Bloomington, Minnesota, offers a surprising variety of shopping and entertainment options that go beyond just browsing stores. Home to the famous Mall of America, it’s a place where you can indulge in unique attractions that blend retail therapy with immersive experiences. Whether you’re into underwater adventures, thrilling rides, or mind-bending illusions, Bloomington has something to suit your style. We especially love the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium for its impressive 1.3 million gallons of aquatic exhibits, and the Nickelodeon Universe for its endless rides—both inside the mall. These experiences turn shopping into a full-day adventure, perfect for families or anyone looking for a fun break from typical retail.
For those seeking something more mind-twisting, the Museum of Illusions offers interactive exhibits that challenge your perception, making it a memorable visit. And if mini golf is your thing, Bloomington won’t disappoint with options like Moose Mountain and Rock of Ages, which combine playful themes with indoor fun. With so many choices, you’ll find plenty to keep your energy high and your wallet happy.
Quick Overview
In this list, we cover a range of shopping-related experiences in Bloomington, from aquariums and theme parks to interactive museums and mini golf courses. Each offers something special:
- Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium for underwater exploration
- Nickelodeon Universe for indoor rides
- Museum of Illusions for optical illusions
- Moose Mountain Adventure Golf and Rock of Ages Mini Golf for themed mini golf fun
Now, let’s explore each in detail to help you decide which suits your interests best.
1. Mall of America: Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium Entry Ticket
At number 1, the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium shines for its impressive scale — 1.3 million gallons of aquatic exhibits. This tour is perfect if you’re fascinated by marine life; it offers a chance to see giant sharks, sea turtles, sawfish, stingrays, and more. The highlight is the 300-foot Ocean Tunnel, where you walk through a glass corridor surrounded by thousands of swimming creatures, creating an immersive experience.
What makes this aquarium special is the opportunity to go behind the scenes with a guided Behind-the-Scenes tour, which gives insight into how the aquarium maintains its marine environment. You can also feed stingrays at the Ray Lagoon, adding a tactile element to the visit. The variety of exhibits ensures visitors of all ages stay engaged, making it especially great for families. The $29 ticket offers good value for a full day of exploration, especially since you’re inside the Mall of America, which itself is a shopping paradise.
Bottom Line: If marine life captivates you and you want an educational, interactive experience inside a world-class aquarium, this tour stands out. It’s a memorable way to spend part of your day in Bloomington.
2. Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass
Number 2 on our list is the Nickelodeon Universe Unlimited Ride Pass. It’s a perfect choice for thrill-seekers and families alike, offering access to 26 Nickelodeon-themed rides and attractions. With an unlimited wristband, you can hop from SpongeBob’s Jellyfish Jam to Paw Patrol’s adventure courses without worrying about individual ride tickets, providing excellent value at $47.
What sets this experience apart is the variety of rides suitable for all ages and heights. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to gentler rides for preschoolers, everyone can find something to enjoy. Plus, meeting favorite characters like SpongeBob, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and others adds a touch of magic. The indoor setting ensures a comfortable experience regardless of weather, and there are several Nickelodeon shops to browse.
Reviewers mention that the pass is “well worth the price” for a full day of fun, especially since many rides are suitable for different comfort levels. It’s ideal if you want a day filled with rides and character encounters.
Bottom Line: If you’re traveling with kids or just love theme park rides, this unlimited ride pass offers great entertainment value inside Bloomington’s iconic mall.
3. Mall of America: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket
Third is the Museum of Illusions, a 5-star rated attraction for its engaging, brain-bending exhibits. With over 50 interactive displays, including holograms and illusion rooms, it invites visitors to question their perceptions and test their senses. The museum’s compact size makes it perfect for a quick, yet fascinating visit.
What makes this museum unique is its focus on visual tricks and optical illusions that challenge your understanding of reality. It’s an ideal stop for families, couples, or friends looking for a fun, educational experience. The exhibits are designed to be shared and are great conversation starters. The $30 ticket provides access to all the displays, making it a cost-effective choice.
Many visitors comment on how the illusions create perfect photo opportunities, adding a playful aspect to your trip. It’s a refreshing change from traditional shopping experiences, offering a chance to laugh, learn, and be amazed.
Bottom Line: For those interested in puzzles, optical illusions, or just something different, the Museum of Illusions offers a memorable, interactive experience in Bloomington.
4. Mall of America: Moose Mountain Adventure Golf Ticket
Number 4 is the Moose Mountain Adventure Golf, an 18-hole miniature golf course with a Northwoods theme. The course features life-sized moose, a logging truck, steam train, and bi-plane, making it perfect for families and groups seeking a playful outdoor-like experience indoors.
The design evokes old-time mountain life, with whimsical elements woven into every hole. The fully accessible course ensures that everyone can join in, regardless of physical ability. The $11 ticket makes it an affordable option for a quick round that can be finished in about an hour. Its proximity to the rest of the mall means you can easily combine golf with other shopping or dining plans.
Guests appreciate the fun, family-friendly atmosphere and the attention to detail in the course layout. It’s especially good for younger children or those who want a break from shopping but still want to stay within the mall environment.
Bottom Line: If miniature golf sounds like a fun addition to your day in Bloomington, Moose Mountain offers a whimsical, accessible course at an excellent price point.
5. Mall of America: Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf Ticket
Last on our list is the Rock of Ages Blacklight Mini Golf. This 18-hole music-themed mini golf course is played in a glowing, ultraviolet setting, combining music from the ’50s to today with a visually striking atmosphere. The glow-in-the-dark walls, equipment, and obstacles make each hole a mini concert experience.
Designed for families and music fans, the course features interactive elements and a soundtrack of classic rock anthems, making it more lively than traditional mini golf. The $11 price makes it an accessible way to cap off a day of shopping or sightseeing.
Guests love the unique, energetic ambiance—it’s like playing golf inside a concert. The course is relatively quick, so it fits well into a busy day. The setting also makes for some fun photo opportunities, especially if you enjoy light and sound effects.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a lively, musical twist on mini golf, this glow-in-the-dark course provides a fun, energetic experience for all ages.
How to Choose Your Bloomington Shopping & Market Tour
When deciding between these options, think about your interests and travel style. If you love marine life, the Sea Life Aquarium offers a full day of underwater discovery. For thrill rides and character meet-and-greets, the Nickelodeon Universe provides endless entertainment.
Seeking something more interactive and mind-bending? The Museum of Illusions combines education with fun. For shorter, themed outdoor-like mini golf, Moose Mountain or Rock of Ages offer playful options at a reasonable price.
Think about your budget, how much time you have, and whether you’re traveling with kids or just looking for a unique experience. Booking in advance is always wise, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to secure your preferred times.
Final Thoughts
Bloomington’s shopping and entertainment scene offers more than just the usual retail experience. With options ranging from aquariums and theme parks to interactive museums and mini golf, there’s something for every interest. For a full day of aquatic wonders, the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium is a standout. Families looking for rides will find plenty of fun at Nickelodeon Universe, while those craving quirky, brain-bending experiences should head to the Museum of Illusions.
No matter your choice, booking early will ensure you get the most out of your visit. Bloomington offers diverse options that turn a simple shopping trip into a memorable adventure—so plan ahead and enjoy your trip.