IADS Exclusive: Planning to shop in the city? Fuggetaboutit, hit the Jersey malls instead!
Ah, New Jersey—the land of reality stars, endless highways, and the eternal debate over whether Central Jersey exists. But beyond the clichés of big hair, bad drivers, and diners on every corner lies a state where malls are not just shopping destinations but cultural landmarks. One of the smallest states in the country, it is also the most densely populated (410 inhabitants per sq km), logically leading to a high concentration of retail centres, which explains why New Jersey has long been known as the "Mall State".
Two modern retail and entertainment icons stand out: the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford and the Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus. Both destinations showcase the evolution of U.S. shopping malls and highlight the unique character of New Jersey's retail landscape.
The American Dream Mall, a sprawling 278,000 sqm complex, redefines the mall concept by blending retail with world-class entertainment. From an indoor ski slope and water park to luxury shopping, including a Saks Fifth Avenue branch, and family attractions, it offers an immersive experience that caters to visitors of all ages. Meanwhile, the Garden State Plaza, New Jersey’s first major shopping centre, has remained a cornerstone of the state’s retail scene since its opening in 1957. Constantly reinventing itself with high-end stores and modern amenities, it exemplifies resilience and innovation in changing consumer habits. It also houses three department stores, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, all very differently positioned.
These two malls represent different facets of New Jersey’s mall culture: a futuristic entertainment hub and a timeless retail institution. Together, they provide a glimpse into why New Jersey remains central in shaping the mall experience in America. The IADS visited both last January.
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