American Dream Mall: A Comprehensive Guide to Shopping, Attractions, Dining & Tickets (2026)

The American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is not just a shopping destination—it’s one of the largest entertainment and retail complexes in the United States. Located just 10 miles from New York City, this massive indoor mall blends luxury shopping, family-friendly attractions, indoor theme parks, dining, and adventure experiences under one roof.

Whether you’re visiting from NYC, planning a family trip, or looking for the best malls in the USA, this complete American Dream Mall guide covers everything you need to know.What Is American Dream Mall?

American Dream is a 3+ million square foot mega complex developed by the Triple Five Group and opened in stages between 2019 and 2021. It is often referred to as the second-largest mall in the US, after the Mall of America.

Key Highlights

• 350+ retail stores

• 450+ total shopping outlets

• Indoor amusement parks & water park

• North America’s only indoor ski slope

• 9 accessible public floors

• 33,000 parking spaces

This mall is designed to be a full-day or multi-day destination, not just a shopping stop.

American Dream Mall Hours & Best Time to Visit

American Dream mall operates daily with varying hours by section.

• Mon–Thu: 11 AM – 9 PM

• Fri–Sat: 10 AM – 10 PM

• Sunday: 11 AM – 8 PM

Individual attractions like Nickelodeon Universe or DreamWorks Water Park have specific schedules (often 10am-8pm), so check the official site for real-time updates.​

Best Times to Visit

Weekdays before noon or after 4pm offer fewer crowds and shorter lines for rides and parking. Avoid weekends and holidays when families peak; early mornings provide cooler weather and prime photo ops at indoor parks. Shoulder seasons (late fall or early spring) balance mild temps (50-70°F) with lighter footfall.

• Weekdays before noon – least crowded

• Late fall & early spring – balanced footfall

• Early mornings – best for photos and parking

Avoid weekends and holidays if you want shorter queues.

DreamWorks Water Park (Floors 6–7)

• Largest indoor water park in North America

• Wave pool, lazy river, toddler slides

• Height-based slides & water coasters

Big SNOW (Floor 8)

• Year-round indoor skiing & snowboarding

• Real snow environment

SEA LIFE Aquarium (Floor 1)

• Walk-through ocean tunnel

• Toddler climbing zone

Dream Wheel Observation Ride (Floor 9)

• Skyline views of NYC

• Best visited at sunset

Nickelodeon Universe (Floors 4–5)

• 35+ rides & roller coasters

• Paw Patrol Adventure Bay (toddler-friendly)

• Shellraiser & Avatar Airbender coasters

Floor-by-Floor Attractions at American Dream Mall

American Dream mall features attractions spread across its 9 levels, with major ones clustered on upper floors for easy family navigation via elevators and escalators.

Floor Highlights

• Levels 1-3: Main retail, food courts (Coca-Cola Eats), and entry-level shops like H&M, Zara.​

• Levels 4-5: Nickelodeon Universe theme park and upper dining.​

• Levels 6-8: DreamWorks Water Park, Big SNOW ski slope, LEGOLAND.​

• Level 9: Observation deck and premium attractions.​

Use the mall app or directory signs for navigation; stroller elevators make all levels toddler-accessible.​

How Many Floors Are in American Dream Mall?

American Dream mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey, spans 9 levels (floors) above ground, including multiple retail, dining, and entertainment floors connected by escalators, elevators, and a central atrium. Below-ground parking adds several levels with 33,000 spaces, but visitor areas focus on the 9 accessible floors.

How to Buy Tickets for Nickelodeon Universe and DreamWorks Water Park

Tickets for Nickelodeon Universe and DreamWorks Water Park are best purchased online through the official American Dream website, where you can save up to 20% and reserve timed entry slots to skip long lines. Families can also take advantage of the Combo Dream Pass, which bundles admission to both parks for $139.

Nickelodeon Universe Tickets

• Starting at $41.99 + tax

• Unlimited rides with all-access pass

• Kids under 2: Free

DreamWorks Water Park Tickets

• Day passes available online

• Lockers: $10–15

• Bring your own towel to save money

Combo Dream Pass

• Covers multiple attractions

• Costs around $139

• Best value for families

Pro Tip: Book online at least 24 hours in advance for discounts and guaranteed time slots

Shops at American Dream Mall

This mall features over 450 stores blending luxury brands, popular chains, and family-oriented shops all in one place. Expect mainstream favorites like Zara, Lululemon, Sephora, Apple, Nike, Levi's, Aritzia, American Eagle, Bath & Body Works, Foot Locker, and kid spots such as Build-A-Bear and The Children's Place. Luxury wing (The Avenue) includes Armani, Dolce & Gabbana.

Dining Options at American Dream Mall

American Dream mall boasts diverse dining across full-service spots, food courts, and quick bites, catering to all tastes. Top-rated options emphasize upscale Peruvian, Italian, and American fare based on recent reviews.

Tips for visiting American Dream with toddlers

Visiting American Dream mall with toddlers requires planning around nap times, stroller access, and low-stimulation zones to keep little ones happy.

Toddler-Friendly Activities

Focus on gentle, age-appropriate spots that avoid overwhelming crowds or heights.

• Nickelodeon Universe's Paw Patrol Adventure Bay offers slides, climbing structures, and rides like Dora Sky Railway for under 52" kids.

• DreamWorks Water Park's Penguins Frozen Fun Zone has 6 toddler slides and a lazy river; bring towels/flip-flops (rentals pricey).

• LEGOLAND Discovery Center includes Duplo play, softplay (socks required), and build zones for ages 3+.

• SEA LIFE Aquarium tunnel thrills with fish/sharks, plus a toddler climbing structure (socks needed).​

Practical Tips

Go weekdays before noon for short lines and parking; use stroller rentals ($15) as elevators are plentiful but busy. Pack snacks, diapers, and changes of clothes; family lounges like The Address offer rest areas with bean bags. Buy timed tickets online for attractions to skip queues; limit to 1-2 activities to prevent meltdowns.

How to Access SEA LIFE Aquarium & Dream Wheel

• SEA LIFE Aquarium: Level 1, near Parking Deck A

• Dream Wheel: Level 9, Court C

Both are fully indoors and accessible via elevators.

Final Thoughts: Is American Dream Mall Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The American Dream Mall is one of the most unique indoor entertainment destinations in the USA, offering shopping, theme parks, dining, and adventure—regardless of weather.

Whether you’re a tourist visiting NYC, a family with kids, or a shopping enthusiast, American Dream delivers a full-day experience unlike any other mall in America.

Best Full-Service Restaurants

• Jarana (Peruvian) – Ceviche & Lomo Saltado

• Marcus Live! – Burgers & mocktails

• Carpaccio – Wood-fired pizza & pasta

• Yard House – Appetizers & craft drinks

Food Courts & Quick Bites

• Coca-Cola Eats Food Hall

• H-Mart food stalls

• Oreo Café

• Pora Ramen