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Bloomington, Minnesota: Where Fun Never Stops – Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

Bloomington will not cost you much if you plan the days right. The Normandale Japanese Garden and the Bloomington Center for the Arts both cost nothing. Hyland Lake Park Reserve runs over 10 miles of hiking trail through 1,000 acres. The Bloomington Farmers Market runs every Saturday from May through to October. And the people here will tell you where the rest of it is.

Planning a trip to Bloomington, Minnesota? The city holds some of the strongest attractions in the Midwest. Traveling with friends, family or on your own, there is a version of the trip here for you.

Bloomington is known for the Mall of America, but there is a good deal more outside the walls of the mall. Outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, art and culture, wildlife: all of it is here. And if you like eating or shopping, the city runs a scene for both.

Key Takeaways

• Bloomington, Minnesota is a city with a lot to offer, from the world-famous Mall of America to outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and amazing wildlife.
• Whether you’re a foodie, a shopaholic, or an adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone in Bloomington.
• Don’t miss out on Bloomington’s culinary scene, shopping options, and fun activities for the whole family.

A Sneak Peek into Bloomington, Minnesota

Bloomington, Minnesota sits in the land of 10,000 lakes, where the people are friendly and the winters are cold. You have chosen well, because there is plenty to see and do in Bloomington, MN. Solo, with family, or with a group of friends, you will not run out of things to do.

Bloomington, MN is home to the Mall of America, the largest mall in the United States. With over 500 stores, an indoor amusement park, an aquarium and a good deal more, you could spend a whole week here and still not see all of it.

But for something quieter, Bloomington, MN has plenty. Walk through the Normandale Japanese Garden, a calm spot in the middle of the city. Or for something with more pace, go to the Hyland Hills Ski Area for the winter sports.

Arts people get the Bloomington Center for the Arts, where you can take a play, a concert or an art exhibit. And anyone who eats well will do fine in Bloomington, MN. Classic American cooking through to international, the palates are covered.

But the real point of Bloomington, MN is the people. You will not find friendlier folks anywhere. So for a day or a week, say hello to your fellow Minnesotans. You may come away with a new friend or two.

So what are you waiting for? Pack the bags, take your sense of adventure, and come see what Bloomington, Minnesota has. You will not regret it.

Top Attractions in Bloomington

For fun in Bloomington you will not be short. The Mall of America through to the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, there are attractions enough to fill the days.

One of the most visited attractions in Bloomington is the Mall of America. With over 500 stores, an indoor amusement park and the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, a full day goes fast. The amusement park, Nickelodeon Universe, runs rides for all ages, the Pepsi Orange Streak roller coaster among them.

For something more educational, take the Minnesota Masonic Heritage Center. The museum covers the history and traditions of the Masonic Fraternity in Minnesota and runs interactive exhibits, artifacts and more.

For something outdoors and quiet, go to the Normandale Japanese Garden. The garden holds a traditional Japanese teahouse, a koi pond and careful landscaping.

Traveling with kids, take the Crayola Experience. The interactive attraction lets kids make their own crayons, make art and play games.

For mini-golf, go to Moose Mountain Adventure Golf. The 18-hole course runs waterfalls, caves and a giant moose.

And for a day on the water, take the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park. The indoor water park runs slides, a lazy river and a wave pool.

Whatever your interests, Bloomington covers them. So pack the bags and get ready.

Outdoor Adventures in Bloomington

You are about to work through the outdoor side of Bloomington, Minnesota. Hiking and biking trails through to disc golf and fishing, there is a version of each.

For a scenic hike, take Hyland Lake Park Reserve. The park runs over 1,000 acres of forest, prairie and wetland. There are over 10 miles of hiking trail to walk, and wildlife turns up along them.

For a harder hike, go to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge spans over 14,000 acres and carries over 34 miles of hiking trail. The views over the river valley are the payoff, and rare birds turn up as well.

For biking, Bloomington has trails to choose from. Bush Lake Park has a paved trail that suits a slow ride. For something harder, take the mountain bike trails at Moir Park. And for more again, there is downhill skiing and snowboarding at Hyland Hills Ski Area.

Anglers get Bush Lake, which is popular for a reason. The lake is stocked with bass, crappie and northern pike. And if you forage, watch for wild berries and mushrooms along the trails.

And do not skip the disc golf courses in Bloomington. There are several, one at Hyland Hills Ski Area and one at Moir Park.

A slow hike or a hard bike ride, Bloomington covers both. Get out there.

Bloomington’s Culinary Scene

You might not expect it, but Bloomington, Minnesota has a food scene worth writing home about. Classic American cooking through to international, this small city holds a version of each.

