The Ultimate Guide To The Mall Of America Map
Introduction
The Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the United States, with over 500 stores and attractions. Located in Bloomington, Minnesota, it is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Twin Cities area. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that you can experience at The Mall Of America Map.
Top Attractions
The Mall of America has a plethora of attractions to keep visitors entertained for hours. Some of the top attractions include Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, FlyOver America, and Crayola Experience. Nickelodeon Universe is an indoor amusement park with more than 20 rides and attractions, including roller coasters and a Ferris wheel. SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium is home to over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays. FlyOver America is a virtual flying ride that takes you on a journey across America’s most beautiful landscapes. Crayola Experience is a hands-on attraction where you can create your own crayon, paint with melted wax, and more.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions at The Mall of America are well-known, there are also some hidden gems that are worth checking out. One such gem is the LEGO Store, which has a massive selection of LEGO sets and minifigures. Another hidden gem is the Escape Game, which offers immersive escape rooms for groups of up to 12 people. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, head to Rainforest Cafe, where you can dine amongst animatronic animals and a simulated thunderstorm.
Food Scene
The Mall of America has a wide variety of dining options to suit any taste. From fast food to fine dining, you can find it all here. Some of the top restaurants include Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Hard Rock Cafe, and Benihana. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, check out the food court, which has over 50 options to choose from.
Budget-Friendly Tips
The Mall of America can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to save money. One tip is to visit during off-peak times, such as weekdays or during the winter months. Another tip is to take advantage of the mall’s free events, which include concerts, movie screenings, and fitness classes. If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are several budget-friendly hotels in the area that offer shuttle service to the mall.
Outdoor Adventures
While The Mall of America is an indoor destination, there are still plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in the area. One popular attraction is the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, which has over 14,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and prairies to explore. Another outdoor adventure is the Cedar Lake Trail, a scenic bike path that runs through Minneapolis and ends at Cedar Lake.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Mall of America is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages. In addition to Nickelodeon Universe and SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, there are also several other family-friendly attractions, such as the American Girl store, Build-A-Bear Workshop, and the LEGO Store. The mall also hosts several family-friendly events throughout the year, such as the Toddler Tuesdays program.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different than the typical mall experience, there are some off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had at The Mall of America. One such experience is the Art Walk, which features over 30 works of art throughout the mall. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the House of Comedy, which features stand-up comedy shows every night of the week.
Natural Wonders
While The Mall of America is located in an urban area, there are still some natural wonders to be found in the surrounding area. One such wonder is Minnehaha Falls, a 53-foot waterfall located in a picturesque park. Another natural wonder is the Chain of Lakes, a series of lakes in Minneapolis that are perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Mall of America isn’t just a shopping destination – it’s also a great place to experience the Twin Cities’ vibrant nightlife. The mall has several bars and restaurants that stay open late, such as Tucci Benucch, which serves up Italian fare and craft cocktails. If you’re looking for a more lively atmosphere, head to Cowboy Jack’s, a country-themed bar with live music and line dancing.
Local Markets
The Mall of America is home to several local markets where you can shop for unique souvenirs and gifts. One such market is the Minnesota Makers Market, which features handmade goods from over 50 local artisans. Another market is the Twin Cities Premium Outlets, which has over 100 stores offering discounted prices on designer goods.
Beaches and Mountains
While The Mall of America is not located near any beaches or mountains, there are still some options for outdoor enthusiasts. One popular destination is the North Shore of Lake Superior, which has several beaches and hiking trails to explore. Another option is the Minnesota Northwoods, which has several ski resorts and hiking trails.
Cultural Immersion
The Twin Cities area is home to a diverse array of cultures, and The Mall of America is a great place to experience them. One cultural attraction is the Hmongtown Marketplace, which is located just a few miles from the mall and features Hmong food, clothing, and crafts. Another cultural attraction is the Somali Museum of Minnesota, which is located in Minneapolis and showcases Somali art, history, and culture.
Art and Music Scene
The Twin Cities area has a thriving art and music scene, and The Mall of America is no exception. The mall has several art installations throughout the building, such as the kinetic sculpture “Atrium,” and hosts several musical performances throughout the year. If you’re looking for a more immersive art experience, head to the Walker Art Center, which is located in Minneapolis and features contemporary art exhibitions.
Walking Tours
If you’re looking to explore the area around The Mall of America on foot, there are several walking tours available. One popular tour is the Minneapolis Riverwalk, which takes you along the Mississippi River and highlights the city’s historical landmarks. Another tour is the St. Anthony Falls Heritage Trail, which takes you on a journey through Minneapolis’ milling history.
Architectural Marvels
The Mall of America is an architectural marvel in and of itself, but there are also several other marvels to be found in the surrounding area. One such marvel is the Foshay Tower, a 32-story skyscraper that was completed in 1929. Another marvel is the Stone Arch Bridge, a historic bridge that spans the Mississippi River.
Historical Sites
The Twin Cities area is full of historical sites, and The Mall of America is no exception. One historical site is Fort Snelling, a military outpost that was established in the early 1800s. Another historical site is the Mill City Museum, which tells the story of Minneapolis’ flour milling industry.
Biking Routes
If you’re looking to explore the area around The Mall of America on two wheels, there are several biking routes available. One popular route is the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, which takes you on a 50-mile journey through Minneapolis’ parks and lakes. Another route is the Minnesota River Bottoms Trail, which takes you on a scenic ride along the Minnesota River.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, there are several options in the Twin Cities area. One such option is the Marsh, a wellness center that offers spa services, fitness classes, and healthy dining options. Another option is the Bakken Museum, which offers yoga classes in its outdoor garden.
Adventure Sports
If you’re looking for adventure sports, there are several options in the Twin Cities area. One such option is the Vertical Endeavors Climbing Gym, which has several locations throughout the area and offers indoor rock climbing for all skill levels. Another option is the Minnesota Zoo, which has a ropes course and zip line that offer a bird’s-eye view of the zoo.
Conclusion
The Mall of America is more than just a shopping destination – it’s a hub of entertainment, culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out, a foodie looking for the latest culinary trends, or an adventure seeker looking for a new challenge, The Mall of America has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to make the most of your visit to The Mall of America Map.