NJ still goes to malls. Not as much as they used to, for sure, hence some NJ malls downsizing, but it’s still a part of the culture, in my experience. I think the American Dream has a lot going for it, and enough unique attractions for it to break apart from the pack (North Jersey is already home to many large luxury malls), but it just seems like such a hassle. Not to mention, they’re trying to recoup any costs they can, so ticket prices for the parks are sky high. Families aren’t gonna pay those day ticket prices, and they didnt for the few months they were open. The park was dead all winter.
I think they have a fighting chance if they can
1) Provide the unique variety of stores and attractions they promised.
2) Streamline the experience and make it more fun and accessible for families. (Like, sell food in your parks, to start?)
3) Bring down the price for attractions. I know they think they’re catering to tourists, but they’re smack dab in the middle of one of the most densely populated areas in the country. Why would you not take advantage of that? Tourists will not leave NYC to visit this mall. At least not in the numbers they need to keep the mall alive.