tourist attractions in bloomington minnesota

Top Things to Do in Bloomington, MN

Places to visit in bloomington, explore popular experiences, tours in and around bloomington.

Twin Cities Tour & Mississippi River Cruise

The Escape Game: Epic 60-Minute Adventures at the Mall of America

SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota Admission Ticket at Mall of America

Mall of America®: Nickelodeon Universe® Unlimited Ride Wristband

Twin Cities Highlights Tour

Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour

Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour

The Complete St. Paul Walking Tour

Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis

St. Paul Historic Cave Tour

Theme parks.

Top Attractions in Bloomington

Other Top Attractions around Bloomington

What travellers are saying

• Mall of America
• SEA LIFE at Mall of America
• Lego Imagination Center
• Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
• Hyland Lake Park Reserve
• Normandale Japanese Garden
• Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area

Top Things to Do in Bloomington

Things to do in bloomington, explore popular experiences, tours in and around bloomington.

Twin Cities Tour & Mississippi River Cruise

The Escape Game: Epic 60-Minute Adventures at the Mall of America

SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota Admission Ticket at Mall of America

Mall of America®: Nickelodeon Universe® Unlimited Ride Wristband

Twin Cities Highlights Tour

Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour

Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour

The Complete St. Paul Walking Tour

Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis

St. Paul Historic Cave Tour

Theme parks.

Top Attractions in Bloomington

Other Top Attractions around Bloomington

What travelers are saying

• Mall of America
• SEA LIFE at Mall of America
• Lego Imagination Center
• Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
• Hyland Lake Park Reserve
• Normandale Japanese Garden
• Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area

Top Things to Do in Bloomington, MN

Things to do in bloomington, explore popular experiences, tours in and around bloomington.

Twin Cities Tour & Mississippi River Cruise

The Escape Game: Epic 60-Minute Adventures at the Mall of America

SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota Admission Ticket at Mall of America

Mall of America®: Nickelodeon Universe® Unlimited Ride Wristband

Twin Cities Highlights Tour

Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour

Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour

The Complete St. Paul Walking Tour

Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis

St. Paul Historic Cave Tour

Theme parks.

Top Attractions in Bloomington

Other Top Attractions around Bloomington

What travellers are saying

• Mall of America
• SEA LIFE at Mall of America
• Lego Imagination Center
• Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
• Hyland Lake Park Reserve
• Normandale Japanese Garden
• Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area

14 Best Things To Do In Bloomington, Minnesota

For those looking for a getaway in Minnesota, you’ll be pleased to know there are many things to do in Bloomington!

Famously home to the Mall of America, the state’s fifth largest city boasts a wide variety of cultural and entertaining attractions that make it a worthy destination to spend a few days in.

Its strategic location close to the Minneapolis International Airport and the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St Paul, make it an ideal base for exploring the state of 10,000 lakes.

If you’re looking for a dynamic family vacation that involves adventure, nature experiences, fun attractions, signature experiences and family-friendly hotels, then Bloomington, Minnesota is the place for you to visit.

Below are some ideas for what to do in Bloomington and our favorite attractions from our visit.

Disclaimer: We spent six days exploring the Bloomington region in a paid partnership with Bloomington CVB and Mall of America , though all thoughts, ideas and opinions in this guide are our own.

1. Shop, Play, Stay and Eat at Mall of America (MOA)

2. follow a love story at minnehaha falls and regional park, 3. explore nature at the richardson nature center, 4. inspire your creativity at paisley park museum and tour, 5. learn about the legend on prince the tour, 6. devour a juicy lucy burger, 7. take a rhythms of the river road trip, 8. get lost in nature at minnesota valley national wildlife refuge, 9. relax at hyland lake park reserve & play area, 10. take the kids to the works museum.

• 11. Laugh at Rick Bronson's House of Comedy

12. Chill out at Normandale Japanese Garden at Normandale Community College

13. be amazed at sea life aquarium minnesota, save on bloomington attractions with the big ticket adventure pass, great wolf lodge minnesota, radisson blu mall of america, pin this to save on pinterest, best things to do in bloomington mn.

Below are some of the most fun things to do in Bloomington MN (or close to Bloomington) that we discovered from our trip.

We’re sure you’ll find some attractions to suit every traveler on this list!

Mall of America in Bloomington is so much more than a retail space and is well known to be one of the best things to do in Bloomington, MN.

It’s the largest indoor retail and recreation complex in America and includes a theme park, multiple family-friendly attractions, movie theaters, entertainment and dining options to suit any style and budget.

I never imagined a mall could entertain me for three days, but it did, as there are so many things to do at Mall of America.

We didn’t step foot outside, nor need to (inside the mall is 72 degrees all year long) and we stayed at the Radisson Blu Mall of America which is attached to the mall via a skyway! 

With theme park thrill rides, high ropes courses, cooking classes, art experiences, Sea Life aquarium, live music and signature food experiences, we created many memorable moments as a family.

Even our two other daughters, American Girl Dolls, Gabrielle and Julie, had a salon experience and delicious lunch with us.

Don’t forget to dedicate time for shopping in the 520 retail stores. Clothes and shoes are sales tax free in Minnesota!

Read more: Things to do at Mall of America

Follow the love story of the Indian Princess, Minnehaha and Indian warrior Hiawatha at the nearby Minnehaha Regional Park , a large city park on the shores of the Mississippi River.

The love story was told by the poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s popular Song of Hiawatha .

Longfellow never visited the area but pieced together the love story based on the native oral traditions of local Indian tribes.

You can see a statue of Hiawatha carrying Minnehaha on an island in the middle of the creek above the falls bearing Minnehaha’s name.

Minnehaha Falls thunders 53 ft. over limestone bluffs in the middle of this city park and is one of the top things to do in Minneapolis.

The loving spirit of Minnehaha and Hiawatha emanates out of the river to be shared freely with the people of Minneapolis and all those who visit.

You can view the falls from above and from below by following the trail down into the gorge. 

The trails continue along Minnehaha creek which takes you to the Mississippi River less than 1/2 mile away from the falls.

There are picnic areas, a café with local craft beer on tap, further walking trails, gardens and playground areas within the park.

You can even see the Longfellow house, a 2/3 scale replica of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s home in Cambridge, MA.

Unfortunately, 2018 was the year of late spring for the majority of the United States, and Minneapolis had a rare late April blizzard only a few days before we arrived.

The normal lush, green jungled landscape surrounding Minnehaha Falls and river walk was not present, but it looks like this:

For us Australians though, the waterfall looked pretty spectacular with frozen icicles on either side of the water gushing over the lip.

We sure don’t get that in Australia !

It’s one of Minnesota’s oldest and most beloved parks and is free to enter, making it one of the best free things to do in Bloomington.

You can see more of Bloomington in our travel video:

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Can you believe only a few weeks before visiting Richardson Nature Center we saw our first frozen lake, ever?

We delighted in seeing a couple more when we visited Richardson Nature Center.

We also loved hiking through the small layer of snow slowly melting into spring.

As mentioned above, it was late coming this year, so we didn’t capture Richardson Nature Center in its blooming, green glory of Spring.

But we did capture the spirit of the time you can have in this area when you visit Bloomington, MN  and are looking for some great natural experiences.

The Richardson Nature Center offers peace and beauty in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Inside the center you can meet resident raptors, reptiles, eagles and amphibians up close.

Be sure to pull up a rocking chair to watch the active bee hive and backyard wildlife around the lake.

Outside, you’ll find hiking trails through diverse habitats of oak forests and wetlands. Look out for deer, foxes’ ospreys, and other wildlife.

Kids will love the Nature Exploration Area where they can dig, build and climb in their own forts.

Paisley Park was the home of Prince and his recording studio.

You can now take a tour of Paisley Park to learn what it was like for Prince to create, produce and perform inside his private sanctuary.

Tours of Paisley Park Museum include iconic concert outfits worn by Prince, awards, musical instruments, artwork, motorcycles, and rare music and video recordings.

The VIP experience gives you access to a longer tour with access to additional rooms and studios, and, if you visit on Thursday, you get a bonus recording opportunity with Prince.

What a joyful experience it was to stand in Studio B and record the verse to Raspberry Beret with Prince over a pre-recorded track.

I certainly didn’t let fear of what others would think stop me from singing and bopping like it was 1999!

That’s the spirit of Paisley Park.

