In the area:
In recent years, the southern suburbs of the Twin Cities have become destinations at least as popular as the cities they grew up around. Leading the pack is Bloomington and the celebrated Mall of America, the nation's largest retail and entertainment center. With more than 500 stores, The Park at MOA indoor theme park, Underwater Adventures aquarium, and countless other places to eat, meet, shop and play, the Mall is one of the most visited destinations in the United States.
Other major attractions in South Metro include Shakopee's Valleyfair Family Amusement Park with over 75 rides, attractions, and an IMAX theater; Canterbury Park with live horse racing, the 1800s living history village of Murphy's Landing; and every fall, the Renaissance Festival, a 16th century village with artisans and performers. Apple Valley is home to the nationally acclaimed Minnesota Zoo, with hundreds of species from lakes, rivers and oceans around the world, the tropic, Minnesota and North America, mostly in a naturalistic environment where animals are more likely to behave as they would in their natural habitat.
Eagan is home to Cascade Bay Water Park. Burnsville features Buck Hill Ski Area and ProKart indoors, Prior Lake has the popular Mystic Lake Casino; and the area also boasts many fine championship golf courses. The South Metro area is also know for shopping areas and family fun centers and activities.
Click here for info on the Greater Metro area.