Fun Activities and Attractions Near the Mall of America

If you find yourself at the Mall of America, the sheer scale of it might have you believe you could never run out of things to do. Yet, the area surrounding this colossal shopping and entertainment complex offers plenty of attractions that are just as exciting! Whether you're after an adrenaline rush, a dose of education, or simply a quiet spot to unwind, this list of activities near the Mall of America will help you make the most of your visit to this vibrant slice of Minnesota.

Weisman Art Museum, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, Walker Art Center, Mill City Museum, Guthrie Theater, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, Canterbury Park, Minnesota Zoo, Centennial Lakes Park, The Works Museum, Normandale Japanese Garden, Minnesota Children's Museum, Hyland Lake Park Reserve - Recreation Area, Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge—Bloomington Education and Visitor Center

• Weisman Art Museum in Minneapolis, United States

  
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• Minneapolis Sculpture Garden in Minneapolis, United States

  
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• Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, United States

  
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• Mill City Museum in Minneapolis, United States

  
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• Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, United States

  
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• Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in Saint Paul, United States

  
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• Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, United States

  
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• Canterbury Park, United States

  
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• Minnesota Zoo, United States

  
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  The Minnesota Zoo, located just a short drive south of the Mall of America in Apple Valley, offers a fantastic educational and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. With its wide array of wildlife exhibits, including animals from different biomes around the world, the Minnesota Zoo is an excellent family-friendly destination to explore after a shopping spree or as a standalone adventure. Whether you're interested in observing the behavior of tigers, exploring a tropical rainforest, or learning about conservation, the zoo provides a memorable outing close to one of the nation's largest shopping centers.

• Centennial Lakes Park, United States

  
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  Centennial Lakes Park, located just a short drive from the Mall of America in Edina, Minnesota, offers visitors a serene escape with its beautifully landscaped grounds, walking paths, and picturesque ponds. Visitors can enjoy paddle boating, mini-golf, and ice skating in the winter, making it a perfect year-round destination for families or individuals looking to relax outdoors after a bustling day of shopping and entertainment at the nearby Mall of America.

• The Works Museum in Bloomington, United States

  
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  The Works Museum, located a short distance from the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, offers an interactive experience that is perfect for families with children curious about science, technology, and engineering. It is filled with hands-on exhibits that encourage kids to build, explore, and learn about the physical world through play. Visiting this museum can provide a fun and educational counterpoint to the shopping and entertainment activities available at the Mall of America.

• Normandale Japanese Garden in Bloomington, United States

  
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  The Normandale Japanese Garden, a serene and beautifully landscaped oasis, is a tranquil retreat located just a short drive from the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota. Visitors looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of shopping can explore this authentic Japanese garden, which features traditional elements like bridges, ponds, and meticulously maintained plants, providing a picturesque setting for relaxation and reflection. This hidden gem offers a unique contrast to the commercial vibrancy of the mall and is a delightful experience for those seeking to balance their day with a touch of nature and tranquility.

• Minnesota Children's Museum in Saint Paul, United States

  
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  If you're seeking family-friendly activities close to the Mall of America, the Minnesota Children's Museum is a fantastic choice. Located within a short drive in downtown St. Paul, it provides a creative and educational environment where children can play and learn across various interactive exhibits designed to stimulate imagination and curiosity. It's a perfect spot to engage young minds after a day of shopping or to round out a diverse trip itinerary.

• Hyland Lake Park Reserve - Recreation Area in Bloomington, United States

  
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  Hyland Lake Park Reserve - Recreation Area, situated within a short drive from the Mall of America, offers a pleasant outdoor escape where visitors can engage in a variety of recreational activities. Surrounded by picturesque scenery, guests can hike or bike along its well-maintained trails, enjoy bird-watching, or in the winter months, try cross-country skiing on its groomed trails. This natural oasis provides a relaxing and active respite from the bustling atmosphere of the nearby shopping and entertainment complex.

• Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge—Bloomington Education and Visitor Center in Bloomington, United States

  
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  The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge—Bloomington Education and Visitor Center offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers just a short drive from the Mall of America. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, picturesque walking trails, and wildlife observation opportunities, providing an educational and revitalizing break from the bustle of the shopping center. With programs catered to families and individuals alike, it's an ideal spot to learn about the natural habitat of the area and discover the rich biodiversity of Minnesota's river valley ecosystem.