Planning a visit to a water park can be a fantastic way to beat the heat and enjoy quality family time, but not all water parks are created equal. The Dreamworks Indoor Water Park inside the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey, claims the title of North America’s largest indoor water park. With a wide variety of rides, attractions, and character-themed areas, it promises a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages.
We’ve looked into what makes this water park special, along with some practical considerations, so you can decide if this experience suits your travel plans. Whether you’re after adrenaline-pumping slides, relaxing lazy rivers, or kid-friendly zones, this attraction offers plenty to keep everyone entertained.
One thing to keep in mind is that food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, and parking costs $5 per day, so budgeting for extras is wise. This experience is especially great for families, couples, or groups seeking an all-weather, immersive water adventure just outside New York City.
Good To Know
- Largest indoor water park in North America with a wide range of rides and attractions
- Character-themed zones based on popular Dreamworks characters, perfect for kids
- All-year-round tropical climate maintained at a comfortable 81°F
- Variety of rides from gentle kiddie slides to high-speed thrill rides
- Convenient location just 4 miles from New York City with accessible parking
- Tickets at $69 offer good value considering the extensive facilities
An Overview of the Water Park Experience
The Dreamworks Indoor Water Park inside the American Dream Mall offers a comprehensive water adventure that appeals to all ages and thrill levels. It’s more than just a collection of slides; it’s an entire aquatic world built around your favorite Dreamworks characters like Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and Penguins of Madagascar. The park’s size and variety make it stand out among indoor water parks, and the fact that it operates within a climate-controlled environment means comfort is guaranteed, whatever the weather outside.
The main draw is undoubtedly the world’s largest indoor wave pool, which maintains a gentle, tropical vibe at 81°F year-round. This feature alone attracts a lot of visitors looking for a relaxing float or a gentle splash. For thrill-seekers, the highlight is the hydromagnetic water coaster, which stretches the limits of indoor water rides with its record-breaking length and adrenaline rush.
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What Makes This Water Park Unique?
One of the biggest selling points is the variety of rides available, catering to every member of the family. Kids under 14 find plenty of safe and fun zones, while older children and adults can challenge themselves on the more intense slides and rides. The park’s design cleverly combines family-friendly attractions with adrenaline-pumping experiences, ensuring that everyone leaves with a smile.
The themed areas, such as the Kungfu Panda Temple of Awesomeness and Penguins Frozen Fun Zone, add a touch of magic and storytelling to the water fun. The multi-level play structure with dump cups, geysers, and the world’s largest tipping bucket is a hit among the little ones. Reviewers like Elizabeth from Puerto Rico mentioned, “I liked everything in the park, the price, the attractions—everything,” highlighting how well-rounded the experience is.
Rides and Activities Breakdown
Kiddie Rides
Young children are well-catered for with zones like the Kungfu Panda Temple of Awesomeness, which features a multi-level play structure with dump cups, geysers, and the largest indoor tipping bucket. The Penguins Frozen Fun Zone offers six small slides perfect for toddlers, giving parents peace of mind while kids enjoy safe, manageable rides.
Reviewers like Mel from the US appreciated the variety: “The lazy river and wave pool was my favorite! Food was a little pricey but no long lines or waits,” indicating that the park manages to keep queues short, which is vital with little kids.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyModerate Rides for Families
For slightly older children and those seeking a bit more excitement, the park offers several rides like Dragon Racers, a race through tunnels and drops, and Soakin’ Surfari, a 40-foot surf simulator. The Lemur Leap spiral bowl ride, where two riders spiral into a giant bowl, adds a bit more thrill, yet remains accessible for most kids above 36 inches tall.
The Zany & Zanier Zigzag tandem slides with multiple drops provide a safe yet exhilarating experience for adventurous families. Reviewers such as Ana from the US praised the overall layout, noting the “great experience, no long waits, and friendly staff,” emphasizing how well the park manages crowd flow.
Thrill Rides for Adrenaline Junkies
If you’re craving high-speed, adrenaline-pumping rides, the park has plenty to offer. The Thrillagascar & Jungle Jammer are the tallest trapdoor capsule slides, dropping riders into deep waters with a burst of speed. The Shrek’s Sinkhole Slammer sends you floating into a massive funnel, and the Skudin Surf offers private surf sessions in the wave pool — a standout for those dreaming of catching some waves indoors.
Reviewer Jacky mentioned, “This was my first visit this year, and I’ll be back soon,” which speaks to the park’s ability to deliver lasting excitement.
