In the heart of Bloomington, Minnesota, you’ll find the king of all malls. This isn’t your average shopping center — it’s a sprawling entertainment and shopping behemoth unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. From how to get there to what to do when you arrive, this article is backed with helpful tips to visit Mall of America.
For over two decades, crowds cheering on the Minnesota Vikings and Twins at the old Met Stadium filled this space. But in 1992, the stadium was demolished, and the roar of sports fans has transformed into the delighted sounds of children on amusement park rides, shoppers finding the perfect gift, and visitors chatting over dinner and drinks.
Mall of America is so huge — almost 5 million square feet of shopping heaven (or chaos, depending on how you feel about crowds). Need a new outfit? Check. Craving sushi? Check. Want to ride a roller coaster without going outside? Mall of America has you covered with over 520 stores, all under one roof, plus an amazing array of restaurants, the country’s largest indoor amusement park, a gigantic aquarium, and even hotels!
This guide is your ultimate weapon for navigating the Mall of America like a pro. With all this information at your fingertips, you’re ready to experience this shopping and entertainment paradise for yourself!
Have You Visited Mall of America?
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Getting to Mall of America
Where in the World is Mall of America?
Situated just 20 minutes south of downtown Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and a mere 10 minutes from the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, getting to the Mall of America is straightforward. No matter your activities in the Twin Cities, the mall is conveniently on your way.
How to Reach the Mall by Plane, Train, or Automobile
Let’s explore these options, but flipping the usual order of the catch phrase.
How to Reach the Mall by Car
You’ll find the Mall of America just southeast of the I-494 and MN-77 intersection, accessible via the Lindau Lane and Killebrew Drive exits. Thanks to its popularity, you’ll easily spot signs directing you from these major roads.
Parking is plentiful and free, with two large garages on the east and west sides of the mall. During busy times, overflow parking is available in the North Lot (across Lindau Lane near the JW Marriott) and the East Lot (across 24th Avenue South). For electric vehicles, numerous charging stations are dotted around, catering to cars, bikes, and scooters alike.
For a smooth parking experience, the Mall of America’s website provides real-time parking space availability. Once you’re there, green lights and digital counters will guide you to open spots.
Remembering Where You Parked
With thousands of spots across two large garages, it’s easy to forget where you parked. Luckily, the mall uses a unique naming system for parking zones, themed around American states from Alabama to Wyoming. Make a mental note of the nearest state sign as you head in, turning a potential hassle into a fun reminder of your visit.
Sage Advice: Every year, the mall’s security team assists with finding around 1,200 cars that visitors can’t locate. A simple trick to avoid this mix-up is to take a quick photo of the state sign near your parking spot with your smartphone. This way, you won’t mix up Maine with Massachusetts (or one of those other “M” states asn my friend says) when it’s time to head home.
How to Reach the Mall via Rideshare
Whether you’re a fan of Uber, Lyft, or any other ridesharing service, getting to and from the Mall of America is hassle-free. The mall has several specially designated areas for rideshare drop-offs and pickups:
- Level 1 of the east ramp parking garage,
- Level 1 of the north entrance,
- Level 1 of the west ramp parking garage,
- Outside the Radisson Blu Mall of America, and
- At the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America
Sage Advice: There are more than 50 hotels near the Mall of America, all within a 10-minute drive. Many of these accommodations offer free shuttle service to and from the mall. To make your visit even smoother, remember to ask about shuttle services when you book your stay.
How to Reach the Mall by Train (and Plane)
Located just 1.5 miles from the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), the Blue Line offers a quick, 15-minute ride to the mall for just a few bucks. This is a perfect choice if you’re facing a lengthy layover in Minneapolis (something I’ve experienced on trips to or from Europe through MSP). Instead of waiting at the airport, you can explore the mall!
Sage Advice: For a stress-free train experience, here’s all you need to know about the METRO Blue Line including the train schedule and fares.
Getting Around Mall of America
Understanding the Mall's Layout
Mall of America is immense, stretching across four levels and covering an area as large as seven Yankee Stadiums. It’s designed around a vast central atrium. The first and second floors focus on retail, offering a wide array of shopping options. The third floor is where food enthusiasts can rejoice, featuring two food courts and a variety of restaurants amid a sprinkle of shops. The fourth floor, though smaller, boasts a movie theater and additional dining choices.
