30 Things to Do at Mall of America (Besides Shop!)

You’ve heard of the Mall of America. It’s that giant shopping mall in Minnesota with hundreds of retail stores to keep any shopper happy for days. But do you know how much there is to do at the largest mall in the United States besides shop? I have spent a ton of time at the MOA over the years. In fact, for a couple of years, I practically lived at this mega mall, working as a clothing store manager by day and cocktail waitress by night. Whenever I return, even I am surprised by the number and variety of activities at this entertainment complex. Check out these 30 fun things to do at Mall of America in 2026 and beyond!

This website sometimes receives compensation, hosted travel, or products related to blog posts. This article may include affiliate links at no extra cost to consumers. As an Amazon Associate, I earn money from qualifying purchases.

1. Ride Roller Coasters & Kiddie Rides

Mall of America is big enough to fit an entire amusement park in its center. Impressively, the indoor Nickelodeon Universe features dozens of rides. You could easily spend your entire day in this theme park. This is especially true if you buy Unlimited Wristbands, which allow unlimited rides on almost all Nick attractions.

Thrill-seekers will love SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge, a zippy steel coaster with two inversions. For a more mellow roller coaster experience, choose Pepsi Orange Streak for some fabulous views of the park. There’s even a Log Chute ride for park goers who don’t mind getting a little wet.

Kiddie rides abound at Nickelodeon Universe, too. The Big Rigs ride was a favorite of my Minnesota-native niece and nephews during their preschool years. Little ones also love Blue’s Skidoo, a gentle ride themed after Blue’s Clues, and Bubble Guppies Guppy Bubbler!, where children climb into bubble-shaped gondolas for a spin through the sea.

2. Visit Sea Creatures at SEA LIFE Aquarium

SEA LIFE at Mall of America wows visitors with thousands of aquatic animals across multiple immersive exhibits. Buy SEA LIFE Aquarium tickets in advance from my trusted partner, GetYourGuide. (Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.)

Pet anemones, sea stars, and sea cucumbers at the Pacific Northwest Rockpool. Next, feed stingrays at the Feed the Rays experience (available for an additional fee). A spectacled caiman in the Rainforest exhibit spooked me with its wide-eyed stare. Most impressive is the 300-foot-long walk-through Ocean Tunnel, filled with sharks, saw fish, rays, turtles, and other ocean creatures.

3. Fly Over the USA

Similar to Disney’s Soarin’ Around the World ride, FlyOver America at Mall of America is a flight simulation that takes riders on an uplifting journey. Created by the same Imagineer, this immersive 10‑minute experience includes wind, mist, and scents as you soar over America’s most beautiful sites and landscapes.

(If this makes your heart soar, you’ll also want to check out my guide to Reykjavik featuring FlyOver Iceland, which takes riders soaring over glaciers, waterfalls, and fireworks in Iceland’s capital.)

4. Create Your Own Crayon Color at Crayola Experience

The Crayola Experience at Mall of America offers dozens of hands‑on activities. You can name and wrap your own crayon, star in your own coloring page, bring your art to life in 4‑D, and lots more. Buy your Crayola Experience Flexible Date Ticket.

If you don’t want to pay to play, head next door to the Crayola Store, where shoppers can create their own custom pack of crayons from a wall of colorful choices.

5. Play Miniature Golf at Mall of America

Play 18 holes of putt-putt at Moose Mountain Adventure Golf inside the Mall of America. Everyone is welcome to hit these mini links, and the course is wheelchair accessible. Moose Mountain features an abandoned mine theme with cartoonish hazards, fun characters, and challenging holes. Plus, enjoy unique views of Nickelodeon Universe from several spots along the course.

But wait…there’s more! For a glowing experience, try out Rock of Ages Blacklight Minigolf instead. This 18‑hole course is lit entirely by blacklight and themed to music through the decades. Look for a tribute to Minnesota native Prince at one of the holes.

6. Find Your Way Out of an Escape Room

The Escape Game at Mall of America spans 3,300 square feet of seven themed adventures. From Playground and The Heist to Gold Rush and Prison Break, each 60‑minute challenge immerses players in a storyline where teamwork is the key to success. This attraction is best suited for teens and adults aged 13+.

My family had a blast working together to solve puzzles, crack codes, and earn our freedom from the space-themed Mission: Mars. To learn more, read my review of The Escape Game.