It invites you to lose your inhibitions, embrace the truth of who you are, and express that creativity and joy.

I loved Prince as an artist, and after visiting the museum, and gaining a greater insight into his private life, I have a much deeper respect for him as a person.

If you’re a music fan, this is definitely one of the best things to do in Minnesota.

Tickets for Paisley Park Museum can only be purchased online. See more details here .

Follow up your visit to Paisley Park with Prince the Tour run by Captain Randy.

This three-hour tour in a black van,  sprinter or bus takes you to different places in Chanhassen (where Prince lived) and Minneapolis.

As you drive to each significant place, you’ll be hearing personal stories of Prince’s childhood, his musical career, philanthropic efforts, and the ginormous heart and spirit of this small statured musical icon.

Some of the stops include:

• Prince’s childhood home and neighborhood
• The theater where he held his first live concert
• Kid’s home in the movie Purple Rain
• Prince’s favorite record shop
• and the gigantic purple mural of Prince

I hope you take the time to give him the Prince mural a kiss. Share the picture with us when you do.

Read more: Click here to read our in-depth review of the Paisley Park Tour and Prince the Tour

Ready for a delicious new take on an American burger?

One where the cheese oozes out from the middle of the patty?

Head to the 5-8 Club, home of the original Juicy Lucy. The 5-8 Club began as a speakeasy back in 1928, serving beer and liquor illegally along with light food.

Since then it’s grown into one of the legendary places to eat in Minnesota to chow down on some delicious Juicy Lucy burgers and sweet potato fries with marshmallow blue sauce.

It’s a unique combination of marshmallow and blue cheese, which, when paired with the sweetness of the sweet potato, is a taste sensation.

Just like the Juicy Lucy, which is a cheeseburger that has the cheese inside the meat patty rather than on top.

Choose your preferred Juicy Lucy and grab your napkins.

Kalyra went for the Saucy Sally smeared with a Thousand Island dressing; I stuck with a classic filled with pepper jack cheese, and Craig went all out with the juice with the Thanksgiving Juicy, a turkey burger stuffed with cheese and stuffing and topped with beans and gravy!

In 2014, the Travel Channel ranked the 5-8 #1 in America for tastiest place to chow down.

Time Magazine also listed the Juicy Lucy as one of the most influential burgers of all time.

And earlier this year (2018), Jimmy Fallon stopped in for one during the Super Bowl.

It’s certainly one of the best things to do in Bloomington, MN.  (OK, it is actually just across the city line in Minneapolis, but it’s close enough to count!)

Thanks 5-8 for changing the way I approach an easy Saturday night dinner at home.

I can guarantee once you leave, you will not be able to speak easy about the Juicy Lucy!

Why not take a rich musical journey along the Mississippi River?

Rhythms of the River is a musical road trip that also takes in the beauty of the Mississippi River, its history and the various cultures that sprung up along its banks.

The trail begins in Bloomington/ Minneapolis Minnesota (where the Mississippi begins) and ends in New Orleans, Louisiana (where the Mississippi River spills into the Gulf).

Some of the experiences you can expect to enjoy along the way are:

• Paisley Park and the Prince the Tour with Captain Randy in Bloomington
• The Grand Ole Opry, Nashville
• Graceland and Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis
• Mississippi Blues Trail
• Natchez Trace Parkway
• Preservation Hall in NOLA or Mardi Gras if you time it right!

The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is an area that covers 14,000 acres along the Minnesota River.

As one of the few urban wildlife refuges in the United States, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to unwind in nature, do a spot of bird watching, hunting, fishing, foraging, or just explore the natural landscapes.

You can partake in a variety of activities, from hiking plenty of trails in the summer, or go cross country skiing in the winter.

You can learn all about the park’s wildlife and diverse ecosystem from one of its two visitor centers.

Hyland Lake Park Reserve is known for its stunning prairies that wrap around its shimmering lakes and ponds.

In the summer, it’s a great place to go hiking, or take a paddle boat or canoe out on the lakes, or in the winter, try cross-country skiing or visit the aptly named “Ski Hill” for some downhill skiing.

If you have children, they will go wild for the expansive play area, complemented by the Richardson Nature Center and Hyland Hills Ski.

They can climb along rope structures, whizz down slides, or channel your inner monkey on the climbing apparatus. It’s one of the biggest and most entertaining play areas in the area.

The Works Museum is a kids museum designed to enrich young minds and foster their curiosity in the realms of technology and engineering.

With an array of hands-on exhibits tailored for children aged 5 to 12, the museum fosters a stimulating STEAM environment where kids can delve into the marvels of how things work.

From interactive displays to engaging workshops, The Works Museum is more than an educational gem but an opportunity for children to be inspired by the wonders of engineering.

11. Laugh at Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy

If you’re looking for things to do in Bloomington at night, then be sure to check out Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy in the iconic Mall of America.

This is the place to be for uproarious laughter and unforgettable entertainment, and regularly hosts touring comedians as seen on late-night TV and other side-splitting performances.

Located on the campus of Normandale Community College is the Normandale Japanese Garden, which opened in 1964 as a collaboration with the Bloomington Affiliated Garden Clubs.

This 2-acre strolling garden is known for its serene pond filled with graceful koi, as well as a picturesque lagoon with meticulously crafted bridges and structures.

The garden is a peaceful retreat for contemplation and cultural appreciation.

Also located inside the Mall of America is SEA LIFE Aquarium, a living museum that hosts an underwater adventure for all ages.

As the state’s largest aquarium, you can expect to see a variety of marine life, from turtles to sharks, plus it features a mesmerizing 360-degree ocean tunnel, which is the perfect spot for seeing the marine life up close.

The aquarium’s ray lagoon is full of stingrays and has a captivating walkover deck, allowing you to see them from up close.

Get your entrance ticket to SEA LIFE Minnesota here!

The Big Ticket is a 3-day bundled attraction pass that gives 30% savings on top attractions in Mall of America (MOA) and Twin cities including:

• Nickelodeon Universe
• Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium
• FlyOver America
• Crayola Experience
• Minnesota Zoo (including IMAX experience)

Click here to get the pass online.  You’ll receive a pass via email or text, which you show to the attractions attendant for admission.

Where to Stay in Bloomington, MN

There are over 40 hotels near Mall of America, and two hotels in Mall of America.

We stayed at the following hotels in Bloomington MN:

The Great Wolf Lodge Water Park in Bloomington, Minnesota is one of the hotels near Mall of America. It’s only a short 10-minute walk to the north entrance of the mall, or a free shuttle ride away.

Great Wolf Lodge is a fun resort that adds richness to your family travel memories.

With its famous indoor amusement park and water park and MagiQuest arcade game, it’s an attraction in itself and the perfect complement to the fun you can have in Mall of America and the greater Bloomington area.

It also has a climbing wall and

Read more: Click here to read our in-depth review of Great Wolf Lodge

For those who love convenience and style, Radisson Blu MOA is the hotel for you!

As one of only two hotels at Mall of America, its location cannot be beat.

I loved the access to my room – and everything I forgot to pack – during my stay playing, shopping and eating inside Mall of America.

There are lots of fun things to appreciate within the hotel, like the Marty the Moose Passport Scavenger Hunt for kids, the relaxing pods in the foyer, and the butt chair – don’t forget the selfie in it!

Read more: Click here to read our in-depth review of Radisson Blu, Mall of America !

Final Thoughts

Bloomington, Minnesota has a myriad of attractions and some incredible places of natural beauty that make worth a visit.

We hope this guide helped you plan a few things to do besides visiting the renowned Mall of America, from the city’s lush parks and tranquil gardens to the children’s museums.

Hopefully you found something exciting to add to your to-do list from this list!

Do you have any tips on things to do in Bloomington MN?? Or any questions for your upcoming trip? Share in the comments.

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9 Exciting Things to Do in Bloomington, Minnesota

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for a list of fun and exciting things to do in Bloomington, MN?

This article features 9 awesome things to do in Bloomington and highlights why this Minneapolis suburb is the ultimate stop for shopping and family entertainment.

Whether you’re looking to spend a day at an aquarium, shop for top-notch clothing brands, or go hiking, biking, or downhill skiing, you will find tons of fun things to do in Bloomington.

Look no further for the 9 best things to do in Bloomington with or without kids!

