The best places to visit near Mall of America range from the Mall of America itself and nearby nature areas to major Minneapolis attractions that can easily be combined into a weekend itinerary. The area is also convenient for travelers arriving through Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport.
This guide focuses on practical places to add before or after your Mall of America visit, whether you are traveling with children, planning a couples’ getaway, looking for outdoor activities, or building a longer Twin Cities vacation.
Why Visit More Than Mall of America?
Mall of America is a destination in its own right, with hundreds of stores, restaurants, entertainment venues, an indoor theme park, and an aquarium. But Bloomington has a surprisingly strong outdoor and cultural side.
Explore Minnesota highlights attractions throughout the Bloomington area, including the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Normandale Japanese Garden, and The Works Museum. The broader Minneapolis–St. Paul region adds destinations such as Minnehaha Falls, museums, theaters, riverfront parks, and historic sites.
That combination makes the area ideal for travelers who want to mix shopping and entertainment with nature and sightseeing rather than spending an entire trip inside one attraction.
Best Places to Visit Near Mall of America
1. Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
For travelers who want nature without going far from Mall of America, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is one of the strongest choices.
The refuge protects a large Minnesota River valley landscape and provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, birding, photography, and seasonal outdoor exploration. Some trails offer elevated views across the river valley, making the refuge a refreshing contrast to the busy retail environment at Mall of America.
Its proximity is particularly useful when you have only a few hours available. You can spend part of the day shopping and then head outdoors for a quieter experience.
2. Minnesota Zoo
The Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley is another excellent option, especially for families. The zoo is approximately 10 minutes south of Mall of America, making it practical to combine with a Bloomington stay.
Visitors can explore animal habitats, educational exhibits, and outdoor areas while learning about wildlife from Minnesota and around the world. It works particularly well as a half-day or full-day activity when traveling with children.
Because the zoo is south of Bloomington, it can also fit conveniently into an itinerary that continues toward Apple Valley or other southern Twin Cities destinations.
3. Minnehaha Falls
Minnehaha Falls is one of the most recognizable natural attractions in Minneapolis. The 53-foot waterfall sits inside the larger Minnehaha Regional Park and provides a combination of sightseeing, walking trails, gardens, river scenery, and recreational space.
It is an especially good choice if you want a memorable outdoor stop during a Twin Cities trip. The waterfall is accessible through the METRO Blue Line corridor, although travelers should check current transit conditions before relying on rail service.
For a broader Minneapolis itinerary, you can combine Minnehaha Falls with other attractions downtown or along the Mississippi River.
4. Hyland Lake Park Reserve
Hyland Lake Park Reserve is another strong choice for travelers who want outdoor recreation close to Bloomington. The park offers a large natural setting with lakes, trails, hills, and seasonal activities.
It is particularly attractive in fall when Minnesota’s foliage creates colorful scenery. In winter, the area can also appeal to visitors looking for snow-related recreation.
If you enjoy hiking, photography, scenic walks, or simply escaping the crowds for a few hours, Hyland Lake Park Reserve deserves a place on your itinerary.
5. Normandale Japanese Garden
For a quieter experience, visit the Japanese Garden at Normandale Community College. This landscaped garden features traditional Japanese design elements, including water features, carefully positioned rocks, plants, and peaceful walking areas.
It is a good choice for couples, photographers, and travelers who prefer a slower pace. The garden can also work as a short stop between larger attractions because it does not require the same amount of time as a major museum or theme park.
6. The Works Museum
Families traveling with children should consider The Works Museum in Bloomington. The museum focuses on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on learning experiences.
It offers a useful alternative when children need a break from shopping but still want an interactive activity. Combining The Works Museum with Mall of America can create a balanced family itinerary built around both entertainment and learning.
7. Downtown Minneapolis
Downtown Minneapolis is an easy addition to a longer Twin Cities trip. Instead of treating Mall of America as the only destination, reserve part of your itinerary for Minneapolis’ restaurants, cultural attractions, riverfront areas, sporting venues, and entertainment districts.
The city is also a useful starting point for exploring other attractions throughout the metropolitan area. If you are building a wider USA travel itinerary, you can compare this urban experience with destinations covered in our guides to the best places to visit on the West Coast and the best places to visit in the Eastern US.
8. Mississippi River and Minneapolis Riverfront
The Mississippi River is an important part of the Twin Cities landscape. Riverfront areas around Minneapolis provide opportunities for walking, photography, sightseeing, and exploring the history of the region.
