Covering 4.87 million square feet, the sprawling Mall of America is one of Minnesota’s most famed and acclaimed attractions. If you’ve never been to the world’s 12th largest mall, the sheer size of it can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Fortunately, this guide will help you discover the best things to do in the Mall of America and where to spend your time. 
- Nickelodeon Universe
If you have kids, chances are you won’t leave the Mall of America without taking a few rides in Nickelodeon Universe. With 25 rides for all ages, you can zip through inversions on the SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge or cool down with a ride on the Log Chute. Other attractions include the Xscape Entertainment Center with hundreds of arcade games, Moose Mountain Adventure Golf, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock sky fly. Tickets start at $3.60 for a single ride or $36.99 for an all-day pass.
- Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy
When you’re in need of a chuckle, Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy has you covered. This adults-only venue has several top comedians live throughout the week with headlining acts performing over the weekends. Past acts have included the likes of Jimmy Kimmel, Jimmy Fallon, Jay Pharaoh, Bobby Lee, and Bryan Callen.
Between acts or while you’re waiting for the show to start, grab a cocktail or beer from the bar, or order from their extensive menu that includes sandwiches, pizza, salads, and their world-famous poutine.
- Lego Imagination Center
Another superb attraction for the young or young at heart is the Lego Imagination Center. Covering 6,500 square feet and four stories, this destination showcases some of the most masterful displays of Lego building, including astronauts, dinosaurs, a blimp composed of over 130,000 Lego blocks, and the largest Lego clock in the world. If you’re feeling inspired, head to the assembly room and interactive play area where you can put your Lego skills to the test.
- CMX Cinemas
If it’s a bit too crowded at the mall for your liking, escape the hustle and bustle with a trip to CMX Cinemas. This movie theater has all the latest films in stunning crystal-clear quality with some of the most comfortable seats you’ve ever lounged in. Attached to the cinema is the innovative new CMX market. Taking movie concessions to new heights, the market has an in-house pizza station, a popcorn lab, a delicatessen, and a spot for shakes and burgers.
- 555 Stores
If none of the above options appeal to you, don’t fret. The Mall of America has 555 stores across a range of products, merchandise, and interests. Grab a new pair of jeans at American Eagle, grab a delicious sugar and cinnamon pretzel from Auntie Anne’s, or try on some jewelry at Zales. Visiting a store every minute will still take you over 9 hours, providing plenty of variety and enough to keep you busy for days.
With entertainment venues, an indoor theme park, and food options galore, the Mall of America just might be the best thing under one roof.
Image via Flickr by coolmikeol used under CC By


