The Mall of America Isn’t Just for Shopping—Check Out These Epic Attractions!
Looking for the ultimate guide to the Mall of America with kids? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a fun weekend staycation, this guide is packed with everything Minnesota families need to know about visiting the Mall of America in Minnesota with kids. From top family activities like Nickelodeon Universe and SEA LIFE Aquarium to hands-on fun at the Crayola Experience, there’s something for every age and energy level at the Mall of America. We’ll also cover where to stay near the Mall of America with kids—think pools, on-site dining, and easy access—and the best places to eat in the Mall of America with kids, including crowd-pleasing spots with kid-friendly menus.
Ready to make the most of your visit to the Mall of America with your family? Let’s dive in!
Tips for Visiting the Mall of America with Kids
Before we deep dive into Mall of America’s best things to do, places to eat, and hotels for families, here are a few tips to help you have a successful experience:
- Know about the family amenities, including family restrooms, Mother’s Rooms, and stroller policies. Storage lockers are also available for added convenience.
- Check here for the most up-to-date mall hours and the parental escort policy.
- Does someone in your family? Learn more here.
- Parking can be confusing for first-time visitors. Learn more about the free on-site parking ramps and plan where to park before your visit.
- Arrive early to beat the crowds (especially on weekends or holidays).
- You can enter the mall before stores open. This is a great way to log an indoor walk with your littles or kids in strollers.
- Wear comfortable shoes–you’ll be walking a lot!
- Feel free to use strollers or wagons for your little ones. If you don’t have one with you, they’re available for rent.
- Look for deals and discounts. Many shops and attractions at the Mall of America offer special promotions throughout the year for families or other reasons.
- Wondering “how big Mall of America?” it is 5.6 million square feet!
The Best Things to Do in the Mall of America with Kids
From thrilling rides to interactive experiences, the best things to do with kids in the Mall of America are all under one roof. Talk about the perfect spot for family fun any time of year! Whether you’re looking for rainy day activities at the Mall of America or just fun things to do with kids in Bloomington, Minnesota, this list highlights some of the top attractions that keep everyone, from toddlers to teens and their parents, happy and having fun together.
Nickelodeon Universe
Nickelodeon fans, young and old alike, will love Nickelodeon Universe, the Mall of America’s massive indoor amusement park (over 30 rides!). It is packed with thrilling rides, favorite characters, and year-round fun.
Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in the Mall of America with kids is to visit this spot, which is a must in any guide to the Mall of America with kids. From the toddler-friendly Blue’s Clues Safari Adventure and Boots’ Banana Swing to high-speed rides like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock and SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge, there’s something for every age. Don’t miss the new Fly with Appa ride—kids can soar on their own sky bison from Avatar: The Last Airbender! When it’s time to recharge, grab a quick snack or head to one of the many places to eat in the Mall of America with kids.
Pro tip: check height restrictions before heading to rides to avoid disappointment.
Crayola Experience
One of our favorite things to do in the Mall of America for toddlers and young kids is the Crayola Experience, a colorful, hands-on adventure. With 20+ creative attractions, kids can melt and mold wax, wrap their own crayons, design digital fashion, or star in their own coloring pages.
Toddlers will love exploring Toddler Town, the interactive Color Playground, and gentle activities like Scribble Scrubbies. Meanwhile, elementary-aged kids can dive into drip art, the Crayon Factory Show, or stomp and play on an interactive floor. Everyone will love the daily performances at the Café Stage! Tickets include most attractions. It’s a mess-free, screen-free way to inspire budding artists and burn off energy all in one spot!
SEA LIFE at Mall of America
SEA LIFE at Mall of America offers a fascinating underwater adventure for all ages. With interactive displays and exhibits, it’s an exciting option for parents looking for immersive, hands-on activities and experiences on a rainy (or sunny or snowy!) day at the Mall of America.
SEA LIFE features 11 interactive zones where families can get up close to creatures like jellyfish, crocodiles, and rescued sea turtles. Kids will love exploring the 300-foot-long ocean tunnel. They will undoubtedly feel like they’re swimming alongside sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays! From the Wild Amazon to Shark Cove, there’s so much to see, do, and learn. SEA LIFE is one of the most exciting and educational fun things to do with kids in Bloomington, Minnesota.