For visitors who have already spent hours inside Mall of America, a riverfront walk can provide a welcome change of scenery. Depending on your schedule, you can combine riverfront sightseeing with nearby museums, restaurants, or historic attractions.
9. Minneapolis Institute of Art
Art lovers can add the Minneapolis Institute of Art to their itinerary. The museum provides an indoor cultural experience that works particularly well when weather conditions make outdoor sightseeing less comfortable.
It can also be a good option for travelers who want more than shopping and family entertainment during their Twin Cities vacation.
10. Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is another popular cultural stop. Its outdoor setting makes it different from a traditional indoor museum, while its location makes it convenient to combine with other Minneapolis attractions.
It is particularly appealing to photographers and visitors who enjoy public art. If your trip includes several cities, you can also explore other destination-focused guides such as our top places to visit in Washington, DC for another mix of culture, history, and sightseeing.
11. Science Museum of Minnesota
The Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul is worth considering for families, students, and anyone interested in science and technology. It can turn a Mall of America vacation into a broader educational trip across the Twin Cities.
St. Paul also provides a different atmosphere from Minneapolis, making it worthwhile to explore both cities rather than concentrating on one side of the metropolitan area.
12. Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in St. Paul combines wildlife exhibits with gardens and conservatory spaces. It is a useful option for families and travelers who enjoy both animals and botanical attractions.
Because it combines several experiences in one destination, it can be especially useful when planning a day around St. Paul.
13. Guthrie Theater
For an evening cultural experience, consider the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. A performance can add a completely different dimension to a trip centered around shopping and sightseeing.
Check the current performance calendar before visiting because productions and schedules change throughout the year.
14. Mill City Museum
Mill City Museum offers an opportunity to explore Minneapolis’ industrial history and its connection to the Mississippi River. The museum is built around the history of flour milling and the historic riverfront.
It is a good choice for visitors who want historical context rather than another purely recreational attraction.
15. Walker Art Center
The Walker Art Center is another option for contemporary art and cultural experiences. Pairing it with the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden can create an efficient arts-focused portion of your Twin Cities itinerary.
Travelers who enjoy fashion and culture may also want to browse our broader guide to fashion, style, and timeless trends while planning other cultural destinations.
16. Weisman Art Museum
Located at the University of Minnesota, the Weisman Art Museum is another worthwhile stop for art enthusiasts. Its distinctive architecture and collections make it a different experience from the city’s larger cultural institutions.
If you have additional time in the Twin Cities, adding another museum can help create a balanced itinerary rather than concentrating all your time on shopping and entertainment.
17. Fort Snelling State Park
Fort Snelling State Park is a strong choice for travelers interested in outdoor recreation and regional history. The park sits near the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers and offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, wildlife observation, and seasonal activities.
Its location also makes it a logical addition to an itinerary that includes Minnehaha Falls and other southern Minneapolis attractions.
18. Canterbury Park
Canterbury Park in Shakopee provides a different type of entertainment experience. It can be considered by visitors who are staying in the southern Twin Cities area and want an evening activity outside Bloomington.
Check the current event schedule before planning your visit because racing and entertainment calendars vary by season.
Best Places Near Mall of America for Families
Families have plenty of choices beyond shopping. Start with Mall of America’s indoor attractions, then choose one or two nearby destinations based on the children’s ages and energy levels.
- Minnesota Zoo: Best for animal lovers and families.
- The Works Museum: Strong choice for hands-on STEM activities.
- Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge: Good for outdoor exploration.
- Minnehaha Falls: A memorable nature stop for families.
- Como Park Zoo & Conservatory: Combines animals and botanical experiences.
- Science Museum of Minnesota: Useful for educational entertainment.
If your family enjoys seasonal travel, you can also compare this itinerary with our guide to the best places to visit in the USA for Labor Day weekend or explore US destinations for Memorial Day weekend.
Best Places Near Mall of America for Couples
Couples can build a more relaxed itinerary by combining shopping, dining, gardens, museums, and scenic outdoor areas.
The Normandale Japanese Garden is ideal for a peaceful walk, while Minnehaha Falls offers a memorable photo opportunity. Minneapolis restaurants, museums, and theater performances can then fill an evening.
If you are extending your trip beyond Minnesota, our guides to the best places to visit in fall, less crowded spring-break destinations, and top fall destinations can provide additional seasonal ideas.
Best Outdoor Places Near Mall of America
If your priority is nature, focus your itinerary around the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Minnehaha Falls, and Fort Snelling State Park.
These destinations provide a useful contrast to the indoor entertainment at Mall of America. In warmer months, hiking, biking, photography, and wildlife watching become especially attractive. During fall, changing foliage can make Bloomington and the surrounding river valleys particularly scenic.