Total Pro Rides
For the true thrill-seekers, rides like the Surfari Slider, the world’s tallest indoor speed slide, and the Carnivortex with its horizontal loop are designed to push limits. These rides are not for the faint of heart but make the visit genuinely memorable for those chasing high-energy water fun.
Amenities and Practical Info
Entry Ticket: At $69 per person, the ticket provides full access to all rides and zones for a day. The ticket is flexible, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, and the ability to reserve now and pay later offers added convenience in uncertain travel times.
Location & Access: The water park is inside the American Dream Mall, just 4 miles outside New York City. Visitors can park in Decks B or C for $5 per day or opt for Lyft/Uber drop-off in Deck A. The indoor setting means you won’t need to worry about weather disruptions, which is a big plus, especially during colder months.
What to Bring: Swimmers will want to pack swimwear and a towel, as these are essentials. Food and drinks are not included with the ticket, but the park offers food options for purchase. Keep in mind that outside food isn’t allowed, and unaccompanied minors are not permitted to bring in their own.
Additional Services: Lockers and life jackets are available for rent on-site, making your day more comfortable. Re-entry isn’t permitted, so plan to stay all day or leave with your belongings.
Authentic Insights from Visitors
Reviewers consistently highlight the park’s impressive size and variety. Mel from the US said, “The park was great; the lazy river and wave pool were my favorites,” emphasizing how these features can be relaxing and fun at the same time. Ana appreciated the weekday visits: “Went on a weekday, so no long waits to go on all the slides,” which is helpful for visitors looking to avoid crowds.
Some mention the food prices being a bit steep, so bringing snacks might be a smart move if you want to keep costs down. Cristian appreciated the staff’s friendliness, noting how the “ladies who stamped us were very friendly,” adding to the overall positive experience.
Is This Water Park Worth It?
Given the extensive array of rides, the themed zones, and the climate-controlled environment, the Dreamworks Indoor Water Park offers significant value for families and thrill-seekers alike. Its location just outside NYC makes it a convenient day-trip destination, especially if you’re looking to combine shopping, entertainment, and water fun in one visit.
The $69 ticket price is reasonable considering the size and variety of attractions. The park’s ability to cater to different age groups ensures that everyone in the family has a memorable day, whether they prefer relaxing in the wave pool or racing down record-breaking slides.
While food costs and parking fees are extra, the overall experience tends to justify the price, especially for repeat visitors or those seeking a long, fulfilling day of entertainment without leaving the indoor comfort.
Who Should Consider Visiting?
This water park is ideal for families with kids, thanks to the dedicated kids’ zones and character themes. It also appeals to thrill-seekers craving high-speed rides and tall slides. If you’re visiting New York City and want a weather-proof water adventure, the location makes it an easy addition to your itinerary.
Those looking for a relaxed day can enjoy the lazy river and wave pools, while adrenaline junkies will find plenty of high-energy rides to satisfy their craving for speed. It’s also perfect for groups or friends who want a fun, active day in a safe environment.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the Dreamworks Indoor Water Park inside American Dream offers a comprehensive and exciting water adventure that’s hard to match in North America. With a perfect mix of family-friendly zones, thrilling rides, and immersive themes, it provides excellent value for the entrance fee.
The park’s large size and variety of attractions mean there’s something for all, and its year-round climate ensures you can enjoy it anytime. The friendly staff, well-maintained rides, and thoughtful layout make it a stress-free, fun-filled experience.
If you’re in the New York City area or planning a trip there, this water park deserves a spot on your list—especially if you want a day packed with splashy fun and unforgettable moments. Just remember to budget for food and parking, and you’re all set for a fantastic indoor water adventure.
FAQ
Is the ticket price inclusive of all rides?
Yes, the $69 ticket grants full access to all rides and attractions within the water park for the day.
Can I cancel my ticket if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for planning.
Is it suitable for young children?
Absolutely. There are dedicated kiddie zones like the Kungfu Panda Temple of Awesomeness and Penguins Frozen Fun Zone, designed for children under 14.
What should I bring with me?
Swimwear and a towel are essential. Food and drinks are available for purchase, but outside food isn’t allowed.
Are there height or age restrictions?
Yes, certain rides are suitable for specific height ranges. For example, children under 36 inches can enjoy the Lazy River, Wave Pool, and Kiddie Zones, while taller guests can access all rides.
Is there parking on-site?
Yes, parking costs $5 per day and is available in Decks B or C, or you can be dropped off at Deck A via Lyft or Uber.
This indoor water park combines size, excitement, and themed fun into one memorable experience. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adrenaline, it’s a beach-ready escape just a few miles from New York City.
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