Insider Tip: Book The Escape Game in advance, especially on weekends, as time slots fill quickly.

7. Trick Your Eyes at Museum of Illusions

Step inside the Museum of Illusions at Mall of America to explore a world of interactive exhibits that challenge your vision, perception, and sense of reality. All ages will enjoy playing with mind‑bending displays that spark conversation and laughter.

I haven’t been to the Mall of America location yet, but I have visited the Museum of Illusions in my hometown, Scottsdale, and highly recommend it on my list of fun things to do in Scottsdale.

8. Brave the Dutchman’s Deck Ropes Course & Zipline

Dutchman’s Deck Adventure Course inside Nickelodeon Universe adds extra thrills to your Mall of America visit. Choose to tackle the Ghostly Gangplank ropes course, the Barnacle Blast Zipline, or the Anchor Drop Spiral Slides. Better yet, get a pass to experience all three. Various height restrictions apply.

My friend and I opted to zip-line across Nickelodeon Universe on the Barnacle Blast Zipline, the longest indoor zip line in North America. The first step off the platform will make your heart thump, but then you can relax into the ride and soak in the scenery and sounds of the theme park below.

9. Get Lost in the Amazing Mirror Maze

The Amazing Mirror Maze at Mall of America spans 2,500 square feet of mirrored fun. Guests must wear plastic gloves to keep the glass pristine as they navigate twists, turns, and reflections. This attraction is sure to spark laughter and playful confusion for maze‑goers of all ages. At least it did for my family!

10. Build with LEGO Bricks at the LEGO Store

The LEGO Store at Mall of America delights kids and adults alike with massive figures built entirely from LEGO bricks. An entire wall is filled with LEGO bricks sorted by color and available for purchase. You can also peruse a wide selection of LEGO kits here.

The best part? LEGO interactive play tables are located just outside the store, where children can unleash their imaginations to build creations while parents take a break.

11. Play Carnival & Video Games

If you like to play games, the Mall of America has you covered. Nickelodeon Universe offers carnival games where kids can win toy prizes, as well as an arcade filled with video games.

For even more fun, head to the fourth floor, where you’ll find The Fair on 4, a modern entertainment venue featuring arcade games, go‑karts, axe-throwing, and fair foods.

12. Experience a 5D Virtual Adventure

Choose from three virtual adventures at the 5D Extreme Attraction by Matrix Technology: the thrilling Mystery Mine ride, the Shark Attack standing experience with wind and mist effects, or the newer Pirate Jack treasure hunt. Reviewers often recommend Mystery Mine as the most exciting option.

13. Pose for Old‑Fashioned Souvenir Photos at Professor Z’s

Step into the past at Professor Z’s Old Time Photos. Put on costumes and pose in front of themed sets for same-day photos you can take home as a lasting memory of your Mall of America vacation. Choose from such styles as Western, Victorian, 1920s, Renaissance, and more.

14. Enjoy Concerts & Other Live Entertainment

Mall of America hosts hundreds of live events per year. That includes concerts, book signings, charity fundraisers, celebrity interviews, and more. Check out Mall of America Events to see what’s coming soon.

During one visit, I was lucky enough to see Boyz II Men perform for throngs of adoring fans. Best of all? Many of these events are free to visitors.

15. Laugh at Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy

Get the giggles at Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy, an adults‑only venue featuring stand‑up comedy performances by nationally touring comedians and rising stars. Adding to the fun are a full bar and casual eats, including Canadian‑inspired poutine — French fries topped with gravy and cheese curds.

16. Watch the Universe of Light Show

Universe of Light is a nine‑minute spectacle staged nightly in Nickelodeon Universe, just before park closing. In addition to colorful lights, choreographed music, and fog effects, the show transforms the South Entrance into a technicolor dreamworld. Additionally, look for special holiday lights shows from November through early January.

The show can be seen from all four levels at the South Entrance of Nickelodeon Universe. Floor‑level lights add extra fun, especially for children, who often dance along to the beat. Insider Tip: Arrive a few minutes early to grab a good viewing spot, especially on Level 2, for the best perspective.

Migraine sufferers (like me) and those prone to seizures should be warned that the show does include some flashing strobe lights.

17. Meet SpongeBob & Other Nickelodeon Characters

Get an opportunity to pose with beloved Nickelodeon friends at Mall of America. Snap photos with such classic characters as SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, Blue from Blue’s Clues, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Or you might see newer favorites like Paw Patrol and Bubble Guppies. Character appearances rotate, so check the daily schedule when you arrive.

