{"id":309433,"date":"2025-11-21T19:56:48","date_gmt":"2025-11-21T19:56:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/peraltafinancing.com\/uncategorized\/30-fun-things-to-do-at-mall-of-america-besides-shop\/"},"modified":"2025-11-21T19:56:48","modified_gmt":"2025-11-21T19:56:48","slug":"30-fun-things-to-do-at-mall-of-america-besides-shop","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=309433","title":{"rendered":"30 Fun Things to Do at Mall of America (Besides Shop!)"},"content":{"rendered":"


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You\u2019ve heard of the Mall of America. It\u2019s that giant shopping mall in Minnesota<\/strong> with hundreds of retail stores<\/strong> to keep any shopper happy for days. But do you know how much there is to do at the largest mall in the United States<\/strong> besides shop? I have spent a ton of time at the MOA over the years. In fact, for a couple of years, I practically lived at this mega mall, working as a clothing store manager by day and cocktail waitress by night. Whenever I return, even I am surprised by the number and variety of activities at this entertainment complex. Check out these 30 fun things to do at Mall of America<\/strong> in 2026 <\/strong>and beyond!<\/p>\n

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\"Amusements
Orange Crush Roller Coaster at Nickelodeon Universe (Photo courtesy of BloomingtonMN.org)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

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This website sometimes receives compensation, hosted travel, or products related to blog posts. This article may include affiliate links at no extra cost to consumers. As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.<\/em><\/p>\n

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1. Ride Roller Coasters & Kiddie Rides<\/h2>\n

Mall of America is big enough to fit an entire amusement park<\/strong> in its center. Impressively, the indoor Nickelodeon Universe<\/strong><\/a> features dozens of rides<\/strong>. You could easily spend your entire day in this theme park. This is especially true if you buy Unlimited Wristbands<\/a><\/strong>, which allow unlimited rides on almost all Nick attractions.<\/p>\n

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\"SpongeBob\"SpongeBob
SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Thrill-seekers will love SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge<\/strong>, a zippy steel coaster with two inversions. For a more mellow roller coaster experience, choose Pepsi Orange Streak<\/strong> for some fabulous views of the park.\u00a0There\u2019s even a Log Chute<\/strong> ride for park goers who don\u2019t mind getting a little wet.<\/p>\n

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\"Blue's\"Blue's
Blue\u2019s Skidoo in Nickelodeon Universe (Photo credit: Nickelodeon Universe)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Kiddie rides abound at Nickelodeon Universe, too. The Big Rigs<\/strong> ride was a favorite of my Minnesota-native niece and nephews during their preschool years. Little ones also love Blue\u2019s Skidoo<\/strong>, a gentle ride themed after Blue\u2019s Clues, and Bubble Guppies Guppy Bubbler!<\/strong>, where children climb into bubble-shaped gondolas for a spin through the sea.<\/p>\n

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\"Pet\"Pet
Anemones, sea stars, and sea cucumbers in SEA LIFE at Mall of America (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

2. Visit Sea Creatures at SEA LIFE Aquarium<\/h2>\n

SEA LIFE at Mall of America<\/strong> wows visitors with thousands of aquatic animals across multiple immersive exhibits. Buy SEA LIFE Aquarium tickets<\/strong><\/a> in advance from my trusted partner, GetYourGuide. (Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.)<\/p>\n

Pet anemones, sea stars, and sea cucumbers<\/strong> at the Pacific Northwest Rockpool. Next, feed stingrays at the Feed the Rays <\/strong>experience (available for an additional fee). A spectacled caiman<\/strong> in the Rainforest exhibit spooked me with its wide-eyed stare. Most impressive is the 300-foot-long walk-through Ocean Tunnel<\/strong>, filled with sharks, saw fish, rays, turtles, and other ocean creatures.<\/p>\n

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\"FlyOver\"FlyOver
FlyOver America is a memorable ride at Mall of America (Photo courtesy of Mall of America)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

