About American Dream Water Park
The DreamWorks-branded water park at American Dream is a massive indoor aquatic entertainment complex inside the Triple Five Group’s $5–6 billion American Dream mega-mall in East Rutherford, NJ. At 375,260 square feet, it stands as the largest indoor water park in North America (watertechnologyinc.com ) (www.proslide.com ). Open year-round under a high vaulted ceiling, the park features over 40 waterslides and attractions themed to DreamWorks films. Signature attractions include the 1.5-acre “Far Far a Bay” wave pool, multiple record-setting slides (including a 142-foot free-fall speed slide) and the world’s longest indoor water coaster (watertechnologyinc.com ) (patch.com ). Visitors plunge down Shrek’s Sinkhole Slammer, float the Bubbly Lazy River, surf on two Surf’s Up boards, or play in the Penguins of Madagascar kids’ zone (meadowlandsmedia.com ) (patch.com ). Unique to the American Dream complex, this water park brings DreamWorks Animation films to life in rides and décor, with themed areas like Shrek’s swamp, Kung Fu Panda’s temple and suspended props (famously a helicopter motif) overhead. The one-story park’s climate-controlled environment makes it a year-round destination, even in New Jersey winters. Its sheer scale and theming make it a cornerstone of the local scene, drawing thousands of families and thrill-seekers to the Meadowlands entertainment hub (watertechnologyinc.com ) (www.proslide.com ).
Events and Programming
DreamWorks Water Park operates primarily as a daily attractions venue rather than a performance space. There are no regular concerts or stage shows inside the water park; instead the programming is centered on guest experiences like daily lifeguard-led activities and character meet-and-greets. Special events (such as holiday-themed swim nights or private pool parties in reserved rooms) occur only occasionally. The park is open daily with extended summer hours; it is common to see promotional events on weekends or school breaks. Most visitors simply purchase general admission and stay as long as they like while the park is open. In other words, the water park’s “events” are built into the rides and attractions themselves, themed around DreamWorks characters, rather than separate scheduled performances.
Tickets and Booking
Admission to the water park is by timed ticket. Visitors are encouraged to buy tickets in advance through official channels (online reservation or at the box office inside American Dream) because popular dates—especially summer weekends—can sell out. As of 2024–25, a one-day adult water park pass runs around $90–$100 plus tax (nj1015.com ); children’s prices or combo tickets (including entry to Nickelodeon Universe theme park) may also be offered. (For comparison, one news report noted a water park day pass at about $99 (nj1015.com ).) Prices can vary by season or special promotion. Guests should check the American Dream website or call guest services for up-to-date rates and to reserve their visit date/time. There are no traditional backstage tours or pre-sale codes – just the standard advance ticketing system. Large groups or birthday parties may arrange group rates or private party rooms by contacting the park in advance. It’s best to arrive early on your chosen day, as simple day-of ticket sales are limited and lines can form at peak times.
Layouts and Viewing Areas
Unlike a stadium or theater, DreamWorks Water Park has no fixed seating. Instead, the single-level floor is laid out in themed zones around a central Crater Crawler walkways. The 1.5-acre “Far Far a Bay” wave pool dominates the center, ringed by lounge chairs and walkways. Surrounding pools and rivers connect to slide towers clustered by theme (e.g. Shrek’s Swamp slides, Kung Fu Panda’s temples, the Penguins of Madagascar play structure). Along the perimeter, a raised section carries the HydroMAGNETIC water coaster, offering spectators a view of the park from above (www.proslide.com ). More than two dozen attractions are arranged so parents can stand near the wave pool or lazy river and keep an eye on children on nearby rides. Standard set-up includes rows of plastic lounge chairs and tables on the mezzanine levels and on pool decks, plus premium private cabanas (for rent) that include shaded seating and amenities. For viewing, many guests stake out a chair at pool edges or along the river. Acoustically, the glass-and-steel structure is loud and lively: the constant roar of water and splash of waves fill the space, sometimes supplemented by background tropical music or announcements. (Unlike a concert hall, there’s no specific “bad seat” – you simply get closer or farther from your chosen attraction.) In general, the best spots are poolside seats with a direct line of sight to slides or the wave pool. Areas near changing rooms or food kiosks are more congested during arrival, so many visitors prefer chairs adjacent to the main attractions. Cabanas and lounge chairs quickly fill up on busy days, so early arrival is recommended to snag a preferred spot.