Some of the links on this page are Amazon affiliate links. If you click on the links and make a purchase, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All photo credits thank to the Bloomington CVB!

Table of Contents

Things to do in Bloomington, Minnesota

Located 10 miles south of Minneapolis and 20 miles south of St. Paul, sits the fun and exciting city of Bloomington, Minnesota.

As the fourth largest city in the state of Minnesota, Bloomington is most commonly known for being the home of the world-famous Mall of America .

Bloomington is not just a shopping center, however, as it is home to a variety of entertainment venues and a plethora of activities for children and adults. 

In addition, Bloomington has many outdoor activities to keep you active and engaged while visiting this suburban city.

Here, you will find a lineup of hiking and biking trails, fishing and camping opportunities, playgrounds, and even downhill skiing and snowboarding.

Visiting Bloomington is a delight because it has so much to offer no matter what time of the year you visit!

Be sure to click on the links in this article for more in-depth guides on the Bloomington attractions mentioned.

1. Mall of America

60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425

The Mall of America (MOA) is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the United States and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.

Each year, over 40 million visitors head to Bloomington, MN to experience the Mall’s 400+ events, such as fashion shows, concerts, and celebrity appearances.

In addition, guests marvel at its 520+ retail shops that feature fashion, food, tech, toys, and plenty of unique finds.

Big-name clothing retailers include Macy’s, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Abercrombie & Fitch, Lululemon, and Athleta. (Insider tip: there is no sales tax on clothing in the state of Minnesota!)

The Mall is also home to specialty retailers like Peleton, Apple, Carhartt, and Alpaca Connection, as well as luxury retailers like Burberry, Chanel, Gucci, and Lacoste.

Along with epic shopping experiences, the Mall of America houses more than a dozen full-service restaurants like Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, Rainforest Cafe, Twin City Grill, Hard Rock Cafe, and Crave.

(The following is our list of the best kid-friendly restaurants at the Mall of America! )

You’ll also find nearly two dozen attractions and entertainment venues including:

• An indoor theme park
• Arcades and escape rooms
• Axe throwing
• Comedy Theatre
• The Crayola Experience
• Movie theater 
• Mirror maze
• Old Time Photos
• Many more…

Finally, if you’re looking for ultra-convenient overnight accommodations, the Mall of America is connected to two amazing, upscale hotels!

Both Radisson Blu and JW Marriott Mall of America are physically connected to MOA and can be experienced without ever having to leave the mall.

2. Nickelodeon Universe

Would you believe that the Mall of America has an indoor amusement park that includes giant rollercoasters and thrill rides?

Nickelodeon Universe theme park  is a humongous 7-acre indoor amusement park located in the center of the mall.

Spending a few hours or an entire day at Nickelodeon Universe is by far one of the most fun things to do in Bloomington, MN!

This Nickelodeon-themed amusement park offers over 28 rides in three different categories: Family, Junior, and Thrill.

For the little tykes in your family, the 11 Junior rides are specially designed for children 36-42 inches tall.

(And as a huge bonus, parents or chaperones ride for free with a paying toddler!)

Tweens, teens, and adults will enjoy the Pepsi Orange Streak rollercoaster, SpongeBob Squarepants roller coaster, Brain Surge, and The Fairly Odd Coaster.

Rides can be enjoyed when purchased in the form of a points system, an unlimited wristband, or an annual pass.

Other activities within Nickelodeon Universe include character meet-n-greets with SpongeBob, Dora, Ninja Turtles, and Ni Hao, as well as Dutchman’s Deck zip lining.

Additional planning tip: Helpful to note is that the Mall of America and Nickelodeon Universe is a Certified Autism Center for children with sensory concerns.

Each activity has a sensory guide letting parents know the stimulation level of touch, taste, smell, sound, and sight for that activity.

3. SEA LIFE Aquarium

Another one of the best things to do in Bloomington, MN is to visit SEA LIFE Aquarium .

SEA LIFE Aquarium is located on the East side of Level 1 at none other than, the Mall of America.

This incredible aquarium experience brings the ocean to Minnesota with more than 4,500 animals in 1.3 million gallons of water.

SEA LIFE’s crown jewel is the 300-foot ocean tunnel where you can watch sharks, stingrays, jellyfish, and sea turtles swim overhead.

The aquarium also has touch tanks where you can find out what sea animals such as anemones feel like.

Finally, SEA LIFE Aquarium hosts ongoing events like shark feedings and behind-the-scenes tours that visitors can book ahead of their visit.

4. Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge

3815 American Blvd E, Bloomington, MN 55425

Next, Bloomington, Minnesota is home to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge and its visitor center.

This 14,000-acre National Wildlife Refuge is part of a national effort to conserve and protect fish, wildlife, and plants, as well as to provide environmental education.

Among its lakes, ponds, and floodplain forests, there are over 46 miles of beautiful trails for hiking, biking, bird watching, and photographing.

Here, you will likely see dozens of avian species, including warblers, eagles, waterfowl, and migratory birds.

In the winter, visitors head to the Refuge to go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing as part of their midwest winter weekend getaway .

Additional planning tip: The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge permits select access to fishing and hunting within the park in order to ensure healthy wildlife populations.

5. Hyland Lake Park Reserve

10145 E Bush Lake Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438

If you’re looking for another way to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, head to Hyland Lake Park Reserve as part of your Minnesota bucket list !

As another one of the best things to do in Bloomington, MN, Hyland Lake Park Reserve is part of an extensive park system comprised of nearly 2,600 acres.

Here, visitors will find activities suitable for spring, summer, fall, and winter that include:

• Hiking, dog trails, and geocaching
• Picnic areas and large playgrounds with a variety of structures
• Biking and disc golf
• Boating, paddling (canoe and kayak), and fishing on Hyland Lake
• Cross-country, downhill, and telemark skiing
• Snowboarding, snowshoeing, and sledding
• Nature center to learn about local wildlife
• Rental spaces for group events

Keep your eyes peeled for stunning wild animals like wood ducks, swans, beavers, and turtles around the lake.

6. Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area

8800 Chalet Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438

Within the Hyland Lake Park Reserve is the Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area .

This facility is unique in that it has 14 runs, 3 chair lifts, and 5 surface tows located in an urban area.

The runs at Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area range in difficulty from beginner to expert and include a terrain park with jumps and rails to practice your aerial tricks.

In addition to having equipment rentals and lockers for visitors, riders can take private or group ski or board lessons offered at the park.

Finally, relax with some food and drink at the Chalet while watching all of the activities on the mountain. 

Note that in the warm months, the mountain is open for hiking, biking, and outdoor concerts, while the Chalet hosts weddings and parties.

Read here for another great Minnesota downhill skiing destination !

7. Bloomington Farmers Market

Bloomington Civic Plaza, W of 35W on 98th St. and James Ave.

The Bloomington Farmers Market is host to a plethora of locally-grown produce and homemade goods. 

Nearby farmers come to the market on Saturdays from 8 am-1 pm between the months of October through June to sell products and participate in special events.

You will find all types of organic fruits, vegetables, herbs, cut flowers, honey, baked goods, jams, jellies, artisanal meats, cheeses, and maple syrup.

Typically, you will also find coffee stands and live music throughout the morning hours.

Don’t worry if you forgot to bring cash.

All vendors accept credit or debit cards too.

8. FlyOver America

Bloomington’s FlyOver America is located on Level 1 of the Mall of America.

FlyOver America is a one-of-a-kind indoor video simulation ride where you will experience a fully immersive adventure complete with wind, mist, and scent.

The aerial tour takes you over some of the country’s most recognized and memorable landmarks and regions including places you may have only dreamed about.

For instance soar over Hawaii’s volcanic craters, along the stunning Maui beaches, and among the tropical canyons of Oahu. 

Each FlyOver America ride lasts approximately15 minutes and is a unique way to get to know some extraordinary places within the United States.

The experience features both child and adult prices and is open year-round, making it one of the best things to do in Minneapolis in winter .

9. Vertical Endeavors

Vertical Endeavors is the premiere rock climbing facility located in Bloomington.

The facility is open to the public and does not require any previous climbing experience before visiting for the first time.

Visitors can purchase a day pass, 10-visit pass, or membership packages, as well as rental add-ons such as climbing shoes and a harness.

As another great indoor activity, Vertical Endeavors offers hours of action-packed fun for the whole family!

