The Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, is the largest shopping mall in the United States by total floor area and one of the most visited destinations in North America. With approximately 520 stores, an indoor theme park, a full aquarium, two hotels inside the building, zero sales tax on clothing and shoes, and approximately 40 million visitors annually, it is far more than a place to shop. This complete visitor guide covers everything you need to plan your trip.
Mall of America at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425 |
| Total Size | 5.6 million square feet |
| Retail Space (GLA) | 2.869 million square feet |
| Number of Stores | Approximately 520 |
| Restaurants | 50+ |
| Annual Visitors | Approximately 40 million |
| Year Opened | August 11, 1992 |
| Floors | 4 levels |
| Nearest Airport | MSP International (5 minutes by car) |
| Light Rail | METRO Blue Line, approx. $2, 15 min from airport |
| Parking | Free, multi-level garages |
| Hotels Inside | Radisson Blu (500 rooms) and JW Marriott (342 rooms) |
| Sales Tax on Clothing | None, Minnesota exempts clothing and footwear |
What Makes Mall of America Different From Every Other Mall
Most shopping malls exist to serve the surrounding community. The Mall of America was built as a national destination from day one, and it has delivered on that promise for over 30 years.
What separates it from every other mall in the United States is the combination of scale and what the industry calls “retailtainment.” Inside a single building, there is an indoor theme park with full-size roller coasters, a two-level aquarium, a flight simulation ride, a LEGOLAND Discovery Center, an escape room complex, a comedy club, mini-golf, a bowling alley, and even a wedding chapel.
The tax advantage is real and significant. Minnesota charges zero sales tax on clothing and footwear. For visitors from states where clothing purchases are subject to sales tax, shopping at Mall of America represents an automatic saving on every apparel purchase. This benefit draws international shoppers and cross-state visitors specifically to Bloomington.
According to Mall of America, the building relies heavily on heat generated by visitors, skylights, lighting, and retail operations, maintaining a permanent interior temperature of approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, reducing the need for a conventional central heating system. This makes it a genuinely all-weather destination, especially during Minnesota winters.
Its proximity to MSP International Airport, one of the largest Delta hubs in the United States, is the final piece. Hundreds of thousands of travelers turn long layovers into Mall of America visits every year, and the light rail connection makes this seamless.
Attractions Inside Mall of America
Nickelodeon Universe: America’s Largest Indoor Theme Park
Nickelodeon Universe is widely regarded as one of the mall’s biggest attractions and a major reason many families visit Mall of America specifically. It is the largest indoor theme park in the United States, covering approximately seven acres inside the mall under a massive glass atrium with over 27 rides and attractions.
The park is themed around Nickelodeon characters and designed for all ages, from gentle family rides to full thrill experiences. Tickets are purchased per ride or through all-day unlimited passes, there is no separate entry fee to walk into the park area. Check mallofamerica.com/nickelodeon-universe for current ride listings, as names and offerings are updated periodically.
SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium
SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium is a two-level aquarium with over 10,000 sea creatures across 30 themed zones. The centerpiece is a 300-degree underwater ocean tunnel where sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and tropical fish swim overhead and on either side.
Interactive touch pools allow hands-on contact with starfish and other marine animals. Behind-the-scenes tours and feeding experiences are available for an additional charge. The aquarium is located on Level 1 and is consistently rated among Minnesota’s top family attractions.
FlyOver America
FlyOver America is a 4D multi-sensory flight simulation that takes visitors over iconic American landscapes, the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, Monument Valley, New York City, and more, using a giant spherical screen, motion seats, and wind, mist, and scent effects. The experience lasts approximately 15 minutes.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center
The LEGOLAND Discovery Center features LEGO-themed rides, a 4D cinema, build zones, and miniature brick-built recreations of the Minneapolis and Saint Paul city skylines. Outside the center, the LEGO Store has a signature pick-a-brick wall with 180 different LEGO elements. Primarily designed for families with younger children.
