Nickelodeon Universe

Photo: © Benjamin Lozovsky

Designed by Gensler, there are over 35 rides and attractions inside the Nickelodeon Universe theme park.

Photo: © Angela Pham

On 2 5 O c t o b e r 2019, Nickelodeon U n i v e r s e , t h e l a r g e s t i n d o o r theme park in the Western Hemisphere, and The Rink – an NHL-size ice skating and hockey facility, opened to guests, making the first chapter in the revolutionary d e s t i n a t i o n ’ s o p e n i n g . Adjacent to The Rink, is a window into DreamWorks Water Park, allowing guests a sneak peek at the progress of the largest indoor water park in North America, opening soon.

Inside Nick e l o d e o n Universe theme park, there are over 35 rides and attractions. Nickelodeon Universe has world record breaking rides including The Shellraiser, world’s steepest coaster, The Shredder, world’s tallest and longest indoor spinning coaster, and Skyline Scream, world’s tallest indoor spinning drop tower, and Legends of The Hidden Temple Challenge, the world’s tallest indoor ropes course.

Regarding the architecture of this project, it was important to allow for natural light to fill the space to create an indoor/ outdoor experience. The building form responds to the rides with several ‘pop-ups’ in the roof which allow visitors to see views of the New York City skyline as well. The architect also had to balance creating a circulation path within the amusement park that provides clear sightlines of the 35+ rides and attractions and at a comfortable eye level. From families to thrill seekers, Nickelodeon Universe offers a wide variety of programming that can be enjoyed by all.

Photo: © Samantha

Nandez Joseph Lauro. Photo: © Erin Derby, courtesy of Gensler.

“With entertainment making up more than half of the complex, it was important to design a theme park that offers a memorable and intuitive visitor experience. While Nickelodeon Universe is a traditional theme park, it is uniquely designed to integrate with the retail and dining options at American Dream. Retailers that complement Nickelodeon Universe, such as IT’SUGAR, are located by the park’s entrance and curated for guests to enjoy as they make their way to different entertainment zones. ”

– Joseph Lauro, Managing Director, Principal at Gensler

PROJECT DATA

Project Name: Nickelodeon Universe Location: American Dream, East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA Developer: Triple Five Group Architect Firm: Gensler Total Area: Over 8 acres Completion: October 2019