More Things to do In Bloomington, Minnesota

There are literally hundreds of other attractions found within Minnesota’s metro area of Minneapolis and St. Paul, as well as its surrounding suburban cities.

Here is a list of additional activities located within the city of Bloomington.

• The Works Museum (Interactive children’s museum focused on engineering and technology.)
• Normandale Japanese Garden (Beautiful garden located on the campus of Normandale Community College.)
• The Links at Dred Scott Minature Golf (Fun, outdoor miniature golf course.)
• Artistry Theater and Visual Arts (Award-winning production theater.)
• Gameworks (Esport and entertainment hub located inside of the Mall of America; includes console gaming, arcade games, bowling, and a restaurant.)

Places to Stay in Bloomington

Bloomington, MN is home to over 40 different hotels .

Its high density of hotels is related to the large influx of visitors drawn to the Mall of America as well as its close proximity to the Minneapolis International Airport (MSP).

Our absolute favorite place to stay in Bloomington if you’re visiting with kids is Great Wolf Lodge.

Located less than 1 mile from Mall of America, it’s only a short 10-minute walk to the north entrance of the mall or a free shuttle ride away.

This immaculate lodge-themed hotel has a humungous indoor waterpark, as well as an arcade, ropes course, and MagiQuest game.

Read our entire review of Great Wolf Lodge as well as find our insider tips for visiting there.

Our other recommendations for places to stay in Bloomington include:

• Radisson Blu
• JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America
• Best Western Plus Bloomington Hotel (awesome pool area!)
• TownePlace Suites by Marriott

Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

If you liked reading about our favorite things to do in Bloomington, Minnesota , click here to check out our Related Posts:

• The Ultimate Guide for A Day at Nickelodeon Universe
• 5 Fabulous Midwest Winter Weekend Getaways
• USA Bucket List: Top 15 Places to See Before the Kids Leave the Nest
• 15 Best Mall of America Attractions for Kids of All Ages
• Our Howlin’ Review of Great Wolf Lodge, Bloomington, MN

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Things To Do

Bloomington adventures..

We're all looking to get away and have fun in a safe way right now. From the attractions at Mall of America to the activities in Minneapolis and St. Paul, there’s plenty to entertain you during your stay in Bloomington, MN - and our guests' health is our top priority. Browse all of the things to do, foods to eat and attractions to see right here. Because when you stay in Bloomington, you’re near all of Minnesota’s top attractions. Choose from fun-filled Bloomington, MN attractions and adventures that are sure to make your getaway a memorable one. Bloomington attractions include Mall of America®, Nickelodeon Universe®, SEA LIFE at Mall of America, Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, museums, outdoor activities and more! Before you visit Bloomington, visit our COVID-19 resources page to get the latest updates about travel-related restrictions.

Featured Itineraries

Free Things To Do Itinerary

Bloomington Gardens Itinerary

Bloomington South Loop Public Art Itinerary

See All Itineraries

Fly Hawaii now showing at FlyOver America

Take in the majestic beauty of the Hawaiian Islands without leaving Minnesota. Glide along the shores of Maui, gaze into volcanic crates on the Big Island and soar above the Napali Coast in Kauai! Purchase Now

The Escape Game

The Escape Game at Mall of America provides sophisticated, high-level games that challenge even the most hardcore gamers. America's #1 interactive escape room experience!

DoubleTree By Hilton Bloomington – Minneapolis South

DoubleTree is always a good choice when traveling to the Twin Cities. Find a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor pool, whirlpool and plenty of good food and drink on-site at Crescent Kitchen. Book Now

View Foodie Video

Learn how our restaurants and breweries source their ingredients locally to provide visitors with a taste of Minnesota.

Explore Virtual Tours

While local attractions are closed, watch a virtual tour and start planning a future trip. Explore Virtual Tours

Radisson Blu Mall of America

Connected directly to the Mall of America®, indulge in a luxurious room, dine at the world-class FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar and all that the Mall of America has to offer at your doorstep. Book Now

Mall of America is open with your safety in mind.

Many attractions, including Nickelodeon Universe® and SEA LIFE® at Mall of America, are open with guest capacity limitation and operating hour updates.

Know Before You Go

• Mall Of America
• Restaurants
• Activities & Attractions
• Itineraries
• About Bloomington
• Getting Here & Around
• Tours & Operators
• Visitors Guide
• International Visitors
• Deals & Packages
• Sporting Events
• Family Reunions
• Military Reunions
• Government Events
• Corporate Events
• Tour Operators

Top Things to Do in Bloomington, MN - Bloomington Must-See Attractions

Things to do in bloomington, explore popular experiences, tours in and around bloomington.

Twin Cities Tour & Mississippi River Cruise

The Escape Game: Epic 60-Minute Adventures at the Mall of America

SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota Admission Ticket at Mall of America

Mall of America®: Nickelodeon Universe® Unlimited Ride Wristband

Twin Cities Highlights Tour

Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour

Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour

The Complete St. Paul Walking Tour

Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis

St. Paul Historic Cave Tour

Theme parks.

Top Attractions in Bloomington

Other Top Attractions around Bloomington

What travellers are saying

• Mall of America
• SEA LIFE at Mall of America
• Lego Imagination Center
• Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
• Hyland Lake Park Reserve
• Normandale Japanese Garden
• Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Bloomington

Things to do in bloomington, explore popular experiences, tours in and around bloomington.

Twin Cities Tour & Mississippi River Cruise

The Escape Game: Epic 60-Minute Adventures at the Mall of America

SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota Admission Ticket at Mall of America

Mall of America®: Nickelodeon Universe® Unlimited Ride Wristband

Twin Cities Highlights Tour

Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour

Minneapolis Skyway Walking Tour

The Complete St. Paul Walking Tour

Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis

St. Paul Historic Cave Tour

Theme parks.

Top Attractions in Bloomington

Other Top Attractions around Bloomington

What travellers are saying

• Mall of America
• SEA LIFE at Mall of America
• Lego Imagination Center
• Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
• Hyland Lake Park Reserve
• Normandale Japanese Garden
• Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area

THINGS TO DO IN BLOOMINGTON WITH KIDS & FAMILY

Welcome to Bloomington! The city is the fifth largest in Minnesota and home to one of the country’s top tourist attractions – the Mall of America. While the Mall is certainly packed with fun, don’t overlook Bloomington’s natural spaces. The mighty Mississippi River forms the southern boundary of the city, nourishing a stretch of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Fort Snelling State Park. Read on for the best Bloomington, Minnesota family fun!

Spend a day in Bloomington and t ry these ideas for family fun, including kids-eat-free restaurants, the best things to do, family friendly activities & parks.

KID FRIENDLY EVENTS THIS WEEK NEAR BLOOMINGTON, MINNESOTA

Find this week’s Bloomington, Minnesota, family fun including the nearby southwest suburbs of the Twin Cities: Chaska, Eden Prairie, Edina Minnetonka, Minnetrista, Prior Lake, Richfield, Savage, Shakopee, Victoria, and Wayzata.   Find our full Twin Cities Family Fun Calendar here .

Nickelodeon Universe, Mall of America

Great Wolf Lodge, Bloomington

Mall of America, Bloomington

BLOOMINGTON SPECIAL EVENTS, FESTIVALS & SEASONAL ACTIVITIES

Spring in bloomington: festivals & activities, free family fun day: maple syrup at richardson nature center.

8737 East Bush Lake Road, Bloomington, MN 55438 We are big fans of  RICHARDSON NATURE CENTER and appreciate their steady stream of free event days each month. In March, you can drop in to learn about maple syrup free of charge.  March 3, 2024, 3-4pm. FREE.

Maple Sugaring at the Gideon Pond House

Pond-Dakota Mission Park, 401 East 104th Street, Bloomington, MN 55420 The annual, family-friendly spring program is all about learning how maple sugar is made, including choosing trees to tap, collecting the sap, and the boiling process of making collected sap into syrup and sugar. Drop-in program for all ages. March 23, 2024, 1-4pm, FREE.

Find our complete guide to maple syrup programs in the Twin Cities .

Bloomi ngton Public Works Open House

Featuring snowplow and tractor displays and rides, demos, interactive displays, prizes and refreshments. Kids can get a passport to collect stamps as they visit stations, then turn in completed passports for a prize. May 18, 2024, 9am-12pm. FREE.