Other Attractions
- Crayola Experience: approximately 18,000 sq ft of hands-on art activities
- The Escape Game: multiple themed escape room experiences
- Billy Beez: large indoor play area for young children
- Lucky Strike Social: bowling, billiards, and arcade games
- Theatres at Mall of America: 14-screen cinema complex
- Moose Mountain Adventure Golf and Black Light Mini Golf
- The Chapel of Love: yes, weddings take place here regularly
Mall of America hosts over 400 free events annually, including celebrity appearances, live music, seasonal events, book signings, and interactive pop-ups.
Stores at Mall of America: What You Will Find
With approximately 520 stores across four levels, Mall of America covers every category and price point.
Department and Anchor Stores: Nordstrom and Macy’s anchor the retail offering. Several stores operate as oversized or flagship locations.
Fashion and Apparel: H&M, Zara, Uniqlo, Alo Yoga, Canada Goose, American Eagle, Hollister, Abercrombie and Fitch, Gap, Old Navy, Levi’s, and many more, all with no sales tax on clothing or shoes.
Luxury and Premium: A|X Armani Exchange, CHANEL Fragrance and Beauty Boutique, Coach, Kate Spade New York, Michael Kors, Pandora, and Tiffany and Co. are located primarily on Level 1.
Technology: Apple Store, Microsoft Store, and major electronics retailers.
Specialty: LEGO Store, Build-A-Bear Workshop, DisneyStyle, and numerous specialty retailers that are difficult to find all in one place.
The full store directory and interactive mall map are available at mallofamerica.com and on the Mall of America app.
Dining at Mall of America
Mall of America has over 50 dining options spread across all four levels, covering every style from quick bites to full sit-down restaurants.
Signature Dining:
- FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar (inside the Radisson Blu): featuring locally sourced Minnesota ingredients. Reservation recommended.
- Cedar + Stone, Urban Table (inside the JW Marriott): American cuisine with craft cocktails and patio seating
- Rainforest Cafe: a full themed dining experience ideal for families
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: casual seafood dining in a movie-themed setting
- Twin City Grill: popular mid-range American restaurant
Food Courts: Culinary on North on Level 3 is the main food court, offering international cuisine, American classics, Asian fare, and lighter options across multiple vendors.
Money-saving tip: The Mall of America Coupon Book ($9.99 at the information desk) includes over 250 deals at stores, restaurants, and attractions, and can easily pay for itself if you plan to shop or dine at multiple participating locations.
Hotels at Mall of America
Radisson Blu Mall of America
The Radisson Blu is directly connected to the mall by a skyway, guests can walk from their hotel room into the mall without going outside. The hotel features 500 guest rooms and suites, a full-service spa, a saline indoor pool, FireLake Grill House dining, and over 26,300 square feet of event space. It offers vacation packages that bundle accommodation with attraction tickets.
JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America
The JW Marriott is also directly connected to the mall. Positioned as the luxury option, it features 342 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, an indoor heated pool, a fitness center, and Cedar + Stone, Urban Table restaurant. According to the Bloomington, MN Tourism website, it is the newest hotel attached to the Mall of America. The hotel offers 20,000 square feet of meeting space, including the Diamond Ballroom.
Hotels Within 10 Minutes
More than 50 hotels are located within a 10-minute drive of Mall of America, the vast majority offering complimentary shuttle service to and from the mall.
How to Get to Mall of America
By Light Rail (recommended for air travelers): The METRO Blue Line light rail connects MSP International Airport directly to the Mall of America Transit Station in approximately 15 minutes for approximately $2 per person, the most convenient option for visitors arriving by air.
By Car: Located at the intersection of I-494 and MN-77 in Bloomington. From downtown Minneapolis, approximately 20 minutes via I-35W South. GPS address: 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425.
From MSP Airport: Approximately 5 minutes by car or 15 minutes by light rail. Taxi and rideshare services are available at the arrivals level.
By Bus: Several Metro Transit bus routes serve the Transit Station on the East side of the mall along 24th Avenue South.
Mall of America Parking Guide
Parking at Mall of America is completely free for all visitors.
Two main multi-level garages, the East Ramp and West Ramp, each have seven levels. Additional overflow lots include the North Parking Lot across Lindau Lane and the South Parking Lot along Killebrew Drive. Each garage section is labeled by a state name to help visitors remember where they parked.
Electronic signs at each entrance display real-time available space counts.
Valet parking is available for a fee at select entrances during peak periods.
