Don’t let summer pass you by without taking the time to make memories with the entire family this year. Check out some of these locations near Bloomington, Minnesota, where everyone is sure to have a good time.
Valleyfair
An amusement park is a great way to celebrate the summer season. Valleyfair’s roller coasters, such as the Delirious, Corkscrew, Excalibur, and High Roller are perfect for families with older kids who are looking for thrill-seeking excitement. Valleyfair also has plenty of smaller attractions for families with younger kids, with rides such as Planet Snoopy, Bumper Cars, and Mad Mouse. On a hot summer day, Soak City is the perfect place to cool off. Soak up the sun while you and your family enjoy the pool, water slides, and splash areas.
Check out one of the live shows at Vallyfair, including Peanuts Showplace with Snoopy and the gang and live music in the water park. Treat your taste buds to one of the many dining and drink options available in the park. Keep an eye out for a few of the upcoming summer events at Valleyfair, including the Food Truck Fest, the July 4th BBQ, Minnesota Eats, and Corn Feast.
Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America
With 27 rides at the famous Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America, this is an experience to remember. Some of the roller coasters at Nickelodeon Universe include the Avatar Airbender, Crazy Cars, and Pepsi Orange Streak. The Dutchman’s Adventure Course is packed with fun as you climb through a rope course and zip line over the park. The entire family can enjoy a game of miniature golf on the 18-hole course.
Younger kids can have their photos taken with their favorite Nickelodeon characters, such as Sponge Bob Square Pants and Patrick or Dora and Diego. Grab a bit to eat at the nearby Hard Rock Cafe, Grub, Sweet Treats, or one of the many food trucks. Capture memories of this exciting trip with a souvenir from Toys, GEAR, or the Nickelodeon Store. Visit after 6 p.m. or on Tuesdays for discounts on tickets.
Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium
The Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium is an educational and entertaining activity. The aquarium is committed to its conservation efforts, and its mission is to breed, rescue, and protect. With admission, you’ll learn more about the exhibits and conservation efforts. Just a few of the species that you can see at the aquarium are jellyfish, sharks, turtles, seadragons, and sea anemone.
You can also choose to take your visit to the next level with an aquarium experience. Go on a behind-the-scenes tour, snorkel with the fish, spend the night at the aquarium, or feed the rays. Don’t miss the new Brave the Rainforest Exhibit, an interactive experience that gets you up close and personal with cockroaches, piranha, and crocodiles. Make sure you check out the calendar for upcoming events this summer at the aquarium.
There are lots of family-friendly places to visit in Bloomington this summer. Get out of the house with the family and enjoy some of those roller coasters, tasty food and drinks, and interactive learning experiences.
Image via Flickr by Roller Coaster Philosophy used under CC By