Getting There and Parking
American Dream (and its water park) sits at 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073, in the Meadowlands sports-and-entertainment complex (right across from MetLife Stadium). By car, it’s easily accessed via Exit 16W on the NJ Turnpike or Exit 14C on the Garden State Parkway. The mall offers 33,000 parking spaces in multiple decks; the first 15 minutes are free, then a flat $5 per vehicle after that for the duration of your visit (help.americandream.com ). (During NFL games or concerts at the stadium, special event rates apply: up to $75 on Jets days, $60 on Giants days, and up to $80 for other events (help.americandream.com ).) Valet parking is also available in front of the main entrance at an extra fee (typically around $10-15). Rideshare and taxi passengers should be dropped off at the designated “Valet and Ride Share” lane just outside the main entrance – signage and mall staff can direct drivers. Inside the parking decks and lot signage is plentiful, and elevator banks take you directly to the water park level. Exit lanes likewise accept ParkMobile, credit, or cash for easy payment as you leave (help.americandream.com ).
Public transit options serve American Dream directly. NJ Transit Route 355 offers an express bus from New York City’s Port Authority Bus Terminal (Gate 305) to the American Dream stop (www.njtransit.com ), with hourly service on weekends and a few departures on weekdays. Local NJ Transit buses #85 (Hoboken/Union City–American Dream), #703 (Haledon–Paterson–Teterboro–American Dream) and #772 (Paramus–Hackensack–East Rutherford–American Dream) also stop at American Dream daily (www.njtransit.com ). If arriving by rail, the closest train stations are Secaucus Junction or MetLife Stadium (event days only). From Secaucus, a local bus or taxi/ride-share (about 3 miles) can bring you to the water park. (NJ Transit’s site notes that the trip from Port Authority to DreamWorks Water Park is under 30 minutes in normal traffic (www.njtransit.com ).) Inside the mall, smartphones can connect to the free “ADM-Guest” Wi-Fi network, making it easy to check transit schedules or call a rideshare while on-site (help.americandream.com ).
Inside the Venue
Upon entry to DreamWorks Water Park, all guests go through a bag check and ticket scan. Lockers of various sizes are available near the entrance (for a small daily fee) so you can store belongings. The environment is like a tropical indoor beach: the temperature is kept around 80°F and the water about 84°F year-round, so it never feels cold. Deck chairs and tables surround the wave pool and along walkways. Visitors are assigned a wristband indicating their admission type, and lifeguards are stationed at every pool and slide launch point. Complimentary life jackets (vests) are typically provided free of charge for children or anyone who needs help staying afloat. Guests find restroom and changing facilities at both ends of the park (near the entrance and near the kids’ play area), each with private family changing stalls and free showers to rinse off after swimming.
Food and drink options inside the water park are limited to snack bars for quick bites, soda and juice venders, and an on-site grill serving burgers and fries. (Guests may bring a water bottle to refill at stations, but outside food or drink—aside from baby food or allergy-related supplies—is not allowed (help.americandream.com ).) For a full meal, the American Dream mall has dozens of restaurants just outside the park entrance. In the mall’s dining wing you’ll find sit-down eateries like Yard House, House of ‘Que, Carpaccio’s, and casual spots, as well as the large Coca-Cola Eats! food court (with pizza, burgers, tacos, Asian cuisine and more) (www.njtransit.com ). Bars such as Yard House and Carozza Pizza offer adult beverages, but notably none are served on the water park floor itself.
Other amenities inside the water park include towel and swim gear rental kiosks (for items like towels, lockers, or life vests, usually for a fee) and gift/shop stands selling goggles, sunscreen, souvenirs and DreamWorks-themed apparel. The park’s design features a few special photo spots—such as a life-size helicopter and animal figures—that children love. Connectivity-wise, the mall’s free Wi-Fi can reach much of the park (though Bluetooth speakers and music players may be gently discouraged to keep the atmosphere family-friendly). Finally, restroom and family rooms are ADA-accessible, and ramps/lifts provide step-free routes from the entrance and between the pool levels. Entry and exit procedures are swift once you’re inside: flip-flops or water shoes are allowed on the deck (but must be removed before going on most slides) (help.americandream.com ), and there is no bag size limit beyond standard theme-park norms.