3.\u00a0Fly\u00a0Over the USA<\/h2>\n

Similar to Disney\u2019s Soarin\u2019 Around the World<\/strong> ride, FlyOver America<\/a> at Mall of America is a flight simulation that takes riders on an uplifting journey. Created by the same Imagineer, this immersive 10\u2011minute experience <\/strong>includes wind, mist, and scents<\/strong> as you soar over America\u2019s most beautiful sites and landscapes<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

(If this makes your heart soar, you\u2019ll also want to check out my guide to Reykjavik featuring FlyOver Iceland<\/a>, which takes riders soaring over glaciers, waterfalls, and fireworks in Iceland\u2019s capital.)<\/p>\n

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\"The\"The
The Crayola Experience (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

4. Create Your Own Crayon Color at Crayola Experience<\/h2>\n

The Crayola Experience at Mall of America offers dozens of hands\u2011on activities<\/strong>. You can name and wrap your own crayon, star in your own coloring page, bring your art to life in 4\u2011D<\/strong>, and lots more. Buy your Crayola Experience Flexible Date Ticket<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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\"Create\"Create
Create your own pack of crayons at the Crayola Store (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

If you don\u2019t want to pay to play, head next door to the Crayola Store<\/strong>, where shoppers can create their own custom pack of crayons<\/strong> from a wall of colorful choices. <\/p>\n

\"Moose\"Moose
Moose Mountain Adventure Golf is home to 18 holes of miniature golf (Photo courtesy of Mall of America)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

5. Play Miniature Golf at Mall of America<\/h2>\n

Play 18 holes of putt-putt at Moose Mountain Adventure Golf<\/a> <\/strong>inside the Mall of America. Everyone is welcome to hit these mini links, and the course is wheelchair accessible<\/strong>. Moose Mountain features an abandoned mine theme <\/strong>with cartoonish hazards, fun characters, and challenging holes. Plus, enjoy unique views of Nickelodeon Universe <\/strong>from several spots along the course.<\/p>\n

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\"Rock\"Rock
Rock of Ages Blacklight Minigolf (Photo courtesy of Mall of America)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

But wait\u2026there\u2019s more! For a glowing experience<\/strong>, try out Rock of Ages Blacklight Minigolf<\/a><\/strong> instead. This 18\u2011hole course is lit entirely by blacklight<\/strong> and themed to music through the decades<\/strong>. Look for a tribute to Minnesota native Prince<\/strong> at one of the holes.<\/p>\n

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\"Mission:\"Mission:
Mission: Mars is one of the thrilling themes available from The Escape Game (Photo courtesy of Mall of America)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

6. Find Your Way Out of an Escape Room<\/h2>\n

The Escape Game at Mall of America<\/strong><\/a> spans 3,300 square feet of seven themed adventures<\/strong>. From Playground <\/strong>and The Heist<\/strong> to Gold Rush<\/strong> and Prison Break<\/strong>, each 60\u2011minute challenge<\/strong> immerses players in a storyline where teamwork is the key to success. This attraction is best suited for teens and adults aged 13+<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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\"My\"My
My family escaped The Escape Game at Mall of America! (Photo credit: TravelsBetween.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

My family had a blast working together to solve puzzles, crack codes, and earn our freedom from the space-themed Mission: Mars<\/strong>. To learn more, read my review of The Escape Game<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Insider Tip: Book The Escape Game in advance<\/a><\/strong>, especially on weekends, as time slots fill quickly.<\/p>\n

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\"Diving\"Diving
Diving into fun at the Museum of Illusions (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

7. Trick Your Eyes at Museum of Illusions<\/h2>\n

Step inside the Museum of Illusions at Mall of America<\/a><\/strong> to explore a world of interactive exhibits that challenge your vision, perception, and sense of reality<\/strong>. All ages will enjoy playing with mind\u2011bending displays that spark conversation and laughter.<\/p>\n

I haven\u2019t been to the Mall of America location yet, but I have visited the Museum of Illusions in my hometown, Scottsdale, and highly recommend it on my list of fun things to do in Scottsdale<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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\"Zip-lining\"Zip-lining
Zip-lining above Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

