Ever wish you could ditch the daily grind and jump headfirst into a cartoon world?
At DreamWorks Water Park, inside the massive American Dream complex in East Rutherford, New Jersey, that’s exactly what you can do.
Amazingly, it’s the biggest indoor water park in the country, with 8.5 acres of slides, pools, and playful characters—a perfect escape no matter what the weather’s doing outside.
Since opening its doors in 2020, this place has become a favorite for families and thrill-seekers.
Are you curious to see what all the fuss is about?
Let’s take a closer look at what awaits you inside!
The Park’s Journey: From Vision to Reality
The story of DreamWorks Water Park is one of ambition, setbacks, and, ultimately, triumph. The seeds were planted in 1994 as part of the Meadowlands Mills project, but the path to opening day was far from smooth.
Rebranded as Meadowlands Xanadu, the project hit a major roadblock in 2009 due to funding shortages, stalling construction almost entirely.
A glimmer of hope appeared in 2011 when Triple Five Group took the reins, renaming it “American Dream” and injecting new life into the stalled project.
The vision expanded to include a mall, an amusement park, and, crucially, the DreamWorks Water Park.
In 2012, DreamWorks Animation CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg confirmed that the park would draw inspiration from beloved DreamWorks films.
However, the road to completion was paved with further delays. The grand opening was pushed back multiple times, from construction hiccups to the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
But, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, DreamWorks Water Park finally opened its doors in 2020, ready to offer a one-of-a-kind water experience steeped in the magic of DreamWorks animation.
Attractions That Make a Splash
Okay, now let’s talk about the real reason you’re here: the rides and attractions.
You’ll be happy to know that this indoor water park in New Jersey is packed with options, so whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking to chill, there’s something here to make your day.
Let’s explore some of the highlights together, shall we?
Themed Areas
The park is divided into three areas, each with its own distinct atmosphere and attractions.
1. Shrek’s Soggy Swamp
Step into the world of Shrek and his swampy friends. This area features attractions like Shrek’s Sinkhole Slammer, a thrilling ProSlide Tornado that sends riders swirling down a giant funnel.
You can also enjoy a leisurely float down the Bubbly Lazy River, which winds through Shrek-themed scenery. For a refreshing break, head to King Julien’s Pineapple Jam Swim-Up Bar.
2. Kung Fu Panda Zone
Designed for younger visitors, this vibrant zone captures the energy and excitement of the Kung Fu Panda films.
The centerpiece is the Kung Fu Panda Temple of Awesomeness, a multi-level play structure packed with water slides, splash zones, and interactive elements perfect for little ones to explore and have fun.
3. Madagascar Rain Forest
This towering structure evokes the lush jungles of Madagascar and is a haven for thrill-seekers.
It has an impressive collection of 15 water slides, including the Lemur Leap and the Penguins Plummet, guaranteeing an adrenaline rush for guests of all ages.
Heart-Pounding Rides
Alright, thrill-seekers, let’s talk about the rides that’ll get your heart pounding at DreamWorks Water Park.
First off, there’s the Jungle Jammer—seriously, this one’s not for the faint of heart. It’s the second-tallest body slide in the world, towering at a crazy 142 feet.
Then we’ve got Thrillagascar. This bad boy is all about speed. You hop into a launch capsule, and you’re shot downwards at an insane speed. Talk about a rush as you splash into the pool below.
Oh, and don’t forget The Carnivortex. This one’s wild—it actually has a horizontal loop! You’ll be defying gravity and spinning like crazy.
And for a totally different kind of thrill, check out Shrek’s Sinkhole Slammer. You’ll get swirled around a massive funnel before splashing down.
Finally, the Trolls Rainbow Racer is your go-to if you’re looking for some friendly competition. It’s a six-lane mat slide, so grab your crew and see who’s the fastest. Plus, the whole thing is decked out in bright, cheerful Trolls colors.
Family-Friendly Experiences
DreamWorks Water Park isn’t just about adrenaline-pumping thrills; it’s a haven for families seeking a fun day out.
The little ones will love splashing around in the Penguins Frozen Fun Zone, a playful area inspired by the Madagascar crew. It’s perfect for younger kids, with gentle slides and interactive water features to entertain them.
