Explore one unique aspect for each year of Mall of America’s rich history.
Thirty years of business has resulted in the constant need for evolution and innovation. Since the first brick was laid in 1989, Mall of America has become one of the nation’s largest retail and entertainment complexes. When the facility first opened, Mall of America had 330 stores and 10,000 employees. Today, the Mall employs more than 12,000 people and is home to more than 520 stores. Like nothing you’ll see anywhere else, the Mall offers a different experience for each visitor. Though there’s no shortage of things that make the Mall special, here are 30 of our favorite attributes.
1. Mall of America Mall Stars
Mall of America Mall Stars is a group of like-minded adults who want a fun way to stay active. The All Stars make it their goal to walk around the Mall as much as possible. Members have scan cards to help keep track of all the time they spend walking throughout the year. Membership also gets you into monthly meetings and grants access to discounts at various restaurants and stores throughout the Mall. Fun fact: A lap around one level is 1.15 miles.
2. Toddler Tuesdays
Toddlers and their caretakers can take part in Toddler Tuesdays at Mall of America. Every week attendees can access events especially planned for kids. These events include character appearances, arts and crafts, story time, and more. Nickelodeon Universe also provides Toddler Tuesday wristbands that include unlimited kids rides for five hours.
3. Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy
Recipient of comedy industry praise, Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy is a staple at Mall of America. Guests will experience the best of the best that stand-up comedy has to offer, from up-and-comers to well-known comedians.
4. B&B Theatres
For those who want to take in a movie, B&B Theaters provides a complete experience sure to satisfy any cinephile. B&B prides itself on being a family-owned and -operated theater and strives to make all guests comfortable with its lush recliners and extensive snack options. New this summer is the ScreenX system, which projects films on multiple surfaces for a more immersive experience.
5. Lululemon Experiential Store
The Lululemon location at Mall of America is much more than just a store. The experiential location offers workout classes and other events, a café with full menu, and a spacious lounge.
6. Mall of America Personal Styling
Local style expert and wardrobe consultant Sara Rogers offers her services for personal styling, image enhancement, and one-to-one sessions. Her experience in the fashion industry has led to her being featured on television, radio, fashion blogs, and more. As the trend specialist for Mall of America, she has her finger on the pulse of modern style.
7. FlyOver America
There’s no need to physically leave the mall to see the sights. FlyOver America offers a virtual flight experience complete with wind, mist, and scents to fully immerse riders. Travel 10,000 miles from coast to coast in just 10 minutes. Try FlyOver Hawaii for a tropical escape, complete with palm trees and ocean views.
8. Dutchman’s Deck Adventure Course
While walking through Nickelodeon Universe, simply look up for a whole new adventure. Dutchman’s Deck Adventure Course features the tallest Sky Trail ropes course in the world. Also included is the longest indoor zip line in North America and a spiral slide down to the ground.
9. The Escape Game
Spend an hour in an immersive escape room in the heart of Mall of America. Work with your friends and family to solve puzzles and make it out in time. Choose from experiences such as escaping from prison, exploring space, and more.
10. Mall Mini Golf
Located on Level 3, Moose Mountain Adventure Golf is an outdoor-themed, 18-hole miniature golf course for guests of all ages. The custom-crafted course is a magical experience for the whole family. Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf features 18 holes themed around musical eras. Start in the 50s and putt your way through the dazzling blacklight terrain to present day.
11. FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar
Directly connected to the Mall, FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar is located in Radisson Blu Mall of America. FireLake specializes in locally sourced dishes and expertly mixed cocktails in a modern, warm setting, and even offers signature dining experiences such as “The Art of Brunch” and “Taste of the Seasons”.
12. Crayola Experience
Take part in an experience unlike any other at Crayola Experience. Families can take part in activities, peruse the wares, and stop for food at Crayola Café. Try out the drip art, name and wrap your own crayon, stomp around on the interactive floor, or attend the crayon factory show to learn how crayons are made and what makes them special.
13. Behind-the-Scenes Tour
The Mall of America Behind-the-Scenes Tour is a walking tour led by senior-level members of the Mall’s leadership. Guests are guided through the history of Mall of America and the business side of operations and given a look at hidden secrets and behind-the-scenes glimpses to show the Mall in a new light. Want to learn more about SEA LIFE at Mall of America instead? It has its own behind-the-scenes tour as well, where guests learn how the mall cares for its thousands of sea creatures.
14. Metropolitan Stadium Home Plate
Mall of America stands on the former site of the Metropolitan Stadium—home of the Minnesota Vikings and Twins from 1961 to 1981. The historic location was commemorated by leaving home plate in its original spot. Visitors will find home plate on the ground among the rides in Nickelodeon Universe. Plus, up on the wall nearby is Harmon Killebrew’s red chair that marks the longest home run in the history of the stadium.
