Did you know that Bloomington is home to Mall of America, the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the Western Hemisphere? With over 42 million visitors annually, this massive attraction is just the beginning of what makes Bloomington a must-visit destination. Located just 10 minutes from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, this vibrant city offers an impressive mix of indoor entertainment, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences that make it perfect for travelers of all interests.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Bloomington’s convenient location makes it incredibly accessible for travelers. The Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) serves as the main gateway, offering connections to major cities worldwide. From the airport, downtown Bloomington is just a 10-minute drive away.
If you’re driving, Bloomington is easily accessible via Interstate 35W and Interstate 494. The city is approximately 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and 20 minutes from downtown St. Paul, making it an ideal base for exploring the Twin Cities region.
For those preferring public transportation, Metro Transit provides regular bus service throughout Bloomington and connects to the broader Twin Cities area. The METRO Blue Line light rail also offers convenient transportation between the airport, Mall of America, and downtown Minneapolis.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Bloomington experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique attractions and activities. Summer (June-August) brings warm temperatures averaging 23-28°C (73-83°F) and is perfect for outdoor adventures at Hyland Lake Park Reserve or Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
Fall (September-November) transforms the landscape with spectacular foliage colors and comfortable temperatures ranging from 10-21°C (50-70°F). This season offers excellent hiking opportunities and fewer crowds at popular attractions.
Winter (December-February) can be quite cold with temperatures often below freezing, ranging from -12 to -1°C (10-30°F). However, this season brings unique activities like cross-country skiing at Hyland Hills Ski Area and ice skating at local rinks. Plus, Mall of America provides a warm indoor escape.
Spring (March-May) sees gradually warming temperatures from 5-18°C (41-65°F) and blooming landscapes. This shoulder season often means better hotel rates and less crowded attractions.
Local Tip: If you’re planning to visit during winter, pack plenty of warm layers, a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. For summer visits, bring light clothing but also a light jacket for cool evenings and air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Getting Around Locally
Navigating Bloomington is straightforward with several transportation options available. Having a car gives you the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main tourist areas.
Public transportation in Bloomington is reliable and affordable. The Metro Transit system includes buses that cover most areas of interest. The METRO Blue Line light rail connects Mall of America to downtown Minneapolis with stops at the airport and other key locations.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout Bloomington and provide a convenient option for direct point-to-point travel. Taxis are also readily available, especially at the airport and major hotels.
For those who enjoy cycling, Nice Ride Minnesota offers bike rentals with stations throughout the Twin Cities area. Bloomington features several bike-friendly paths, particularly around the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
Where to Stay
Bloomington offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. The city is home to more than 40 hotels, many of which provide complimentary shuttles to the airport and Mall of America.
Luxury Options
For upscale accommodations, consider the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America or the Radisson Blu Mall of America. These hotels offer premium amenities, fine dining, and direct access to the mall.
Mid-Range Choices
Comfortable mid-range options include the AC Hotel by Marriott Bloomington Mall of America, Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Airport, and DoubleTree by Hilton Bloomington Minneapolis South.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Budget-conscious travelers can find quality accommodations at properties like La Quinta Inn & Suites Minneapolis Bloomington West, Country Inn & Suites, or the Hampton Inn Minneapolis-Bloomington.
Many Bloomington hotels offer special packages that include Mall of America shopping vouchers, attraction tickets, or dining discounts. Be sure to check hotel websites or call directly to inquire about current promotions.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Bloomington’s dining scene offers everything from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Don’t miss trying a “Juicy Lucy” – Minnesota’s famous cheese-stuffed burger – during your visit. Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club in nearby Minneapolis are legendary spots for this local specialty.
Mall of America houses over 50 restaurants ranging from quick-service options to sit-down dining experiences. Cedar + Stone, Urban Table at the JW Marriott offers farm-to-table cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients. For a unique dining experience, try Rainforest Cafe with its animated wildlife and tropical thunderstorms.
Beyond the mall, Bloomington boasts excellent independent restaurants. Locals recommend Gyropolis for authentic Greek cuisine, Shantytown Grill for classic American comfort food, and Grand Szechuan for some of the best Chinese food in the Twin Cities area.
Foodie Tip: Perk Up Kitchen is a favorite local breakfast spot, while The Side Car offers craft cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere for evening drinks.
