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Westfield Garden State Plaza

4.5
·23k reviews·Paramus, United States

A massive shopping destination with a diverse mix of upscale and popular stores, a vibrant food court, and family-friendly amenities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful shopping

CrowdLow
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G S Plaza MAll

Westfield Garden State Plaza

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful shopping

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A massive shopping destination with a diverse mix of upscale and popular stores, a vibrant food court, and family-friendly amenities.

4.5
(23k reviews)

"It's a charming shopping spot with a lively food court and great shopping selection for kids and adults."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Get a Mall Map

This large mall has multiple wings. Grab a map or use your phone to avoid getting lost and find stores easily.

🚗 Beware of Valet Parking

Be cautious of valet parking sections; unauthorized parking can result in tickets. Check signage carefully.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Food Court

Vibrant Food Court

Center of the mall

A lively hub with tempting aromas and an upbeat vibe, offering diverse food options from fast food to fine dining.

Diverse Retail Mix

Diverse Retail Mix

Throughout the mall

From upscale boutiques like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's to everyday favorites, find a wide range of stores for all shoppers.

Family-Friendly Activities

Family-Friendly Activities

Various locations

Offers a great selection of activities and shopping for children of all ages, making it a destination for the whole family.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Mall Map

Westfield Garden State Plaza is a sprawling complex. Grab a mall map or use your phone's GPS to navigate its multiple wings and find your desired stores. Planning your route beforehand can save you time and frustration, especially on busy weekends.

Weekend vs. Weekday Visits

Weekends at Westfield Garden State Plaza can be chaotic with crowds and traffic. For a more peaceful shopping experience, consider visiting on a weekday. If you do visit on a weekend, be prepared for security presence and potential parking challenges.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful shopping
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Moderate crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

“Why did Garden State Plaza knock down its Best Buy? The latest on the mall's big overhaul”

🗺️ Get a Mall Map

This large mall has multiple wings. Grab a map or use your phone to avoid getting lost and find stores easily. Reddit

🚗 Beware of Valet Parking

Be cautious of valet parking sections; unauthorized parking can result in tickets. Check signage carefully. Reddit

reddit.com

Can I park at Westfield Garden State Plaza and take a bus to work?

reddit.com

Got a ticket for parking in the valet parking section at Garden State Plaza Mall in Paramus, NJ

🧼 Report Cleanliness Issues

If you notice dirty tables or restrooms, don't hesitate to ask staff for cleaning. Reddit

🚦 Avoid Rush Hour Traffic

Traffic around the mall can be intense during rush hour. Plan your travel accordingly. Reddit

reddit.com

So who was dumb enough to go to the mall today?

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Get a Mall Map

This large mall has multiple wings. Grab a map or use your phone to avoid getting lost and find stores easily. Reddit

🚗 Beware of Valet Parking

Be cautious of valet parking sections; unauthorized parking can result in tickets. Check signage carefully. Reddit

🧼 Report Cleanliness Issues

If you notice dirty tables or restrooms, don't hesitate to ask staff for cleaning. Reddit

🚦 Avoid Rush Hour Traffic

Traffic around the mall can be intense during rush hour. Plan your travel accordingly. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Fun

Plenty of activities and shopping options for kids of all ages. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(23k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Westfield Garden State Plaza offers a vast shopping experience with a diverse range of stores and a lively food court. While many appreciate the variety and atmosphere, some visitors have noted concerns about cleanliness in certain areas and the potential for chaotic weekend crowds and traffic. Reddit+2

"I used to love shopping in here but now it's seems over rated, the place feels like getto, the outside near food court is so dirty and smell
Like marijuana, food court table is dirty and sticky, the cleaner pass by our dirty used table 2x and I got to call her and ask to clean the table I was shocked on her behavior ignoring all dirty tables around her, went Wednesday and it's not busy at all I get to shop peacefully although weekends on this place is chaotic and you will see security everywhere, the bathroom is dirty and not well maintained I don't see any staff cleaning on both restroom area. I tried to avoid coming on weekends, the traffic around in this place is unbelievable specially on the rush hour."

