Discover Bloomington, MN - Where Adventure and Shopping Converge
Explore Bloomington, MN: Home to the Mall of America, thrilling attractions, and serene nature. Plan your perfect family getaway or shopping adventure.
Welcome to Bloomington, Minnesota, a vibrant heartland city where epic entertainment, unparalleled retail therapy, and serene natural beauty converge seamlessly. Nestled just minutes from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), Bloomington is renowned as the home of the legendary Mall of America, a mega-destination that transcends mere shopping with its thrilling attractions and diverse dining experiences. From the adrenaline rush of indoor amusement park rides to the tranquil whispers of ancient wetlands, Bloomington promises a diverse and unforgettable adventure for every kind of traveler.
Prepare to be captivated by a city that defies expectations, offering a unique blend of urban excitement and peaceful retreats. Whether you’re seeking family fun, a shopping spree, or a quiet escape into nature, Bloomington serves as a dynamic hub ready to deliver an experience as expansive and varied as the Minnesota landscape itself.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
Bloomington’s Dual Charms: Urban Thrills and Natural Escapes
Bloomington truly embodies a destination of contrasts, effortlessly blending the artificial wonder of human ingenuity with the breathtaking artistry of the natural world. Its magnetic appeal lies in this unique synergy, where a morning might be spent exploring a vast indoor universe of shops and rides, and an afternoon could find you kayaking through protected national wildlife refuges. This harmonious coexistence ensures that every visit, whether spontaneous or meticulously planned, reveals a new facet of its distinctive character.
Beyond the magnetic pull of its famous attractions, Bloomington prides itself on its strategic position. It serves as an ideal launchpad for further exploration into the wider Twin Cities area, connecting visitors to the cultural riches of Minneapolis and St. Paul with remarkable ease. This convenient access, combined with its own substantial offerings, solidifies Bloomington’s reputation as a destination that not only entertains but also enriches, providing a gateway to the diverse experiences Minnesota has to offer.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Mall of America
Explore over 500 stores, dozens of restaurants, and major attractions like Nickelodeon Universe and SEA LIFE Aquarium all under one roof.
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Discover thousands of acres of preserved wetlands and forests, perfect for birdwatching, hiking, biking, and enjoying serene natural beauty.
Nickelodeon Universe
Experience thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions at the largest indoor theme park in the United States, located inside the Mall of America.
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
Enjoy year-round outdoor activities including skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in winter, and hiking, biking, and disc golf in warmer months.
The Icons You’ll Want to See
Mall of America (MOA) — More than just a shopping center, this colossal destination is an entire universe of entertainment. With over 500 stores, 50 restaurants, and numerous attractions, it demands days to fully explore. Expect to spend 1-3 days depending on your interests.
Nickelodeon Universe — Nestled within the Mall of America, this full-scale indoor amusement park boasts roller coasters and family-friendly rides, perfect for all ages. An all-day wristband typically costs around $45-50/person.
SEA LIFE Aquarium — Dive into an immersive underwater world, also located inside MOA. Walk through a 300-foot ocean tunnel, encounter sharks, turtles, and rays, and discover thousands of aquatic creatures. Allow 2-3 hours for your visit; tickets are approximately $25-30/person.
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge — Just minutes from the urban bustle, this expansive refuge offers thousands of acres of preserved wetlands, forests, and prairies. It’s a haven for birdwatching, hiking, biking, and kayaking, providing a tranquil escape. Admission is free, and you can easily spend half a day exploring.
Hyland Lake Park Reserve — A year-round recreational gem. In warmer months, enjoy disc golf or hiking. When winter arrives, it transforms into a snowy paradise for cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, complete with a ski area. Lift tickets for winter sports are extra, typically $20-40.
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Planning Your Visit
Bloomington offers seamless logistics for travelers. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is literally on its doorstep, making arrival a breeze. From MSP, the Metro Transit Blue Line light rail provides direct access to the Mall of America in about 10-15 minutes (fares typically $2.00-$2.50). Many local hotels also offer complimentary shuttle services to both the airport and the Mall of America. While the light rail connects key areas, renting a car is recommended for exploring attractions beyond the main stops, though ride-sharing services are widely available. Bloomington’s accommodation scene is vast, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts, with many options clustered around MOA (prices generally $100-$250+ per night). Consider booking options like the Radisson Blu Mall of America for direct access or the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park for a family-focused stay.