There are two places where you can meet the characters in Nickelodeon Universe. The Blue Spot is located across from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock Ride. The Green Spot across from the Log Chute.

18. See a Movie in Style at B & B Theatres

After a day of shopping until you feel like dropping, a movie in cushy, reclining leather seats is a welcome reprieve at B&B Theatres. There are 13 screens for your viewing pleasure, including one auditorium with ScreenX, a 270‑degree panoramic format that surrounds moviegoers with action on three walls.

In addition to standard snacks like popcorn and candy, viewers can nosh on made-to-order dishes like flatbreads, hot sandwiches, funnel cakes, and French fries. Adults aged 21+ can order beer, wine, or cocktails at this movie theater, too.

19. Embark on a Scavenger Hunt

Explore Mall of America with a scavenger hunt adventure designed for families. Choose from the official MOA digital scavenger hunt (bookable for groups) or download a free printable scavenger hunt from Twin Cities Frugal Mom for a kid‑friendly checklist of mall highlights. Either way, it’s a fun way to discover hidden corners of the mall together.

20. Taste Sample Treats at Mall of America

With America’s Dairyland, Wisconsin, right next door to Minnesota, it’s no surprise you’ll find a shop peddling cheese at the Mall of America. What’s more, Cheese Brothers happily hands out samples to shoppers.

Got a sweet tooth? See’s Candies, Godiva Chocolatier, Lindt Master Swiss Chocolatier, and Northwoods Candy Emporium often offer complimentary confections to shoppers.

According to The Unofficial Guide to Mall of America, other places to score free tastes include Doc Popcorn, Pepper Palace, and Ruby Thai Kitchen. Yum!

21. Personalize Your Own M&Ms

My kids always love stopping at the M&Ms Store, where visitors can do more than just browse candy. Personalize M&M candies with your own messages, icons, or even photos. You can also design your own packaging at the Color Mood Wall. The store also offers a rainbow of M&Ms flavors and merchandise, from apparel to drinkware.

22. Create Custom Jewelry

Little Words Project is a creative playground where you can sit at the bead bar and design bracelets and other jewelry that spell out your own story. It’s part shopping, part self‑expression, and all about turning words into wearable art. It’s a great place to make a unique gift for a friend or create a mantra to keep on your wrist.

23. Build a Teddy Bear or Other Stuffed Toy

At Build‑A‑Bear Workshop, kids (or kids-at-heart) can pick out a plush friend, add the stuffing and a heartbeat or other sound, and dress it in an adorable outfit. Naming the toy is part of the fun. The finished bear (or unicorn, puppy, or other critter) makes a memorable Mall of America keepsake.

24. Enjoy Free Entertainment & Discounts on Toddler Tuesdays

Toddler Tuesdays at Mall of America are designed especially for young children and their caretakers. Families can enjoy free character meet‑and‑greets, arts and crafts, storytime, and other kid‑friendly activities each week.

Parents can also purchase discounted Nickelodeon Universe wristbands for Junior and Family rides. Additional deals include discounts on Moose Mountain miniature golf and Crayola Store purchases. What’s more, children aged 6 and younger eat free at select restaurants every Tuesday.

25. Get a Beauty Makeover

Need a little primping? You’re in luck at Mall of America! There are two nail salons here: Nail Trix and L.A. Nails. For hair services and more, head to the Minnesota‑based Aveda Experience Center. Men can get their grooming done at Final Cuts Sports Barbershop. If you want your brows on point, stop by Brow Art 23 for threading and lash extensions.For cosmetics, you’ll find Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and MAC Cosmetics, along with makeup counters at the major department stores.

Kids can get in on the pampering at Princess and Diva Spa Fun Shop, where ages 3 to 16 enjoy velvety throne‑style pink chairs, royal manicures, pedicures, nail art, flavor facials with real cucumbers, fairy‑dust makeup, and glam hair accessories. Parents and caregivers are welcome to join in the fun.

26. Indulge in a Spa Day

Refresh and rejuvenate with a spa day at Mall of America. As a casual option, head to Relaxing Massage or XPresSpa for an open-concept treatment. Or, look for massage chairs for quick, card-operated relaxation.