Nearby Amenities
Because DreamWorks Water Park sits inside the vast American Dream complex, visitors have an abundance of nearby amenities. The mall contains over 450 retail stores and dozens of dining outlets. For pre- or post-park dining, choices range from casual to upscale: for example, Yard House and the new House of ‘Que smokehouse restaurant (both in the Broadway Dining concourse) offer full-service sit-down meals. The mall also includes casual family eateries like Johnny Rockets, Benihana, and Kip’s American Grill, plus the Coca-Cola Eats! food hall with kid-friendly fare like pizza, burgers, pasta, salads, tacos, and an expanded Papa John’s and Wendy’s (www.njtransit.com ). Bars such as Carpe Diem (on the Spectacle Lake side) and a soon-to-open sports bar near the ice rink provide cocktail options. In short, families can choose anything from a quick snack to a multi-course dinner without leaving the building.
For overnight stays, there are hotels either connected to or just minutes from the mall. The Hilton Meadowlands/Hasbrouck Heights and the Hilton Garden Inn Secaucus/Meadowlands are linked via a covered walkway to the mall complex, offering direct access for hotel guests. On-site parking jazz includes courtesy car service and hotel valet. Other nearby lodging includes a Hampton Inn & Suites on Meadowlands Parkway and several chain hotels in Secaucus (Marriott, Holiday Inn Express, etc.) within a short drive. Major airports (Newark Liberty and LaGuardia) are roughly 15–20 miles away; taxis or rental cars from Newark can reach American Dream in about 20–30 minutes, while a car from Midtown Manhattan usually takes 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.
Because the mall is adjacent to MetLife Stadium, there are plenty of late-night transit options after events. On weekends the NJ Transit 355 bus runs until 11pm from the water park back to Port Authority (www.njtransit.com ). Ubers and Lyfts can pick up at curbside queues (the mall’s official Lyft partnership provides designated loading zones). It’s wise to pre-schedule outgoing rides on busy days. There is also a Lyfts rideshare kiosk in the lower parking ramp. In summary, the water park is extremely convenient to reach by car or by bus, and its location inside a full-service mall means visitors have almost everything they need—restaurants, restrooms, shops and even hotels—within easy walking distance.
What Makes This Venue Special
DreamWorks Water Park is unique both in scale and theme. It achieved multiple world-firsts and records: it houses the world’s largest indoor wave pool (54,000 square feet, or 1.5 acres) (www.globenewswire.com ) (watertechnologyinc.com ), the world’s tallest indoor speed slide (about 142 feet) (watertechnologyinc.com ), and a record-setting HydroMAGNETIC coaster that surrounds the park (www.proslide.com ). Every slide tower is themed to DreamWorks animation – from Shrek and Kung Fu Panda to How to Train Your Dragon – giving it a storybook feel in a way no other water park has done. This theming extends to decor like a floating pirate ship, helicopters and oversized barrels in the wave pool, and custom murals – details one might see in a ride-based theme park, not a mall. Architecturally, the park’s single-plate concrete floor and enormous steel dome were engineering feats; for example, engineers used suspended geofoam forms to shape the 16-foot deep wave pool fast and precisely (www.entuitive.com ). The sheer ambition (375,000+ square feet of water rides in one room) and integration with high-end retail make it a one-of-a-kind destination.
Culturally, the water park has put New Jersey on the map as a top family entertainment mecca. It has attracted millions of visits since opening, boosting local tourism and jobs. The park often garners press and social media attention for its size and novelty – even being featured at industry trade shows as a flagship “waterpark of the future” (www.proslide.com ) (watertechnologyinc.com ). In practical terms, artists and families alike appreciate how the park delivers both thrills and a kid-friendly atmosphere. Younger children have their own safe play area (Madagascar-themed) while teens and adults seek out the giant slides and surfing machines. Its indoor, weather-proof design also means visitors can enjoy tropical fun any day of the year, which is rare for the Northeast. Legendary moments at American Dream so far have been more about first-in-NJ milestones (big waves in winter!) than celebrity concerts – but the many “first visitors” (opening day premieres, record-breaking first rides) have given the park a cultural milestone status. In short, American Dream’s water park matters because it redefined what people expect from a shopping mall and turned a once-stalled project into a regional centerpiece of fun (watertechnologyinc.com ) (www.proslide.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays. Even though the mall is huge, the water park entrance can queue up. Bring your own beach towel (or rent one at the park, usually for a fee) and wear proper swimwear – a one- or two-piece bathing suit or rashguard is required (help.americandream.com ). Nudges like denim shorts, boardshorts with metal snaps, thong swimsuits or street clothes are not allowed on slides (help.americandream.com ). Guests may wear water shoes or flip-flops on the deck (and are actually recommended for walking on pool decks), but remove them before hitting any rides (help.americandream.com ). Remember the park enforces a no-outside food/drink policy (baby formula excepted) (help.americandream.com ) – plan meal breaks either inside at the snack stands or after exiting to the mall’s food court.
