27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Bloomington, MN
Are you searching for fun activities in Bloomington, Minnesota? Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this guide features the 27 best and most enjoyable things to do to make the most of your time in this dynamic city.
Located just south of Minneapolis, Bloomington is renowned for its extensive shopping, entertainment, and natural attractions, offering a blend of urban excitement and outdoor adventures.
As the home of the famous Mall of America, one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in the United States, Bloomington boasts a plethora of fun, engaging, and educational opportunities.
From the immersive experiences at the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium to the beautiful trails and wildlife at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.
27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Bloomington, MN (2024)
1. Mall of America
Commence your Bloomington journey with a visit to Mall of America, the largest shopping and entertainment facility in the United States, offering the best things to do in Bloomington, MN, for everyone.
The mall has a tremendous selection of retail stores, restaurants, and family-oriented entertainment alternatives like the Nickelodeon Universe theme park and Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium.
A stop by the Mall of America allows you to enjoy a one-stop shop for shopping, dining, and entertainment with timely facilities beneath a single roof.
Address:Â 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States
2. SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium
A visit to SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, Minnesota’s most extensive aquarium priding itself on over 1.3 million gallons of water exhibits, is one of the best things to do in Bloomington, MN, today.
The aquatic treasure has a 300-foot-long underwater tunnel with clear views of sea turtles, stingrays, and other sea life, and exhibits displaying rainforests, coral reefs, and local freshwater breeds.
A trip to SEA LIFE promises an engaging journey into the ocean with chances to learn about marine ecosystems and even feel certain sea organisms in the touch pool.
Address:Â Mall of America, 120 East Broadway East Side, Level One, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
3. Bush Lake Park
The Bush Lake Park is a waterfront recreational spot and beehive swarming with families, friends, and individuals searching for fun and most entertaining things to do in Bloomington, MN, at leisure.
The extensive park boasts facilities, including a boat landing, playground, volleyball courts, and so much more, making it an ideal area for outdoor activities.
A trip to Bush Lake Park provides opportunities for swimming, boating, playing sports, or casually enjoying and appreciating the scenery by the lake
Address:Â 9401 W Bush Lake Road, Bloomington, MN 55438, United States
4. Crayola Experience Mall of America
Nestled within the Mall of America, Crayola Experience is an incomparable family destination that makes room for fun things to do in Bloomington, MN, with kids.
The destination prides itself on 20 practical activities integrating color, chemistry, and technology for an innovative and imaginative experience.
Enjoy a day filled with fun for families with kids of all ages as they can name and envelop their crayons, star on a coloring page, and give life to artworks in 4D.
Address:Â 300 South Avenue Level 3, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States
5. Museum of Illusions
The Museum of Illusion is a practical museum that deceives your perception and teaches the science behind illusions as one of the unique things to do in Bloomington, MN, for tourists and locals alike.
The museum offers over 60 exhibits to entertain, amaze, and educate visitors as they can take mind-bending pictures and learn about the alluring world of illusions.
Address:Â 60 E Broadway 60 Level 2, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
6. Tactical Urban Combat Mall of America
The Tactical Urban Combat Mall of America is a family entertainment positioned within the Mall of America to enhance family-friendly things for everyone to do in Bloomington, MN.
The fun zone features an array of combat-styled activities like tactical laser tag, tactical Nerf battles, and a free-roam virtual reality.
As you visit Bloomington, you can engage in exhilarating games like capturing the flag and team deathmatch in a tactical arena.
Address:Â 340 West Market, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
7. FlyOver America
Experience the thrills and exciting things to do in Bloomington, MN, with kids at FlyOver America, a flight-simulating ride offering a towering journey across historic locations in the United States.
This treasure offers an immersive experience with a huge spherical screen, wind effects, mist, and scents that make you feel like you’re flying.
Get a thrilling and special way to see popular landmarks and appreciate the massiveness of the United States from a bird’s eye view.
Address:Â 5120 Center Cite, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
8. Bloomington Farmers Market
Embark on a tour to the Bloomington Farmers Market, a bustling and lively market with local farmers and producers vending their goods directly to consumers, is one of the best things to do in Bloomington, MN, this weekend.
The market presents fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, baked goods, honey, meat, cheeses, art, and seasonal produce making it one of the best places to visit this summer.
During the weekends, residents and locals can explore the Bloomington Farmers Market to shop for top-notch local products and relish the vibrant ambiance.
Address:Â 1800 W Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington, MN 55431, United States.
9. Hybrid Lake Park Reserve
Hybrid Lake Park Reserve is a nature preserve with a restored prairie landscape and many outdoor recreational activities for all ages in Bloomington, MN.
The park boasts trails for hiking and biking, a children’s playground, picnic shelters, and educational programs organized at its nature center.