8. Brave the Dutchman\u2019s Deck Ropes Course & Zipline<\/h2>\n

Dutchman\u2019s Deck Adventure Course<\/strong><\/a> inside Nickelodeon Universe adds extra thrills to your Mall of America visit. Choose to tackle the Ghostly Gangplank ropes course<\/strong>, the Barnacle Blast Zipline<\/strong>, or the Anchor Drop Spiral Slides<\/strong>. Better yet, get a pass to experience all three. Various height restrictions apply.<\/p>\n

My friend and I opted to zip-line across Nickelodeon Universe on the Barnacle Blast Zipline, the longest indoor zip line in North America<\/strong>. The first step off the platform will make your heart thump, but then you can relax into the ride and soak in the scenery and sounds of the theme park below.<\/p>\n

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\"The\"The
The Amazing Mirror Maze is 2,500 square feet of colorful, mirrored fun (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

9. Get Lost in the Amazing Mirror Maze<\/h2>\n

The Amazing Mirror Maze<\/strong><\/a> <\/strong>at Mall of America spans 2,500 square feet of mirrored fun<\/strong>. Guests must wear plastic gloves to keep the glass pristine as they navigate twists, turns, and reflections<\/strong>. This attraction is sure to spark laughter and playful confusion for maze\u2011goers of all ages. At least it did for my family!<\/p>\n

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\"Play\"Play
Huge LEGO creations lure families into the LEGO Store (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

10. Build\u00a0with LEGO Bricks at the LEGO Store<\/h2>\n

The LEGO Store at Mall of America<\/a> <\/strong>delights kids and adults alike with massive figures built entirely from LEGO bricks<\/strong>. An entire wall is filled with LEGO bricks sorted by color <\/strong>and available for purchase. You can also peruse a wide selection of LEGO kits<\/strong> here.<\/p>\n

The best part? LEGO interactive play tables<\/strong> are located just outside the store, where children can unleash their imaginations to build creations while parents take a break.<\/p>\n

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\"Skee-Ball\"Skee-Ball
Skee-Ball at The Fair on 4 (Photo from The Fair on 4\u2019s Facebook page)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

11. Play Carnival & Video Games<\/h2>\n

If you like to play games, the Mall of America has you covered. Nickelodeon Universe offers carnival games<\/strong> where kids can win toy prizes<\/strong>, as well as an arcade filled with video games<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

For even more fun, head to the fourth floor<\/strong>, where you\u2019ll find The Fair on 4<\/a><\/strong>, a modern entertainment venue featuring arcade games, go\u2011karts, axe-throwing, <\/strong>and fair foods.<\/p>\n

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\"5D\"5D
5D Extreme Attraction by Matrix Technology (Photo courtesy of Mall of America)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

12. Experience a 5D Virtual Adventure<\/h2>\n

Choose from three virtual adventures at the 5D Extreme Attraction by Matrix Technology<\/strong><\/a>: the thrilling Mystery Mine ride<\/strong>, the Shark Attack<\/strong> standing experience with wind and mist effects, or the newer Pirate Jack<\/strong> treasure hunt. Reviewers often recommend Mystery Mine as the most exciting option.<\/p>\n

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\"Professor\"Professor
Professor Z\u2019s Old Time Photos (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

13. Pose for Old\u2011Fashioned Souvenir Photos at Professor Z\u2019s<\/h2>\n

Step into the past at Professor Z\u2019s Old Time Photos<\/strong><\/a>. Put on costumes<\/strong> and pose in front of themed sets<\/strong> for same-day photos<\/strong> you can take home as a lasting memory of your Mall of America vacation. Choose from such styles as Western, Victorian, 1920s, Renaissance<\/strong>, and more.<\/p>\n

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\"Boyz\"Boyz
Boyz II Men giving a free concert at Mall of America (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