To make the most of your trip, plan ahead for the Mall of America; download their app or grab a map to navigate its immense footprint, and prioritize your must-see attractions. Weekdays are generally less crowded. If visiting multiple MOA attractions, consider purchasing a multi-attraction pass or a Big Ticket combo for savings. Remember, Minnesota offers the added perk of no sales tax on clothing or shoes, making it a prime shopping destination. While MOA boasts endless dining, venture out to local Bloomington spots like Hazelwood Food and Drink or Fat Lorenzo’s for diverse culinary experiences. If visiting between November and March, pack warm layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots; even with abundant indoor activities, venturing outside requires proper cold-weather gear. MOA also offers ample free parking, but hotel shuttles are a convenient alternative.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (June-August) & Holiday Season (Late November-December)
Pros
- Best weather for outdoor activities during summer
- All attractions are fully operational and vibrant
- Festive atmosphere during the holiday season
- Longer daylight hours in summer for extended exploration
Cons
- Highest crowds, especially at the Mall of America
- Higher prices for accommodations and flights
- Summer can be humid with occasional thunderstorms
- Holiday season brings very cold temperatures
Shoulder Season: Spring (April-May) & Fall (September-October)
Pros
- Fewer crowds than peak season
- Pleasant weather, especially in early fall
- Beautiful natural scenery with spring blooms or fall colors
- Better deals on lodging compared to peak times
Cons
- Weather can be variable, especially in early spring
- Some outdoor attractions might have limited hours early/late in the season
- Chance of cooler temperatures requiring layers
- Not ideal for specific summer-only or winter-only activities
Off-Peak: Winter (January-March, excluding holidays)
Pros
- Lowest crowds at the Mall of America (after holidays)
- Best opportunities for significant hotel discounts
- Opportunities for winter sports like skiing and tubing
- Cozy indoor atmosphere for shopping and entertainment
Cons
- Extremely cold and snowy weather limits outdoor activities
- Shorter daylight hours
- Potential for travel delays due to heavy snowfall
- Many outdoor-focused attractions may be closed or difficult to access
Bloomington, Minnesota, is a destination that truly delivers on its promise of diverse and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re drawn by the magnetic pull of world-class entertainment and retail, the serene beauty of its natural landscapes, or its convenient gateway status to the broader Twin Cities, this dynamic city offers a compelling reason to visit, making every moment of your journey a memorable one.
Sample Itineraries
Family Fun & Shopping Spree
An action-packed itinerary focused on the Mall of America's attractions, shopping, and diverse dining experiences, perfect for families or groups.
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Day 1: Mall Mania & Nickelodeon Thrills
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Arrive in Bloomington, MN, and head straight to the Mall of America. If staying nearby, consider taking a complimentary hotel shuttle or a short ride-share to the East Parking Ramp entrance for direct access to Level 1. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at IHOP (Level 1, East side). Expect to spend $30-$40 for two. After breakfast, take some time to orient yourselves and explore unique stores like The LEGO Store (Level 1, East). This store is great for all ages, with impressive LEGO displays and interactive zones. Allow 1-1.5 hours here.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Grab a quick and casual lunch at the Canyon Market Food Court (Level 3, West), offering diverse options from Chinese to burgers. Budget $25-$35 for two. Following lunch, dive into the heart of the mall: Nickelodeon Universe (Central Park Area). Purchase all-day wristbands for endless rides and attractions. Costs are approximately $50-$65 per person, depending on the season and day. Allow a minimum of 4-5 hours to enjoy the roller coasters, character meet-and-greets, and various family-friendly rides. Nickelodeon Universe is centrally located and easily accessible from anywhere in the mall.
- Evening (5:30 PM Onwards) After an action-packed afternoon, it’s time to refuel. Head to Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (Level 4, South) for a fun, themed dinner experience. Enjoy seafood specialties and American favorites in a lively atmosphere inspired by Forrest Gump. Expect to spend $70-$90 for two, including drinks. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the mall, perhaps catching a movie at B&B Theatres (Level 4, East) if you’re up for it, or simply enjoying the evening ambiance.
