Bass Pro Shops is opening the doors to its newest location in New Jersey, and it's making a big splash.
The new Sayreville store is the largest single-story Bass Pro Shops in the United States, featuring more than just outdoor gear. Visitors will find an 80,000-gallon aquarium stocked with hundreds of fish, interactive stingray encounters, a restaurant, bowling lanes and arcade games.
Store leaders say the location was designed to be a destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, while also celebrating New Jersey's unique outdoor culture.
The store features artwork and murals highlighting the state's wildlife, fishing and conservation efforts. It also includes a dedicated saltwater fishing department, a feature Bass Pro Shops says is unique to the Sayreville location because of its proximity to the Jersey Shore.
"This is a destination store people love coming not just to buy something, not just because of the brand but because of the vision," said General Manager Alex Rusanov.
After years of planning and construction, crews are putting the finishing touches on the store ahead of its grand opening celebration Wednesday at 5 p.m.
Officials expect as many as 15,000 people to attend and are urging visitors to arrive early and prepare for traffic delays. Overflow parking will be available on-site and at EPIC Church. Guests can also park at Woodbridge Center or the South Amboy Ferry Terminal and take a free shuttle to the store.