Bloomington, Minnesota, offers a surprising amount of fun packed into one compact area. Known for being home to the Mall of America, it’s a hub of entertainment and family-friendly attractions. If you’re planning a trip here, you’ll find a diverse mix of experiences that go beyond shopping.
From exploring Minnesota’s Largest Aquarium to trying out indoor mini golf courses, Bloomington has something special for every visitor.
We’re especially fond of the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium for its giant sharks and underwater tunnel, and the Museum of Illusions for its mind-bending exhibits—perfect for family outings or curious adults alike.
Whether you’re after adrenaline, family fun, or something a little quirky, Bloomington’s attractions deliver memorable moments. The variety of options makes it a prime destination for a day or two of adventure—without ever leaving the state.
Quick Overview
Our list covers five of the best things to do in Bloomington, including indoor attractions, rides, and interactive experiences. From the massive Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium to the nostalgic charm of Moose Mountain Adventure Golf, each tour offers a unique way to enjoy the city.
- Aquarium: Dive into Minnesota’s biggest underwater world (see here)
- Theme park rides: Spend the day at Nickelodeon Universe with an unlimited ride pass (more info)
- Illusions: Experience over 50 interactive exhibits at the Museum of Illusions (details here)
- Mini Golf: Enjoy whimsical, family-friendly courses, such as Moose Mountain (see details)
- Music-themed Mini Golf: Putt your way through a glow-in-the-dark, musical journey at Rock of Ages (more info)
- Quick Overview
- 1. Mall of America: Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium Entry Ticket
- 2. Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass
- 3. Mall of America: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket
- 4. Mall of America: Moose Mountain Adventure Golf Ticket
- 5. Mall of America: Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf Ticket
- How to Choose
- Final Thoughts
1. Mall of America: Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium Entry Ticket
At number 1 on our list, the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium is a must-see for anyone interested in marine life. Located inside the Mall of America, this 1.3 million-gallon aquarium showcases sea animals from around the world, including giant sharks and sea turtles. For around $29, you gain access to a captivating underwater world that’s perfect for all ages.
What sets this experience apart is the 300-foot ocean tunnel, where you can walk beneath swimming sharks and rays—an immersive experience that feels like you’re right in the ocean.
The Behind-the-Scenes guided tour is a highlight for those interested in how they maintain such an extensive marine environment, especially the Shark Cove area. Kids love feeding stingrays at the Ray Lagoon, while adults appreciate the educational aspect.
The reviews (4.4/5 from 140 reviews) praise the aquarium’s variety of marine creatures and the engaging exhibits. It’s ideal for a couple of hours of wonder or a full day if you combine it with other Mall attractions. The ticket price offers excellent value, especially for families wanting an interactive and educational activity.
Bottom Line: If you love marine life or want a memorable indoor adventure, the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium delivers a fascinating look at ocean creatures in a fun, accessible setting.
2. Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass
Number 2 on our list is the Nickelodeon Universe inside the Mall of America, offering 26 rides and attractions with an unlimited ride pass for a full day of fun. Priced at $47 per person, this ticket unlocks the doors to a world of thrill rides, gentle spins, and character encounters, all under one roof.
This indoor theme park is always 72 degrees and sunny—perfect for year-round enjoyment. The rides cater to all ages, from thrilling roller coasters to junior-friendly rides for little ones.
Kids and teens can meet their favorite Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob, Paw Patrol, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles—sometimes even for photos and autographs. The park’s themed shops also let fans pick up souvenirs.
Reviews (4.3/5 from 131 reviews) highlight the variety and quality of rides, making it a top choice for families and thrill-seekers alike. While the unlimited pass offers good value, be prepared for a full day of activity if you want to sample everything. Lines can be long at peak times, so plan accordingly.
Bottom Line: For a high-energy day with children or teens, the Nickelodeon Universe ride pass provides hours of entertainment in a climate-controlled, convenient location.
3. Mall of America: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket
Number 3 is the Museum of Illusions, an attraction that appeals to curious minds and those looking for a fun photo op. For just $30, visitors are immersed in more than 50 interactive exhibits designed to challenge perception and spark wonder.
This museum features illusion rooms, holograms, and mind-bending displays that make you question what’s real. It’s a perfect spot for families, couples, or friends looking for something different from the typical tourist fare. The reviews—an impressive 5/5 from 2 reviews—highlight how engaging and Instagram-worthy the exhibits are, especially the holographic displays and optical illusions.
It’s a compact but fascinating experience that can be combined with a day of shopping or other indoor activities. Expect plenty of opportunities for playful interaction and memorable photos. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy puzzles, science, or just want a quirky adventure.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a visually stunning and interactive experience that’s fun for all ages, the Museum of Illusions is a clever choice.
4. Mall of America: Moose Mountain Adventure Golf Ticket
Number 4 brings us to the whimsical Moose Mountain Adventure Golf, an 18-hole miniature golf course that’s a delight for families and casual players. At around $11 per person, it’s an affordable and charming way to enjoy a quick round of golf.
The course’s design evokes Northwoods mountain life, with life-sized moose, a logging truck, a steam train, and a bi-plane adding to the adventure. The fully accessible layout means everyone can join, making it a great option for kids, seniors, or anyone with mobility concerns. The course takes about an hour to complete, making it a perfect break from more intense attractions.
Reviewers rave about the whimsical design and family-friendly atmosphere, noting it’s a relaxing way to spend an hour. It’s especially good for those who want a lighthearted challenge or a break from high-energy rides.
Bottom Line: For a fun, accessible introduction to mini golf with a Northwoods theme, Moose Mountain offers a relaxed and memorable experience.
5. Mall of America: Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf Ticket
Finally, number 5 is the Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf, a music-themed 18-hole course that’s as visually striking as it is fun. For $11, you’ll play in a glow-in-the-dark environment filled with neon colors, interactive obstacles, and a soundtrack spanning five decades of rock music.
This course combines interactive, ultraviolet lighting with a musical journey from the 1950s to today. The glowing equipment and walls create a sci-fi atmosphere that appeals to all ages, especially music lovers. The course takes about an hour to play and is suitable for families or groups looking for a lively, visually engaging activity.
Reviews (4/5 from 22 reviews) mention the playful decor and the overall fun of navigating glowing holes and obstacles. It’s a less intense but equally entertaining alternative to rides, with the added bonus of a cool, atmospheric setting.
Bottom Line: If you’re into music or want a playful blacklight experience, Rock of Ages Mini Golf offers a colorful, musical adventure suitable for all ages.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. For family-oriented fun, the Sea Life Aquarium and Mini Golf courses like Moose Mountain or Rock of Ages are perfect.
If thrill rides are more your speed, then the Nickelodeon Universe unlimited pass is the way to go. For something quirky and interactive, the Museum of Illusions offers a surprisingly brain-bending experience.
Think about how much time you want to spend—each activity varies from an hour to a full day—and whether you prefer indoor or outdoor adventures. Booking tickets in advance is recommended for popular attractions like the aquarium and theme park rides, especially during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Bloomington offers a wide range of activities that cater to different tastes and ages. Families will find plenty of excitement at Nickelodeon Universe or the aquarium, while those looking for something unique might enjoy the Museum of Illusions or the blacklight mini golf. For a quick, affordable escape, Moose Mountain provides a relaxed and whimsical round of golf.
If you’re visiting during busy times, booking early ensures you won’t miss out. Whether you’re here for a quick afternoon or a full weekend of fun, Bloomington’s attractions deliver memorable experiences that suit all budgets and interests.
Plan ahead, choose what excites you most, and enjoy discovering the diverse ways to have fun in Bloomington.