14. Enjoy Concerts & Other Live Entertainment<\/h2>\n

Mall of America hosts hundreds of live events<\/strong> per year. That includes concerts, book signings, charity fundraisers, celebrity interviews, and more. Check out Mall of America Events<\/a> <\/strong>to see what\u2019s coming soon.<\/p>\n

During one visit, I was lucky enough to see Boyz II Men perform for throngs of adoring fans. Best of all? Many of these events are free to visitors<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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\"Rick\"Rick
Get the giggles at Rick Bronson\u2019s House of Comedy (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

15. Laugh at Rick Bronson\u2019s House of Comedy<\/h2>\n

Get the giggles at Rick Bronson\u2019s House of Comedy<\/strong><\/a>, an adults\u2011only venue<\/strong> featuring stand\u2011up comedy performances<\/strong> by nationally touring comedians and rising stars. Adding to the fun are a full bar and casual eats<\/strong>, including Canadian\u2011inspired poutine \u2014 French fries topped with gravy and cheese curds.<\/p>\n

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\"Universe\"Universe
Universe of Light (Photo credit: Nickelodeon Universe)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

16. Watch the Universe of Light Show<\/h2>\n

Universe of Light<\/strong><\/a> is a nine\u2011minute spectacle staged nightly in Nickelodeon Universe<\/strong>, just before park closing. In addition to colorful lights, choreographed music, and fog effects<\/strong>, the show transforms the South Entrance into a technicolor dreamworld. Additionally, look for special holiday lights<\/strong> shows from November through early January. <\/p>\n

The show can be seen from all four levels at the South Entrance of Nickelodeon Universe. Floor\u2011level lights<\/strong> add extra fun, especially for children, who often dance along to the beat. Insider Tip: Arrive a few minutes early<\/strong> to grab a good viewing spot, especially on Level 2, for the best perspective.<\/p>\n

Migraine sufferers (like me) and those prone to seizures should be warned that the show does include some flashing strobe lights<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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\"Meet\"Meet
Meet SpongeBob and other Nickelodeon friends in Nickelodeon Universe (Photo courtesy of BloomingtonMN.org)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

17. Meet SpongeBob & Other Nickelodeon Characters<\/h2>\n

Get an opportunity to pose with beloved Nickelodeon friends at Mall of America. Snap photos with such classic characters as SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, Blue from Blue\u2019s Clues, <\/strong>the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles<\/strong>. Or you might see newer favorites like Paw Patrol <\/strong>and Bubble Guppies.<\/strong> Character appearances rotate, so check the daily schedule when you arrive.<\/p>\n

There are two places<\/strong> where you can meet the characters in Nickelodeon Universe<\/strong>. The Blue Spot<\/strong> is located across from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock Ride. The Green Spot<\/strong> across from the Log Chute.<\/p>\n

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\"B&B\"B&B
B&B Theatres at Mall of America (Photo credit: B&B Theatres)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

18. See a Movie in Style at B & B Theatres<\/h2>\n

After a day of shopping until you feel like dropping, a movie in cushy, reclining leather seats<\/strong> is a welcome reprieve at B&B Theatres<\/strong><\/a>. There are 13 screens<\/strong> for your viewing pleasure, including one auditorium with ScreenX, a 270\u2011degree panoramic format<\/strong> that surrounds moviegoers with action on three walls.<\/p>\n

In addition to standard snacks like popcorn and candy, viewers can nosh on made-to-order dishes<\/strong> like flatbreads, hot sandwiches, funnel cakes<\/strong>, and French fries. Adults aged 21+ can order beer, wine, or cocktails<\/strong> at this movie theater, too.<\/p>\n

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\"Mall\"Mall
Explore the Mall of America via a scavenger hunt (Photo credit: jjbooma, Depositphotos.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

19. Embark on a Scavenger Hunt<\/h2>\n

Explore Mall of America with a scavenger hunt adventure designed for families. Choose from the official MOA digital scavenger hunt<\/a><\/strong> (bookable for groups) or download a free printable scavenger hunt<\/a><\/strong> from Twin Cities Frugal Mom for a kid\u2011friendly checklist of mall highlights. Either way, it\u2019s a fun way to discover hidden corners of the mall together.<\/p>\n