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Day 2: Aquatic Wonders & Creative Explorations
- Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Start your day with breakfast at Cedars Restaurant (Level 3, West) for a quick and fresh option, or grab pastries and coffee from Starbucks (various locations). Budget $20-$30. Then, descend into the underwater world at SEA LIFE at Mall of America (Level 1, East). Explore thousands of marine creatures, walk through the 300-foot-long ocean tunnel, and marvel at sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays. Admission is approximately $25-$30 per person. Allow 2-2.5 hours for a comprehensive visit. It’s an easy walk from the East side restaurants.
- Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:30 PM)
For lunch, consider Shake Shack (Level 3, North) for delicious burgers and milkshakes, budgeting $30-$40 for two. After lunch, choose your adventure:
- Option A: Crayola Experience (Level 3, East). Dive into 25 hands-on attractions where colors come to life. Create your own crayon, star in a coloring page, or melt crayons into unique shapes. Admission is around $25 per person. Allow 2.5-3 hours.
- Option B: FlyOver America (Level 1, West). Experience an exhilarating flight simulation ride across America’s most iconic landscapes. Tickets are approximately $20-$25 per person. The experience itself is about 15-20 minutes, but allow extra time for pre-show and queuing. After your chosen attraction, dedicate some time to shopping! Explore popular stores like H&M (Level 1 & 2, East), Zara (Level 1 & 2, North), or the vast selection at Macy’s (North and West Anchors).
- Evening (5:30 PM Onwards) For dinner, enjoy a more upscale yet family-friendly dining experience at Twin City Grill (Level 1, West), offering classic American fare with a modern twist. Expect to spend $80-$100 for two. Alternatively, for a unique twist, try Rainforest Cafe (Level 1, South) for an immersive jungle-themed meal with animatronic animals and thunder showers, also around $70-$90 for two. After dinner, enjoy a final evening walk, maybe grab some dessert from Doc Popcorn (various kiosks) before heading back.
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Day 3: Iconic Finds & Farewell Fun
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Start your final day with a casual breakfast at Panera Bread (Level 1, East), known for its fresh bagels, pastries, and coffee. Budget $25-$35. After breakfast, revisit The LEGO Store (Level 1, East) if you didn’t get enough time on Day 1, or explore other unique flagship stores like The American Girl Store (Level 1, West) for a special experience, even if just browsing. Then, head to M&M’s World (Level 1, South) for colorful candies and merchandise. These stores offer interactive elements and great photo opportunities, making them fun for all ages. Allow 1.5-2 hours for this exploration.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Enjoy a final lunch at The Old Spaghetti Factory (Level 1, West) for classic Italian-American dishes in a charming, nostalgic setting, budget $40-$50 for two. This is a great value with generous portions. After lunch, dedicate your remaining time to last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit any stores you particularly enjoyed. The Mall of America Welcome Center (Level 1, East) can assist with package shipping if you’ve done a lot of shopping. This is also a good time to pick up any specialty items, perhaps from Cabela’s (Level 1, West - outside the main mall, accessible via skyway) if you’re into outdoor gear, or local Minnesota-themed items from various gift shops.
- Evening (4:00 PM Onwards) Depending on your departure schedule, you might opt for an early light dinner or snacks. Sbarro (Level 3, East Food Court) or Auntie Anne’s Pretzels (various kiosks) are great for a quick and easy bite before heading to the airport or beginning your journey home. Budget $15-$25. Reflect on your fun-filled family and shopping spree in Bloomington, MN!
Nature & Retail Escape
Combines the thrill of the Mall of America with the tranquility of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge for a balanced trip.
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Day 1: Wilderness Serenity & Retail Revelry
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Begin your escape with the tranquility of nature at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Head to the Bloomington Education and Visitor Center (3815 American Blvd E, Bloomington, MN 55425). This is approximately a 10-15 minute drive (4-5 miles) from most hotels near the Mall of America. Explore the interactive exhibits inside, then venture out onto the scenic trails of the Wilkie Unit. A popular route is the paved trail leading to the historic Old Cedar Avenue Bridge, offering stunning views of the Minnesota River and opportunities for birdwatching. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water.
