Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, isn’t just a mall. It’s a full-blown vacation destination with over 520 stores, an indoor theme park, an aquarium, and enough restaurants to eat somewhere new every meal for weeks. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a weekend getaway with friends, or just passing through the Twin Cities, there’s something here for every kind of visitor.
Key Takeaways:
- Mall of America is home to major attractions like Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and the longest indoor zip line in North America
- Bloomington offers tax-free shopping on clothing and shoes, plus easy light rail access from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport
- You’ll find entertainment for all ages, from comedy clubs and escape rooms to mini golf and a 13-screen movie theater
- CozySuites offers stylish condos and apartments in Minneapolis, just minutes from all the action
Ready to plan your trip? Book a CozySuites stay in Minnesota and make the Mall of America your backyard.
Top Attractions Inside the Mall of America
MOA is literally a city under one roof. With more than 520 stores and dozens of attractions and entertainment options, you could spend days here and still not see everything. Here are the heavy hitters you don’t want to miss.
Nickelodeon Universe
Nickelodeon Universe is the centerpiece of the Mall of America, and it’s the largest indoor theme park in North America. It features 27+ rides and attractions for all ages, from junior rides like PAW Patrol Adventure Bay to thrill rides like the SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge roller coaster.
The park is always 72° and sunny inside, so the weather is never a factor. Park hours are typically 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and tickets start at $41.99 for unlimited ride wristbands on deal days. Families love that little ones and thrill-seekers can all find something to ride without leaving the building.
Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday to score the Friends and Family Deal, which saves $20 on unlimited ride wristbands. Check the Nickelodeon Universe website for current promotional dates before your visit.
SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium
Located on the east side of the mall, SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium lets you walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, sea turtles, and thousands of aquatic creatures. It’s a great experience for families with younger kids and anyone who wants a break from the shopping and rides.
Crayola Experience
Kids can create custom crayons, star in their own coloring page, and explore over 20 hands-on activities at the Crayola Experience. It’s one of only five Crayola Experience locations in the country, making it a must-stop for the family.
The LEGO Store
The LEGO store at the Mall of America isn’t your average retail shop. Spanning four stories and 6,500 square feet, it’s one of the largest LEGO stores in the world. You’ll find massive LEGO sculptures, build-your-own stations, and exclusive sets you can’t get anywhere else.
FlyOver America
FlyOver America is a flight simulation ride that soars you across some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes. You’ll feel wind, mist, and scents as you “fly” over mountains, coastlines, and city skylines. It’s a unique experience that appeals to all ages.
Entertainment and Nightlife at MOA
Mall of America doesn’t shut down when the sun goes down. There’s plenty of entertainment that keeps the energy going well into the evening.
Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy
If you’re looking for a comedy club near the Mall of America, you’ve already found one inside it. Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy hosts nationally touring comedians and local acts on a regular schedule, with shows running on Friday and Saturday nights (and often weeknights too). It’s a great date night option or a fun way to wrap up a long day of shopping.
The Escape Game
Test your problem-solving skills at The Escape Game, where groups work together to solve puzzles and “escape” themed rooms within 60 minutes. It’s one of the most popular entertainment options at MOA for groups of friends, coworkers, and families with older kids.
B&B Theatres Bloomington 13
Catch the latest blockbusters at this 13-screen movie theater right inside the mall. B&B Theatres offers a premium viewing experience with comfortable seating and concessions.
Xscape Arcade and Entertainment Center
For a classic arcade experience, Xscape has you covered. You’ll find everything from retro games to modern VR experiences spread across two locations inside the mall.
Pro Tip: Many of MOA’s entertainment venues offer extended hours on weekends. If you’re planning a Saturday night out, check individual venue pages for the most up-to-date schedules.
Shopping at Mall of America
Let’s talk about why people originally started flocking to this place: the shopping. With over 520 stores spread across four levels, Mall of America is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in North America.
Tax-Free Clothing and Shoes
Here’s something many visitors don’t realize: Minnesota has no sales tax on clothing and shoes. That means every pair of sneakers, every jacket, and every outfit you buy at MOA is tax-free. If you love to shop, this alone is worth the trip.
What You’ll Find
The store directory covers just about every category you can think of:
- Clothing and shoes from brands like Nordstrom, Zara, H&M, Nike, and hundreds more
- Home goods at stores like IKEA (located right next to the Mall of America) and various specialty retailers inside the mall
- The latest trends from boutique shops and pop-up stores that rotate throughout the year
- Unique gift shops like the M&M’S Store (24,000 square feet of chocolate heaven) and the Build-A-Bear Workshop
Bandai Namco Cross Store
One of the newest additions to MOA is the Bandai Namco Cross Store, where you can see, touch, and experience products and characters from the Bandai Namco universe. It’s part shop, part interactive experience.
Restaurants Near Mall of America
You won’t go hungry in Bloomington. Between the 50+ dining options inside MOA and the surrounding street of restaurants in the area, there’s a meal for every mood and budget. Here are some standout spots according to the Bloomington dining guide.
- FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar – Upscale American cuisine at the Radisson Blu, celebrating flavors of the North
- CRAVE – A diverse menu featuring sushi, handcrafted burgers, fresh seafood, and gourmet salads inside MOA
- Bloomington ChopHouse – A classic American steakhouse with a modern twist
- Cantina Laredo – Authentic Mexican food inspired by Mexico City cuisine
- Benihana – Teppanyaki-style Japanese cooking right at your table
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. – Family-friendly dining with a Forrest Gump theme inside MOA
For a more local experience, check out 9 Mile Brewing, named after Bloomington’s Nine Mile Creek. They serve locally crafted beer representing styles from around the world.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting with kids, many of the sit-down restaurants inside MOA are family-friendly and located on the upper levels near the attractions. Plan lunch between activities to avoid the dinner rush.
Outdoor Activities and Nearby Attractions
Mall of America is the main draw, but Bloomington and the surrounding Twin Cities area have plenty of things to do beyond the mall’s walls.
Dutchman’s Deck Adventure Course
Thrill-seekers, this one’s for you. Dutchman’s Deck at Nickelodeon Universe features the longest indoor zip line in North America. Called Barnacle Blast, it sends you soaring 55 feet above the park floor. The course also includes the Ghostly Gangplank, the tallest Sky Trail ropes course in the world at 56 feet, plus Anchor Drop, a spiral slide experience.
Dwan Golf Course
If you want to squeeze in a round of golf during your trip, Dwan Golf Course in Bloomington welcomes all skill levels. It’s just minutes from the Mall of America and offers a relaxing change of pace from indoor attractions.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
Families looking for a water park experience will love Great Wolf Lodge, which offers over 50 activities under one roof. It’s located in Bloomington and makes for a perfect full-day outing when you need a break from shopping.
Minnesota Zoo
The Minnesota Zoo in nearby Apple Valley is a short drive from Bloomington and home to hundreds of animal species. It’s one of the top family attractions in the state and a fantastic way to spend a morning or afternoon.
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
For those who want to get outdoors, Hyland Lake Park Reserve spans over 2,500 acres and offers hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing depending on the season. It’s a beautiful escape just minutes from the hustle of the mall.
Getting to the Mall of America from Minneapolis
One of the best things about the Mall of America’s location is how easy it is to access from anywhere in the Twin Cities.
Light Rail from the Airport
The METRO Blue Line connects Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport directly to the Mall of America. The ride takes about 12 minutes, so if you’re flying in, you can literally be browsing stores less than half an hour after landing. No rental car needed.
From Downtown Minneapolis
The same Blue Line light rail runs from downtown Minneapolis to the MOA station. The ride takes roughly 30 minutes and costs just a few dollars each way. It’s the easiest (and cheapest) way to get from the city to the mall without having to deal with parking.
Driving and Parking
If you’re driving, MOA is located right off I-494 in Bloomington with clearly marked exits. Parking is free in all Mall of America ramps, which is a nice bonus considering how much time you’ll want to spend here.
Where to Stay Near the Mall of America
After a full day (or three) of exploring everything Bloomington has to offer, you’ll want a comfortable place to come home to. Instead of a cramped hotel room, consider a spacious condo or apartment through CozySuites in Minnesota.
CozySuites offers stylish, fully furnished rentals in Minneapolis with all the comforts you need: full kitchens, comfortable living spaces, Wi-Fi, and a home-like atmosphere that hotels just can’t match. Whether you’re on a family vacation or in town for work, having your own space to spread out in makes a big difference after a long day of walking through 520 stores.
Our properties are conveniently located, with easy access to the light rail, so the Mall of America, downtown Minneapolis, and the airport are all just minutes away.
FAQ
Is Mall of America close to Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport?
Yes, Mall of America is located just 12 minutes from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport via the METRO Blue Line light rail. You can take the train directly from the airport terminal to the MOA transit station without needing a car.
Do hotels near Mall of America offer shuttle service?
Many hotels in the Bloomington area offer free shuttle service to and from Mall of America. CozySuites offers a different approach with fully furnished condos and apartments in Minneapolis that give you more space and comfort than a traditional hotel, with easy light rail access to the mall.
Can you buy gifts at Mall of America?
Absolutely. MOA has hundreds of specialty and gift shops, including the M&M’S Store, Build-A-Bear Workshop, the LEGO Store, and dozens of unique boutiques. You’ll have no trouble finding a gift for anyone on your list.
Is Mall of America good for a work trip?
MOA and the Bloomington area are great for business travelers. Many of the nearby accommodations (including CozySuites apartments) offer dedicated workspaces and reliable wi fi. You can easily mix in some entertainment or dining between meetings, and the light rail connection to downtown Minneapolis makes commuting simple.
What are the latest trends in shopping at Mall of America?
Mall of America regularly rotates pop-up shops and adds new retailers to keep the experience fresh. Recent additions include the Bandai Namco Cross Store and several interactive retail concepts that blend shopping with entertainment. Visit the official MOA attractions page to learn about the newest stores and experiences before your trip.
What time does Mall of America open on Saturday?
Mall of America typically opens at 10 a.m. on Saturday, though individual stores and attractions may have slightly different hours. Nickelodeon Universe and several restaurants also offer extended hours on weekends. It’s always a good idea to check the official Mall of America website for the most current schedule before planning your visit.