You can get immersed in nature, appreciate open-air activities, and learn about the local environment as you explore the reserve.
Address:Â 10145 Bush Lake Road, Bloomington, MN 55438, United States.
10. Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
An adventure to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, a special modern wildlife refuge serving as a haven for nature lovers searching for adventurous things to do in Bloomington, MN.
The wildlife refuge has over 14,000 acres of reformed prairie, wetlands, and woodland perfect for hiking, biking, wildlife observation, fishing, and hunting in certain areas.
Escape the city bustle and explore different habitats to meet diverse wildlife species at this wonderful attraction.
Address:Â 3815 American Blvd E, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
11. Hyland Hills Ski Area
Experience fun things to do in Bloomington, MN, in the winter by checking out Hyland Hills Ski Area, a popular winter terminus owned by Three Rivers Park District.
With 14 runs, 3 chairlifts, and a landscape park, the ski location offers chances for downhill and snowboarding lovers of all levels to have fun even at night.
Gain the opportunity to enjoy downhill skiing or snowboarding with lessons available for novices, while others can enjoy the convenience of night skiing.
Address:Â 8800 Chalet Road, Bloomington, MN 55438, United States.
12. Normandale Japanese Garden
The Normandale Japanese Garden is a peaceful trolling garden nestled within the campus of Normandale Community College and known for offering free things to do in Bloomington, MN, every day.
Spanning 2 acres, the garden features ponds, koi fish, waterfalls, handmade bridges and buildings, imported lanterns, islands, and carefully maintained trees and shrubs.
Visitors to Normandale Japanese Garden can expect a tranquil escape to get soaked in a beautifully designed Japanese garden and landscape.
Address:Â West Lot, 9700 France Avenue S, Bloomington, MN 55431, United States.
13. The Works Museum
A young art lover seeking unique things to do in Bloomington, MN, for kids, would love to stop by The Works Museum, a hands-on children’s museum.
The museum consists of interactive exhibits, real tools, and daily materials for kids to build, design, and proffer solutions to problems.
Kids ages 4-12 can engage in and experience fun while grown-ups can learn about engineering codes through play.
Address:Â 9740 Grand Avenue S, Bloomington, MN 55420, United States.
14. Amazing Mirror Maze
Amazing Mirror Maze is a gigantic funhouse nestled within the Mall of America and it makes room for adventurous things to do in Bloomington, MN, at night.
As one of the world’s largest mirror mazes, the destination boasts 2,500 square feet of endless hallways, numerous reflections, and stunning turns at every corner.
A fun and disorienting adventure awaits you at the Amazing Mirror Maze as your perception will be challenged and amusement provided for all ages.
Address:Â 353 North Garden, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
15. Nickelodeon Universe
A visit to Nickelodeon Universe, an indoor entertainment park with rides, attractions, and characters based on prevalent Nickelodeon shows, should make your to-do list of fun things to do in Bloomington, MN, with kids.
The attraction features roller coasters, character meet-and-greets, stylish shows, arcade games, and dining options.
Let loose the children so they can experience their best Nickelodeon characters through rides, shows, and practical experiences.
Address:Â 5000 Center Cite, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
16. Oxboro Library
Exploring Oxboro Library, a general library aiding residents of Bloomington and Richfield, is one of the educational things to do in Bloomington, MN, for everyone.
The library houses a variety of books, audiobooks, media resources, public computers, and community programs.
An exploration of Oxboro Library allows students, teachers, and everyone to borrow materials, browse resources, and indulge in interesting events.
Address:Â 8801 Portland Avenue S, Bloomington, MN 55420, United States.
17. The Escape Game Minneapolis
Discover intriguing and thrilling things to do in Bloomington, MN, for families when you stop by The Escape Game Minneapolis, an entertainment hub with absorbing escape room experiences.
The escape room attraction has over seven escape rooms with puzzles, riddles, and challenges to be unraveled within a 60-minute time barrier.
Enjoy a stimulating and collaborative adventure for friends and families as you all crack codes, solve puzzles, and achieve your chosen mission before the time elapses.
Address:Â 300 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
18. WhirlyBall Twin Cities
Unearth a plethora of special things to do in Bloomington, MN, for adults by popping into WhirlyBall Twin Cities, an entertainment terminus with a blend of several activities under a single roof.
This attraction prides itself on indoor bumper cars, laser tags, bowling lanes, a restaurant, and a bar to jazz up your Bloomington expedition.
Visiting WhirlyBall Twin Cities presents fun and competition by mixing classic activities with high-energy twists for friends and family.
Address:Â 2405 E Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
19. Richardson Nature Center
As a nature lover, unwinding at Richardson Nature Center, a haven with a relaxing and tranquil ambiance is one of the free things to do in Bloomington, MN, this weekend.