GOT KIDS WHO LOVE BIG RIGS? Our calendar of Twin Cities  Touch-A-Truck events and Public Works Open Houses will help you find them all across the Minneapolis-St Paul metro area.

Easter egg hunts near Bloomington

Legacy toys easter egg hunt.

Mall of America, Bloomington Kids are welcome to search for up to five eggs hidden around the toy shop to redeem for a treat or prize. There will also be crafts, a family photo booth and games. March 16, 2024, 10am-2pm. FREE.

Bloomington Optimists Egg H unt

Normandale Lake Bandshell, 5901 West 84th Street, Bloomington, MN 55438 A 9000 egg hunt with different areas for each age group. Arrive early for the  Teddy Bear Band  at 10am. Egg hunt starts promptly at 11am. Learn more from the  Bloomington Optimist Club . March 30, 2024.

EXPLORE OUR GIANT LIST OF EASTER EGG HUNTS ACROSS THE TWIN CITIES METRO!

Spring registration for summer camps.

Yes, it’s about that time to start planning summer camp opportunities for your kids! As many camps open registration as early as February (and many fill almost as quickly), we strive to publish our 2024 GUIDE TO TWIN CITIES SUMMER CAMPS accordingly. We work closely with local businesses and camps to provide a wide variety of activities and concentrations. Some camps we are proud to highlight in Bloomington, Minnesota, include:

The Works Museum Summer Camps

Works Museum, 9740 Grand Ave S., Bloomington MN 55420 At The Works Museum, kids are the designers, creators, and problem solvers – the engineers! Summer camps for kids ages 5-12 include topics like robotics, architecture, coding, LEGO engineering, carpentry, and more. With half-day, whole-day, 1-day, and 4- day options, there’s a summer camp that will fit your family’s schedule. Camp prices range from $110 to $250. Scholarships are available. June 10-August 29, 2024.

More summer camps in Bloomington

Bloomington center for the arts: artistry summer camp.

1800 W Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington, MN 55431 Four sessions of weeklong, half-day camps in one of two art mediums: visual arts and performing arts. Camps are for grades K-2. June 3-August 23, 2024. $185.

Base Camp  (Northern Star Scouting)

201 Bloomington Road, Saint Paul, MN 55111 Camp Northern Star offers a lineup of  summer camps with time spent at Base Camp including a Discovery Adventure Camp for kids entering grades 6-8.  Camp offers 7 five-day sessions running June 17-August 9, 2024. $475/session.

Outdoor skills camp through Bloomington Parks for kids entering grades 2-7. Four weekly sessions: July 8-August 2, 2024. $300-$365/session.

Dakota Language Camps  

Pond-Dakota Mission Park, 401 E 104th St, Bloomington, MN 55420 For kids and adults of all ages (under 7 to be accompanied by adult). Make reservations through Bloomington Parks & Rec. 2024 dates still TBA. $50/pp includes lunch .

Vertical Endeavors Climbing Camps

9601 James Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431 2540 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404 Summer climbing day camp (9am-3pm) at all Twin Cities climbing gyms . Ages 6-13. June 10-August 9, 2024. $390.

Summer in Bloomington

Summer in bloomington: festivals & activities, bloomington summer fete.

W 84th St & Chalet Rd, Bloomington, MN 55437 The annual summer event includes a c arnival, live music and fireworks at dusk. Learn more about Bloomington’s at Normandale Lake Park.  July 3 ,  2023.

BLOOMINGTON ARTS IN THE PARKS

• MONDAY MORNING KIDS SERIES   – Moir Central Park, June 5 – August 7, 2023. 10:30-11:30am. 10320 Morgan Ave South, Bloomington, MN 55431.
• TUESDAY EVENING PERFORMANCE SERIES   – Normandale Bandshell,  starts June 6, 2023, 7pm.
• MIDWEEK MUSIC & MARKET   – Music, food trucks, a farmers market and lawn games at Civic Plaza.  Wednesday evenings, July 12-August 23, 2023. 5-8pm.
• THURSDAY BLOCKBUSTER SERIES   – Normandale Bandshell,  June 8-August 10, 2023, 7pm. W 84th St & Chalet Rd, Bloomington, MN 55437.
• SUNDAY FUNDAY – locations change weekly. Family-friendly live entertainment and food. June 18-August 13, 2023. 4-6:30pm.

Bloomington swimming & beaches

Bush lake beach.

9140 East Bush Lake Road, Bloomington, MN 55438 The popular, sandy beach is located on the east side of Bush Lake in Bloomington. It is guarded during open hours (11am to 7pm daily during the season) and amenities include a volleyball court and concessions stand. Families can canoe, picnic and explore the trails. An annual tradition, each June a sandcastle building contest is hosted at Bush Lake Beach. Admission and parking are free.  June 1-August 31, 2023.

Bloomington Family Aquatic Center

201 E 90th St, Bloomington, MN 55420 Fun features include a zero-depth entry pool, aqua climbing wall, water slides, diving boards, and a concession stand. Tot Time is held 10am to 12pm on weekdays for children ages 6 & under. Find more community   Tot Time Open Swims .  Open June 10 – August 20, 2023. $7-$10/pp.

FIND MORE OF THE   BEST TWIN CITIES BEACHES AND PLAYGROUNDS.

Fall in bloomington, fall in bloomington: festivals & activities, river rendezvous at pond dakota mission park.

401 E 104th St, Bloomington, MN 55420 Learn about life in Minnesota between 1800-1870 through living history activities, storytelling, costumed interpreters and tours of the restored 1856 Gideon and Agnes Pond House. September 23, 2023, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. $10/adults, $5/children. Learn more about visiting POND DAKOTA MISSION PARK in Bloomington year-round – it’s a fun place to bring kids to learn about the history of the area!

Bloomington Heritage Days Parade

TBA FOR 2023! The annual Bloomington Heritage Days parade invites the public to participate. Parade travels west along 102nd Street beginning at 3rd Avenue S (east of Nicollet, south of 98th St), to Harriet Ave at 10:30am. ( September 17, 2022)

FIND MORE TWIN CITIES FALL FESTIVALS near Bloomington!

Fall hyland hills chairlift rides.

8800 Chalet Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438 Take in the splendid fall colors view as you glide to the top of Mount Gilboa at HYLAND HILLS SKI AREA , the highest natural point in Bloomington. Enjoy some live tunes, too. Food will be available for purchase. October 7-8, 2023. $7/pp. Get your tickets fast as this event sells out.

Bloomington Halloween Events

Bloomington citywide halloween trick-or-treat trail.

W 84th St & Chalet Rd, Bloomington, MN 55437 Bloomington’s first trick-or-treat trail will take place at NORMANDALE LAKE PARK . This FREE event will include live music by Wendy’s Wiggle, Jiggle and Jam starting at 4pm. No registration required! Costumes encouraged but also not required. October 31, 3-5pm.

FIND MORE TWIN CITIES HALLOWEEN EVENTS near Bloomington, Minnesota!

More fall fun near bloomington, winter in bloomington, winter in bloomington: sledding, snow tubing, skiing & ice skating in bloomington, outdoor ice skating rinks in bloomington.

The city of Bloomington plans to maintain outdoor ice skating rinks at nine community parks. Each has a general ice skating rink, a hockey rink, warming house and outdoor lights. Find the rinks at Brookside Park , Bryant Park , Kelly Park,  Poplar Bridge Park, Ridgeview Park , Running Park , Southwood Park , Sunrise Park  & Westwood Park. The skating season typically runs from mid-December through mid-February (though the winter of 2023-2024 has been an exception). Looking for an indoor skating option? The BLOOMINGTON ICE GARDEN offers year-round ice skating (fees apply). Find more information on Bloomington ice rinks here .

Winter at Bloomington’s Hyland Hills Ski Area

During the winter months in Bloomington, Hyland Hills is a premiere family skiing and snowboarding destination. The terrain of the park is full of innovative features and offers some of the best snowmaking and grooming in the Midwest. Lessons are offered if you’re just getting started on skis or want to sharpen your skills. Find current ski prices here . Learn more about HYLAND HILLS SKI AREA in Bloomington.

The best sledding hills in Bloomington  

HYLAND LAKE PARK RESERVE: This is a winter recreational haven – bring your own sleds or rent one for a buck at the Richardson Nature Center (please check at the nature center for rentals – it’s also a fun place to warm up). The sledding hill is close to the nature center parking lot.

