American Dream Must-Dos

American Dream in East Rutherford is your one-stop shopping, splashing, woo-hooing, skiing, skating, surfing, playing, discovering, dining and luxuriating destination. Because of its sheer size and number of offerings, you might be wondering what to do and where to start. No problem! We did all the legwork to identify the ultimate list of things to do at American Dream.

American Dream exterior at dusk

Big Thrills + Big Stars

As the Western Hemisphere’s largest indoor theme park, Nickelodeon Universe is sure to provide a day of boundless excitement. It boasts taller, steeper, longer thrill rides plus more tame attractions for the little ones. And don’t miss out on the chance to meet your kids’ favorite Nickelodeon characters in person daily.

Nickelodeon Universe Roller Coaster

It’s always 81 degrees at Dreamworks Water Park – the perfect temperature to make a big splash on the world’s largest selection of water rides. Need a break from all the aquatic action? You can rent a private Skybox Suite or Poolside Cabana for the family.

Dreamworks Water Park Slide

Active Adventures

Looking for some big winter fun in any season, no matter what the weather forecast? Be sure to hit Big Snow, North America’s first indoor, real-snow, year-round ski and snow resort. You don’t even need to haul in a load of gear. With a Snow Day Package, you get ski or snowboard equipment rentals, outerwear (pants and jacket), a helmet, a two-hour Slope Access Ticket and complimentary entry to a skills area with dedicated instructors.

Skiing at American Dream

Prefer ice to snow? Strap on some skates and glide around The Rink, an indoor NHL regulation-size rink available for open sessions as well as figure skating and hockey tournaments, plus private events. The Rink even played host to the 2024 USA Curling Championships!

The Rink at American Dream

Or experience endless summer at Skudin Surf, an indoor wave pool offering everything you need to hang ten in open sessions designed for every skill level – beginner, intermediate, advanced and expert. Want the waves all to yourself? Schedule a private session for you and your friends.

Take your American Dream experience to new heights at Legends of the Hidden Temple Ropes Course Challenge, the planet’s tallest high ropes course. Clip in and see if you can get to the tippy-top of its nine record-breaking levels.

Playful Pursuits

The whole family can ride the Dream Wheel or try for a hole-in-one at Angry Birds Mini Golf or Blacklight Mini Golf. Young imaginations can find vivid inspiration at the Legoland Discovery Center. Little ones can climb aboard Geoffrey’s Express train. And kids of all ages can make some new fishy friends at the SEA LIFE Aquarium.

There’s also tons for teens to do. They can lose themselves in a neon-lit Mirror Maze. Take the best snaps for social media in the TiLT Museum. Puzzle their way out of The Escape Game. Feel all the feels at the iMuseum. Claim victory in Blast 7D, a combination virtual reality-roller coaster-role playing game experience. And ponder the impossible at the Paradox Museum.

Plus American Dream’s packed events calendar keeps extra, unexpected fun coming practically every day of the year!

One-of-a-Kind Dining

Foodies can go on a culinary journey at 66 (and counting!) eclectic eateries. Get a taste of global cuisine at Blue Whale, Carpaccio, German Doner Kebab, Latin Grill, Vanessa’s Dumpling House and more. Enjoy a relaxing sit-down meal at Marcus Live! Bar & Grille, Jarana, Yard House and other inviting full-service restaurants. And satisfy your sweet tooth at Bang Cookies, Butter Lane Cupcakes, Deep Fried Love, Lady M New York, Lucciano’s, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream and many other bakeries, cakeries, creameries and coffee shops.

Luxe Experiences

The Avenue at American Dream is your home for discovering chic designer brands in chic and sumptuous settings. Think: Alexander Wang, Balenciaga, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, Tiffany & Co. and more. Care to get pampered with the celebrity treatment? You can arrange for a personalized VIP experience that goes far beyond browsing these luxury stores.

Stay the Night

If you’re thinking, “There’s no way I can fit all of these must-dos into a single day,” you’re correct. But that’s not a problem because preferred hotels near American Dream offer special rates just for guests. You can discover all the details here

CLICK TO SAVE * Discount code is for 15% off all American Dream owned attractions - Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, DreamWorks Water Park, The Rink, Angry Birds Mini Golf, Black Light Mini Golf, TiLT Museum, Legends of the Hidden Temple Ropes Course Challenge and the Mirror Maze.

Traveling from NYC? Getting here by car, ride share, bus or train is so easy – find complete transportation details here. As always, be sure to check out American Dream’s official website or social media channels for need-to-know details before your arrival. You can also explore more larger-than-life attractions across New Jersey right here. And be sure to download our free Official Travel Guide and sign up to receive our e-newsletter today for the biggest ideas around.