15. Landscaping in Nickelodeon Universe
Another interesting tidbit about Nickelodeon Universe involves the landscaping. The eco-friendly design includes plants specifically chosen for their Nickelodeon flair. For example, check out the seaweed-reminiscent greenery, scattered coral, and shells placed around SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge.
16. Baking Betty's
Indulge in a gourmet cookie or treat at Baking Betty's. Frequently changing flavors made by "Betty" herself, AKA founder Emily Osterberg, are available at the stand on Level 3.
17. The LEGO Store
Anyone who played with LEGOs as a child owes it to themselves to make a stop at The LEGO Store. Featuring a pick-a-brick wall with 180 options, play tables, and hundreds of sets to assemble, this hotspot is a draw for kids and adults alike. Don’t forget to look up at the 34-foot-tall LEGO robot on top of the store.
18. Wisdom Gaming
Mall of America has welcomed the new home of esports on Level 4. Wisdom Gaming is an 18,000-square-foot broadcast studio and esports venue with a goal of bringing fans together. Luxurious seating for a live audience, a retail shop, and more create a welcoming spot for fans to cheer on their favorite teams and take in premium content.
19. Events Schedule
Be sure to check out Mall of America’s event schedule frequently. The Huntington Bank Rotunda is host to more than 400 events every year, including celebrity appearances, product launches, book signings, and musical performances.
20. Carlo’s Bakery
Buddy Valastro, owner of Carlo’s Bakery and star of TLC’s hit show “Cake Boss,” offers pastries and treats at Mall of America’s iteration of the famous bakery. Originally opened in 1910, Carlo’s is now a household name due to Buddy’s fame. Midwesterners now have an opportunity to experience the one-stop-shop for dessert lovers.
21. Nectar Bath Treats
You’ll think Nectar Bath Treats is a bakery when you walk by. Nectar offers soap and bubble bars made to look like delectable treats. The beautifully crafted goods are made with coconut oil, and the soaps can be used in the tub, shower, or sink.
22. Laundry Camp at Mona Williams
Led by owner and "Laundry Evangelist" Patric Richardson, laundry camp is a free, 90-minute class covering everything you need to know about washing clothes properly. Classes are held at Richardson’s store Mona Williams (a designer and vintage clothing shop) and cover sorting, washing, drying, and removing stains.
23. Doc Popcorn
You’ll smell Doc Popcorn before you see it. With flavors like Cheesy Cheddar, Hoppin’ Jalapeño, and Caramel Kettle, the selection is unbeatable. All varieties are popped using 100% corn oil and is some of the best popcorn around—just ask the locals.
24. Sox Appeal
Express yourself from your head to your toes at Sox Appeal. The walls are lined with socks of all colors and styles with fits for men, women, and kids. There’s no shortage of silly, witty options to truly express yourself.
25. The Fair on 4
Recently opened, The Fair on 4 is a meeting space for people of all ages. The space is 35,000 square feet and features a go-kart track, axe throwing, and vintage arcade games. Fair foods are on the menu, with classics such as hand-dipped corn dogs, cheese curds, and Minnesota’s own Blue Horse Pizza.
26. Wafels & Dinges
Sample Belgian Liege wafels (made from dough, not batter), each with your choice of toppings, or “dinges.” Try the whipped cream, Belgian chocolate fudge, spekuloos, or fresh fruit on your warm treat. The “Throwdown Wafel” is a part of the secret menu and was a winner on the hit Food Network show “Beat Bobby Flay.”
27. Indulge + Bloom
Indulge + Bloom offers a unique shopping experience filled with gift ideas and garden accessories. The store is chock-full of award-winning floral designs to brighten up any locale. Its ever-changing inventory of gifts keeps guests returning to see what’s new.
28. Beard Papa’s
Premier dessert location Beard Papa’s is located in North Garden and serves up Japanese cream puffs. Original Beard Papa founder Yuji Hirota perfected the art of the cream puff, and the Beard Papa’s location in Mall of America continues to use his recipe to this day. Pick your own shell and filling to make your perfect cream puff.
29. Parkview Meeting + Event Center
Located inside Nickelodeon Universe with sweeping views of the park, Parkview Meeting + Event Center houses a private meeting location with over 4000 square feet of space. Parkview has a prep kitchen, staging, audio and visual capabilities, and room for a dance floor. Professional and social events alike will find it ideal.
30. Paul Bunyan’s Fashion
Since 1992, the Log Chute ride has been a staple of the Nickelodeon Universe. Throughout that time a likeness of the gentle giant Paul Bunyan stands tall on the side of the ride. Those who visit may have the pleasure of seeing one of Paul’s many costume changes Among fan favorites: Hulk Hogan around Halloween, a Minnesota Vikings jersey when the team was in the NFL playoffs, and even an ugly sweater around Christmas.