Finding Your Way
With its massive and nearly symmetrical layout, it’s easy to lose your bearings in the mall. Fortunately, interactive directories are available throughout, helping you navigate with ease. Just stop by any of the kiosks found on all levels to get directions, distances, and estimated walking times instantly.
Sage Advice: Always use the hand sanitizer provided near each directory to protect against the germs from the daily foot traffic of over 110,000 visitors.
For those who prefer digital convenience (and perhaps fewer trips to the sanitizer station), the Mall of America app is a must-have. Available for download from both the Apple App Store and Google Play, it not only serves as a digital map but also keeps you informed about upcoming events, exclusive store deals, and even helps you locate your parked car.
Free Wifi Throughout the Mall
Thanks to over 70 miles of copper wiring and 15,000 feet of optical fiber, every inch of the mall offers free wifi coverage. This setup ensures you can easily share photos, stay in touch with friends, and keep connected throughout your visit without a hitch.
Prepare to Walk a Lot (Plus Some Alternatives)
Brace yourself for a good walk! Covering each level of the mall adds between 2,000 and 2,500 steps to your Fitbit count. It’s a friendly reminder to wear wear comfortable walking shoes for your shopping adventure.
For anyone not up for that amount of walking, Mall of America’s four guest service desks provide rentals for strollers, electric carts, and wheelchairs. Rental fees vary from $10 to $40 per day, plus a refundable $25 deposit.
Sage Advice: If your fitness goals include 10,000 daily steps, a trip to the mall may be just what the doctor ordered! Mayo Clinic has established one-mile, 5K, and 10K walking routes through the mall.
"Growing up in Minneapolis, we were all a little wary when the MOA first opened, but once we visited, we were hooked. It's so massively huge that you can always find a store you like, and the fact that there is everything from a movie theater to an amusement park inside means that it's a great full day visit. This is one of my favorite places to take people visiting Minnesota or to spend a day when the weather isn't cooperating."
Mall of America is Comfortable Year-Round
No matter what sort of weather is brewing outside, it’s always a comfortable 70°F. So whether you visit on a hot summer day or in the chill of a Minnesota winter, you can enjoy a constant, cozy temperature at the mall. It’s wise to dress accordingly and consider leaving your coat in the car to avoid carrying it around.
For those wary of braving the cold without a coat, don’t worry! Covered walkways link the parking structures to the mall, and the entrances are heated. Plus, locker rentals are available at the mall, so you can easily store your coat and other items during your visit.
Fun Fact: Despite the freezing outdoor temperatures in winter, Mall of America doesn’t use central heating. Instead, the indoor temperature is kept at a steady 70°F thanks to sunlight filtering through 1.2 miles of skylights, warmth from lighting fixtures, and the natural body heat of the nearly 100,000 visitors each day.
Getting the Most Out of Your Trip
Arrive Early to Beat the Crowds
According to the old proverb, the early bird gets the worm. But in the Twin Cities, arriving early makes it easier to score a parking spot at the mall and helps you beat the rush. My daughter and I learned this the hard way: we delayed our visit to the rides and attractions at Nickelodeon Universe, only to find the lines growing exponentially as the day went on. Starting your day early can give you a smoother, more enjoyable experience.
Buy a Coupon Book
Many people have asked me, “Is the Mall of America coupon book worth it?” Absolutely! In fact, purchasing a coupon book might be my top recommendation. With over 250 discounts available at various stores, restaurants, attractions, and hotels, you’ll likely cover the cost of the book in no time. Just from visits to Carlo’s Bake Shop, my daughter and I saved more than the initial cost of the book!
You can pick up your coupon book at any of the four guest service desks throughout the mall or secure one online before your visit. The book is refreshed every year, offering deals valid throughout the calendar year.
Sage Advice: For the latest sales and special deals across the Mall of America’s 520+ stores, check the Deals page of the mall’s website or use the Deals section of their app. This way, you’ll always be in the loop on how to save more during your visit.
Stay Updated on Special Events
Mall of America is not just about shopping and dining — it’s a hub of activity with more than 400 events annually. That means there’s something happening almost every day! From Toddler Tuesdays to meet-and-greets with the Minnesota Twins, from concerts (Taylor Swift performed at the mall back in 2007) to celebrity book signings, there’s always something exciting taking place, so be sure to check the mall’s event calendar to make the most of your visit.
Related Article: Secrets of the US’s Largest Mall
While it’s true that special events can draw larger crowds to the mall, these occasions offer unforgettable experiences like the opportunity to get an autograph from your favorite celebrity, or a selfie with a star. To make sure you don’t miss out, check the mall’s website for the schedule of events planned during your visit. This way, you can plan your trip around these unique opportunities for memorable encounters.
