Things to Do in Bloomington and Mall of America
An indoor theme park, an aquarium and attractions under one roof, next to the airport.
See top-rated activities »About Bloomington
Bloomington, a suburb directly south of Minneapolis, would be an ordinary place to change planes if it were not for Mall of America. Opened in 1992 on the site of the old Metropolitan Stadium, it is one of the largest shopping and entertainment centers in North America, and many visitors come for the attractions rather than the stores.
At the center of the mall, under a skylit roof, Nickelodeon Universe is a full indoor theme park with roller coasters, a log flume and rides for small children, open year-round regardless of the weather. SEA LIFE Minnesota, an aquarium on the lower level, has a long walk-through tunnel with sharks and rays overhead. Other attractions have included the Crayola Experience, the FlyOver America flight-simulation ride, mini golf courses and a Museum of Illusions; the mall's directory lists what is open, since tenants change. Restaurants, bars and a movie theater keep it busy into the evening.
The mall is easy to reach without a car. The METRO Blue Line light rail ends at a station attached to the building and stops at both airport terminals, so some travelers with a long layover ride over for a few hours. Several hotels are connected to or across the road from the mall.
Bloomington also has a quieter side. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge follows the Minnesota River along the city's southern edge, with a visitor center, boardwalks and trails through wetlands where you may see eagles and herons. Normandale Lake and the Japanese garden at Normandale Community College offer a calm break, and the Minnesota Zoo in nearby Apple Valley is a short drive away. Valleyfair, an outdoor amusement park, is a little farther southwest in Shakopee, open in the summer season. Both are easier to reach by car than by transit, so plan a rental or rideshare if they are on your list.
Don’t Miss
Hundreds of stores, restaurants and attractions, with an indoor theme park at its center and light rail to the airport and downtown.
An indoor amusement park with roller coasters and family rides, open every day of the year.
An aquarium on the mall's lower level with an underwater tunnel, sharks, rays and sea turtles.
Hands-on color and craft activities aimed at younger children.
River-bottom wetlands and trails along the Minnesota River, with a visitor center in Bloomington.
A large zoo organized by habitat, about 15 minutes southeast of Bloomington.
Top-Rated Tours, Tickets & Activities in Bloomington
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Get free trip quotes »Bloomington — FAQ
How do I get from the airport to Mall of America?
Take the METRO Blue Line light rail from either airport terminal; the mall station is a few stops south. The ride takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Is Nickelodeon Universe free to enter?
Walking through the park is free. Rides require points or an unlimited ride wristband, which you can buy at the park or in advance online.
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