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\"Taste\"Taste
Taste cheese samples at Cheese Brothers (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

20. Taste Sample Treats at Mall of America<\/h2>\n

With America\u2019s Dairyland, Wisconsin, right next door to Minnesota, it\u2019s no surprise you\u2019ll find a shop peddling cheese at the Mall of America. What\u2019s more, Cheese Brothers<\/strong><\/a> happily hands out samples<\/strong> to shoppers. <\/p>\n

Got a sweet tooth? See\u2019s Candies, Godiva Chocolatier, Lindt Master Swiss Chocolatier<\/strong>, and Northwoods Candy Emporium<\/strong><\/a> often offer complimentary confections<\/strong> to shoppers. <\/p>\n

According to The Unofficial Guide to Mall of America<\/a><\/strong><\/em>, other places to score free tastes<\/strong> include Doc Popcorn, Pepper Palace<\/strong>, and Ruby Thai Kitchen<\/strong>. Yum!<\/p>\n

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\"M&M\"M&M
M&M\u2019s Store at Mall of America (Photo from MMs.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

21. Personalize Your Own M&Ms<\/h2>\n

My kids always love stopping at the M&Ms Store<\/a><\/strong>, where visitors can do more than just browse candy. Personalize M&M candies<\/strong> with your own messages, icons, or even photos. You can also design your own packaging at the Color Mood Wall. The store also offers a rainbow of M&Ms flavors and merchandise<\/strong>, from apparel to drinkware.<\/p>\n

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\"Little\"Little
Get creative at Little Words Project (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

22. Create Custom Jewelry<\/h2>\n

Little Words Project<\/a><\/strong> is a creative playground where you can sit at the bead bar and design bracelets and other jewelry<\/strong> that spell out your own story. It\u2019s part shopping, part self\u2011expression, and all about turning words into wearable art<\/strong>. It\u2019s a great place to make a unique gift for a friend or create a mantra to keep on your wrist.<\/p>\n

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\"Build-A-Bear\"Build-A-Bear
Build-A-Bear Workshop (Photo credit: sainaniritu, Depositphotos.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

23. Build a Teddy Bear or Other Stuffed Toy<\/h2>\n

At Build\u2011A\u2011Bear Workshop<\/strong>,<\/a> kids (or kids-at-heart) can pick out a plush friend, add the stuffing<\/strong> and a heartbeat or other sound, and dress it<\/strong> in an adorable outfit. Naming the toy is part of the fun. The finished bear (or unicorn, puppy, or other critter) makes a memorable Mall of America keepsake<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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\"Toddler\"Toddler
Look for Toddler Tuesdays at Mall of America (Image from MallOfAmerica.com)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

24. Enjoy Free Entertainment & Discounts on Toddler Tuesdays<\/h2>\n

Toddler Tuesdays at Mall of America<\/a> <\/strong>are designed especially for young children and their caretakers. Families can enjoy free character meet\u2011and\u2011greets, arts and crafts, storytime, <\/strong>and other kid\u2011friendly activities each week.<\/p>\n

Parents can also purchase discounted Nickelodeon Universe wristbands for Junior and Family rides. Additional deals include discounts<\/strong> on Moose Mountain miniature golf and Crayola Store purchases. What\u2019s more, children aged 6 and younger eat free at select restaurants<\/strong> every Tuesday. <\/p>\n

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\"A\"A
A rainbow of nail colors at LA Nails at the Mall of America (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

