10 epic adventures for the whole family this summer at American Dream

Step into a world of fun at Nickelodeon Universe, the biggest indoor theme park in the Western Hemisphere. There are rides for the kids and rides made for the ultimate thrillseekers so everyone is sure to enjoy a smile-filled scream. Looking for an after-dark adventure? Nickelodeon Universe offers discounted admission for the last two hours of the park's opening hours where you can climb onto rides that glow and intertwine until closing. This month, the park is celebrating 25 years of the iconic SpongeBob Squarepants, so be sure to stop for a photo with everyone’s favorite sponge who lives at the bottom of the sea!

New York City summer days are unbearable most days, but within the DreamWorks Water Park—which is the largest indoor water park in North America—every day is a perfect tropical day set to 81℉. Swim in pools of different depths, take a seat and slide through tubes and tunnels of every color or dance around with live characters from your favorite DreamWorks movies, like Madagascar and Shrek. For a limited time, Summer Season Splash Passes are available and include access to the water park all summer long at one low price. 

Challenge your friends and family to a round of putting at Black Light Mini Golf, where you’ll move around a course with glow sticks and balls that play against the black light backdrops and photo opps. The course is full of 3D sculptures that transport you to another galaxy and, of course, make for epic Instagram moments.

Take in stunning views of the New York City skyline from a communal, private or VIP car (with captain's chairs) inside one of the Dream Wheel’s 37 climate controlled gondolas. All three provide a slow-paced, breathtaking trip, but if you want something for just you, your family and friends along with free drinks, opt for the private car. If you feel like splurging, the VIP package (which you can reserve online before arriving at American Dream) includes free food and drinks from Deep Fried Love, which specializes in carnival classics like foot-long corn dogs, deep-fried Oreos and more. As a VIP, you can also tailor the tunes on your ride to the top by connecting to bluetooth speakers. 

There’s nowhere within arms reach of NYC where you can hit the slopes, even in the middle of a winter wonderland. At American Dream, you can ski or snowboard year round at Big Snow, North America’s only indoor real-snow ski and snowboard park. Not confident in your skills on a board? Big Snow offers an array of lessons for all ages. You’ll also find packages that include all of your rental equipment and access to the slopes. 

Snap selfies, splash around in balloons, balls and bubbles and explore a VR world that will take you into wild places (like inside a champagne glass or into the depths of a bubble bath). This fully interactive experience engages all five senses as you move from one room and experience to another. Dive deep into the bubble pool in their indoor playground, bounce from wall to wall in the balloon room and take photos to remember forever in the selfie pods filled with props and activities to help you get the perfect shot for your next social post.

Year-round, The Rink is usually outfitted with a massive indoor ice skating rink to offer an escape from the heat, but this summer it’s transformed into an indoor roller skating rink (don’t worry, the AC is still cranked up). The Rink is also the place to go for all kinds of entertainment. Stop by until early September to enjoy an array of events celebrating summer fun, from a performance by the Harlem Globetrotters to retro roller skating nights. Not confident on quads? The Rink offers lessons for all ages!  

While the kids are playing in ball pits and making their way down water slides, browse through American Dream’s directory to find your favorite store for some retail therapy. From luxury brands to beauty stores stocked with everything you need to re-up on self care items like face masks and more, you’re sure to find a gift to give yourself a little TLC. Also, if you forget anything at home, like a jacket or socks (which are required at Bubble Planet), there are all types of shops to grab replacements with ease. 

You’ll never be at a loss for someplace to eat at American Dream. From poke to pizza and cheesesteaks to chalupas, everyone in your family is covered with ample food offerings. You’ll also find sit down dining experiences at restaurants like Marcus Live! Bar & Grille, Vinoteca, Yard House and so many more. No matter what kind of food you’re craving, American Dream is the place to indulge and enjoy.

No trip is complete without a sweet treat, and American Dream is full of options the whole family will love. Stop by Lucciano’s for a homemade gelato, IT’Sugar for a three story candy land adventure or the Oreo Cafe for an array of options highlighting the world's favorite sandwich cookie. Whichever you choose—from these three examples to gelato, candy and more—you’re sure to leave on a sweet note.