Things to Do in Bloomington
Things to Do in Bloomington
By Paige Paulson
Visitors flock to Bloomington for Mall of America, the nation’s largest retail and entertainment complex, but there’s so much to do in this Minneapolis-St. Paul suburb outside of exploring MOA. Read on for tips on exploring Bloomington’s delicious dining scene, parks and trails, and collection of one-of-a-kind things to do.
Mall of America / Credit: Paul Vincent
WHERE TO SHOP
Bloomington is known for the iconic Mall of America, which has been “the place for fun in your life” since opening in 1992. MOA’s 500+ stores all have tax-free shopping on clothing and shoes, with hard-to-find brands like Aritzia, Zara, and Canada Goose filling its four levels. Anchored by Macy’s, LL Bean, and Nordstrom (with designer boutiques like Chanel and Gucci), the Mall also houses multiple first-to-market brands like Chubbies, True Classic, and SITKA Gear.
Outside of shopping, Mall of America has plenty to offer in the way of family-oriented attractions. The nation’s largest indoor theme park, Nickelodeon Universe, is located in the center of the Mall and has 27 rides that range from toddler-friendly and slow-paced to thrilling roller coasters.
Crayola Experience at Mall of America
Other favorites are SEA LIFE at Mall of America, an aquarium with a 300-foot-long underwater tunnel and stingray feeding pool; Crayola Experience, a hands-on interactive art attraction designed by the famous crayon brand; and FlyOver America, an interactive flying ride with special effects that will make you feel like you’re truly soaring over the United States.
Newer experiences like M&Ms Mall of America, Activate Games, and CoComelon Playdate ensure that Mall visitors never run out of activities to check out.
Kura Sushi at Mall of America / Credit: Rachel Kawate
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
MOA also has options galore when it comes to dining. Options for foodies include revolving sushi bar Kura Sushi, classic Minnesota eatery Twin City Grill, and dozens of fast casual and fast food restaurants such as Shake Shack and Piada Italian Street Food.
Outside of the Mall, Bloomington is a hub for international cuisine. It offers authentic Chinese at Grand Szechuan and Mandarin Kitchen, halal dishes at Afghan Darbar, and Japanese street food at Itton Ramen. The Bloomington Farmers Market, held biweekly in the spring, summer, and fall and monthly in the winter, welcomes local vendors to sell fresh-grown produce, flowers, and prepared foods.
Hazelwood Food + Drink / Credit: Rachel Kawate
The James Beard Award-nominated team at Travail Kitchen and Amusements will soon open a Bloomington outpost of Pig Ate My Pizza, known for its creative toppings and shareable appetizers. Ciao Bella’s delicious Italian food and leafy patio have been drawing fans to its west Bloomington location for nearly 30 years, while Hazelwood Food + Drink near Mall of America satisfies Minnesota visitors and locals alike with elevated classics like wood-fired pizzas and parmesan-crusted walleye.
Other unique spots in Bloomington include the massive candy store Grandpa Joe’s and the city’s first brewery, Nine Mile Brewing, which will soon open its own restaurant.
Ski jumper at Hyland Hills in Bloomington
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
More than just Mall of America, Bloomington is also a haven for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Nearly one-third of the city is made up of parks and nature areas like Hyland Hills Ski Area and Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
From swimming and biking in the summer to snowshoeing and ice fishing during colder months, there’s endless ways to experience Minnesota’s four distinct seasons.
Japanese Garden at Normandale Lake Park in Bloomington
THINGS TO DO
Moments of tranquility can be found in the tucked-away Japanese Garden on Normandale Community College’s campus, where traditional Japanese garden elements like a pond and waterfall, entry gate, and carefully placed rocks and plants can be found. Just down the road from the garden is The Works Museum, where young STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) lovers can get their hands on building and engineering activities during open play and special events. And closer to MOA, Whirlyball combines elements of basketball and lacrosse on bumper cars for a one-of-a-kind competition fun for kids and adults alike.
Minnesota is known for its arts and culture, and Bloomington is no different. Artistry puts on regular productions at Bloomington Center for the Arts, with recent shows including "Rent", "Newsies" and "Sweet Charity". The arts organization also highlights regional artists in several BCA galleries and the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center.
Kids and parents love the indoor water slides at Great Wolf Lodge in Bloomington
WHERE TO STAY
With so much to do in Bloomington, you’ll need a comfortable place to rest your head. The destination has the largest concentration of hotels in the state, with 45+ options for budget travelers and luxury seekers alike. Most hotels offer free parking and a shuttle to the nearby Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and Mall of America. Guests can even stay at JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America or Radisson Blu Mall of America, which are directly connected to the Mall.
Families love visiting Great Wolf Lodge and its 75,000-square-foot waterpark, and extended-stay travelers can choose from two Home2Suites properties, TownePlace Suites Minneapolis Mall of America, and several other hotel options. Newer hotels include Element Bloomington Mall of America, Cambria Hotel Bloomington Mall of America Minneapolis Airport, and Hyatt House Mall of America MSP Airport.
Read our Mall of America guide.
Paige Paulson is Bloomington Minnesota Travel & Tourism’s marketing and communications manager. A Minnesota transplant, she came to the state for work and stayed for the lakes, dog-friendly breweries, and friendly neighbors.