sushi counter.
- Dream Bar: After a day of shopping, this cozy spot is great for winding down with a craft cocktail or local beer.
Heads-Up: Some dining spots close earlier than the attractions, so plan your meals accordingly.
Getting to the American Dream Mall
No matter where you’re coming from, the American Dream Meadowlands is surprisingly easy to reach:
- By Public Transit: NJ Transit buses run directly to the mall, and shuttles from the NY Waterway ferry terminal in Weehawken make it convenient for visitors coming from Manhattan
- By Car: With plenty of parking, it’s easy to drive to the mall. The first 30 minutes are free, and after that, it’s $5 for the day. But heads up—traffic can get heavy on weekends and during events at MetLife Stadium, so plan accordingly.
- By Luxury Ride: If you’re looking to go all out, the mall offers Rolls-Royce shuttles and even helicopter services from Manhattan or the Hamptons. It’s a little extra, but hey, why not?
Tip: Staying overnight? Nearby hotels like the Renaissance Meadowlands and the Hilton Meadowlands offer shuttles to the mall.
This Mall in New Jersey Deserves a Spot on Your To-Do List
Calling the American Dream Mall in New Jersey a mall feels like calling the Grand Canyon a hole in the ground—it’s technically true, but it’s missing the point.
Clearly, this isn’t just a stop for shopping (although there’s a ton of that); it’s where you can snowboard indoors, ride the steepest coaster in the world, and still have time to argue over where to eat.
At the end of the day, the American Dream Mall is somewhere you can make a day out of.
And when you do, wear comfortable shoes—you’ll cover a lot of ground.