RUNNING PARK: Has a hilly terrain that is good for sledding. Bring along your skates for the outdoor ice rink. A warming house is open and staffed daily during the winter season. Find more of the best sledding hills near Bloomington, Minnesota.

Winter festivals & activities in Bloomington

Bloomington winter fete.

Bloomington’s annual winter festival packs weeks of frosty fun activities between mid-December and the middle of February. Highlights include free indoor skating, a traditional Ice Harvest Day at Richardson Nature Center, and the Pond House Winter Festival. You can find the complete schedule of Bloomington Winter Fete activities at the link.   Find more WINTER FESTIVALS near Bloomington, Minnesota.

Christmas & holiday events in Bloomington

The santa experience at mall of america.

Mall of America Level 1, 2131 Lindau Lane, Bloomington, MN 55425 Book your appointment with Santa Claus at the Mall. Packages for purchase. TBA for 2024. FIND MORE PLACES TO VISIT SANTA NEAR BLOOMINGTON!

Flyover Holidays at Mall of America

Flyover America, Mall of America, 5120 Center Ct, Bloomington, MN 55425 Flyover America traditionally becomes a holiday sleigh adventure in December. Stay tuned for more details! Sunday-Thursday, 11am-7pm & Saturday, 11am-8pm. $16.19-$21.99/pp ( best prices online ).

Frontier Christmas Celebration at the Pond House

Costumed re-enactors at the historic Pond House will sing carols around the pump organ, read the Christmas story, and serve tasty holiday refreshments. Warm up by the fireplace and make paper star ornaments to take home. December 16, 2024, drop in from 1-4pm. FREE; donations appreciated.

Christmas & Holiday Lights Displays in Bloomington

Founders Ridge Senior Community , 6600 Auto Club Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438 Trees and decorated and lights throughout the entrance of the campus along circular drive, including a 12-foot tree at the entrance of the building. Collecting Toys for Tots in a collection box under the awning of the front entrance. Submitted by the community in 2020.

FIND MORE HOLIDAY LIGHTS DISPLAYS NEAR BLOOMINGTON ON OUR HUGE LIST and hundreds of holiday events in our 2023 TWIN CITIES CHRISTMAS & HOLIDAY GUIDE .

More winter fun in Bloomington

For more outdoor winter fun in the Twin Cities check out our round up of free outdoor ice skating rinks our Winter Survival Guide and our Winter Family Festival Calendar – all filled with ways to enjoy the cold season.

COOL PLACES TO TAKE KIDS IN THE BLOOMINGTON AREA

Mall of america.

60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425 The sprawling Mall of America in Bloomington is one of the state’s top tourist destinations. It boasts four levels packed wall-to-wall with shopping, dining and fun family attractions including a large indoor amusement park, an aquarium, a cinema and oodles of entertainment you can sort through in our MALL OF AMERICA FAMILY GUIDE, Floor by Floor . Make sure to pocket this before your trip so you can make the most of your trip to the mega-mall (as we coined it upon opening day, 1991.)

See More Mall of America Attractions:

• MALL OF AMERICA TODDLER TUESDAYS – Fun & Freebies
• NICKELODEON UNIVERSE
• FLYOVER AMERICA
• CRAYOLA EXPERIENCE
• LEGO IMAGINATION CENTER
• SEA LIFE AQUARIUM (formerly Underwater Adventures)
• B&B THEATRES
• 2 Mini Golf Courses: MOOSE MOUNTAIN MINI GOLF & ROCK OF AGES BLACKLIGHT MINI GOLF
• THE ESCAPE GAME – ESCAPE ROOM

The Works Museum

9740 Grand Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55420 THE WORKS MUSEUM has exhibits, programs, and design challenges that engage kids in science, technology, and engineering while making learning memorable and fun. Kids of all ages love the Works for its hands-on science fun.

See more about Pre-K Mondays at the Works Museum in Bloomington, Minnesota.

Rainbow Play Systems Indoor Playground

900 W 80th St, Bloomington, MN 55420 RAINBOW PLAY SYSTEMS  is a retail outlet for backyard play equipment systems. They host birthday parties and offer pay to play times in their Bloomington showroom. You can book a fun indoor playdate to monkey around on the swingsets, slides and trampolines. We recommend checking the website to verify times before heading out for Pay to Play times. Cost is $8 per child for a 2-hour block of playtime on the showroom equipment. Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm.

Find more indoor playgrounds near Bloomington, Minnesota.

Base camp – northern star council.

6202 Bloomington Rd, St Paul, MN 55111 Located in the century-old Cavalry Drill Hall near Fort Snelling, BASE CAMP is operated by the Northern Star Council. Public programs include rock climbing, archery, high ropes, camping and outdoor skills, space simulator, and cycling. The first Tuesday of each month, Base Camp is open for drop in indoor rock climbing between 5-9pm. Ages 5 & up, $10/participant.

Vertical Endeavors Indoor Rock Climbing

9601 James Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431 VERTICAL ENDEAVORS   is one of the  premiere indoor rock climbing and bouldering facilities in the Twin Cities. The Bloomington location boasts 230 routes and walls of up to 60 feet high. Routes range from a beginner skill level to very difficult, meaning there’s something for every age and ability. Rock climbing makes for a great birthday party activity, too! Browse our directory of birthday party ideas to find one in the Bloomington area.

BLOOMINGTON MINNESOTA FREE FAMILY FUN AT PARKS & OUTDOOR PLAY

Bloomington bursts with more than 100 parks, playgrounds, athletic fields and more natural spaces to explore. Our list of the 10 BEST PARKS IN BLOOMINGTON is a great place to start no matter the season. Our Parks Search tool also covers most of these parks – just type “Bloomington” into the location search space. Some parks not to miss when searching for things to do with kids outdoors in Bloomington:

Free Family Fun:

• The gigantic “chutes and ladders” playground at HYLAND LAKE PARK RESERVE . 8737 East Bush Lake Road Bloomington, MN 55438
• A sanctuary along the Mississippi at MINNESOTA VALLEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE. 3815 American Blvd. East Bloomington, MN 55425
• Bloomington’s best beach for summer months at BUSH LAKE PARK. Bush Lake Beach, 9140 East Bush Lake Road, Bloomington, MN 55438
• Summer concerts and year-round entertainment at the bandshell in NORMANDALE LAKE PARK. 5901 West 84th Street, Bloomington, MN 55438
• A splash pad at CEDARCREST PARK. 8700 Bloomington Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55425
• Saturday Living history programs & free tours at POND DAKOTA MISSION PARK. 401 E 104th St, Bloomington, MN 55420
• Relaxing family strolls at JAPANESE GARDEN AT NORMANDALE COMMUNITY COLLEGE. West Lot, 9700 France Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431
• A free archery range with 18 different stations at MARSH LAKE PARK . 9401 France Avenue, Bloomington, MN 55431

More Active Fun:

• Summer waterpark fun at   BLOOMINGTON FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER. 201 E 90th St, Bloomington, MN 55420
• The ultimate Twin Cities skiing and snowboarding at HYLAND HILLS SKI AREA. 8800 Chalet Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438
• Practice hitting at CLUTCH HITTERS BATTING CAGES. Dred Scott Batting Cages, Bloomington Ferry Road, Bloomington, MN , 55431
• Ice skate year round at  BLOOMINGTON ICE GARDEN 3600 West 98th Street, Bloomington, MN 55431

Richardson Nature Center at Hyland Lake Park Reserve

8737 E Bush Lake Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438 In addition to one of the largest playgrounds in Minnesota, HYLAND LAKE PARK RESERVE is home to the RICHARDSON NATURE CENTER , which is stuffed with kid-friendly exhibits, live raptors, a nature play area and very deserving of your time. Make plans for your visit there with 10 Things for Kids: Richardson Nature Center & Hyland Lake Park .

More Bloomington Parks to Explore

• Brookside Park
• Bryant Park
• Bush Lake Beach Park
• Cedarcrest Park & Splashpad
• Girard Lake Park
• Hyland Lake Park Reserve
• Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
• Moir Central Park
• Nine Mile Creek Park
• Normandale Lake Park
• Penn Lake Park
• Pond-Dakota Mission Park
• Running Park
• Sunrise Park
• Tarnhill Park
• Valley View Playfield
• West Bush Lake Park
• Westwood Park
• Wright's Lake Park

RESTAURANTS WHERE KIDS EAT FREE OR CHEAP NEAR BLOOMINGTON

Cantina laredo (mall of america).

