Bloomington, Minnesota, isn’t just a suburb of Minneapolis; it’s a destination packed with unique shopping and entertainment experiences. Home to the world-famous Mall of America, it offers more than just retail therapy. Whether you’re into underwater adventures, family fun, or mind-bending illusions, Bloomington has a tour that matches your interests.
Our favorites include the immersive Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, which dazzles with giant sharks and sea turtles, and the Museum of Illusions, which challenges your perception of reality.
These experiences stand out because they blend entertainment with education — a perfect way to enjoy a day out, especially if you’re traveling with kids or friends.
Bloomington’s variety of tours isn’t limited to just one type of experience. You can enjoy indoor amusement rides with the Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass, or try whimsical mini golf courses like Moose Mountain Adventure Golf or the Rock of Ages Blacklight course.
Whether you’re into marine life, interactive exhibits, or family-friendly golf, Bloomington makes it easy to craft a memorable day. Let’s explore each of these top options in detail so you can plan the perfect outing.
- 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 the Perfect Shopping & Market Tour in Bloomington
- Final Thoughts
1. Mall of America: Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium Entry Ticket
At number one on our list is the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, conveniently located inside the Mall of America, the largest shopping mall in the United States. For just $29 per person, you get a full day of underwater discovery, exploring over 1.3 million gallons of aquatic habitats. The highlight is the 300-foot long Ocean Tunnel, where you can walk beneath a swirling school of fish, sharks, and rays.
The aquarium also offers a Behind-the-Scenes tour, giving a fascinating glimpse into how they maintain the ocean in Minnesota, which is especially interesting if you’re curious about marine biology or animal care.
The Ray Lagoon allows visitors to feed stingrays — an interactive experience that’s both fun and memorable. Visitors often say that the sharks and sea turtles are the real stars, especially the 9-foot sharks and the 14-foot sawfish. The aquarium’s atmosphere combines education with entertainment, making it a hit with families and curious adults alike.
The value is excellent considering the size of the exhibits, and it’s a perfect rainy-day activity or a break from shopping.
Bottom Line: If you want an immersive, family-friendly experience with jaw-dropping marine life displays, Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium is worth every penny.
2. Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass
Next on our list is the Nickelodeon Universe, an indoor theme park located inside the mall, offering 26 rides and attractions with an unlimited ride pass for $47 per person. This pass grants access to everything from thrilling roller coasters to gentle rides suitable for younger children.
The park is designed with Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob SquarePants, Paw Patrol, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, making it a hit with kids and fans of all ages.
What makes this experience stand out is comfort — because it’s inside the mall, the temperature stays at a perfect 72°F, no matter the weather outside. The rides are diverse enough to satisfy thrill-seekers and those looking for more relaxed fun. Plus, there’s plenty of Nickelodeon-themed shopping to browse, so you can pick up souvenirs and gear.
Guests often mention how easy it is to spend a full day here, combining rides with shopping and dining. It’s especially suitable for families with kids looking for a full day of entertainment in one convenient location.
Bottom Line: If you’re traveling with kids or just love theme parks, the unlimited ride pass at Nickelodeon Universe guarantees a fun-filled day with no limits.
3. Mall of America: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket
For those interested in mind-bending optical illusions, the Museum of Illusions inside the mall offers an eye-catching experience for only $30. With 50+ interactive exhibits, including holograms, illusion rooms, and 3D art, visitors can challenge their perception of reality. This is a great stop for families, couples, or friends looking for something playful and surprising.
The museum stands out because it combines education and entertainment, encouraging visitors to take photos and experiment with illusions that distort size, perspective, and movement.
Many visitors note how Instagram-worthy the exhibits are, and the interactive nature makes it a lively experience that appeals to all ages. It’s perfect for a quick break from shopping or for an afternoon activity on its own.
Reviews highlight how well-curated and fun the exhibits are, with some describing it as “mind-blowing” and “a perfect way to see things differently.” It’s a compact experience that delivers big on amusement and amazement.
Bottom Line: The Museum of Illusions is a smart choice for a fun, interactive experience that adds a playful twist to your shopping day.
4. Mall of America: Moose Mountain Adventure Golf Ticket
At number four, Moose Mountain Adventure Golf features an 18-hole miniature golf course themed around old-time Northwoods life. For just $11, you can enjoy about an hour of family-friendly fun navigating around life-sized moose, a logging truck, steam train, and bi-plane. Its whimsical design and accessible layout make it a perfect activity for all ages, especially families with children.
What makes Moose Mountain stand out is its authentic Northwoods theme, which offers a nostalgic feel and a magical atmosphere. The course is designed to be easy for all skill levels, with creative obstacles and scenic views. Guests love how interactive and playful it is, making it a relaxing yet entertaining break from the bustling mall.
The affordability and quick pace make it an attractive option for those short on time but still wanting a memorable activity.
The course provides a great value—you get a full round of mini golf for just $11—and it’s a great choice for families or anyone looking to add some outdoor-style fun to their mall day.
Bottom Line: Moose Mountain offers affordable, family-friendly mini golf in a charming setting, ideal for a quick, fun outing.
5. Mall of America: Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf Ticket
Finally, the Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf provides a music-themed 18-hole course glowing under ultraviolet light for $11. This course is designed to take you through various musical eras, from the 1950s to today, featuring glowing obstacles, interactive sound effects, and a sci-fi atmosphere. The glowing equipment and walls, combined with the soundtrack of classic rock anthems, make it an immersive experience.
What makes this mini golf course particularly appealing is its unique theme and vibrant atmosphere. It’s perfect for music fans or those looking for a different kind of mini golf experience. The UV lighting and glowing setup create a sci-fi vibe that’s fun for both kids and adults.
Many visitors appreciate the interactive obstacles and the lively soundtrack, which make playing feel like stepping into a concert.
This activity offers great value for a quick, energetic outing—especially for groups or families wanting to combine their love of music with some friendly competition.
Bottom Line: The Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf is a quirky, music-inspired activity that guarantees a fun, glowing experience.
How to Choose the Perfect Shopping & Market Tour in Bloomington
When selecting your tour, think about your interests and travel style. Want an educational experience? The Sea Life Aquarium offers a deep dive into marine life. Looking for family fun? The Nickelodeon Universe or Moose Mountain Golf are excellent choices. If you prefer something quirky and surprising, the Museum of Illusions or Blacklight Mini Golf will do the trick.
Consider your budget—the aquarium and museum are on the higher end, while mini golf and the blacklight course are very affordable. Also, think about how much time you want to spend; some tours take about an hour, while others can fill a day. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to ensure you get your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Bloomington offers a surprisingly diverse array of shopping and entertainment tours. For a full-day adventure, combining the Mall of America with its many attractions—like the Sea Life Aquarium and Nickelodeon Universe—can create a fantastic day for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something more interactive and quirky, the Museum of Illusions and Blacklight Mini Golf are excellent options for a shorter, memorable visit. For budget-conscious travelers and families, the Moose Mountain Adventure Golf combines fun and affordability.
No matter your choice, booking early and planning your day around these standout experiences will ensure you get the most out of your trip to Bloomington. With options spanning marine adventures, theme park thrills, and optical illusions, Bloomington’s shopping and market tours promise fun and discovery for everyone.