For a more thrilling family experience, check out the Mad Flush—a body bowl slide that sends riders swirling around a giant bowl before splashing down.
Or, take a gentle journey through Shrek-themed scenery on the Bubbly Lazy River, great for a relaxing ride with the whole family.
And if you’re looking for a more serene experience, head over to the Forbidden Waters Hot Tubs. It’s a peaceful escape amid the water park bustle.
The Largest Indoor Wave Pool
Far Far A Bay is a massive indoor wave pool—the biggest in the U.S., in fact. It covers 1.5 acres and holds a whopping 1.5 million gallons of water.
You can catch some waves, float on a tube, or relax in the shallows. The huge glass dome lets in plenty of natural light, so it feels like you’re outdoors, even when it’s not.
No matter the weather, Far Far A Bay is always ready for a beach day.
Character Meet-and-Greets
And hey, let’s not forget one of the coolest things about this New Jersey water park: you meet some of your favorite characters face-to-face!
Throughout the day, you might bump into Shrek, Donkey, or even Puss in Boots. Or perhaps you’ll spot Alex the Lion, King Julien, and the hilarious Penguins of Madagascar waddling around.
It’s a chance to snap some awesome photos and make memories that’ll last long after your visit.
Height Restrictions and Safety
You can rest assured that safety is a top priority at DreamWorks Water Park. The park has specific height restrictions for rides, categorized as follows:
- Up to 36 inches
- 36 to 42 inches
- 42 to 48 inches
- 48 inches and above
And don’t worry about safety—DreamWorks Water Park takes that seriously. They’ve got trained lifeguards all over the place, keeping an eye on everyone so you can focus on having fun.
Plus, they provide life jackets and even require them for younger kids on some slides and in the wave pool, which is a big relief for parents.
Luxurious Amenities and VIP Options
Do you fancy a VIP experience? If so, DreamWorks Water Park offers 31 luxury cabanas designed by renowned interior designer Jonathan Adler.
They offer cool amenities like comfy seating and great views of the park, making them a perfect little oasis amid all the fun.
These cabanas provide a private retreat and come in various sizes:
- Poolside Cabanas (4-5 guests): Starting at $300
- Skybox Suites:
- Ocean Suite (650 sq ft): Non-Peak: $1000 | Peak: $1200 (16 guests)
- Sea Suite (400 sq ft): Non-Peak: $600 | Peak: $900 (10 guests)
- Bay Suite (250 sq ft): Non-Peak: $400 | Peak: $700 (8 guests)
Tips for an Enjoyable Visit
We’re positive you want to ensure your DreamWorks Water Park adventure is all smiles and no stress. So, here are a few insider tips to help you navigate the park like a pro:
- Check the Hours: The park’s hours vary depending on the day of the week and season, so be sure to check their website for the latest schedule before you go.
- Arrive Early: It’s best to arrive before the park opens, especially on weekends or holidays. This allows you to secure prime seating and reduce wait times for popular rides.
- Getting There:
- By Car: Park in Lot B or C for $4 daily.
- Rideshare: Drop-off locations are available at A Hub and C Hub.
- Public Transportation: On weekends and holidays, take the NJ TRANSIT 355 Bus from Gate 305 at Port Authority Bus Terminal, which operates hourly and takes only 16 minutes.
- Lockers for Valuables: Leave valuables at home, but the park has wristband-enabled lockers available for rent at $12 for small, $15 for medium, and $20 for large lockers.
- Waterproof Your Gear: Bring or purchase a waterproof case with a neck strap for your phone. It’s handy for staying connected with your group and capturing memories throughout the day.
- Forgot a Bathing Suit? The park sells a variety of options, so you can quickly grab what you need on-site.
A Day of Fun Awaits at the Best New Jersey Water Park
And that’s a wrap!
As we’ve seen today, DreamWorks Water Park at American Dream is more than your typical water park. It’s a place where thrills, chills, and good times collide, all under one roof.
You’ve got awesome rides, chances to meet your favorite characters, and top-notch safety measures, making it a great option for a day of fun, no matter your age.
Whether it’s a spontaneous day trip or a planned celebration, this place has you covered.
And hey, it’s open year-round, so there’s no need to wait for summer.
Thus, if you’re looking to make some memories, DreamWorks Water Park is definitely worth a visit.