First, burgers. For a proper patty, go to the Blue Door Pub. They run burgers across a long list, the Juicy Blucy among them, stuffed with cheese and topped with the lot. It is messy and it is worth it.

For something dressier, take Ciao Bella. The Italian restaurant has been a local favorite for over 25 years, and the reason is clear. The homemade pasta holds up and the wine list runs long.

For the Mediterranean, go to Naf Naf Grill. They do Middle Eastern cooking, shawarma, falafel and hummus among it. And everything is made fresh to order, so the quality holds.

For something sweet, take Patisserie 46. The French bakery runs croissants through to macarons and everything between. And they serve high tea if you want to make an afternoon of it.

And there is the Mall of America. With over 50 restaurants, something will land. Fast food through to fine dining, the palates are covered. And you can walk the calories off around the mall afterwards.

Burgers, pasta or something sweet, the food scene in Bloomington covers it. Just bring the appetite.

Shopping Spree in Bloomington

You are in Bloomington, Minnesota and you are ready to shop. Bloomington runs some of the strongest shopping in the country. Latest fashion or newest tech, it is all here.

Mall of America

Start with the obvious: the Mall of America. With over 500 stores you will find what you need and more. But the Mall of America is not only shopping. There is an indoor amusement park, an aquarium and a miniature golf course. So when you need a break, ride a roller coaster or pet a shark.

Shopping Centers and Plazas

For more traditional shopping centers and plazas, Bloomington has those too. The Southtown Shopping Center runs a good selection, Target and Best Buy among them. The Bloomington Strip is the other one, with stores like Old Navy and Kohl’s.

Fashion

Fashion people have options in Bloomington. The Galleria Edina is the high-end center, with Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. For something more affordable, take the H&M at the Mall of America or the Forever 21 at the Bloomington Strip.

Tech

For the techies, the Mall of America has the options. The Apple Store is the popular one, but there is the Microsoft Store and the Samsung Experience Store as well. And for something more niche, take the Brookstone store.

So there you have it. A full shopping spree or just a few things, Bloomington covers both. Happy shopping.

Fun for the Little Ones

Looking for things to do with the little ones in Bloomington, Minnesota? The city runs plenty for kids of all ages. Here are a few to start with:

Crayola Experience

Let the kids loose at the Crayola Experience. The attraction sits at the Mall of America and runs over 25 hands-on activities that will hold them for hours. Making your own crayon through to making your own marker, it is all in there. And you can take home a personalized crayon as a souvenir.

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park

Want something wet? Go to the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park. The indoor water park works for kids of all ages, with water slides, lazy rivers and splash pads. And there is more besides, mini golf, arcade games and a kids’ spa.

Mini Golf

Everyone loves mini golf. Bloomington has options, the Big Stone Mini Golf and Sculpture Garden and the Moose Mountain Adventure Golf among them. Both courses work for kids, with obstacles and colorful designs that hold them for hours.

With this much on in Bloomington, Minnesota, the little ones will not get bored. The Crayola Experience, the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, or a round of mini golf: this is a kid-friendly city.

Bloomington’s Nightlife

You may think Bloomington, Minnesota is a quiet suburb of the Twin Cities. Think again. This town knows how to run a night. Laughs or dancing, the nightlife here covers both.

For entertainment, go to Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy. The comedy club is the place to sit back and laugh the night through. The lineup runs strong comedians, so the night lands.

And for something livelier, the nightlife in Bloomington has options. Trendy bars through to busy nightclubs, there is a version of each. Here are some of them:

• Cowboy Jack’s: This country-themed bar is perfect for a night of line dancing and drinking with friends.
• Hard Rock Cafe: This iconic restaurant and bar is the perfect place to grab a drink and rock out to some live music.
• Shantytown Bar & Grill: This dive bar may not look like much from the outside, but inside you’ll find a lively atmosphere and cheap drinks.

Laughs or dancing, the nightlife in Bloomington covers both. Just pace yourself, because there is a lot of it.

The Mall of America takes the headlines, but it is not the whole town. Hyland Lake Park Reserve holds 1,000 acres against the mall’s 500 stores. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge spans over 14,000 acres and 34 trail miles. The Normandale Japanese Garden gives you a teahouse and a koi pond instead. The people here will point you at all three of those before the mall.

Historical Landmarks in Bloomington

History buff, or just after a good way to learn about the past? Bloomington has historical landmarks that will hold your interest.

First is the Old Town Hall Museum. The small museum sits in the original town hall of the city, built back in 1892. Inside are exhibits on the history of Bloomington and its residents. Early pioneers through to the modern day, the museum covers it.

For more on the Old Town Hall Museum, take the Bloomington Historical Society. The group preserves the history of Bloomington and holds a good deal on the past of the town. They run a website where you can read more about the museum and its exhibits.