300 West Market (MOA 3rd Level), Bloomington, MN 55425; (952) 406-8311 Day/Time : Tuesday, lunch or dinner Deal : Toddler Tuesdays: One free kid’s meal per adult entrée purchased. Verified : 6/21/21

Cedar & Stone Urban Table

JW Marriot MOA, 2141 Lindau Lane, Bloomington, MN 55425; (612) 615-0124 Day/Time : Tuesday, lunch or dinner Deal : Toddler Tuesdays: One free kid’s meal per adult entrée purchased. Verified : 6/21/21

Chevys Fresh Mex  

2251 Killebrew Drive, Bloomington MN 55425; (952) 876-0222  Day/Time : Wednesdays, All Day Deal : Kids eat $1 with paid adult entrée. Verified : 6/21/21

Mall of America; 368 South Ave Bloomington, MN 55425; (952) 854-5000 Day/Time : Tuesday, lunch or dinner Deal : Toddler Tuesdays: One free kid’s meal per adult entrée purchased. Verified : 6/21/21

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

250 East Travelers Trail, Burnsville, MN 55337; (952) 882-4651 214 Pioneer Trail, Chaska, MN 55318;  (952) 361-0199 Day/Time: Sundays , All Day Deal : One free kid’s meal per $10 purchase. Valid at participating locations. (Limited time delivery/carry out code: KEFOLO) Verified : 6/22/21

4th Floor, Mall of America, Bloomington, MN 55425; (952) 500-8700 Day/Time : Tuesday, lunch or dinner Deal : Toddler Tuesdays: One free kid’s meal per adult entrée purchased. Verified : 6/21/21

1201 West 94th St, Bloomington MN, 55431; (952) 884-9898 8266 Commonwealth Dr, Eden Prairie, MN 55344; (952) 944-3000 Day/Time : Tuesdays, Hours vary by location  Deal : Kids Eat Free: 1 child (12 and under) eats free with adult purchase.  Verified : 6/21/21

MASU SUSHI & ROBATA

Third Floor, Mall of America, Bloomington, MN 55425; (952) 896-6278 Day/Time :  Tuesday, lunch or dinner Deal : Toddler Tuesdays: One free kid’s meal per adult entrée purchased.  Verified : 6/21/21

McHugh’s Public House

5715 Egan Drive, Savage, MN 55378; (952) 226-5800 Day/Time : Sundays; 4pm-8pm Deal : Kids Eat Free. Verified : 6/21/21

Patrick’s Bakery and Café

2928 West 66th St, Edina, MN; (612) 861-7570 Day/Time : Tuesdays; 4pm-close Deal : Kid’s Night: Kids eat free – 1 child (12 & under) eats free per adult entrée purchased. Entertainment by Lulu the Clown. Verified : 6/21/21

3849 Gallagher Drive, Edina, MN 55435; (952) 835-6440 Day/Time : Monday-Thursday; All Day Deal : $5 Kids Club Special – $5 Kids Meals & $5/hour gaming with purchase of adult meal Verified : 8/9/21

Pizza Ranch

1266 Vierling Drive East, Shakopee, MN 55379; (952) 233-2122 Day/Time : Tuesdays, Regular Buffet Hours Deal : Kid’s Night: One child 12 & under per paying adult.  Verified : 6/21/21

Station Pizzeria

13008 Minnetonka Blvd, Minnetonka, MN 55305; (952) 426-3273 Day/Time : Monday All Day Deal : Kids eat free off the kids menu. (Thanks, Nicole) Verified : 6/21/21

Twin City Grill

First Floor, Mall of America, Bloomington, MN 55425; (952) 854-0200 Day/Time : Tuesday, lunch or dinner Deal : Toddler Tuesdays: One free kid’s meal per adult entrée purchased. Verified : 6/21/21

  WILLY MCCOY’S

10700 France Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55437; (952) 456-8905 Day/Time : Sundays, 5-8pm Deal : One free kid’s meal per adult entrée purchased.   Verified : 6/21/21

Find More Twin Cities Restaurant Deals: Kids Eat Free or Cheap Twin Cities List .

Best family hotel in bloomington, great wolf lodge.

1700 American Blvd E, Bloomington, MN 55425 GREAT WOLF LODGE (in the former Waterpark of America space) is a super kid-friendly hotel and water park located near the MALL OF AMERICA . The facility boasts amazing waterslides and pristine pools. They also offer a ton of activities for kids and dining options. Waterpark passes are included in the price of all suites. Don’t miss our 7 Tips for Visiting Great Wolf Lodge in Bloomington .

Some Boredom Busting Ideas for Your Hotel Room :   75 Indoor Games for Kids of All Ages

BLOOMINGTON PERFORMING ARTS

Located on the grounds of the Bloomington Civic Plaza, BLOOMINGTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS ( 1800 W Old Shakopee Rd, Bloomington, MN 55431 ) supports performing and visual arts in the community. The building houses two theaters, two art galleries and a dance studio. It is also home to 8 arts organizations that often offer concerts, exhibits and events. You can check their 2022-2023 Performance Series for details on family-friendly shows such as Continental Ballet’s Cinderella (March) Artistry’s Godspell (July & August).

Watch for more events near Bloomington in our FAMILY PERFORMING ARTS PLAN-AHEAD CALENDAR .

Bloomington minnesota family fun map.

FIND MORE THINGS TO DO IN THE TWIN CITIES WITH KIDS!

Bloomington is just the beginning! FAMILY FUN TWIN CITIES tries hard to be the best resource when it comes to finding things to do with your kids and family in the Minneapolis-St Paul metro area of Minnesota. We strive to cover a wide range of communities and share activities and events we have personally experienced with our own kids in tow (all 12 of them!) We call the Twin Cities HOME and are excited to share the area with you! Visitors to Bloomington, Minnesota particularly love these Twin Cities attractions:

• Minnehaha Falls and Regional Park in Minneapolis
• Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul
• Minnesota Children’s Museum, Saint Paul
• Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley
• Valleyfair Amusement Park in Shakopee

Find things to do this weekend in Bloomington on our Weekend Family Guide!

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Sightseeing

Bloomington, minnesota tourist attractions.

Make the most out of your vacation and visit all the greatest Bloomington and Twin Cities tourist sights. One of the most popular Bloomington, Minnesota tourist attractions is the Mall of America® . With more than 500 stores, 50 restaurants, onsite attractions and movie theatres, there’s something to do and see for every vacationer! Be sure to check out Nickelodeon Universe® and the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium!

In the Twin Cities area, check out the St. Paul Cathedral! Its beautiful dome dominates the St. Paul skyline and the church sits on the highest point in downtown, so it can be seen anywhere. The St. Paul Cathedral features beautiful architecture and art and it was recently designated as the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul by the Vatican and U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

While you’re in St. Paul, visit the Minnesota State Capitol, which boasts the largest unsupported marble dome in the world! Its interior is reminiscent of a palace and you can view breathtaking art and murals. Because of its history and stunning views of downtown, it’s one of the most visited Twin Cities tourist sights.

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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Minnesota

Written by Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023

From the lake-laden North Country to the marble exterior of the State Capitol in St. Paul, Minnesota is brimming with natural and cultural beauty. Plan to explore the wilderness areas of Minnesota, including Superior National Forest and the North Shore of Lake Superior, or cultural attractions, like the Minneapolis Institute of Art or the outstanding Munsinger Clemens Gardens in St. Cloud.

Whether it's wandering down the hiking trails , paddling the waterways, gliding down the ski hills , or shopping at Mall of America, Minnesota is more than a land of 10,000 lakes, it's a state with unlimited things to do. Discover more places to visit with our list of top tourist attractions.

1. Superior National Forest & Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

2. see the sights along the north shore scenic drive, 3. paddle voyageurs national park, 4. international wolf center, 5. minnesota state capitol building, 6. go shopping at the mall of america, 7. como park zoo & conservatory, 8. minneapolis institute of art, 9. split rock lighthouse state park, 10. stroll through munsinger clemens gardens, 11. duluth aerial lift bridge, 12. go camping at itasca state park, 13. cathedral of st. paul, 14. minnehaha park.

