American Dream mega mall, which didn’t get the opportunity to fully open pre-pandemic, will introduce its retail stores and reopen its indoor theme parks and entertainment experiences on Oct. 1.
DreamWorks Water Park, Nickelodeon Universe, Out of This World Blacklight Mini Golf, and The Rink will reopen their doors after closing to the public in March along with other non-essential businesses. Retailers including H&M, Primark and ZARA will open for the first time.
The entertainment and retail businesses will join Big SNOW, American Dream’s indoor ski hill, which has been open since Sept. 1.
Reduced attendance levels and extensive health and safety protocols will be observed upon reopening.
“We know that our community has been waiting to return, but it was important to us that we took the proper time and precautions needed to welcome guests back in the safest possible manner,” said Co-Chief Executive Officer Mark Ghermezian. “The last several months have been difficult for everyone, and even though we are still adjusting to the new normal, we are confident that we can provide guests a safer environment to make dreams come true for everyone, everywhere, as well as create much needed job opportunities in New Jersey.”
Don Ghermezian at American Dream’s opening on Oct. 25, 2019. – DANIEL J. MUNOZ
Co-CEO Don Ghermezian extended gratitude for Gov. Phil Murphy, his administration, the New Jersey Department of Health, the Legislative delegation, County Executive Jim Tedesco and his team, and the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority for their collective efforts throughout this process to get to a safe reopening.
American Dream’s COVID-19 health and safety plan was built in partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health. Additional details around this partnership between the two entities will be announced soon.
As expected, face coverings will be required for entry, and reduced capacity will be enforced. There will be increased sanitizing and disinfecting throughout American Dream common areas and attractions; and hand sanitizer stations will be available throughout the mall.
Reservations at each of American Dream’s attractions are strongly encouraged.
Kirkos
“American Dream is an economic imperative for the Greater Meadowlands region and the entire New Jersey economy. The opening and success of this world class facility makes the Meadowlands a primary destination which will provide thousands of jobs and millions of dollars of economic impact for communities,” Meadowlands Chamber President and CEO Jim Kirkos in a prepared statement.
“American Dream generates huge visitation for the region, filling hotels and in turn drives visitors to other local destinations. American Dream will be the economic engine for the Meadowlands Sports Complex, helping us attract the world’s most notable events. New Jersey needs American Dream to help revive its economy in a post-COVID-19 era,” Kirkos said.
A representative for American Dream told NJBIZ via email that the company will release more information closer to opening day.