Important: The Mall of America does not permit overnight parking. Vehicles left after closing may be ticketed or towed.
For first-time visitors, arriving before the 10 AM store opening is strongly recommended on weekends and holidays, parking garages open early and mornings offer significantly better options.
Mall of America Hours
Standard hours (subject to seasonal variation):
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday to Saturday | 10:00 AM — 9:00 PM |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM — 7:00 PM |
Holiday hours are extended during Thanksgiving weekend, the Christmas season, and other major holidays. Individual stores, restaurants, and attractions may operate on slightly different schedules. Mall walkers are permitted entry several hours before stores open.
Always check mallofamerica.com/hours for current hours before your visit.
Tax-Free Shopping: The Advantage Most Visitors Miss
Minnesota charges no sales tax on clothing or footwear. This applies to every apparel and shoe purchase at every store in Mall of America, including all approximately 520 stores across four levels.
For visitors from states where clothing purchases are subject to sales tax, every apparel purchase at Mall of America comes at a lower effective cost than buying the same items at home. This single policy makes Mall of America one of the better-value large shopping destinations in the United States, particularly for international visitors and those flying in specifically to shop.
Mall of America also offers a complimentary Personal Styling Service for visitors who want help navigating the hundreds of apparel options across the mall.
Insider Tips for First-Time Visitors
Wear comfortable shoes. Each level of Mall of America spans approximately 1.2 miles to walk fully. Walking all three primary shopping levels is comparable to a substantial walk, plan accordingly.
Download the Mall of America app before you arrive. It includes a detailed floor map, searchable store directory, and current promotions. Navigation without it can be confusing given the mall’s size.
Pick a level and complete a full loop before moving to the next, rather than zigzagging between floors.
Arrive before 10 AM on weekends, parking garages open early and morning crowds are significantly lighter than afternoons.
Storage lockers are available throughout the mall if you need to leave bags while continuing to explore.
Family amenities include dedicated Family Restrooms on every level, Mother’s Rooms for nursing, and stroller rental at information desks.
The Coupon Book ($9.99) includes over 250 deals across stores, restaurants, attractions, and partner hotels and can easily pay for itself with one or two uses.
Plan at least a full day. If you are including Nickelodeon Universe and SEA LIFE Aquarium, plan for a day and a half to two days for a complete, relaxed experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mall of America?
The Mall of America is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the United States by total floor area, located in Bloomington, Minnesota. It has approximately 520 stores, 50+ restaurants, an indoor theme park, a two-level aquarium, a flight simulator, and two connected hotels under one roof.
Where is the Mall of America located?
The Mall of America is at 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425, approximately 15 minutes south of downtown Minneapolis and 5 minutes from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport.
What are the Mall of America hours?
Generally open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Hours vary seasonally and during holidays. Check mallofamerica.com for current hours before visiting.
Is there sales tax at Mall of America?
Minnesota charges no sales tax on clothing or footwear. All apparel and shoe purchases at Mall of America are tax-free, a meaningful saving compared to shopping in most other U.S. states.
How big is the Mall of America?
The Mall of America covers 5.6 million square feet in total, with approximately 2.869 million square feet of gross leasable retail space across four floors.
Is parking free at the Mall of America?
Yes, parking is completely free for all visitors. Two main multi-level garages provide thousands of free spaces, with valet parking also available for a fee. Overnight parking is not permitted.
How do I get from Minneapolis Airport to Mall of America?
Take the METRO Blue Line light rail from MSP International Airport. The trip takes approximately 15 minutes and costs approximately $2 per person. By car or rideshare, the airport is about 5 minutes away.
Are there hotels inside the Mall of America?
es. The Radisson Blu Mall of America (500 rooms) and JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America (342 rooms) are both directly connected to the mall via interior walkways. Over 50 additional hotels within 10 minutes offer free shuttles.
How long should I spend at Mall of America?
Most visitors recommend a minimum of a full day. Including Nickelodeon Universe and SEA LIFE Aquarium, a day and a half to two days allows a relaxed experience.
Is Mall of America good for families?
Yes. Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Aquarium, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Crayola Experience, Billy Beez, and numerous family dining options make it one of the top family destinations in the United States.
For more travel guides and visitor information, visit Times Square News.