Superior National Forest , with pristine lakes and rivers, covers large areas of northeast Minnesota. The town of Ely, home to the International Wolf Center , is an excellent base from which to explore the unspoiled landscape. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, which lies within the forest, is well known among paddlers in the United States and Canada.

It is located along the boundary between the two countries and is a great area for backcountry canoe and kayaking trips , as well as fishing. This area is remote and supports a great deal of wildlife, including bears, moose, and wolves. Superior National Forest covers more than three million acres, of which 445,000 acres or almost 700 square miles are made up of water.

The North Shore Scenic Drive near Duluth follows the north shore of Lake Superior from Duluth to Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. Along this route are many of the top state parks in Minnesota , including Split Rock Lighthouse, Tettegouche, and Grand Portage State Park . Waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and great views of the seemingly never-ending Lake Superior accompany the long drive.

Recreational activities like boating, fishing, and mountain biking are easily accessed along the route, including downhill skiing , snowshoeing, and ice-fishing throughout the long winters. For those not interested in automobile travel, the 300-plus-mile Superior Hiking Trail extends along the Minnesota shoreline and can only be traveled by foot.

Voyageurs National Park is a pristine wilderness area that combines natural beauty with history. This mainly backcountry park, accessed primarily by water or air, is a wonderful place for canoeing, boating, fishing , and other outdoor pursuits.

The park is remote and offers great opportunities to see wildlife , such as bears, moose, loons, and much more. Historically, this area was important during the fur trade, when the French-Canadian Voyageurs traveled these waters in huge birch bark canoes.

Adventures by boat and by land abound at Voyagers, and like the waterfront Wooden Frog Campground, some of the best campgrounds in Minnesota can be found lining the shores.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Voyageurs National Park, MN

The International Wolf Center near Ely, one of the best small towns in Minnesota , is an educational center that supports and promotes the survival of wolves. Hands-on exhibits, demonstrations of wolf tracking methods, and all kinds of information on wolves is presented.

Visitors learn about the natural history of wolves by observing the resident wolf pack. The center also offers a wide variety of programs and other visitor experiences, including Wolf Photography Workshops , Geocache Adventures, and overnight visits for groups of eight or more (call ahead to schedule).

Address: 1396 Hwy 169, Ely, Minnesota

Constructed between 1896 and 1905, the Minnesota State Capitol building recently underwent renovations to restore this historic structure back to its original glamour. Besides repairs to the exterior marble and restored furnishings of the interior, the 2013 to 2017 renovations also added more public space and accessibility for visitors.

Guided tours are available every day of the week except Sunday, and self-guided tours of areas like the Rotunda, the second "Grand" floor, and the Governor's Reception Room are always encouraged.

On the exterior main entrance of the Capitol, The Quadriga is a golden four-horse chariot statue and always a visitor favorite. Admission and visits are free but a donation is always appreciated.

Address: 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, St. Paul, Minnesota

Located on the outskirts of St. Paul, in the suburb of Bloomington, is the Mall of America . When it opened in 1992, it was one of the largest malls in the United States. In addition to more than 520 shops and dozens of restaurants , the facility includes theaters, hotel accommodations, and other amusements .

More than 400 events happen at the mall each year, ranging from dance parties to Minnesota Viking fans' celebrations. Numerous "Stay and Shop" packages can be booked with nearby hotels.

Address: 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, Minnesota

The Como Park Zoo & Conservatory is one of the best family attractions in Minnesota. Here, you'll find everything for a complete day of fun for all ages. It's also budget-friendly; both are free to enter but donations are encouraged.

The zoo has a variety of animals from around the world, ranging from monkeys through to polar bears. One of the most enjoyable animal interactions is feeding the giraffes. Available to visitors of all ages, these gentle giants eat Romaine lettuce right out of your hand.

The zoo recently completed a 20-million-dollar expansion, with the addition of the new Como Harbor exhibit. This is the new home of seals and sea lions and features amphitheater-style seating in front of a 250,000-gallon tank complete with acrylic glass viewing windows. Two shows take place daily, and one of the star performers is Sparky the sea lion.

There is more to the park than the zoo. Be sure to swing by the conservatory to see a riot of heat-loving plants. A visit to this beautiful glass building makes you feel like you've stepped into the tropics. The Sunken Garden is a colorful area full of fragrant and beautiful plants that change throughout the seasons, and is an ideal place to snap a picture or two.

Hosting more than 700,000 visitors a year, the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) has a wide range of art and attractions, all with free admission to explore. The collection at Mia features more than 89,000 artworks, and the permanent and temporary exhibits span everything from American modernism to ancient artifacts from around the world .

Among many other installations, visitors can check out Japanese and Korean art, decorative art and textiles, and the Doryphoros - one of four surviving Roman copies of an ancient Greek sculpture. Mia also hosts free daily public tours , family programs, and a four-day Art in Bloom festival each year in the spring.

Address: 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park is located 20 miles northeast of Two Harbors on the North Shore of Lake Superior . It is home to Split Rock Lighthouse, which was built in 1910 to protect Lake Superior shipping. Visitors can tour the lighthouse , foghorn building, keeper's house, tower, and light.

Numerous hiking options line the park, which lead through forest, pebble beaches, and great viewpoints of the shoreline. Come winter, the trails at Split Rock become designated for fat tire biking . A cart-in campground is also available, with a few sites offering personal views of the lighthouse.

Address: 3755 Split Rock Lighthouse Road, Two Harbors, Minnesota

The Munsinger Clemens Gardens in St. Cloud are some of the summertime delights of the city. The Munsinger Gardens feature approximately 80,000 annual plants within a setting of trees, benches, swings, fountains, and ponds. The Clemens Gardens are known for having more than 1,100 rose bushes and an all-white garden devoted to white flowers and flowering shrubs.

Music in the Gardens , every other Sunday in the summer, is a fun way to enhance the experience, and the annual Art Fair in the Gardens is a popular event featuring artists and musicians from across the state.

Address: 1515 Riverside Drive SE, St. Cloud, Minnesota

Originally constructed between 1901 and 1905 as an aerial transfer bridge with a cable car, the bridge expanded into an entire roadway in 1929 and has been a prominent icon of Duluth ever since.

The bridge allows residents of Minnesota Point to reach the mainland and it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places . The Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge is operated 24 hours of the day, and watching it rise and lower for freight ships, sailboats, and tour boats is part of the spectacle.

Address: 601 S Lake Ave, Duluth, Minnesota

Read More: Top Things to Do in Duluth

As Minnesota's oldest state park, Itasca encompasses more than 32,000 acres of wildlands and lakes, including the headwaters of the Mississippi River . Outdoor recreation opportunities are easily found at this northern Minnesota state park, and visitor favorites include hiking trails, fire towers, and old-growth Red Pine forests .

The one-way Wilderness Drive and Bike Route makes a loop through the mainstay of the park, providing plenty of parking areas and trailheads along the way. Overnight accommodations at Itasca include developed and backpack-only campsites, various lodges, cabins, and the year-round Mississippi Headwaters Hostel .

The Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center and the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center are both good places to begin exploring.

Address: 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, Minnesota

The imposing St. Paul Cathedral in St. Paul was built in the early 1900s and is today the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul and a pilgrimage site. The design is Classical Renaissance, and the large interior can hold up to 3,000 people.

An active place of worship, the cathedral is open to the public for much of the day, though tourist visits are discouraged during Masses and other holy services. One-hour guided tours are available at 1pm, Tuesday through Friday, and are a good way to gain some historical perspective on the cathedral.

Address: 239 Selby Avenue, St. Paul, Minnesota

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Paul, MN

No trip to Minnesota and Minneapolis in particular, would be complete without a stop in Minnehaha Park, one of the best parks in Minneapolis .

This 167-acre park is especially known for its famous waterfall, Minnehaha Falls , which plunges 53 feet off a limestone ledge. The base of the falls can be easily accessed via a walking trail or, if you prefer, they can be viewed from the top at a lookout. The falls are best viewed in the spring, when water levels in the creek are at their highest.

The park is a popular place to visit for families, especially in the summer when the wading ponds are a magnet for small children.

Other park attractions include extensive walking trails , three ornamental gardens , a dog park , and the pleasant Sea Salt restaurant (open seasonally).

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