Bloomington’s Mall of America delivers far more than your typical shopping experience. This mega-mall stands out with its thoughtfully designed tours, which go beyond simple retail browsing. I’m particularly impressed by two standout options: the behind-the-scenes operational tour, which reveals the fascinating logistics of America’s largest mall, and the Nickelodeon Universe unlimited rides package, offering excellent value for families.
The indoor mini-golf courses – both the Northwoods-themed classic and the blacklight adventure – provide welcome breaks from shopping, while the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium offers a surprisingly comprehensive marine experience in America’s heartland.
Let’s explore the best Mall of America tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Mall of America offers a Behind the Scenes Walking Tour, providing an immersive look at the mall’s inner workings, history, and sustainability initiatives.
- Moose Mountain Adventure Golf offers an 18-hole indoor miniature golf course with a Northwoods theme, suitable for visitors of all abilities.
- Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf delivers an 18-hole blacklight mini golf experience with a sci-fi theme, catering to younger audiences.
- The Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the state, features a 300-foot Ocean Tunnel and a guided Behind-the-Scenes tour.
- Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass provides access to 26 attractions within the indoor theme park, allowing visitors to explore and meet Nickelodeon characters.
Mall of America: Moose Mountain Adventure Golf Ticket
Visiting the Moose Mountain Adventure Golf at the Mall of America is a whimsical and family-friendly experience. The 18-hole indoor miniature golf course boasts a delightful Northwoods theme, complete with life-size moose, logging trucks, steam trains, and biplanes.
The fully accessible course caters to participants of all abilities, ensuring an enjoyable adventure for everyone.
At just $11.14 per person, the Moose Mountain Adventure Golf offers excellent value. On top of that, the experience comes with a flexible cancellation policy, allowing visitors to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Visitors can also reserve their spot and pay later, making it a convenient option.
The course is open daily, with varying hours throughout the week. Guests can expect to spend approximately one hour navigating the whimsical obstacles and features.
Parking is available at the Mall of America’s North Ramp Parking Structure, and visitors should present their barcoded tickets upon arrival.
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Bloomington: Mall of America Behind the Scenes Walking Tour
For those seeking an insider’s glimpse into the workings of the iconic Mall of America, the Behind the Scenes Walking Tour provides an immersive experience. Lasting 1.5 hours, the tour whisks visitors through hidden corridors and behind-the-scenes areas, offering a rare opportunity to explore the mall’s inner workings.
Guided by knowledgeable experts, the tour grants access to the Nickelodeon Universe theme park, the Candy Cane Institute, and Santa’s private office, providing a unique perspective on the mall’s operations. Participants can also capture private photo opportunities and experience the notorious “slime chair.”
The tour further delves into the mall’s history, sustainability initiatives, and its significance in Minneapolis’ past. With wheelchair accessibility and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour caters to a wide range of visitors.
Customer reviews praise the informative and engaging nature of the experience, though some suggest a greater focus on behind-the-scenes content. This tour offers an unparalleled look into the iconic Mall of America.
Read our full review: Bloomington: Mall of America Behind the Scenes Walking Tour Review
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Mall of America: Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf Ticket
Ticket holders can enjoy an 18-hole blacklight mini golf experience at the Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf course located within the iconic Mall of America in Bloomington.
Priced from £8.86 per person, the tickets offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allow for one-time admission on the scheduled day. Children 5 and under can enjoy the course for free with a regular adult admission.
The one-hour experience features a sci-fi-themed setting with music-themed decor and obstacles, including a jukebox, classic car, and Prince-style guitar and drum set.
Golfers will use glow-in-the-dark balls and putters with fluorescent ends as they navigate the course, which covers various musical eras from the 1950s to the present.
While reviews are mixed on the obstacles and overall experience, the attraction is perceived to be particularly suitable for younger audiences.
Convenient free parking is available at the Mall of America, with the meeting point located at the East Parking ramp, Level 3.
Read our full review: Mall of America: Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf Ticket Review
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Mall of America: Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium Entry Ticket
Discover the wonders of the underwater world at the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, located within the iconic Mall of America in Bloomington. With over 1.3 million gallons of fun, it’s the largest aquarium in Minnesota.
Explore a 300-foot long Ocean Tunnel and encounter mesmerizing creatures like 9-foot sharks, 14-foot sawfish, and 350-pound sea turtles. Don’t miss the chance to feed the friendly stingrays at the Ray Lagoon.
Take a guided Behind-the-Scenes tour above the Shark Cove for a unique perspective. The aquarium is wheelchair accessible and offers free parking onsite.
Admission is affordably priced from $26.87 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Children 2 and under can visit for free with a paid adult.
Reviewers praise the aquarium’s family-friendly atmosphere, engaging exhibits, and easy navigation. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast or seeking an educational adventure, the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium is a must-visit attraction.
Read our full review: Mall of America: Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium Entry Ticket Review
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Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass
Enjoy the vibrant world of Nickelodeon at the Mall of America’s Nickelodeon Universe. With an unlimited ride pass starting at just $44.60 per person, you can enjoy 26 Nickelodeon-themed rides and attractions for a full day of family fun.
Thrill-seekers will love the Avatar Airbender and Fairly Odd Coaster, while little ones can delight in the PAW Patrol Adventure Bay and Backyardigans Swing-Along. The indoor theme park maintains a comfortable temperature of 72 degrees, making it an ideal destination year-round.
Beyond the rides, you’ll have the chance to meet beloved Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob SquarePants and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
With free parking, on-site dining, and the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, Nickelodeon Universe offers exceptional value and convenience.
Heed the reviews, though, and budget accordingly for a full day of thrills, shopping, and dining at the Mall of America.
Read our full review: Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass Review
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The Sum Up
Bloomington, Minnesota offers an array of shopping opportunities, from the expansive Mall of America to specialized tours and attractions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including mini-golf, an aquarium, and unlimited rides at Nickelodeon Universe. With these diverse options, Bloomington provides an engaging shopping experience for all interests and age groups.