And no historical tour of Bloomington is complete without the Old Town Hall History Museum. The museum sits right next to the Old Town Hall and runs exhibits on the history of the building itself. From its construction in the late 1800s to its current use as a museum, the landmark has seen it all.

And for more history again, take TripAdvisor. The website holds a good deal on historical landmarks in Bloomington and beyond. There are reviews, photos and tips from other travelers who have been.

History buff or just after an afternoon, the historical landmarks in Bloomington are worth the walk. The Old Town Hall Museum through to the Bloomington Historical Society, there is a version of each.

Places to Stay in Bloomington

You have the itinerary sorted and now you need somewhere to sleep. Bloomington has options for every budget and taste.

Hotels

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, you can’t go wrong with the JW Marriott. This hotel is attached to the Mall of America, so you can shop ’til you drop and then take the elevator up to your room. Plus, they have a spa, so you can pamper yourself after a long day of exploring.

If you’re traveling with kids, the Great Wolf Lodge is a must-visit. This indoor water park hotel has slides, lazy rivers, and plenty of other activities to keep the little ones entertained. And the best part? You don’t have to leave the hotel to have a blast.

Budget-Friendly Options

If you’re on a budget, don’t worry. There are plenty of affordable options in Bloomington. The La Quinta Inn & Suites is a great choice for those who want a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. Plus, they offer a free shuttle to the Mall of America, so you can save money on transportation.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, check out the Radisson Blu Mall of America. This hotel has a modern, Scandinavian-inspired design and is located within walking distance of the mall. Plus, they have a rooftop pool, so you can take a dip while enjoying views of the city.

Wherever you stay in Bloomington, you will do fine. Happy travels.

Art and Culture in Bloomington

You may not think of Bloomington as a hub for art and culture. Do not be fooled. The city runs plenty in artistic expression and historical significance.

Artistry Theater and Visual Arts

For a night out, take a show at the Artistry Theater. The local venue runs plays, musicals and improv comedy. And if visual arts are more your thing, Artistry has a gallery space showing the work of local artists.

Museums

Want to know more about the history and culture of Bloomington? Start with the museums. The Bloomington History Museum is the place to begin, with exhibits from the founding of the city to its role in the Civil War. And for art, the Eskenazi Museum of Art is the one. With over 45,000 objects in the collection, works by Picasso and Rembrandt among them, the museum runs deep.

A night of theater or a day of museums, Bloomington covers both. Do not miss what the city has.

Events and Festivals in Bloomington

Bloomington runs events and festivals through the year. Food, music or art, there is a version of each. Here are the events and festivals worth catching in Bloomington:

Ongoing Events

For something weekly, go to the Bloomington Farmers Market. Every Saturday from May to October, local farmers and artisans gather to sell fresh produce, handmade crafts and baked goods. There is live music and entertainment while you shop.

Festivals

Bloomington runs several festivals through the year celebrating the culture of the city. The Bloomington Heritage Days Festival is a three-day event covering the history of the city with live music, food vendors and a parade. The Bloomington Artistry and Craft Festival is the other one, where you can shop handmade items from local artists.

Music people get the Bloomington Music Festival. The two-day festival runs local and national musicians across genres, rock and pop through to blues and jazz. And there is food and drink from local vendors while you listen.

Beer people should not miss the Bloomington Craft Beer Festival. The one-day event pours over 100 craft beers from local and national breweries. There is live music and there are food trucks while you work through them.

Conclusion

Local or visiting, Bloomington has a version of the day for you. The weekly farmers market through to the annual festivals, something is always on in this city. So grab friends and family and go take one of these events.

Around Bloomington

You have made it to Bloomington, Minnesota, and now it is time to see the area around it. There is plenty out there, so let us start.

First, Minneapolis. It is the largest city in Minnesota and it is a short drive from Bloomington. Do not miss the Mall of America, one of the largest malls in the United States. It is big enough that you may want a map. But there are shops, restaurants and attractions enough to hold you for hours.

For something quieter, go to St. Paul, a short drive from Minneapolis. St. Paul is the capital of Minnesota and is known for its architecture and historic landmarks. Walk the neighborhoods, take the Minnesota State Capitol, or catch a show at the historic Fitzgerald Theater.

And there is more. The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are only the start. For outdoor time, go to the Minnesota River, a short drive from Bloomington. You can fish, kayak or hike the scenic trails along it. And with luck you may see bald eagles overhead.

For upscale shopping and dining, go to Edina, a wealthy suburb of Minneapolis. It is known for high-end boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. And anyone who eats well should catch the annual Edina Art Fair, which brings in strong food vendors from around the state.