25. Get a Beauty Makeover<\/h2>\n

Need a little primping? You\u2019re in luck at Mall of America! There are two nail salons here: Nail Trix <\/strong>and L.A. Nails.<\/strong> For hair services and more, head to the Minnesota\u2011based Aveda Experience Center.<\/strong> Men can get their grooming done at Final Cuts Sports Barbershop.<\/strong> If you want your brows on point, stop by Brow Art 23<\/strong> for threading and lash extensions.For cosmetics, you\u2019ll find Sephora, Ulta Beauty, <\/strong>and MAC Cosmetics,<\/strong> along with makeup counters at the major department stores<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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\"Princess\"Princess
Princess and Diva Spa Fun Shop (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Kids can get in on the pampering at Princess and Diva Spa Fun Shop<\/a><\/strong>, where ages 3 to 16 enjoy velvety throne\u2011style pink chairs, royal manicures, pedicures, nail art, flavor facials with real cucumbers, fairy\u2011dust makeup, and glam hair accessories. Parents and caregivers are welcome to join in the fun.<\/p>\n

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\"Splurge\"Splurge
Spa day at Radisson Blu at Mall of America (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

26. Indulge in\u00a0a Spa Day<\/h2>\n

Refresh and rejuvenate with a spa day at Mall of America. As a casual option, head to Relaxing Massage<\/strong> or XPresSpa<\/strong> for an open-concept treatment. Or, look for massage chairs<\/strong> for quick, card-operated relaxation.<\/p>\n

Looking for a luxurious spa day experience? Make a reservation for facials, facials, and other body treatments at Laughing Waters Spa<\/strong> at Radison Blu<\/strong><\/a>. You need not be a hotel guest to book a treatment.<\/p>\n

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\"Sugar\"Sugar
Sugar Factory shakes (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

27. Raise a Glass at MOA<\/h2>\n

No matter your drink of choice, you\u2019re sure to find something tasty to quench your thirst at Mall of America. Find all sorts of beverages from coffee drinks, bubble teas, smoothies<\/strong>, and fresh lemonade<\/strong> to crafts beers<\/strong>, wines<\/strong>, and fancy cocktails<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

For over\u2011the\u2011top fun, head to Sugar Factory<\/a><\/strong>, where crazy shakes tower with candy and cake, and goblet drinks arrive smoking with dry ice. The FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Ba<\/strong>r<\/a> gets my vote for the best swanky spot place to sip and socialize. Meanwhile, The Fair on 4<\/strong> is where to go for drinks with a side of game play. Check out MOA\u2019s happy hour directory<\/a> <\/strong>to find drink and food specials.<\/p>\n

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\"White\"White
White Chocolate Banana Cream Pie at FireLake Grill (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

28. Dine Around the World<\/h2>\n

Oh\u2026the food\u2026THE FOOD at Mall of America<\/strong>! I promise you will not go hungry here. With dozens of restaurants at the Mall of America, there\u2019s something to meet the tastes and budgets of all travelers.<\/p>\n

Get a taste of local Minnesota cuisine<\/strong> at FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar<\/a><\/strong>. Look for menu items\u00a0like Minnesota Chicken & Wild Rice Soup and Heirloom Corn Crusted Walleye. For dessert, the White Chocolate Banana Cream Pie is what delicious dreams are made of.<\/p>\n

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\"A\"A
A robot delivering drinks at Kura Sushi (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Enjoy dining options from around the world that will delight your senses. For Asian cuisine with flair, make reservations for teppanyaki <\/strong>at Benihana<\/a><\/strong>, where chefs slice and dice right at your table. At Cantina Laredo<\/a><\/strong>, enjoy TexMex cuisine and watch fresh guacamole whipped up tableside<\/strong>. At Kura Sushi<\/a><\/strong>, pick your own Japanese dishes from a revolving conveyor belt<\/strong>, and get your drinks delivered by a robot<\/strong>. For a wild option with kids, make reservations at Rainforest Cafe<\/strong><\/a> to dine among exotic plants<\/strong>, animatronic animals,<\/strong> and faux tropical rainstorms<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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\"Rainforest\"Rainforest
Rainforest Cafe at the Mall of America (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Two massive food courts<\/strong> also keep bellies full with everything from burgers\u00a0at Shake Shack<\/a><\/strong> to pizza, shawarma, and poke bowls. My family\u2019s absolute favorite fast-food spot<\/strong> is Bussin Birria Tacos<\/a><\/strong> for scrumptious dippable Mexican fare.<\/p>\n