For beer enthusiasts, Bloomington is home to Badger Hill Brewing Company, where you can sample locally crafted beers in their taproom. The brewery offers tours on weekends and frequently hosts food trucks.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Mall of America
No visit to Bloomington is complete without exploring Mall of America. Spanning 5.6 million square feet (520,000 square meters), this massive complex houses over 520 stores, 50+ restaurants, and numerous entertainment venues. Nickelodeon Universe, a 7-acre indoor theme park, features 27 rides and attractions for all ages.
Other mall highlights include SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, FlyOver America (a flight simulation ride), Crayola Experience, and the Great Big Game Show. The mall also features an 18-hole miniature golf course and several escape rooms.
Outdoor Adventures
Bloomington offers beautiful natural spaces for outdoor enthusiasts. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge spans 14,000 acres (5,665 hectares) with miles of hiking trails, excellent bird watching opportunities, and interpretive centers.
Hyland Lake Park Reserve features 1,000 acres (405 hectares) of parkland with hiking and biking trails, a creative play area for children, disc golf, and picnic facilities. In winter, the park transforms into Hyland Hills Ski Area with downhill skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country ski trails.
Bush Lake Beach provides a refreshing swimming spot during summer months, while Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail offers 15.3 kilometers (9.5 miles) of paved pathways perfect for walking, running, or cycling.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Bloomington offers several cultural attractions worth exploring. The Bloomington Center for the Arts hosts rotating visual arts exhibitions, theater productions, and music performances throughout the year. The center is home to seven resident arts organizations and offers classes and workshops for visitors interested in hands-on experiences.
The Works Museum provides interactive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) exhibits perfect for families with children. Visitors can engage in hands-on activities that make learning about engineering principles fun and accessible.
While in the Twin Cities area, consider visiting the nearby Minneapolis Institute of Art, Walker Art Center, or the Science Museum of Minnesota in St. Paul – all within a 20-minute drive from Bloomington.
Annual Events & Festivals
Bloomington hosts several annual events that showcase local culture and community spirit. Summer Fete (June) features live music, food vendors, and family activities at Normandale Lake Park. The Bloomington Heritage Days (September) celebrates the city’s history with parades, craft fairs, and community gatherings.
During winter, experience the magical Winter Lights display at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum (just a short drive from Bloomington), featuring illuminated outdoor trails and festive garden displays.
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in and around Bloomington. The city is just minutes away from major league sporting events in Minneapolis-Saint Paul, including Minnesota Vikings (NFL) games at U.S. Bank Stadium, Minnesota Twins (MLB) games at Target Field, and Minnesota Wild (NHL) games at Xcel Energy Center.
For golf lovers, Bloomington features several excellent courses including Dwan Golf Club and Hyland Greens Golf Course. Both offer well-maintained fairways and are suitable for various skill levels.
Fishing opportunities abound at Bush Lake, Normandale Lake, and the Minnesota River. You can rent equipment locally or bring your own. Remember that Minnesota requires fishing licenses, which can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores.
Seasonal Tip: Winter visitors can enjoy ice fishing on local lakes, snowshoeing at Hyland Lake Park Reserve, or cross-country skiing on groomed trails throughout the city’s parks.
Practical Travel Tips
Safety & Etiquette
Bloomington is generally a safe city for visitors. As with any destination, be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. The Mall of America has its own security team and surveillance system.
Tipping is customary in the United States. Plan to tip 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and $1-2 per bag for hotel porters. Rideshare and taxi drivers typically receive 15-20% tips as well.
Weather Preparedness
Minnesota weather can be unpredictable, so check forecasts before heading out. Summer visitors should pack light clothing but bring a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces. Winter travelers need warm layers, hats, gloves, and proper boots.
Spring and fall visitors should prepare for variable conditions with layered clothing that can be adjusted throughout the day as temperatures change.
Money-Saving Tip: Many Bloomington hotels offer complimentary shuttles to Mall of America and the airport. Some also provide free breakfast and have special packages that include attraction tickets. The Bloomington Convention & Visitors Bureau website often lists current deals and packages.
Ready to Experience Bloomington?
Bloomington offers an impressive mix of world-class shopping, family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, this vibrant Minnesota city delivers memorable experiences for every type of traveler.
From the endless entertainment options at Mall of America to the tranquil trails of Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, Bloomington combines urban excitement with natural beauty. Add in convenient transportation, diverse dining options, and Midwestern hospitality, and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable trip.
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