For travelers interested in winter trips, our guide to places to visit near Illinois in winter and our guide to the best places to visit in the Northeast in winter can help with broader cold-weather travel planning.
How to Get Around the Twin Cities From Mall of America
Mall of America is well connected to Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport. Metro Transit provides connections between the mall, downtown Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the airport.
The METRO Blue Line normally connects Mall of America with downtown Minneapolis and MSP Airport. However, transit service can change because of construction or maintenance, so always check current service alerts before your trip.
For a current trip, Metro Transit reports that the normal Blue Line journey between downtown Minneapolis and Mall of America takes about 39 minutes, while the airport-to-mall trip takes about 12 minutes. Current service conditions should be checked before departure.
How Many Days Do You Need Near Mall of America?
One Day
With only one day, concentrate on Mall of America and one nearby attraction. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge or Minnesota Zoo can work well depending on your interests.
Two Days
With two days, dedicate one day to Mall of America and Bloomington, then use the second day for Minneapolis or St. Paul. Minnehaha Falls is an excellent addition if you want a combination of nature and city sightseeing.
Three or More Days
A three-day itinerary gives you enough time to explore Mall of America, Bloomington’s outdoor attractions, and several Minneapolis–St. Paul cultural destinations without rushing.
You can then expand your vacation with destinations across the United States. Travelers planning a longer road trip may also find our guides to unique places to visit in North America, the top places in the world to visit, and the best places to visit around the world useful for inspiration.
Best Time to Visit the Mall of America Area
The best time depends on what you want from the trip. Summer offers comfortable conditions for parks, wildlife areas, walking, and outdoor attractions. Fall is appealing for colorful scenery and seasonal activities. Winter provides a distinctly Minnesota experience, while Mall of America’s indoor attractions remain useful when outdoor conditions are harsh.
Spring can be a good choice for travelers looking for a quieter visit, although weather can be unpredictable.
If you are planning a broader fall vacation, you can also compare Minnesota with our guide to the best places to visit in Wisconsin.
Tips for Planning a Mall of America and Twin Cities Trip
- Do not underestimate Mall of America: The complex is large enough to require several hours or more.
- Combine indoor and outdoor activities: Pair shopping with a park, wildlife refuge, or waterfall.
- Check attraction schedules: Hours and seasonal programming can change.
- Check transit alerts: Construction can temporarily change rail service.
- Allow driving time: Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, and southern suburbs are separate destinations.
- Plan around children’s energy: Avoid scheduling too many major attractions in one day.
- Reserve popular experiences when appropriate: Some attractions and performances can sell out during busy periods.
- Check the weather: Minnesota conditions can change quickly, particularly during transitional seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to visit near Mall of America?
Some of the best options include Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Minnesota Zoo, Minnehaha Falls, Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Normandale Japanese Garden, The Works Museum, and major Minneapolis–St. Paul cultural attractions.
Is there anything to do near Mall of America besides shopping?
Yes. Bloomington and the surrounding Twin Cities offer wildlife areas, parks, museums, gardens, theaters, waterfalls, restaurants, and family attractions.
How far is Minnesota Zoo from Mall of America?
The Minnesota Zoo is approximately 10 minutes south of Mall of America by car, although actual travel time depends on traffic and road conditions.
Can you visit Minneapolis from Mall of America without a car?
Yes. Public transportation connects Mall of America with Minneapolis, although current service conditions should be checked before traveling.
Is Minnehaha Falls worth visiting from Mall of America?
Yes. Minnehaha Falls is a strong choice for visitors who want a scenic outdoor attraction during a Twin Cities trip. Its connection to the Blue Line also makes it convenient for some travelers using public transportation.
How long should I stay in Bloomington?
One full day can cover Mall of America and one nearby attraction, while two or three days provide more time for Bloomington, Minneapolis, and St. Paul.
Final Thoughts
The best places to visit near Mall of America extend far beyond shopping. Bloomington provides easy access to wildlife areas, parks, gardens, museums, and family attractions, while Minneapolis and St. Paul add major cultural, historical, and entertainment experiences.
For a first visit, a balanced itinerary could include Mall of America, Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Minnesota Zoo or Minnehaha Falls, followed by a day exploring Minneapolis or St. Paul. This approach lets you experience the area’s biggest attractions without missing the natural and cultural character of the Twin Cities.
Before traveling, verify attraction hours, ticket requirements, transportation conditions, and seasonal closures. Official visitor and attraction websites are the best sources for last-minute changes.