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\"Indoor\"Indoor
Indoor pool at Radisson Blu at the Mall of America (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

29. Go for a Swim<\/h2>\n

Both the Radisson Blu<\/strong><\/a> and JW Marriott<\/strong><\/a> offer indoor pools exclusively for hotel guests, fabulous for a relaxing dip<\/strong> after shopping without ever leaving the Mall of America<\/strong>. Families looking for bigger thrills can head just two miles away to Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota<\/strong><\/a>, home to a full indoor water park<\/strong>, with day passes available even if you\u2019re not staying overnight.<\/p>\n

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\"Stylish\"Stylish
My modern, stylish room at the Radisson Blu Hotel Mall of America (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

30. Spend the Night at Mall of America<\/h2>\n

If your trip to the Twin Cities centers on the Mall of America, I recommend booking a stay at one of the two hotels directly connected to the mall<\/strong>. It\u2019s super easy and affordable to hop on the light rail from Minneapolis\u2013St. Paul International Airport straight to MOA. If you\u2019re visiting in winter, you won\u2019t even need a coat for the duration of your stay!<\/p>\n

I was lucky enough to stay at Radisson Blu Mall of America<\/a><\/strong>. The stylish lobby, serene indoor pool, wonderful on\u2011site FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar<\/strong>, upscale Laughing Waters Spa<\/strong>, and genuinely friendly staff made my stay here quite enjoyable.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s also the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America<\/strong>,<\/a> equally convenient with direct access to the mall. While I haven\u2019t stayed there myself, I know and love the JW Marriott brand. Guests can enjoy an indoor pool, fitness center, and signature restaurant Cedar+ Stone Urban Table<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Take a look at additional hotel options near the Mall of America<\/strong> via Hotels.com<\/strong><\/a> or Booking.com<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

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\"Teen\"Teen
My daughter and sister on Ghost Blasters at Nickelodeon Universe (Photo credit: Colleen Lanin)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Save Money on Your Mall of America Visit<\/h2>\n

Stretch your budget with Attraction Bundles<\/strong><\/a> for sale from Mall of America. Many of the MOA activities listed in this guide often offer discounts via Groupon<\/strong><\/a>, too, so it\u2019s worth a quick search.<\/p>\n

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\"Paisley\"Paisley
Paisley Park in Minnesota (Photo credit: Paisley Park)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Explore More of Minnesota<\/h2>\n

Minnesota is well-known as the home state of the talented musical artist, Prince<\/strong>. Discover what it\u2019s like to tour Paisley Park<\/a>,<\/strong> where Prince lived, worked, and recorded.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019ll be in Minnesota during summer, then be sure to read my tips for visiting Valleyfair<\/strong><\/a>, the state\u2019s largest amusement park.<\/p>\n

Venture north beyond the Twin Cities to Lake Superior with these things to do in Duluth with kids<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

\n
\"Things\"Things<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Save These Things to Do at Mall of America<\/h2>\n

Considering a trip to this megamall? Be sure to save these Mall of America attractions for future reference. Simply pin the image above<\/strong> or below<\/strong> to Pinterest. Go ahead and follow Colleen Travels Between on Pinterest<\/strong><\/a> while you\u2019re at it!<\/p>\n

\n
\"30\"30<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n

Did you know there were so many things to do at Mall of America besides shop? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments section below!<\/strong><\/p>\n

A Note from Colleen: One of my many visits to the Mall of America was hosted by the city of Bloomington, Mall of America, Radisson Blu, and various restaurants. During this visit, I was provided a $500 Mall of America gift card to spend however I liked. All opinions are mine, as always.<\/em> I update this Mall of America guide regularly to reflect what\u2019s currently happening at this Minnesota attraction.<\/em><\/p>\n

\n\t\tSharing is caring!\t<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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