Looking for an unforgettable shopping day trip not too far from Northeastern PA? Add the American Dream mall in East Rutherford, NJ to your family bucket list. This is the ultimate destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment wrapped up into one. Dive into everything from an indoor water park, ferris wheel and year-round snow resort, to rotating entertainment venues, theme parks, and museums. Not to mention the 65+ restaurants and bars, and 400+ storefronts… This is a shopaholics dream come true.
Located just about two hours from Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, the American Dream Mall is an easy drive via I-380 and I-80. Be sure to check traffic conditions before heading out to ensure a smooth ride. We’ve highlighted a few can’t-miss activities to make the most of your trip.
Start with Adventure at the Parks
Kick off your day with some excitement! The Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, the largest indoor amusement park in North America, is packed with thrilling roller coasters and kid-friendly rides. Find beloved cartoon characters wondering the park as well! If water fun is more your style, DreamWorks Water Park boasts the world’s largest indoor wave pool and exhilarating water slides. Experience year-round splashy-fun in their 81° tropical climate. Prefer to bundle up and race down the slope? Cool things down at Big Snow, North America’s first and only indoor, real snow, year-round ski and snow resort. No matter your adventure style, American Dream has the perfect indoor escape for nonstop fun.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
Fashion lovers will be in heaven with the mall’s extensive selection of luxury and popular retail stores. From Saks Fifth Avenue and Francesca’s to Zara and Primark, there’s something for every budget and style. High-end shoppers will love browsing “The Avenue” for world-renowned brands like Hermès and Saint Laurent. With endless shopping options, American Dream is a true paradise for fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters alike.
Refuel with Delicious Eats
With all that excitement, you’re bound to work up an appetite. American Dream offers a vibrant dining scene with over 65 eateries, ranging from quick bites to gourmet meals. Grab a tasty burger at Marcus Live! Bar & Grill, savor some South American fare at Jarana, or indulge in a little bit of every flavor in The Food Hall where even the pickiest eaters are sure to find something they like. The delicious dining options are just as exciting as the adventures that come before it.
Explore Museums, Mini Golf and More
Beyond shopping, dining and giant parks, American Dream offers a range of entertainment options. Test your skills at Angry Birds Mini Golf, catch a hockey game at the NHL regulation size ice rink, or enroll your little ones in the Paw Patrol Hero Academy. Discover incredible, photo-worthy illusions at TiLT Museum or design your own creative world at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center. A must-try attraction is the Dream Wheel. Their 27 temperature-controlled gondolas offer thrilling views of the Manhattan skyline. No matter your interest, there’s endless ways to play, explore, and create lasting memories.
After experiencing as much of the fun as you could pack in, you’ll likely be planning your next trip before you even leave the parking lot. With new stores and attractions frequently being added, American Dream Mall is the kind of place you can visit again and again. Keep up with new additions on Facebook, Instagram, and their website. Whether you’re looking for thrills, world-class shopping, or delicious dining, a day trip from NEPA to the American Dream Mall is sure to be an unforgettable experience!