FlyOver America
Looking for something unique to do with your family? FlyOver America offers a thrilling flight simulation experience that takes you on a breathtaking aerial tour of iconic U.S. landmarks. With special effects like scents, mist, and a breezy wind, it feels like you’re genuinely soaring over valleys, lakes, and snow-capped mountains. No wonder it is one of the best things to do with kids in the Mall of America!
This immersive adventure is perfect for families, with riders at least 40″ tall able to enjoy the experience. Located inside Nickelodeon Universe, it’s a great way to explore unique sights across America without ever leaving the Mall of America! Plus, FlyOver America usually offers an extraordinary experience just for kids during the holidays—a magical visit to Santa at the North Pole! Whether you’re flying over the Grand Canyon or bustling cityscapes, this ride will leave your family in awe!
Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusions is one of the best things to do with older kids and teens at the Mall of America. This interactive experience is filled with over 60 mind-bending exhibits that will astonish curious minds. From visual and sensory displays to brain teasers, kids and parents alike can immerse themselves in rooms that trick the eyes and challenge perception.
Highlights include stepping into a kaleidoscope, brain teaser puzzles, and the cloning table. Whether you’re seeking rainy-day activities at the Mall of America or just a fun outing with your family, the Museum of Illusions provides hours of entertainment. Guided tours are also usually available to help explore the exhibits and capture memorable photos along the way.
The Fair on 4
The Fair on 4 is a whimsical year-round destination for fair enthusiasts. As one of the best things to do in the Mall of America, it offers maximum family fun, with exciting activities like go-kart racing and axe throwing for tweens and teens (ages 11+). Families can also indulge in classic fair foods like hand-dipped corn dogs, cheese curds, and Blue Horse Pizza.
After 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, the venue becomes 18+. Before then, whether racing through the track or savoring delicious fair-inspired treats, The Fair on 4 is an exciting spot for an unforgettable fair-themed adventure at MOA.
Super Neon
Super Neon—an all-new immersive experience had made its global debut right here in Minnesota at the Mall of America! Designed for kids and adults alike, Super Neon is a glowing wonderland filled with colorful lights, hands-on activities, and magical environments that are perfect for exploring together.
Whether you’ve got a toddler who loves bright colors or a tween who’s always searching for the next photo-worthy moment, this interactive playground promises fun for all ages. This 45–60 minute walkthrough experience invites families to journey through more than 11,000 square feet of imaginative, dreamlike rooms.
Located on the 3rd Floor next to Nordstrom.
ClimbZone
Looking for an active, high-energy adventure your kids will love? ClimbZone at Mall of America is an indoor climbing experience that turns walls into works of art—and playtime into an unforgettable challenge!
Designed for kids, tweens, and even adventurous adults, ClimbZone features dozens of uniquely themed climbing walls, from skyscrapers and jungle scenes to creative, larger-than-life designs. Whether your child is a first-time climber or a little thrill-seeker, there’s a wall (and difficulty level) for everyone.
This family-friendly attraction combines fun and fitness, helping kids build confidence, strength, and coordination—all while having a blast. Sessions typically last around an hour, giving families plenty of time to climb, explore, and cheer each other on.
Located within the Nickelodeon Universe Park, it’s the perfect stop for burning off energy during a day of shopping, dining, or exploring.
More Unique Attractions for Babies + Toddlers at MOA
Looking for more fun things to do in Bloomington, Minnesota, with toddlers and young kids? Don’t miss these family activities at the Mall of America geared toward little ones:
- Toddler Tuesdays
- The free building area outside the LEGO® Store Mall of America
- Paw Patrol Play Area in Nickelodeon Universe
- The train table inside Barnes and Noble (grab a coffee to enjoy while they play!)
More Unique Attractions for Older Kids + Teens at MOA
Alternatively, if you’re searching for additional family activities at the Mall of America to do with your tweens and teens, try one of these fun things to do:
- Amazing Mirror Maze
- Activate
- Great Big Game Show
- Mini Golf, with two locations at Moose Mountain Adventure Golf and Rock of Ages Blacklight Minigolf
Related Article: Kid-Tested, Parent-Approved: Bloomington’s Best Family Attractions
Where to Shop with Kids of All Ages at the Mall of America
Shopping is one of the best things to do with kids in the Mall of America, especially when you know where to go. With over 500 stores across four levels, you’ll have plenty of options! This section of our ultimate family guide to the Mall of America with kids highlights a few of the top shopping spots by age, so you can easily find stores your child will love. Whether you’re browsing for toddler gear, trendy tween styles, or gifts for your kids, we’ve got you covered.
