Seven Reasons to Turn a Visit to Mall of America into a Weekend Family Getaway
September 10, 2014
Mall of America, located in Bloomington, Minnesota – only 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul – makes for a fabulous family weekend getaway. One of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, Mall of America features over 500 stores, 50 restaurants and entertainment attractions galore, including the largest indoor theme park in the U.S. As an added bonus, there’s no sales tax on clothing or shoes! With so many fantastic things to see and do, here are seven reasons to turn a visit to the Mall of America into a weekend getaway.
Nickelodeon Universe
Nickelodeon Universe, located within the Mall of America, is the nation’s largest indoor theme park. No matter the weather, this one-of-a-kind theme park delivers loads of family fun thanks to its seven acres of unique attractions and entertainment. Kids will have the chance to not only experience a great selection of rides – from Diego’s Rescue Rider to the more thrilling coasters like the Avatar Airbender – but they’ll also have a chance to meet their fave Nick characters. Learn more at nickelodeonuniverse.com
SEA LIFE® Minnesota Aquarium
The all-new SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium at Mall of America will give you an up close and personal encounter with over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks, sea turtles, rays, jellyfish, seahorses and more. See if you can spot the giant green sea turtle as you travel the 300 ft long Ocean Tunnel at the Atlantis Temple exhibit or pop your head into the special viewing bubbles at the Ray Lagoon exhibit. visitsealife.com/minnesota
LEGO Store
If you have a LEGO lover in your life, a visit to the completely remodeled LEGO Store is a Mall of America must-do. Fill a bucket of bricks at the giant pick-a-Brick wall with 180 different LEGO elements to choose from, test out LEGO sets at the many play tables and check out the eight larger-than-life models including a LEGO robot towering over 34 feet tall! lego.com
Theatres at Mall of America
You’ll find a whopping 14 theatres at the Mall of America, offering a unique blend of major motion pictures and independent films. Expect perks such as digital projection including 4K, digital sound, 3D capabilities and D-BOX motion seating. The Theatres also offer hearing/vision impaired equipment. Save big and maybe meet a celebrity or two by checking out available promotions before you go at theatresmoa.com/event/
American Girl Minneapolis
At American Girl Minneapolis, also located within the mall, girls can find all of their favorite dolls – from historical favorites to My American Girl dolls to the current Girl of the Year – plus Bitty Baby and the Bitty Twins. The American Girl Bistro features fun appetizers, two-course lunch and dinner specials, and a large selection of rich and creamy desserts – all of which can be enjoyed with your favorite doll, who will receive a tea-cup and saucer and a few treats of her own, too. americangirl.com
Barbie: The Dreamhouse Experience
Step into the home of the world’s most famous fashion icon, Barbie! This one-of-a-kind, interactive experience gives you the chance to be a doll for a day and live Barbie’s dreamy Malibu lifestyle. A dream kitchen includes colorful appliances and interactive cupcake stations; In the endless closet and shoe room, guests can virtually try on Barbie’s outfits. The 6,500 square foot entertainment area features costumes, a Pop Star Stage, a Fashion Runway while the Barbie Café offers a selection of unique snacks and beverages. The Barbie Dreamhouse Boutique features Barbie the Dreamhouse Experience dolls, available only at the Dreamhouse. mallofamerica.com/attractions/view/barbie-dreamhouse-experience
Onsite, Family-Friendly Hotel
The Radisson Blu Mall of America is directly connected to Mall of America, which means you don’t ever have to battle the elements. 500 contemporary guest rooms and suites, all of which include premier amenities like free high-speed, wireless Internet access and 24-hour room service, will give your family a taste of the luxe life. Get your workout and some spa time in at the fitness center or dive into the indoor swimming pool. The hotel’s FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar offers a timeless mix of classic American heartland flavors. For an afternoon pick up, be sure to pick up a cookie in the lobby! radissonblu.com/hotel-mall-of-america