Strategically Planning Your Mall of America Visit
Imagine spending just five minutes in each of the Mall of America’s more than 500 stores. It would take you 43 hours — more than a standard work week — to visit all of them. So unless you want to spend a week (or two) shopping, you’ll need a plan.
But I’m not talking about a hastily written list on a Post-it like you might cart off to the grocery store. What you need is a well-organized strategy that pinpoints the stores and attractions you can’t miss.
For the meticulous planners who already categorize their grocery lists, this will be straightforward. However, if you’ve ever forgotten something “upstream” at Costco and battled your way back through the crowded store, you’ll understand why it’s important to avoid backtracking at the mall.
Luckily, the Mall of America website offers a store directory sorted by category, alphabetical list, and map location (levels 1 through 4), making it easy to organize your visit.
Enjoy Tax-Free Shopping on Clothes and Shoes
Unfortunately, I live in a state where everything short of the air we breathe is taxed at about 10 percent, from the ingredients I buy to make a salad to the winter jackets I purchase each year for my growing daughter. My state is also not one of the 16 that offers a tax-free back-to-school shopping weekend. So it’s an added bonus that there is no tax on clothing or shoes at the mall or anywhere else in the North Star State.
Whether you plan to purchase your wardrobe for the next season, are preparing to send your kids back to school, or just really need a pair of cute shoes, when you visit Mall of America, you can enjoy the added savings (about 10 percent in my case) of any tax you’d be charged back home.
Sage Advice: The clothing tax exemption does not apply to clothing accessories (like belts, hats, and jewelry) or sports and recreational clothing and equipment (like leotards, hockey jerseys, ballet shoes, and ice skates).
Simplifying Your Visit with Locker Rentals and Shopping Carts
Visiting Mall of America can quickly turn into a haul, especially if you’re stopping by during an airport layover with carry-on luggage or if your shopping bags multiply beyond what two hands can manage. Thankfully, the mall offers locker rentals. Offering a range of sizes from regular to super jumbo, lockers on levels 1, 2, and 3 are available for $6 to $14 per day.
Lockers are popular and can fill up as quickly as parking spots, so grabbing one early in your visit is a smart move.
Sage Advice: For an even easier shopping experience, you can rent a shopping cart for $10 a day from any of the four guest services desks. It’s perfect for those days when your purchases start to weigh you down.
Navigating the Parental Escort Policy
Mall of America welcomes visitors of all ages. However, it’s important to note that on Friday and Saturday evenings, throughout the holiday shopping season, and on other specific dates, there’s a parental escort policy in effect. During these times, from 3:00 pm until closing, anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or over.
To ensure this policy doesn’t disrupt your plans, take a moment to review the detailed parental escort policy parental escort policy available on the mall’s website before your visit.
There's So Much More to Do Than Shop
Mall of America is packed with experiences that go far beyond traditional shopping. Imagine ziplining across the atrium, exploring underwater worlds at SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota, dining among the lush foliage and animatronic creatures at Rainforest Cafe, or enjoying the latest blockbuster.
At the heart of the shopping center, Nickelodeon Universe is America’s largest indoor theme park. On seven acres in the mall’s atrium, you’ll find everything from gentle rides perfect for toddlers to exhilarating roller coasters for thrill-seekers. Get up close with Dora the Explorer, team up with the Paw Patrol pups, and meet other beloved characters.
For an adventure that takes you above and beyond, don’t miss FlyOver America, a ride that simulates soaring across the country, offering breathtaking views from an eagle’s vantage point.
Sage Advice: For an unforgettable experience, check the mall’s website for the full schedule of character meet-and-greets. Your child could meet their favorite heroes and create memories to last a lifetime.
Fun Fact: Nickelodeon Universe is a lush indoor oasis. With over 30,000 live plants and 400 trees, the park not only brings the beauty of nature indoors but also helps purify the air, creating a healthier and more enjoyable environment for everyone.
Planning to conquer more than four rides? Purchase an all-day wristband, currently $49.99, to enjoy unlimited access to all attractions. For those dedicating a couple of days to explore everything the mall has to offer, the two-day unlimited rides wristband at just $10 more is an unbeatable deal.
Sage Advice: Visit Nickelodeon Universe on a Deal Day to purchase an unlimited ride wristband at a discount.