Cherry Wolcoff

"This is a charming shopping spot I visit only occasionally, usually on weekends or when I’m driving through the area. The lively atmosphere of the food court is always a highlight—the inviting aromas and upbeat vibe make it hard to resist stopping for something delicious. Even if I’m not planning to shop much, the overall experience consistently draws me in and keeps the place feeling special each time I visit."

Jacob Rodriguez

"We visit this mall almost every day because it has plenty of activities for children of all ages and offers a great shopping selection for both kids and adults."

Fawzieh B

What People Like

Diverse store selection
Lively food court
Family-friendly options

What People Dislike

Cleanliness issues
Weekend crowds
Traffic congestion

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Westfield Garden State Plaza is accessible by car via major highways like Route 17 and the Garden State Parkway. Public transportation options include various bus routes serving the area. Parking is ample, but be mindful of designated valet sections to avoid tickets. Reddit

Yes, several NJ Transit bus routes stop at or near the mall, making it accessible for those relying on public transport. Check the NJ Transit website for specific route information. Reddit

The mall offers extensive parking lots. However, be aware of valet parking sections, as parking in these areas without using the service can result in a ticket. Reddit

Traffic can be particularly heavy around Westfield Garden State Plaza, especially during rush hours and on weekends. Planning your visit outside of peak times is recommended. Reddit

Yes, using GPS is highly recommended as the mall is large and has multiple entrances and wings. It will help you navigate to the most convenient parking areas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no admission tickets required to enter Westfield Garden State Plaza. It is a public shopping mall. Reddit

Westfield Garden State Plaza typically opens around 10 AM and closes at 9 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly shorter hours on Sundays. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for holiday periods. Reddit

The mall often hosts various events and activities, particularly for families and during holiday seasons. Check the mall's official website or social media for current event listings. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to walk around and shop at Westfield Garden State Plaza. Reddit

Generally, only service animals are permitted inside the mall. It's advisable to check the mall's specific pet policy before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Stores

Westfield Garden State Plaza features a wide array of retailers, including anchor stores like Nordstrom, Macy's, and Bloomingdale's, alongside popular brands such as Zara, Sephora, and Urban Outfitters. Reddit

You can find a comprehensive store directory on the official Westfield Garden State Plaza website. Many visitors also find it helpful to use mall maps available throughout the complex. Reddit

Yes, the mall hosts several upscale and luxury brands, including Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's, offering a premium shopping experience. Reddit

The directory includes a diverse range of stores, from fashion and accessories to electronics, home goods, and specialty shops, catering to various needs and preferences. Reddit

Yes, popular stores like Zara and Sephora are among the many retailers located within Westfield Garden State Plaza. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The mall boasts a vibrant food court with numerous fast-food and casual dining options, as well as sit-down restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Reddit+1

While the food court can be lively, cleanliness can vary. Some visitors have noted issues with dirty tables, but staff are generally responsive if asked to clean. Reddit

In addition to fast food, the mall offers a selection of restaurants that provide a more formal dining experience. Reddit

The food court offers a wide range of choices, from American fast food to international flavors, ensuring there's something to satisfy most cravings. Reddit+1

With the diverse range of eateries, you can typically find healthier options available, depending on your dietary preferences. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

While primarily a shopping destination, the mall's architecture and the lively atmosphere of the food court can offer some interesting visual opportunities for photos. Reddit

The food court, with its bustling energy and diverse food stalls, can be a dynamic backdrop. The main concourses with their varied store displays also offer visual interest. Reddit

For personal photos, it's generally acceptable. However, for professional photoshoots, it's advisable to contact mall management beforehand to inquire about their policy and any necessary permits. Reddit

During holiday seasons, Westfield Garden State Plaza often features elaborate decorations, such as festive lights and displays, which can be excellent backdrops for photos. Reddit

