The Escape Game: Epic 60-Minute Adventures at the Mall of America

Traveling to Minneapolis-Saint Paul and looking for a fun, engaging activity that combines teamwork, puzzles, and a dash of adventure? The Escape Game at Mall of America offers just that—an hour to challenge your wits in one of five immersive escape rooms, all within the buzzing environment of Minnesota’s largest mall. For $47.04 per person, you get a lively, well-organized experience that’s perfect for groups seeking something interactive, lighthearted, and memorable.

What we love most about this experience is how expertly the guides manage each game, helping to keep the energy high and the puzzles flowing smoothly. Plus, the variety of themed missions—from Gold Rush to Mission: Mars—means there’s something to excite every kind of adventurer. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the shared nature of some game slots, which might mean your team isn’t always the only ones playing together—a minor point for those seeking complete privacy.

This activity is especially well-suited for families, friends, or colleagues who enjoy problem-solving and friendly competition. Because it’s designed for participants aged 13 and up, it works well for teens and adults alike, offering a great way to bond while having a blast. If you’re ready for a challenge that combines brains, teamwork, and a lively atmosphere, this is a perfect choice during your Minneapolis visit.

Key Points

• Convenient downtown location at Mall of America, making it easy to combine with shopping or sightseeing.
• Affordable price point offers good value for the hour-long, guided experience.
• Variety of game themes ensures there’s an adventure suited for different interests and ages.
• Guided assistance helps keep the experience accessible, even for first-timers.
• Group size limited to 8 for a more personalized puzzle-solving environment.
• Flexible participation with options to leave the room at any time if needed for comfort or safety.

An In-Depth Look at the Escape Game Experience

When we first arrived at the Mall of America’s Escape Game, the setting was inviting and lively, nestled on the third floor. The staff greeted us with warmth and professionalism, setting us up for an adventure that promised fun and challenge. The process begins with a briefing from the friendly guides—part of what sets this experience apart is their helpful, approachable attitude. We found that their guidance made even the most difficult puzzles approachable, ensuring everyone in our group could contribute.

The Themed Adventures: Something for Everyone

The Escape Game offers seven uniquely immersive scenarios, though only one is played during each session. Some of the standout themes include:

• Gold Rush: Imagine panning for gold in California’s rugged hills. It’s a treasure hunt that calls for sharp eyes and quick thinking.
• Prison Break: A daring escape from a villainous warden demands smart teamwork and quick action.
• Special Ops: Mysterious Market: Play the secret agent uncovering dark plots—an adventure packed with espionage thrills.
• The Heist: Recover a stolen masterpiece from a crafty art thief, blending puzzles with a dash of high-stakes drama.
• Mission: Mars: Launch your spaceship from the Red Planet, testing your team’s coordination and problem-solving under pressure.
• Cosmic Crisis: Destroy a threatening black hole—think of it as a race against cosmic destruction.
• The Depths: Explore a secret lab and unearth its mysteries, combining intrigue with adrenaline-pumping puzzles.

Each game lasts exactly 60 minutes, with an added 15-minute briefing and debrief afterward—making the whole experience last around 1 hour 15 minutes. This structure is ideal for fitting into a busy day of shopping and sightseeing at the mall.

The Gameplay and Puzzles

Once in the room, the real fun begins. You and your team are tasked with finding clues, solving puzzles, and completing a mission. You’ll need to communicate effectively, share ideas, and stay calm under pressure—elements that come naturally with experienced guides present to support you. Kelly_H from a review praised the staff for their “extremely helpful and friendly” approach, which made even those new to escape rooms feel comfortable.

The puzzles are designed to be challenging but not scary or dark, making this a family-friendly activity. Younger participants (14 and under) are welcome but require an adult to participate and sign waivers. The environment is safe; every door has an exit button at all times if someone feels uncomfortable or needs a break.

Group Size and Shared Experiences

The maximum group size is 8 travelers, which enhances the feeling of teamwork and allows for more personalized problem-solving. If you don’t book all the spots, your game might include other players, creating a shared experience. Some guests, like Alba_T, appreciated the “great customer service” and noted that the staff, especially Molly, made the experience memorable.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Price: At $47.04 per person, the activity offers good value for a unique, guided escape experience that can be enjoyed by all ages.
• Booking in Advance: The average booking window is 13 days, so plan ahead, especially during peak times.
• Location: Being inside Mall of America means you can combine this with shopping or dining, making it an easy add-on to your day.
• Accessibility: The location is near public transportation, adding convenience.
• Refunds and Cancellations: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

Why Travelers Love It

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the engaging nature of the puzzles. RebeccaL_N mentioned that, “the staff was extremely helpful,” which helped her and her family enjoy the challenge even when they didn’t escape. The experience is described as challenging and fun, even for those who don’t usually do escape rooms, making it accessible for first-timers and seasoned puzzle enthusiasts alike.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This escape adventure works well for families with teens, groups of friends, or colleagues looking for a fun team-building activity. It’s perfect for those who enjoy puzzles, problem-solving, and a bit of friendly competition. Since the games are designed to be exciting yet safe and family-friendly, it’s an excellent way to add a lively experience to your Mall of America visit.

Final Thoughts on the Escape Game at Mall of America

This activity offers more than just a game; it’s a well-organized, engaging experience that emphasizes teamwork, communication, and fun. The presence of friendly, helpful guides helps keep things flowing smoothly, making it accessible even for those new to escape rooms. With thematic options that appeal to a variety of interests—from pirates to space explorers—you’re likely to find a game that sparks your curiosity and sense of adventure.

The price point balances well against the quality of the experience, and the convenience of being located in the Mall of America adds to its appeal. It’s a lively, enjoyable way to break up a shopping day and create memories that go beyond typical sightseeing.

If you’re traveling with a group, eager for a challenge, or just looking to try something different, this escape adventure might be your ticket to a memorable Minneapolis story.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, travelers aged 13 and older are recommended, but younger kids can participate if accompanied by an adult. Those 14 and under require an adult participant to sign waivers.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours before your scheduled game for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

How long does the entire activity last?
The game itself is 60 minutes, but plan for about 15 minutes before for briefing and 15 minutes afterward for debriefing and photos, making it roughly 1 hour 15 minutes total.

Is the experience inside a locked room?
Yes, every room has a locked door, but each is equipped with an exit button, so you can leave anytime if needed.

Are the puzzles difficult?
The puzzles are designed to be challenging but not scary or dark. They require teamwork and communication, making them suitable for most participants.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins at The Escape Game Minneapolis, located at 300 E Broadway, Floor 3, Bloomington, MN, and finishes back at the same spot.

This escape adventure at Mall of America provides a lively, well-organized challenge for all those who love puzzles, teamwork, and a touch of adventure. Whether you’re in town for shopping or sightseeing, it’s a great way to add some excitement to your day.