While many malls across the country are struggling with empty storefronts and dwindling foot traffic, several New Jersey malls are doing just the opposite...they're thriving.

SoJO 104.9 FM logo
Get our free mobile app

As the weather cools down and the days get shorter, malls offer a great indoor escape where you can shop, dine, and enjoy some fun.

I was just at my local mall recenlty, and there are so many great restaurants I haven't tried yet...I can't wait to go back.

Another mall on my fall bucket list of places to visit in New Jersey recently made the USA Today 10BEST list for "ultimate shopping and leisure destinations."

Photo by Pascal Bernardon on Unsplash
loading...

Read More: Popular Discount Grocery Store Set to Open New Location In Ocean County, New Jersey

American Dream In East Rutherford Recognized as One of the Top Malls in America

Coming in at #7 on the list, here's what the editors and readers of USA Today 10Best had to say about this amazing New Jersey mall:

"The American Dream in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is not just a retail outlet, but an entertainment complex that includes a water park, indoor snow resort, and Nickelodeon theme park. Second in size only to the Mall of America, The American Dream Mall is a multi-use destination with over 400 stores and around 100 dining outlets, including 20 full-service restaurants."

If you're wondering about the #1 pick, the big winner was Aventura Mall in Aventura, Florida.

Here's the full list.

I can't wait to check it out. I've been wanting to go for a while now, so I'm excited to finally make the trip this fall!

Walking Through the Saddest Mall in New Jersey

We walked through Hamilton Mall in Mays Landing in September 2025.

Gallery Credit: Chris Coleman

Ocean County Mall Stores and Restaurants We Miss Most

Gallery Credit: Shawn Michaels

These are the long-gone NJ mall stores we miss the most

With so many trends of the 1990's back in style, it's a great time to look back at a strong foundation of 80's and 90's culture — New Jersey mall shopping. Some stores were a highlight, every trip.

Gallery Credit: Erin Vogt

More From SoJO 104.9 FM