Mall Of America Map Stores
Mall of America is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. It is located in Bloomington, Minnesota, and attracts millions of visitors every year. The mall is home to more than 500 stores, restaurants, and attractions, making it a shopper’s paradise. However, there is more to Mall of America than just shopping. From family-friendly activities to outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more.
Top Attractions
Mall of America is not just a shopping mall; it is an entertainment destination. Some of the top attractions at the mall include:
Nickelodeon Universe
This is the largest indoor theme park in the United States. It features more than 27 rides, including roller coasters, zip lines, and a ropes course. There is something for all ages, from the little ones to thrill-seekers.
Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium
This is an underwater adventure that takes you through a 300-foot-long tunnel surrounded by sharks, turtles, and other sea creatures. There are also interactive exhibits and touch pools where you can get up close with the marine life.
FlyOver America
This is a virtual flight experience that takes you on a breathtaking tour of the United States. You will soar over iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and cityscapes.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are a must-visit, there are also some hidden gems at Mall of America that are worth exploring. These include:
Crayola Experience
This is a colorful world of creativity where you can make your own crayons, create digital art, and play in the interactive playground. It is a great place for kids and adults to unleash their imagination.
The Escape Game
This is a thrilling adventure where you have to solve puzzles, find clues, and escape from a locked room. It is a fun activity for families, friends, and team building.
The LEGO Store
This store is a paradise for LEGO fans of all ages. It features life-size LEGO sculptures, interactive play areas, and a wide selection of LEGO sets and accessories.
Food Scene
Mall of America has a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best places to eat:
Shake Shack
This is a popular chain that serves delicious burgers, hot dogs, and shakes. It is a great place to grab a quick bite or a meal with friends.
Twin City Grill
This restaurant offers classic American comfort food, such as meatloaf, mac and cheese, and burgers. It has a cozy atmosphere and friendly service.
Bistro 808
This is a hidden gem that serves Asian fusion cuisine. The menu includes sushi, noodle bowls, and bento boxes. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Mall of America can be an expensive place to visit, but there are some tips to save money:
Use Coupons
Check the mall’s website or coupon books for discounts on attractions, restaurants, and stores.
Visit on Weekdays
Weekends and holidays are the busiest times at the mall. Visiting on weekdays can save you money on accommodations and transportation.
Take Advantage of Free Activities
There are many free activities at Mall of America, such as the LEGO play area, the Nickelodeon Universe meet and greets, and the Sea Life touch pool.
Outdoor Adventures
Mall of America is not just an indoor attraction; there are also plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy. These include:
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
This is a beautiful nature reserve that offers hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. It is only a few minutes’ drive from the mall.
Hyland Hills Ski Area
This is a ski resort that offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. It is a great place to escape the winter blues.
Minnesota Zoo
This is a large zoo that features animals from all over the world, including tigers, giraffes, and bears. It has indoor and outdoor exhibits and offers educational programs.
Family-Friendly Activities
Mall of America is a great place for families with kids. Here are some of the best family-friendly activities:
LEGO Imagination Center
This store is a dream come true for LEGO lovers. It has interactive play areas, life-size LEGO sculptures, and a wide selection of LEGO sets and accessories.
The Big Ticket Adventure Pass
This pass gives you access to all the top attractions at Mall of America, including Nickelodeon Universe, Sea Life, and FlyOver America. It is a great value for families.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
This is a fun activity where kids can create their own stuffed animals. They can choose the animal, stuff it, and dress it up in cute outfits.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you want to explore beyond the mall, there are also some off-the-beaten-path experiences to discover. These include:
Mall of America Transit Center
This is a transportation hub that connects the mall to the Twin Cities metro area. It is a great place to people-watch and see the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Works Museum
This is a hands-on science museum that is geared towards kids. It features interactive exhibits and workshops that teach engineering, technology, and design.
Minnesota Streetcar Museum
This museum offers a nostalgic trip back in time on vintage streetcars. It takes you through the scenic neighborhoods of Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Natural Wonders
Minnesota is known for its natural beauty, and there are some natural wonders to explore near Mall of America:
Minnehaha Falls
This is a stunning waterfall that is located in Minnehaha Park. It is a great place for a picnic, hiking, and photography.
Chain of Lakes
This is a chain of lakes that is located in the heart of Minneapolis. It offers boating, fishing, and scenic walks.
Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
This is a large park that features a zoo, a conservatory, and a lake. It is a great place to spend a day outdoors.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you are looking for some nightlife, Mall of America has plenty of options. Here are some of the best places to check out:
House of Comedy
This is a comedy club that features some of the best comedians in the country. It offers food and drinks and is a great place for a night out with friends.
The Escape Game
This is a thrilling adventure where you have to solve puzzles, find clues, and escape from a locked room. It is a fun activity for families, friends, and team building.
GameWorks
This is a gaming center that offers arcade games, billiards, and virtual reality experiences. It is a great place for gamers and non-gamers alike.
Local Markets
Minnesota is known for its farmers’ markets and local produce. Here are some of the best markets near Mall of America:
Minneapolis Farmers Market
This is a large farmers’ market that offers fresh produce, flowers, and crafts. It has been around for over 80 years and is a local institution.
Midtown Global Market
This is an indoor market that offers international cuisine, artisanal products, and cultural events. It is a great place to experience the diversity of Minneapolis.
Mill City Farmers Market
This is a farmers’ market that is located in the historic Mill District of Minneapolis. It offers fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts. There are also cooking demonstrations and live music.
Beaches and Mountains
Minnesota may not have a coastline or mountains, but there are some great places to enjoy the outdoors. Here are some of the best beaches and mountains near Mall of America:
Lake Minnetonka
This is a large lake that offers boating, fishing, and swimming. There are also restaurants and shops along the shore.
Taylor’s Falls
This is a state park that is located on the St. Croix River. It offers hiking, rock climbing, and scenic views.
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