- Estimated Cost: Free (Refuge entry). Ride-share/taxi round trip from MOA area: ~$25-35.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM)
Transition from nature to retail paradise as you arrive at the Mall of America. Start with lunch at a vibrant spot like Crave American Kitchen & Sushi Bar on Level 3 for a diverse menu (Estimated Cost: $50-70 for two). After fueling up, dive into some retail therapy. Explore the mall’s four levels, browsing stores ranging from flagship brands to unique boutiques. Dedicate this time to casual shopping, identifying stores you might want to revisit for serious purchases later.
- Estimated Cost: Lunch ~$50-70. Shopping is variable.
- Evening (6:00 PM onwards)
For dinner, experience a lively atmosphere at Cantina Laredo (Level 3, West) for upscale Mexican cuisine (Estimated Cost: $70-100 for two, including drinks). After dinner, immerse yourselves in an aquatic adventure at SEA LIFE at Mall of America (Level 1, East). Walk through the immersive underwater tunnel, marvel at sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays. Allow 1.5-2 hours for the aquarium.
- Estimated Cost: Dinner ~$70-100. SEA LIFE Aquarium tickets: ~$25-30 per person ($50-60 for two).
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
Begin your escape with the tranquility of nature at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Head to the Bloomington Education and Visitor Center (3815 American Blvd E, Bloomington, MN 55425). This is approximately a 10-15 minute drive (4-5 miles) from most hotels near the Mall of America. Explore the interactive exhibits inside, then venture out onto the scenic trails of the Wilkie Unit. A popular route is the paved trail leading to the historic Old Cedar Avenue Bridge, offering stunning views of the Minnesota River and opportunities for birdwatching. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water.
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Day 2: Amusement Adventures & Farewell Flavors
- Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM)
Dedicate your morning to the thrilling attractions within the Mall of America. Start with an exhilarating virtual flight experience at FlyOver America (Level 1, West), which takes you soaring across breathtaking landscapes of the USA (Estimated time: 30 minutes including pre-show). Following this, embrace the fun at Nickelodeon Universe (Center of the mall). Choose a few key rides that appeal to you (individual ride tickets are an option, or a wristband if you plan to ride many). Alternatively, for a unique and creative experience, you could visit the Crayola Experience instead (Estimated Time: 2-3 hours).
- Estimated Cost: FlyOver America tickets: ~$20-25 per person ($40-50 for two). Nickelodeon Universe (e.g., 2-3 rides each): ~$30-40 total.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:00 PM)
Enjoy a casual and satisfying lunch at Shake Shack (Level 3, North) for gourmet burgers and shakes (Estimated Cost: $30-40 for two). This is your last chance for any souvenir shopping or picking up items you spotted yesterday. Stroll through any remaining areas of interest or revisit a favorite store. This time also allows for a relaxing coffee break at a spot like Nordstrom Ebar or Starbucks.
- Estimated Cost: Lunch ~$30-40. Shopping variable. Coffee/snack ~$15-20.
- Evening (4:30 PM onwards)
Depending on your departure schedule, enjoy a relaxed final meal near the Mall of America. For a comforting American fare, Twin City Grill (Level 1, South) offers a great menu in a pleasant setting (Estimated Cost: $60-80 for two). This provides a nice opportunity to reflect on your balanced escape, enjoying both the natural beauty and retail excitement Bloomington has to offer, before heading home.
- Estimated Cost: Dinner ~$60-80.
- Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM)
Dedicate your morning to the thrilling attractions within the Mall of America. Start with an exhilarating virtual flight experience at FlyOver America (Level 1, West), which takes you soaring across breathtaking landscapes of the USA (Estimated time: 30 minutes including pre-show). Following this, embrace the fun at Nickelodeon Universe (Center of the mall). Choose a few key rides that appeal to you (individual ride tickets are an option, or a wristband if you plan to ride many). Alternatively, for a unique and creative experience, you could visit the Crayola Experience instead (Estimated Time: 2-3 hours).
Total Estimated Costs (for 2 people, excluding accommodation and personal shopping): ~$370 - $485. This leaves ample room within the $900 budget for personal shopping, transportation from/to the airport, and accommodation (which can range from $150-250 per night in Bloomington).
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