Nickelodeon Universe at American Dream holds the title of the largest indoor theme park in the Western Hemisphere. Located just across the river in East Rutherford, New Jersey, this sprawling, fully climate-controlled park offers a massive weather-proof Chol Hamoed escape. If you have a family with vastly different age groups, this single destination easily keeps everyone from toddlers to adrenaline-junkie teenagers completely entertained for an entire day.
What to Explore Inside
- Extreme Coasters: Older kids and teens should head directly to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shellraiser. It holds the record for the steepest roller coaster drop in the world. Right next to it, The Shredder operates as the world’s tallest and longest free-spinning coaster.
- Family-Friendly Thrills: If you want rides the whole family can handle together, check out the Slime Streak. This bright orange coaster weaves smoothly directly above the park’s main walkways. You can also ride the massive Skyline Scream, an indoor drop tower offering panoramic views of the entire mall before plunging downward.
- Toddler Territory: Younger kids have plenty of dedicated real estate. Bring them to the PAW Patrol Adventure Bay, ride Dora’s Sky Railway, or spin around on Blue’s Skidoo. The park features over a dozen gentle rides specifically designed for the preschool crowd.
- Character Meet-and-Greets: Keep an eye out for live characters roaming the park. Kids can easily snap photos with SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, or the Ninja Turtles without waiting in long, formal lines.
Be aware that you must purchase an All-Access Pass (wristband) or a specific points pass to ride. Since this is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Tri-State area, you should absolutely buy your tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and skip the ticketing lines.