While the price of your wristband covers the majority of rides at Nickelodeon Universe, premium experiences like FlyOver America and Dutchman’s Deck Adventure Course come with an extra charge. Echoing a familiar tune, getting an early start is key—not just to beat the ride lines but also to ensure you have enough time for these unique attractions before the crowds swell.
At some point in a day filled with shopping, thrilling rides, or enjoying live entertainment, hunger is bound to strike. Mall of America caters to every craving, offering a spectrum of dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for quick bites at food courts featuring favorites like Qdoba and Panda Express, or prefer sitting down for a meal of sushi or steak at a full-service restaurant, you’ve got lots of options. And for those just looking for a little something to keep them going—be it a matcha tea, chai latte, or a sweet indulgence—you’ll also find plenty of spots to satisfy your desires.
“When our daughters were small, we planned a summer vacation around the Mall of America. My husband and I traded off taking the girls to the indoor amusement park while the other parent explored the rest of the Mall. I only wish the Peloton store had been open when we visited so we could have planned milestone rides on the bikes there.”
Fun Fact: Before transforming into the colossal shopping and entertainment hub it is today, the site of Mall of America was once the Metropolitan Stadium. As you wander through the vibrant world of Nickelodeon Universe, keep an eye out for a special tribute to this piece of history: a bronze plaque in the floor’s northwest corner. This marker commemorates the exact location of the stadium’s home plate, bridging past and present in an unexpected way.
Staying at Mall of America
If you want to make the mall your home base during your trip to the Twin Cities, you’re in luck. There are two connected hotels: the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America and Radisson Blu Mall of America. Together they offer 842 guest rooms, and each hotel has a fitness center, indoor pool, and other amenities.
Fun Fact: JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America was named one of the top 20 hotels in the Midwest by Condé Nast Traveler in 2019.
To Visit Mall of America
Where is the Mall of America?
Located at 60 E Broadway in Bloomington, Minnesota, this suburban Minneapolis landmark is easily accessible and ready to welcome you to an expansive world of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
How many stores are in Mall of America?
There are more than 520 stores at the nation’s biggest shopping center. When you visit, you’ll also discover more than 50 restaurants, a movie theatre, an indoor amusement park, an aquarium, and so much more!
What's the best time to visit Mall of America?
For a smoother experience and easier parking, aim to arrive early. Operating hours are Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Sundays from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.
How much does it cost to visit Mall of America?
There is no fee to park or window shop at the mall. Other costs vary by activity, event, restaurant, and retailer. Here are some of the best things to do at Mall of America (besides shop).
Have You Visited Mall of America?
Have you explored Mall of America? What stood out during your visit? Whether it’s a favorite store, a dining experience, or a handy tip, I’d love to hear your insights and experiences in the comments section below.
Ready to Go?
Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!
- Find low fares with airfarewatchdog and Skyscanner
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- Or take the scenic route on an epic road trip in a rental car or an RV from Outdoorsy
- From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with Hotels.com or Vrbo
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- Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with CityPASS, Tiqets, and Viator
- Don’t leave home without travel insurance from AXA
- Discover the sights, history, and culture of your destination with an interactive scavenger hunt
- Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners. Happy wandering!
Do you or anyone have a full list of the parking level state names with level numbers?
Sorry I do not. 🙁
I go to MOA every year at Christmas for the past 17 years; one thing I just discovered within the last couple years is a little shop on the 3rd floor called Lotus Beads. You can choose each bead and make your own jewelry in the store! My daughters & I have fun doing that.
Also, there are several massage places that are heaven at the end of the day after walking all day!
I always stay at Radisson Blu to eliminate the headache of parking and driving in the cities. It’s easy to get to, and then when you have bags you can drop them back at your room and don’t have to lug everything around all day. There’s so much to see & do (and eat!), that it’s nice to just stay on the mall property for a couple days and enjoy it all. Totally worth it!
I was JUST there last week and missed the chance to check out Lotus Beads. Next time, for sure. Thanks for the tip!
We have visited the mall ever year since it opened! It’s my happy place. Bring some shopping bags! I have reusable one that I put all the smaller bags in makes it easier to keep track of all your stuff. Also, bring a purse you can use crossbody so you don’t lose track of it. I actually lost mine once and a very wonderful young man turned it into the office!
Bring reusable shopping bags + a crossbody purse = great tips! Thanks for sharing!