Looking for a luxurious spa day experience? Make a reservation for facials, facials, and other body treatments at Laughing Waters Spa at Radison Blu. You need not be a hotel guest to book a treatment.

27. Raise a Glass at MOA

No matter your drink of choice, you’re sure to find something tasty to quench your thirst at Mall of America. Find all sorts of beverages from coffee drinks, bubble teas, smoothies, and fresh lemonade to crafts beers, wines, and fancy cocktails.

For over‑the‑top fun, head to Sugar Factory, where crazy shakes tower with candy and cake, and goblet drinks arrive smoking with dry ice. The FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar gets my vote for the best swanky spot place to sip and socialize. Meanwhile, The Fair on 4 is where to go for drinks with a side of game play. Check out MOA’s happy hour directory to find drink and food specials.

28. Dine Around the World

Oh…the food…THE FOOD at Mall of America! I promise you will not go hungry here. With dozens of restaurants at the Mall of America, there’s something to meet the tastes and budgets of all travelers.

Get a taste of local Minnesota cuisine at FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar. Look for menu items like Minnesota Chicken & Wild Rice Soup and Heirloom Corn Crusted Walleye. For dessert, the White Chocolate Banana Cream Pie is what delicious dreams are made of.

Enjoy dining options from around the world that will delight your senses. For Asian cuisine with flair, make reservations for teppanyaki at Benihana, where chefs slice and dice right at your table. At Cantina Laredo, enjoy TexMex cuisine and watch fresh guacamole whipped up tableside. At Kura Sushi, pick your own Japanese dishes from a revolving conveyor belt, and get your drinks delivered by a robot. For a wild option with kids, make reservations at Rainforest Cafe to dine among exotic plants, animatronic animals, and faux tropical rainstorms.

Two massive food courts also keep bellies full with everything from burgers at Shake Shack to pizza, shawarma, and poke bowls. My family’s absolute favorite fast-food spot is Bussin Birria Tacos for scrumptious dippable Mexican fare.

29. Go for a Swim

Both the Radisson Blu and JW Marriott offer indoor pools exclusively for hotel guests, fabulous for a relaxing dip after shopping without ever leaving the Mall of America. Families looking for bigger thrills can head just two miles away to Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota, home to a full indoor water park, with day passes available even if you’re not staying overnight.

30. Spend the Night at Mall of America

If your trip to the Twin Cities centers on the Mall of America, I recommend booking a stay at one of the two hotels directly connected to the mall. It’s super easy and affordable to hop on the light rail from Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport straight to MOA. If you’re visiting in winter, you won’t even need a coat for the duration of your stay!

I was lucky enough to stay at Radisson Blu Mall of America. The stylish lobby, serene indoor pool, wonderful on‑site FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, upscale Laughing Waters Spa, and genuinely friendly staff made my stay here quite enjoyable.

There’s also the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, equally convenient with direct access to the mall. While I haven’t stayed there myself, I know and love the JW Marriott brand. Guests can enjoy an indoor pool, fitness center, and signature restaurant Cedar+ Stone Urban Table.

Take a look at additional hotel options near the Mall of America via Hotels.com or Booking.com.

Save Money on Your Mall of America Visit

Stretch your budget with Attraction Bundles for sale from Mall of America. Many of the MOA activities listed in this guide often offer discounts via Groupon, too, so it’s worth a quick search.

Explore More of Minnesota

Minnesota is well-known as the home state of the talented musical artist, Prince. Discover what it’s like to tour Paisley Park, where Prince lived, worked, and recorded.

If you’ll be in Minnesota during summer, then be sure to read my tips for visiting Valleyfair, the state’s largest amusement park.

Venture north beyond the Twin Cities to Lake Superior with these things to do in Duluth with kids.

Save These Things to Do at Mall of America

Considering a trip to this megamall? Be sure to save these Mall of America attractions for future reference. Simply pin the image above or below to Pinterest. Go ahead and follow Colleen Travels Between on Pinterest while you’re at it!

Did you know there were so many things to do at Mall of America besides shop? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments section below!

A Note from Colleen: One of my many visits to the Mall of America was hosted by the city of Bloomington, Mall of America, Radisson Blu, and various restaurants. During this visit, I was provided a $500 Mall of America gift card to spend however I liked. All opinions are mine, as always. I update this Mall of America guide regularly to reflect what’s currently happening at this Minnesota attraction.

Sharing is caring!