Bloomington, Minnesota, might be best known for the Mall of America, but it’s also a surprising hub for unique tours that fit a range of interests. Whether you’re into underwater adventures, thrill rides, mind-bending illusions, or family-friendly mini golf, Bloomington offers options that make a day here memorable. We particularly love the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium for its impressive 1.3 million gallons of marine life and the chance to walk through a 300-foot long Ocean Tunnel—an absolute must-see for ocean lovers. The Museum of Illusions is also a fun way to challenge your perception and share some laughs with friends or family.
If you’re traveling with children or just looking for a lively environment, the Nickelodeon Universe offers endless rides and character meet-and-greets, perfect for a full day of fun inside the always-warm Mall of America. And for those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition, the Moose Mountain Adventure Golf and Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf provide family-friendly mini golf experiences that are both whimsical and engaging. Whatever your interests, Bloomington’s tours deliver a mix of entertainment, education, and good old-fashioned fun.
1. Mall of America: Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium Entry Ticket
At number 1 on our list is the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, a perfect choice for marine life enthusiasts. With a ticket price of $29 per person, you gain access to Minnesota’s largest aquarium, home to over 10,000 sea creatures. The highlight is walking through a 300-foot-long Ocean Tunnel, where you’ll be surrounded by sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and sawfish, creating an immersive experience that’s both awe-inspiring and educational.
The aquarium also offers a Behind-the-Scenes Guided Tour, giving you a peek into the complexities of maintaining this underwater world and learning what it takes to create a thriving ocean environment in Minnesota. For families, the Ray Lagoon allows you to feed stingrays, which is a fun, interactive experience that kids love. The variety of species—ranging from 9-foot sharks to mesmerizing jellyfish—makes this a standout tour for visitors wanting a closer look at ocean life without leaving the Midwest.
The value for $29 is excellent considering the size and variety of exhibits. For anyone interested in marine conservation or simply wanting to see some impressive sea creatures up close, this tour hits the mark. The only downside might be the crowds during peak hours, but early visits can help avoid that.
Bottom Line: A must-do for families and marine life lovers, the Sea Life Aquarium offers a comprehensive, hands-on experience that’s both fun and educational.
2. Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass
If rides, characters, and a full day of indoor theme park fun appeal to you, the Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass is a top choice. For $47 per person, you get an all-day wristband that grants unlimited access to 26 Nickelodeon-themed rides and attractions. Located inside the Mall of America, this pass is perfect for families or groups seeking thrill, laughter, and character encounters.
This indoor park is always at a comfortable 72 degrees, making it an ideal year-round activity. The rides range from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to gentle rides suited for younger kids. You’ll also have the chance to meet beloved characters like SpongeBob Squarepants, Paw Patrol, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, which adds an extra layer of fun. Plus, the park has unique Nickelodeon shops if you want to pick up souvenirs.
Guests often praise the variety of rides and the convenience of staying inside the mall to avoid weather worries. The main consideration is that some of the more popular attractions might have wait times during busy periods, but overall, the unlimited pass offers excellent value for a full day of entertainment.
Bottom Line: For families with kids of all ages, this ride pass guarantees a day packed with fun, character meet-and-greets, and plenty of thrills.
3. Mall of America: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket
Step into a world where your perception is constantly challenged at the Museum of Illusions, which ranks at the top with a perfect 5-star rating based on just two reviews. At $30 per person, this attraction offers 50+ interactive exhibits, including holograms, illusion rooms, and mind-bending displays. It’s a fantastic spot for those who love puzzles, optical illusions, and sharing amusing photos with friends or family.
The Museum of Illusions stands out because it combines entertainment with a touch of education. Children and adults alike can marvel at how easily their brains are tricked, making it a perfect break from the usual mall routine. Visitors appreciate the variety of exhibits, noting that it’s “a really fun way to challenge your perceptions and take memorable photos.” The exhibits are suitable for all ages, and the compact size makes it easy to enjoy in about an hour.
This attraction is especially appealing for those looking for something interactive and different, especially if you enjoy quirky, photo-friendly experiences. Be prepared for some fun surprises and plenty of opportunities to test your senses.
Bottom Line: An engaging and lighthearted experience that’s perfect for families, friends, or anyone curious about how our brains interpret reality.
4. Mall of America: Moose Mountain Adventure Golf Ticket
For a family-friendly, whimsical outing, Moose Mountain Adventure Golf offers a delightful 18-hole miniature golf course. At just $11 per person for about an hour of play, it’s an affordable way to enjoy some outdoor-style fun indoors. The course features a Northwoods theme with life-sized moose, a logging truck, steam train, and bi-plane, giving it a playful, old-time mountain feel.
The course’s accessible design ensures everyone can enjoy, regardless of age or ability. Its creative, old-fashioned design makes it more than just a putting green—it’s an immersive experience that captures the spirit of mountain life. The course is perfect for families with young children, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone looking to relax and have some lighthearted fun.
What makes this mini golf stand out is its whimsical decor and family-friendly atmosphere. Reviewers mention the “great design” and how it’s “perfect for a quick, fun break during shopping or sightseeing.” The main drawback might be that it’s only 18 holes, so those wanting a longer game may find it a quick experience—but at this price, that’s a minor concern.
Bottom Line: A charming, accessible mini golf course ideal for families and groups seeking a relaxed, playful activity inside the mall.
5. Mall of America: Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf Ticket
Finally, for music lovers and those looking for a quirky twist on mini golf, the Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf is a lively, glow-in-the-dark course themed around musical eras from the 1950s to today. Priced at $11 for an hour-long game, this indoor course features 18 holes with interactive obstacles, neon equipment, and a soundtrack of classic rock, making it both a visual and musical feast.
This themed experience is especially popular among families and groups who want to combine their love of music with a fun, active game. The ultraviolet blacklight setting makes everything glow, from the course to the golf balls and putters, creating a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. The interactive obstacles add a level of challenge that keeps things interesting for all skill levels.
Guests mention the “awesome glow-in-the-dark experience” and how it transforms a simple game into something special. The main consideration is that it’s a relatively short game—around an hour—so it’s best paired with other activities. Still, at this price, it’s a unique experience for music fans or anyone wanting a lively indoor activity.
Bottom Line: A fun, music-themed mini golf experience that combines visual spectacle with a playful atmosphere, perfect for groups and families.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Bloomington
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re all about marine life and underwater exploration, the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium offers immersive encounters and behind-the-scenes insights. For thrill-seekers and kids, the Nickelodeon Universe ride pass delivers unlimited rides and character fun. If you enjoy mind-bending illusions, the Museum of Illusions provides a quick, interactive brain teaser.
Families with young children might prefer the Moose Mountain Adventure Golf or the Blacklight Mini Golf, which are both accessible and entertaining. For those wanting something unique and visually striking, the Museum of Illusions or the Blacklight Mini Golf provide memorable photo opportunities.
Book early during peak seasons or weekends, as these popular attractions can fill up quickly. Consider combining a few options—like pairing the aquarium with mini golf—to make the most of your day. Remember to check each experience’s official site for opening hours and any special COVID-19 considerations.
Bloomington offers a variety of engaging tours that can suit nearly any traveler—whether you’re into aquatic adventures, theme park thrills, mind-benders, or creative mini golf. For families, the indoor rides and activities ensure a fun, rain-proof day; for couples or groups, the illusions and glow-in-the-dark golf add a playful twist. No matter your choice, booking in advance is wise to guarantee your spot in these popular experiences. Enjoy your visit and make it a trip to remember!