I’m not a big shopper, and prefer markets over malls, but it looks like this is essentially a mini-city with everything available! The size is hard to imagine though!
I’m not a shopper either, yet I had a ball at Mall of America!
I love all your protips and the history that this was a sports area prior to being the Mall of America! Thanks for sharing. I especially think your tip of deciding what to do prior to arrival is great!
Have a plan before we arrived definitely helped us do and see what we wanted to and manage our time at the Mall of America!
I have many random thoughts…I didn’t realize SEA LIFE is a chain (I’m going to the one in TX soon.)…This would be a whole new level of ‘Dude where’s my car?’…..I knew it was really big, but over 500 stores. Wow!….And finally a question….Did you ever go at Christmas? I’m totally not one for mall crowds, but I can imagine it would be a really cool experience to see all the holiday decorations!
Dude, where’s my car?!? (That made me laugh.) As much fun as I had, I don’t think I’d want to go between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. Can you imagine, though?!?!
wow what a comprehensive guide! I had no idea about this place. It certainly seems to have plenty more to do and see than just shop!
I’m not a shopper, and I had a blast!
We live in the Twin Cities. MOA is a great place to go and people watch. Holidays can be overwhelming but like Mouse-dom, it is a site to see in itself. Just started going there just to get some exercise. Never the same so I always enjoy it. COVID has made for some changes but that is just like everywhere else. MOA should be on everyone’s bucket list.
I’m not a shopper and don’t like malls BUT this is an experience! I would love to see it just once in my life and imagine there are some great restaurants in there!
Oh, we are sistahs from another mistah when it comes to shopping and malls. And yet this was soooooo fun. You’ll definitely have to check it out! 🙂
Either fast or slow. Ideally, I want something I can’t find at a mall here in Omaha, and preferably something delicious and/or memorable. From what I’ve been reading, there aren’t a whole lot of options that went beyond typical mall fare.
I mean, why eat it if it isn’t delicious, right? 🙂 Here are a few recommendations (in no particular order): 1) Carlo’s Bakery. My daughter loves Cake Boss and is addicted to canolis. It was fun for her to get a taste of this East Coast experience here in the Midwest. 2) Dough Dough. Because why eat ice cream when you can eat cookie dough?!? 3) Margaritaville. If you need a little Jimmy Buffet lifestyle and can’t find it in Omaha. 4) Rainforest Cafe. If your kids have never been to one and want to give it a try. (We don’t have one any more in Kansas City.) 5) Shake Shack. If you haven’t been yet and are dying to see what everyone is raving about. (You don’t have one in Omaha yet, right? We just got one in KC about a year ago and now have a second.) My recommendations are faster options, in part because we were having too much fun to sit down at any place too fancy! Hope that helps!
The Mall of America has been on my bucket list for several years. This just makes me want to visit all the more and now I’ll have some tips so it won’t be so overwhelming.
Like I said, I’m really NOT a shopper, and I had SOOOOOOO much fun! You’ll definitely have to visit!
Oh man, I think I would be in heaven in the Mall of America! I love seeing all of the over the top attractions and of course, could just make a day out of all of the shopping!
We had a blast!
We’re headed to Mall of America in a few weeks. Any restaurant suggestions?
There are MANY options! What are you looking for — fast so you can get back to the fun or slower so you can sit and take a break? What kind of food do you like (or dislike)?
Wow how crazy it must be to see such a big mall. I can see why a guide is necessary!!!
It was definitely different than the mall in our hometown!
American malls are so big, it’s fascinating.This is the type of place that my mother loves. She already spends hours in shopping centres but I believe she would require a week to do all of the Mall of America. I’m glad you added the accommodation options which is super helpful.
I was completely overwhelmed when I visited the Dubai Mall a few years ago, and besides skiing indoors in a desert and gazing at the waterfall, I don’t recall much about it other than all of the shops (and I’m not a shopper). To me, all of America felt just right for a big mall, and I loved that there was so much more for us to do than shop.
I have never been to the Mall of America but it used to be something I wanted to do so bad! I had long forgotten about it and now I really want to go again! There is so much to do there, and I love the fact you can stay in a hotel that’s connected!!
I’m not a shopper, like at all, and I had soooooo much fun there. I was really surprised at how many things there were to do besides shopping.
Wow! This is a great post and will be super helpful to anyone not familiar with MOA! Being from the area, I know how fantastic all of the information that you included truly is!
Thanks! It’s awesome to hear that a local feels it’s comprehensive! <3