Last, Hennepin County. It is the most populous county in Minnesota and holds some of the popular attractions in the state, the Walker Art Center, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and the Chain of Lakes among them. Culture, nature or straight fun, Hennepin County covers it.

So there you have it, a short guide to the area around Bloomington. Shopping, dining, outdoor time or straight fun, there is a version of each in and around Bloomington.

Unleash Your Inner Thrill-Seeker

Are you after your next fix? Bloomington, Minnesota runs a set of activities that will get the heart going.

First, take The Escape Game Minneapolis. The interactive experience puts you and your friends in a room where you solve puzzles and clues to get out before the time runs out. It is a real-life video game. Can you beat the clock?

For more again, go to the amusement park at Mall of America. The park runs the Fairly Odd Coaster, which will have you shouting. And if you are braver than that, there is a roller coaster that goes upside down.

And the outdoor side holds up too. Hike the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge or rent a bike and take the city on two wheels. And for the biggest one, try skydiving at nearby Skydive Twin Cities, where the view of the city comes with the freefall.

So what are you waiting for? Go and take what Bloomington has.

Amazing Wildlife in Bloomington

Bloomington runs parks and outdoor attractions, but it also carries a range of wildlife worth the trip. Bird watching through to sea creatures, there is a version of each.

Bird people will do well here. Bloomington holds a range of birds, the bald eagle through to the prothonotary warbler. Take the binoculars to one of the many parks in Bloomington for a chance at them in their natural habitat.

For something more exotic, go to the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium. You can get close to sharks, stingrays, jellyfish and sea turtles. They will not mistake you for a snack.

And if you hunt, Bloomington has opportunities, deer through to wild turkey. Just make sure you have the proper licenses and permits before you head out.

Bird watcher, lover of sea creatures or hunting enthusiast, Bloomington has a version of each. So pack the bags, take the camera, and go see the wildlife in Bloomington.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to spend a day in Bloomington without spending any money?

There are plenty of free things to do in Bloomington. Walk through the Normandale Japanese Garden, hike the trails at Hyland Lake Park Reserve, or take the art exhibits at the Bloomington Center for the Arts. And if you want the crowds, go to the Mall of America and watch the people go by.

Can you recommend any quirky, off-the-beaten-path attractions in Bloomington?

For something unusual, take The Works Museum. It is a hands-on museum where you learn engineering and design through interactive exhibits. The other one is the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, a quiet stretch in the middle of the city that suits birdwatching, hiking and picnicking.

What are some lesser-known restaurants in Bloomington that are worth checking out?

For comfort food, go to Fat Lorenzo’s. The pizza and pasta hold up. For something different, take the Ethiopian food at Fasika, where the vegetarian platter is the one to order. And for something sweet, stop by Wuollet Bakery for the pastries.

If I only have time to visit one place in Bloomington, what should it be?

That is a hard one. Shoppers cannot miss the Mall of America. It is the largest mall in the United States, with over 500 stores and attractions. Outdoor people should take the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge instead, a nature preserve with hiking trails and wildlife to spot.

What’s the craziest thing to do in Bloomington that most tourists don’t know about?

There is a story about a secret underground tunnel system beneath the Mall of America. We can neither confirm nor deny it. Treat it as local folklore rather than an itinerary.

What’s the most Instagram-worthy spot in Bloomington?

The Normandale Japanese Garden, without much competition. The quiet stretch is the place to take photos. The garden has a koi pond, a tea house and a waterfall. Anyone who likes nature should see it.

Frequently asked questions about Bloomington, Minnesota

Which park near Bloomington do local hikers actually use?

Hyland Lake Park Reserve. It runs over 1,000 acres of forest, prairie and wetland with more than 10 miles of hiking trail through it, and there is wildlife along the way. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is the harder walk of the two. It spans over 14,000 acres and carries over 34 miles of trail. Hyland comes first, because the refuge will take up the whole day.

Which Bloomington museum do locals send visitors to first?

The Old Town Hall Museum. It sits in the original town hall of the city, built back in 1892, and its exhibits run through the history of Bloomington from the early pioneers onward. The Bloomington Historical Society holds more on the museum and its exhibits. The Minnesota Masonic Heritage Center then runs its own interactive exhibits and artifacts. Ask at the front desk which of the exhibits has changed lately.

Which Bloomington festival is worth timing a trip around?

Bloomington Heritage Days Festival. The three-day event runs live music, food vendors and a parade, and it puts the history of the city out in the open where you can walk through it. The Bloomington Music Festival is a two-day run of local and national acts. The Bloomington Craft Beer Festival pours over 100 craft beers in total. Ask a local which one the town itself actually turns out for.

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