Consider the Mall of America for your long family weekend getaway as it offers something for everyone ꟷ retail therapy, amusement rides for big and little thrill seekers, and plenty of family fun! The Mall of America (MOA) in Bloomington, Minnesota is a top tourist destination with 520+ stores and an abundance of entertainment and attractions.
We recently visited the MOA over President’s Day weekend and are sharing our Mall of America Top 5 Tips and Tricks for your Mall of America getaway.
Getting Here
The Mall of America is about a 6-hour drive from Chicago and only 5 miles from the MSP International airport. We left on a Friday afternoon and drove to Eau Claire, Wisconsin which was about 4.5 hours from Chicago. The MOA was about 1.5 hours from Eau Claire, Wisconsin. We recommend driving directly to MOA.
Mall of America Family Weekend Top 5 Tips and Tricks
STAY
We loved our stay at the JW Marriott, a luxurious hotel conveniently connected to the MOA that was also a retreat when we needed a break from the MOA. We booked our stay at the JW Marriott, a category 5 hotel, using our Marriott Bonvoy points. Aside from the convenience to MOA, hotel highlights included the complimentary breakfast, hors d’oeuvres and happy hour in the executive lounge (for Platinum members), the spacious room and fun in the indoor pool.
More than 50 hotels are located within 10 minutes of Mall of America and MSP International Airport, offering courtesy shuttles to and from Mall of America. Click here for a link to the Mall of America preferred hotels offering special packages and rates.
SHOP
Aside from the 520+ shops at the MOA, one of the biggest incentives to shop is that there is no sales tax on purchases of clothes and shoes! This is a 10% savings compared to shopping in Chicago. There is sales tax on other purchases including cosmetics, toys, jewelry, etc..
Recommend getting the MOA app to search for stores and navigate the mall.
Most of the major retailers are at MOA. Click here for a list.
Our faves:
- Bridget: Nordstrom. Some faves that were not at MOA include JCrew, Vineyard Vines, Lilly Pulitzer, Pottery Barn
- Mike: Caribou
- Fiona: Typo. Her initial answer was “every store that I bought something at” but she narrowed it down to Typo.
- Hugh: GameStop
- Lucy: Hot Topic
PLAY
At the center of the MOA is Nickelodeon Universe – the nation’s largest indoor theme park that is home to seven acres of fun attractions, entertainment and dining options.
Mike and the kids had a blast on the Log Chute ride, an exciting water adventure through a cavernous mountain ending with a
EAT
As with any mall, there is no shortage of fast food and
- Fast food – Shake Shack and Piada Italian Street Food for a healthier alternative
- Full Service – Twin City Grill, a Lettuce Entertain You Restaurant with casual yet elegant dining inspired by dining establishments in the
1940’s . Walhlburgers, founded byexecutive Chef Paul Wahlberg and his celebrity brothers, Donnie and Mark Wahlberg, offers a fun, casual andmusic filled atmosphere. We like the tasty burgers and salads, good kids’ menu andfull-service bar.
FUN
Recommend planning the “FUN” in advance to take advantage of discounted pricing!
The Escape Game was one of the highlights of our trip. We played the Gold Rush game and “almost” escaped. You can book three months in advance. We bought gift cards in advance for a 20% savings (~$35 savings).
There are two Mingolf courses in MOA – the Rock of Ages Blacklight Minigolf and Moose Mountain Adventure Golf. The Rock of Ages Blacklight Minigolf allows guests to putt their way through different areas of music, starting in the 50’s to present time. Moose Mountain Adventure Golf features an original whimsical with an old-tie north woods feel – complete with its life size moose, horses and more. Prices at both are $10.99+ tax/person or $34.99 + tax for a family foursome.
Rock of Ages Blacklight Minigolf was Hugh’s pick and a welcomed break from shopping for Mike, Hugh & Lucy. There are so many other options for fun from the Fly Over America, the Lego Store, the Crayola Experience, American Girl, and much more. Click here for a complete listing of entertainment options.
Bring comfy shoes and plan ahead to have a fun family weekend getaway to Mall of America!
Happy Travels,
Bridget, Family Galavant
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