The center houses interactive exhibits with live animals like raptors, reptiles, and amphibians. It also features trails, engaging educational programs, and annual family-oriented events.
A connection with nature, educational programs that highly teach visitors about local wildlife, and open-air recreation in a picturesque setting are made available at Richardson Nature Center.
Address:Â 8737 E Bush Lake Road, Bloomington, MN 55438, United States.
20. Heritage Estate Jewelry
 Browsing Heritage Estate Jewelry, a store fully concentrated on vintage and antique jewelry should make your checklist of unique things to do in Bloomington, MN, today.
The antique store offers a careful pick of special pieces worldwide from the past 120 years, with services like purchasing, vending, and mending jewelry.
With a visit to Heritage Estate Jewelry, fashion buffs can browse extraordinary treasures, thus discovering a unique piece with a rich past.
21. Moose Mountain Adventure Golf
Securing a tee time at Moose Mountain Adventure Golf, an 18-hole miniature golf course designed with a fanciful theme, is one of the fun things to do in Bloomington, MN, this weekend.
The free golf resort boasts an “old-time north woods feel” with realistic moose, horses, and fun cartoon vehicles like logging trucks and airplanes.
This weekend, you should bask yourself in the fun and family-friendly mini-golf encounter with a special ambiance.
Address:Â 376 North Garden, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
22. AMF Southtown Lanes
AMF Southtown Lanes is an extensive bowling alley boasting over 48 lanes, a full bar, a restaurant, arcade games, and a pro shop to facilitate fun and most entertaining things to do in Bloomington, MN, for all ages.
A visit to this bowling destination pledges a day loaded with fun as families and friends can engage in bowling, arcade games, tasty meals, and refreshing drinks.
Address:Â 7941 Southtown Center, Bloomington, MN 55431, United States.
23. Full Tilt Tavern
The Full Tilt Tavern is a sports bar focused on providing a place to catch sporting events, bar treats, and refreshing drinks among other fun things to do in Bloomington, MN, for sports enthusiasts.
The attraction features large-screen TVs and ideal seating arrangements, thus giving visitors a chance to catch a game in a vibrant atmosphere, enjoy fares, and mingle with other sports fans.
Address:Â 8301 Normandale Blvd, Bloomington, MN 55437, United States.
24. Great Big Game Show
One of the exciting things to do in Bloomington, MN, this weekend is to reserve a game time at Great Big Game Show, a live-action game experience for all ages.
The gaming hub allows teams to contend on a set with flashing lights, music, and exciting challenges in diverse themed game packs replicating a real TV game show.
Step into a world of game shows, put your skills to the test, and create fun memories with friends and families when you stop by the Great Big Game Show.
Address:Â 300 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States.
25. Bloomington Center for the Arts
As an art enthusiast, one of the free things to do is to explore the Bloomington Center For The Arts, a multifunctional art center.
The art center shelters over eight local art establishments hosts city functions, provides private rentals, features two theaters – Schneider Theater and the Black Box Theater, and supports performances like music and dance.
Paying a visit to Bloomington Center for the Arts guarantees to enjoy a performance, explore art exhibitions, engage in community art activities, and follow a unique event.
Address:Â 1800 W Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington, MN 55431, United States.
26. B&B Theatres Bloomington
B&B Theatres Bloomington is a modern movie theater nestled within the Mall of America to provide an array of romantic things to do in Bloomington, MN, for couples.
The theater features digital projections and audio, cozy electric reclining seats, a ScreenX theater experience, a picturesque 270-degree movie view, a full Marquee Bar, and a comprehensive list of fares beyond popcorn
For couples, a visit to B&B Theatres in Bloomington guarantees an exclusive movie-going experience with state-of-the-art technology and different foods and drinks in an intimate setting.
Address:Â 401 South Avenue, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States
27. The LEGO® Store Mall of America
The LEGO® Store Mall of America is a brick haven placed within the Mall of America to offer unique things to do in Bloomington, MN, this week.
The store features different LEGO® building collections, figurines, and individual bricks like a Pick-A-Brick wall with 180 varied options, special life-size LEGO® models, and play tables.
Get the chance to explore and buy a vast collection of LEGO® merchandise, marvel at giant LEGO® creations, and express your creativity at the play tables.
Address:Â 164 South Avenue, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States
Plan your Visit to Bloomington, MN
Bloomington, Minnesota, is a bustling place where entertainment, learning, and culture come together effortlessly.
For residents and tourists alike, each experience invites you to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant essence, showcasing its historical wealth, artistic achievements, and community spirit.
So, lace up your shoes, embrace the cultural experiences, taste the local flavors, and let Bloomington mesmerize you in its exceptional style.