Young children should wear ISO-approved life vests (provided free) if they cannot swim; mothers and fathers can request vests from any lifeguard. Keep an eye on height restrictions: many slides have posted minimums (often 48” or higher) and require riders to go feet-first. Children under about 48” will spend most of their time in the kids’ area (Penguins Play Zone) and the wave pool, where parents can accompany them. Lifeguards are plentiful, but parents should still be within arm’s reach of very small kids. It’s wise to pick a meeting spot (like a brightly colored lifeguard station) in case you get separated.
Lockers are available at the entrance – pick a size and note your locker number before changing. Credit cards and ParkMobile app work fine at pay stations, and many guests use the convenient ParkMobile system for car parking (help.americandream.com ). Keep your parking ticket; you’ll need it to exit the lot. If you’re attending a stadium event nearby, double-check whether you purchased a stadium parking pass (lots 26/27) or regular mall parking – event day rates can be considerably higher (help.americandream.com ).
Lastly, wear sunscreen and consider a swim shirt. Even indoors you can sunburn under artificial lights or IR. Stay hydrated (water fountains are available next to restrooms). If you have sensitive ears or the water is cold to you, you might wear ear plugs; conversely, if kids are shy, know that characters like Po from Kung Fu Panda occasionally make appearances and are very friendly for photo ops. Everything you need – from changing rooms to snack bars and benches – is clearly signed. One common mistake is dressing too warmly; the park is tropical. And note: the park strictly forbids glass, valuables un-attended, and smoking of any kind (the entire mall is smoke-free). Following these tips will help your day at the water park go smoothly, so you can focus on sliding, swimming, and splashing rather than logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are tickets for DreamWorks Water Park at American Dream?
Ticket prices vary by season and age. Recent reports list one-day admission around $90–$99 for adults (nj1015.com ), with slightly lower pricing for children. (Children under 3 often get in free.) American Dream sells tickets through its box office and official website, which is the best place to check current rates and reserve your chosen date and time.
Where can I buy tickets and are there any discounts?
Tickets can be purchased online at the official American Dream site or in person at the DreamWorks Water Park entrance/box office. Advanced online booking is recommended, especially for weekend or holiday visits. There are no general coupon sites accepted; only official channels. From time to time, American Dream offers seasonal promos or combo packages (e.g. park + garden passes), so watch for those on the website. Annual passes are not currently offered, but some bundled ticket packages may include multiple attractions.
Is parking available and how much does it cost?
Yes, American Dream has massive on-site parking. The first 15 minutes are free; thereafter a flat $5 fee is charged for the duration of your visit (help.americandream.com ). Payment is by ticket-style pay stations (cash or card) or via ParkMobile app. On NFL game or concert days, special event rates apply in the stadium lots (up to $75–$80), so plan accordingly (help.americandream.com ).
How do I get to American Dream Water Park by public transport?
NJ Transit and local buses run to American Dream. Route 355 provides a one-seat express from NYC’s Port Authority Bus Terminal directly to American Dream (slot at Gate 305) (www.njtransit.com ). Local bus routes 85, 703 and 772 also stop at the mall (www.njtransit.com ). The bus stop is just outside the main entrance. If arriving by train, the closest hub is Secaucus Junction; from there take a short taxi or a local bus (for example NJT #703) to the water park.
Can I bring food or drinks into the water park?
No, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside DreamWorks Water Park (help.americandream.com ). Exceptions are made for baby food or medical dietary needs, but otherwise you must eat or drink only what you purchase on site. The water park has snack bars and drink stations, and the larger mall offers full restaurants and a food court right outside the park entrance.
Is there a dress code or swimsuit requirement?
Yes. Proper swim attire is required: a one-piece or two-piece swimsuit, or swim trunks, and swim shirts if desired (help.americandream.com ). Denim, cut-off shorts, street clothes, and thongs are not allowed on attractions (help.americandream.com ). Any swimwear with exposed metal (buckles, rivets, buttons, zippers) is also prohibited on the slides for safety. Guests may wear soft water shoes or flip-flops on the deck (removing them before going on slides) (help.americandream.com ). The park reserves the right to refuse attire deemed inappropriate.