The mall has a mix of natural light from skylights and artificial lighting throughout. This can create varied lighting conditions, so be prepared to adjust your camera settings accordingly. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Westfield Garden State Plaza is a great destination for families, offering a wide array of activities and shopping options for children of all ages. The mall's diverse retail mix includes many stores that cater specifically to kids, from clothing and toys to entertainment. Reddit

Beyond shopping, the mall often hosts family-friendly events and has amenities that make a visit with children more manageable. The food court provides a casual and varied dining experience that can please picky eaters. Planning your visit during weekdays can offer a less crowded and more relaxed experience for families. Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers on a Budget

While Westfield Garden State Plaza hosts upscale retailers, it also offers plenty of options for budget-conscious shoppers. Look for sales at anchor stores like Macy's and explore the numerous mid-range and fast-fashion brands such as Zara. Reddit

Utilizing the mall directory to find discount stores or checking for ongoing promotions can help maximize savings. The food court also provides affordable dining choices compared to sit-down restaurants, making it easier to manage food expenses during your visit. Reddit

🚗 Day-Trippers

For those visiting for the day, Westfield Garden State Plaza offers a comprehensive shopping and dining experience. You can easily spend several hours exploring the diverse stores and enjoying a meal at the food court or one of the sit-down restaurants. Reddit

To make the most of a day trip, consider planning your must-visit stores beforehand using the mall directory. Be mindful of potential traffic delays when planning your arrival and departure times, especially if traveling during peak hours. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Vast Retail Landscape

Westfield Garden State Plaza is one of the largest malls in New Jersey, boasting a comprehensive directory of stores that cater to a wide spectrum of shoppers. From high-end department stores like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's to popular mid-range retailers such as Macy's, Zara, and Sephora, the mall offers an extensive selection. You can find everything from fashion and accessories to electronics, home goods, and specialty items. Planning your visit with a mall map or by checking the online directory beforehand is highly recommended to make the most of your shopping trip. Reddit

Beyond the major anchors, the mall is home to numerous smaller boutiques and brand-specific stores, including PacSun, Vans, and G-Star Raw. This diverse mix ensures that whether you're looking for the latest trends or specific items, you're likely to find them here. For those interested in specific brands, checking the Westfield Garden State Plaza stores list online can save considerable time. Reddit

It's worth noting that the mall's sheer size means you could easily spend an entire day exploring its offerings. For a more efficient visit, consider grouping stores by location or by the type of shopping you intend to do. This strategic approach can help you cover more ground and enjoy a less overwhelming experience. Reddit

The Food Court Experience

The food court at Westfield Garden State Plaza is a central attraction, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings. Visitors often describe it as a place with an 'upbeat vibe' and 'inviting aromas,' making it a popular spot for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. Reddit+1 The selection ranges from classic fast-food chains to more specialized international cuisines, ensuring there's something to satisfy nearly every palate. Reddit

While the energy of the food court is a draw, some patrons have noted that cleanliness can be an issue, particularly with tables. However, reviews suggest that staff are generally responsive when prompted to clean. Reddit This means that while you might encounter a slightly messy table initially, a polite request usually resolves the issue. It's a good idea to be observant and perhaps choose a table that appears relatively clean upon arrival. Reddit

For those looking for more than just fast food, the mall also features a selection of sit-down restaurants, offering a more refined dining experience. This variety ensures that whether you're on a tight schedule or have time to relax, you can find a suitable dining option within the mall. Reddit

Navigating Parking and Traffic

Getting to and around Westfield Garden State Plaza can present challenges, particularly concerning parking and traffic. The mall is a major destination, and as such, it experiences significant traffic congestion, especially during peak hours and on weekends. Visitors are advised to plan their travel accordingly and potentially avoid rush hour if possible. Reddit

A specific point of caution highlighted by visitors is related to valet parking. There have been instances where individuals received tickets for parking in designated valet sections without using the service. It's crucial to pay close attention to signage and understand the rules for different parking areas to avoid unexpected fines. Reddit

Given the mall's size and the potential for traffic, utilizing GPS navigation is highly recommended. This will not only help you find the most direct route to the mall but also assist in locating available parking spots and navigating the complex internal road network. Reddit

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