Where to Shop with Babies + Toddlers
- Carter’s Babies and Kids + OshKosh B’gosh
- Oh Baby!
- The Children’s Place
- Squishable®
- Toys “R” Us Flagship
Where to Shop with Elementary School-Aged Children
- Abercrombie Kids
- Old Navy
- The Children’s Place
- Build-A-Bear Workshop
- Crayola Store
- Games by James
- LEGO® Store
- Go! Calendar Games & Toys
- Ridemakerz
- Squishable®
- Toys “R” Us Flagship
Where to Shop with Tweens & Teens
- Old Navy
- Urban Outfitters
- nectar
- Zara
- Under Armour
- Ragstock
- H&M
Family Events at Mall of America
The Mall of America offers a dynamic lineup of family-friendly events throughout the year. From weekly events like Toddler Tuesdays to special holiday activities, there’s always something exciting happening. These ever-changing events, from concerts and dance shows to in-store discounts and experiences, provide even more fun things to do with kids at the Mall of America.
We recommend regularly checking the MOA events calendar to stay informed about upcoming events, as offerings vary throughout the year.
Best Places to Eat with Kids in the Mall of America
No visit is complete without refueling at one of the many family-friendly spots throughout the mall. In fact, there are over 50 eateries in the mall! This part of our guide to the Mall of America with kids highlights the best places to eat, from sit-down restaurants with kid-approved menus to quick food court favorites and sweet treats worth the sugar rush. Whether you’re craving burgers, noodles, or something fun for dessert, we’ve got picks for every taste and budget.
Restaurants
Wondering where to eat a sit-down meal with kids at the Mall of America? Try one of these fantastic spots:
- Benihana
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Cadillac Ranch
- Cantina Laredo
- Cedar + Stone, Urban Table
- CRAVE
- FireLake Grill House + Cocktail Bar
- Rainforest Café
- Twin City Grill
All these restaurants offer a dedicated kids’ menu!
MOA Food Courts
Multiple food courts throughout the mall mean families have access to many flavors and delicious places to eat in the Mall of America with kids. Here are a few great options that kids will love:
- Bussin Birria Tacos
- Naf Naf Grill
- Piada Italian Street Food
- Shake Shack
- Sweet Paris Crêperie and Café
- OPA! of Greece
- Chick-fil-A
…and so many more! There are two food court on the 3rd floor of the Mall of America.
Sweets + Treats
A sweet treat is always a great way to celebrate a fun family day out at the Mall of America. Check out these yummy spots to indulge your sweet tooth:
- Carlo’s Bakery
- Cinnabon
- Cold Stone Creamery
- Freshens Crepes and Smoothies
- IT’SUGAR
- Mochinut
- Oppa Sweets
- Sugar Factory Express
- Sweet Paris Crêperie and Café
Best Hotels to Stay in/near the Mall of America with Kids
If you’re planning a whole weekend filled with experiencing the best things to do in the Mall of America with your kids, finding the right place to stay makes all the difference! For the ultimate convenience, Radisson Blu and JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America are both directly connected to the mall, perfect for quick breaks or naps between activities. Both also offer on-site dining and an array of family-friendly amenities.
Then, just a short drive away, Great Wolf Lodge offers an indoor water park and nonstop, kid-friendly fun for the whole family. High-energy kids will love the on-site arcade, character meet-and-greets, and endless list of activities! They even offer family rooms with bunk beds. Read more about the Great Wolf Lodge here: Unforgettable Family Fun Awaits at Great Wolf Lodge & Water Park.
Finally, Element Bloomington Mall of America is another excellent pick for families. This modern, family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms also provides a complimentary breakfast. These Bloomington hotels make planning your weekend away easy and breezy with kids. Plan your itinerary using this guide to the Mall of America with kids during your stay
Know Before you Go and FAQ’s about the Mall of America:
Address: 2131 Lindau Lane, Bloomington, MN 55425
Hours: Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Sunday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Closest Airport: Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
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