Can guests with disabilities access the water park?
Yes. DreamWorks Water Park is ADA-compliant. There are accessible parking spaces near the entrance and ramps from the lobby into the water park. All restrooms and changing rooms have accessible stalls. Many attractions have wheelchair-transfer locations or pool lifts for easy entry into pools. Guests requiring assistance should visit the Guest Services desk or any lifeguard, who are trained to help. Service animals (under ADA guidelines) may accompany guests in non-pool areas.
Are towels and lockers available?
Towels are not provided free with admission. You should bring your own beach towel or purchase/rent one on-site if needed. Lockers of various sizes are available near the entrance for a small daily fee, allowing you to securely store extra clothes, wallets, phones and other valuables while you swim. Pay stations accept credit cards or ParkMobile payment for locker use. It’s wise to bring only waterproof or minimal items into the water park, storing everything else in a locker.
Is DreamWorks Water Park indoor or outdoor, and what if the weather is bad?
The water park is fully indoors. It operates year-round regardless of weather outside, since the entire facility is in a fully enclosed, climate-controlled space. You can enjoy all attractions on rainy or snowy days as easily as on sunny days. In fact, because it’s indoors and heated, late-season visits (even in winter) are still comfortable. Closure for weather happens only if the entire American Dream complex were to close (such as extreme regional events). Otherwise, scheduled opening hours are maintained.
What rides and attractions are included with admission?
One admission ticket grants access to all DreamWorks Water Park attractions. That includes the 1.5-acre Far Far a Bay wave pool, a winding lazy river, kiddie slides and play structures (Penguins of Madagascar play zone), plus over 40 thrilling slides and rides throughout the park. Major rides include multi-lane racers, bowl and funnel slides, body slides and tubes. The award-winning HydroMAGNETIC water coaster (motion-propelled slide) and a high-speed free-fall slide (70-foot drop) are part of the park’s thrill ride lineup (patch.com ) (watertechnologyinc.com ). Swim-under wave features, splash fountains and a giant tipping bucket add variety. Essentially, all pools and slides in the park (except cabanas) are included.
Are there height or age requirements for the slides?
Yes. Many larger slides have posted height requirements (often around 48 inches or 4 feet tall) and minimum age or weight guidelines. These are clearly displayed at each slide entrance. Riders under the posted height are not allowed on those slides for safety. Younger children can still enjoy the park’s toddler-friendly areas (like the Penguins play zone) and must be supervised by an adult at all times. Parents should check ride signs on the spot to ensure each child meets the requirements.
Can I use a mobile phone or camera on the slides?
For safety, loose personal items are not allowed on most rides. Cameras and phones should be stored in lockers or given to companions. Waterproof point-and-shoot cameras or secure wrist-mounted devices may be permitted on the lazy river or wave pool (at your own risk), but they cannot be taken on high-speed slides or the water coaster. If you want photos, there are photo kiosks and staff photographers in some areas for assistance.
When should I arrive before my ticket time?
Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before your scheduled entry. Even if you have an e-ticket, it’s wise to allow time for parking, security checks, locker rentals and changing. Arriving early also lets you secure good seating and get on popular rides first. The water park is busiest midday, so early entry typically means shorter lines and more comfortable seating options around the pools.
What happens on special event days (like Jets/Giants games)?
On game or concert days at MetLife Stadium, DreamWorks Water Park remains open but parking and crowd patterns can change. The mall opens its lots as official off-site parking for the games, with higher fees (see above) (help.americandream.com ). Mall security and staff will direct stadium and Dream customers to separate areas. Expect the water park to stay open on those days; however, it may get extra foot traffic from stadium attendees. Check the DreamWorks Water Park schedule in advance, as sometimes closing hours are adjusted to match event traffic.
Are there nearby hotels and restaurants for families?
Yes. The American Dream complex includes on-site hotels (e.g. Hilton Meadowlands and Hilton Garden Inn) connected via mall corridors. Other nearby stays include a Hampton Inn & Suites and many Secaucus/Meadowlands hotels just a few minutes away. For dining, the mall itself has family-friendly and upscale restaurants (market favorites like burgers, pizza and international cuisine, plus a full food court) right outside the water park. Visitors can easily eat before or after swimming without leaving American Dream (www.njtransit.com ).
