Bloomington, Minnesota, is a surprisingly lively hub for sightseeing and activities that go beyond the typical tourist stops. It’s home to the Mall of America, but it also offers a variety of tours that give you a real taste of the Twin Cities.
One of the best ways to get acquainted with this area is on a guided tour that takes the hassle out of navigating urban sights — like the Twin Cities Highlights Tour.
Meanwhile, if you’re traveling with family or love marine life, the SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota at Mall of America provides a fascinating glimpse into ocean conservation and underwater creatures. Both options showcase the diversity of things to do here, whether you’re into cityscapes or sea creatures.
If you’re visiting Bloomington, I’ve narrowed down the must-do experiences for you. For a quick, comprehensive introduction to Minneapolis and St. Paul, the Twin Cities Highlights Tour offers a 3.5-hour ride through architectural landmarks, historic parks, and iconic neighborhoods.
On the flip side, the SEA LIFE Aquarium lets you learn about marine environments with over 10,000 creatures — perfect for families looking for an interactive experience. Now, let’s explore each in detail to help you pick the best fit.
1. Twin Cities Highlights Tour
At number one on our list, the Twin Cities Highlights Tour is a fantastic way to get your bearings in Minneapolis and St. Paul. For just $42 per person, you’ll enjoy around three and a half hours exploring major sights without the stress of driving or navigating public transit.
This tour is ideal for first-timers or anyone wanting a quick overview of the area’s best-known landmarks, including Minnehaha Falls, the Guthrie Theater, Summit Avenue mansions, and the U.S. Bank Stadium.
The tour is praised for its relaxed pace and engaging guide, Greg, who shares insights into Minnesota’s history and architecture. One highlight is a brief stop at Minnehaha Falls, a scenic spot that’s especially stunning in good weather.
You’ll also pass by historic Rice Park and view the Minnesota State Capitol from the outside. The tour provides photo stops, commentary, and a chance to see both modern and historic architecture in one trip.
Because pickup from central locations is included, it’s a convenient way to see the Twin Cities without the hassle of self-driving. While some reviews mention the tour running slightly longer than planned, most appreciate the friendly guides and the comprehensive yet manageable itinerary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for newcomers, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging snapshot of Minneapolis and St. Paul, combining natural beauty, history, and city sights for a reasonable price.
2. SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota Admission Ticket at Mall of America
At number two, the SEA LIFE Aquarium Minnesota Admission Ticket at Mall of America provides an engaging, family-friendly break in Bloomington. For about $29.12, you’ll spend roughly two hours exploring over 10,000 sea creatures in beautifully themed tanks, including the Amazon River, Rainbow Reef, and Atlantis.
Located inside the Mall of America, this is a smart choice for anyone wanting a cool escape from shopping or looking for a fun, educational activity.
The aquarium features interactive exhibits like the Octopus Garden, and you’ll walk through an underwater tunnel where rays and turtles glide just overhead.
Marine creatures such as coconut crabs, Japanese spider crabs, clownfish, and sharks are on display, giving visitors a hands-on learning experience about marine conservation. Kids love the colorful jellyfish and the opportunity to see some of the world’s most unusual crustaceans up close.
Reviews highlight the shark exhibit and the walk-through tunnel as particular favorites, with many visitors noting that the aquarium is educational and entertaining in equal measure. Although some adults feel the experience is more suited for children, it remains a top pick for families or anyone interested in marine life.
Bottom Line: A lively, interactive experience that makes marine biology accessible and fun. It’s especially suited for families or travelers wanting a relaxed, engaging activity during their Bloomington visit.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider what kind of experience excites you most. If you’re eager to get an overview of the Twin Cities’ architecture, parks, and neighborhoods, the Twin Cities Highlights Tour offers a quick, insightful introduction. It’s great for first-time visitors and those short on time.
On the other hand, if you’re traveling with children or simply love marine life, the SEA LIFE Aquarium provides a fun, interactive way to learn about ocean ecosystems and creatures.
Budget-wise, both tours are quite affordable, with the city tour offering more extensive sightseeing for slightly more money. The aquarium is excellent for a quick, memorable visit that can be combined with other Mall of America activities.
Keep in mind your pace and interests — if you want to see city highlights and don’t mind a guided experience, go for the tour. If you’re traveling with kids or want a flexible, relaxed visit, the aquarium is a better fit.
Final Thoughts
Bloomington offers a range of memorable experiences, from city explorations to immersive aquatic encounters. The Twin Cities Highlights Tour makes for a fantastic, no-fuss way to see the core sights of Minneapolis and St. Paul in just a few hours — perfect for first-timers or those with limited time.
Meanwhile, the SEA LIFE Aquarium provides a delightful and educational outing, especially for families or anyone interested in marine life.
For the best experience, consider your interests, budget, and time available. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get your preferred time slot. Whether you opt for the scenic city tour or the underwater adventure, Bloomington delivers genuine, engaging activities that will enrich your visit and leave you with lasting memories.