The largest shopping mall in the United States is located in Bloomington, Minnesota, with over 520 stores, a full indoor theme park Nickelodeon Universe, an aquarium, and mini golf. A destination in itself.
Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the United States by total floor area, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, approximately 10 miles south of downtown Minneapolis near the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport. Opened in 1992 on the site of the former Metropolitan Stadium, the mall encompasses over 5.6 million square feet of total space and more than 2.87 million square feet of retail area across four floors. More than 520 stores operate within the mall, spanning a range from anchor department stores to specialty boutiques, entertainment outlets, and dining establishments. The defining feature that distinguishes Mall of America from conventional shopping destinations is Nickelodeon Universe, a 7-acre fully enclosed indoor theme park at the mall's center, featuring over 30 rides and attractions including a roller coaster, log flume, and Ferris wheel — all beneath the mall's vast glass roof. Additional attractions include SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, Fly Over America flight simulation experience, a mini-golf course, escape room venues, and a bowling alley. The anchor department stores are Nordstrom and Macy's, and the brand mix spans all price tiers: luxury goods are available through select boutiques, while mainstream American retailers including Gap, H&M, Zara, and dozens of athletic and lifestyle brands anchor the mid-range offering. Dining options encompass over 50 restaurants and quick-service outlets spread across all four floors, from full-service chain restaurants to food court concepts. One significant financial benefit for apparel shoppers is that Minnesota exempts clothing and most footwear from state sales tax, providing a measurable cost advantage over purchases made in neighboring states. The mall is connected to the Metro Blue Line light rail system via a station beneath the building, providing direct service to downtown Minneapolis and the airport without a car.
Location
60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425
Highlights
- Ride over 30 attractions at Nickelodeon Universe, the 7-acre indoor theme park at the mall's center, including a full-size indoor roller coaster
- Shop over 520 stores across four floors spanning all price tiers from Nordstrom luxury to fast-fashion and specialty retailers
- Visit SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium to see sharks, rays, and thousands of sea creatures in an immersive underwater tunnel
- Take advantage of Minnesota's clothing and footwear sales tax exemption, making apparel purchases free of state sales tax
- Dine at 50+ restaurants and food outlets ranging from sit-down chain restaurants to international fast-casual and food court options
Tips for visiting
- Visit on weekday mornings between 10AM and noon for the lowest crowds; weekends and holiday seasons are extremely busy
- Nickelodeon Universe ride passes purchased online in advance are typically cheaper than walk-up rates at the park entrance
- The Metro Blue Line light rail stops directly beneath the mall — the fastest and least stressful option from downtown Minneapolis or the airport
- Clothing and most footwear are exempt from Minnesota sales tax — a meaningful saving for large apparel purchases
- The mall is too large to cover in a single visit; planning by floor or by zone reduces fatigue significantly
Frequently asked questions
Is entry to Mall of America free?
Yes, entry to Mall of America is free. Individual attractions such as Nickelodeon Universe rides, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and Fly Over America require separate paid admission. Shopping and dining involve standard retail prices.
Is Nickelodeon Universe included with mall entry?
No, Nickelodeon Universe charges separately per ride or through all-day ride pass packages. Tickets are available at the park entrance or in advance online, with online pricing typically lower than day-of rates.
How long does a visit to Mall of America typically take?
A comprehensive visit covering shopping, one or two major attractions, and a meal typically requires 4-6 hours. Families with children spending substantial time in Nickelodeon Universe may find a full day appropriate.
Does Mall of America have hotels on-site?
Yes, two hotels are connected directly to the mall: JW Marriott Mall of America and Radisson Blu Mall of America, both accessible without going outdoors. Multiple additional hotels are located within walking distance of the complex.
What are the best transit options to reach Mall of America?
The Metro Blue Line light rail provides direct service from downtown Minneapolis and Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport to the Mall of America station beneath the building. Driving is also convenient, with extensive free parking in the mall's surface and ramp facilities.