Information
Landmark: Mall of AmericaCity: Bloomington
Country: USA Minnesota
Continent: North America
Mall of America, Bloomington, USA Minnesota, North America
The Mall of America is a large retail and entertainment complex located in Bloomington, Minnesota, USA.
It is one of the largest shopping malls in the United States, housing a wide variety of stores, attractions, and services.
Visual Characteristics
The mall is a rectangular structure with a footprint of approximately 4.2 million square feet. Its exterior is primarily constructed of concrete and glass. The interior features a central atrium area with a large amusement park, Nickelodeon Universe, and a water park, SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium. The mall's design incorporates extensive use of natural light through skylights.
Location & Access Logistics
The Mall of America is situated at 2131 Lindau Lane, Bloomington, MN 55425, approximately 10 miles south of downtown Minneapolis. Access is via Interstate 35W and Minnesota State Highway 77. The mall offers over 12,700 parking spaces. Public transportation is available via Metro Transit bus routes, including routes 515, 535, and 540. The Blue Line light rail also has a station at the mall.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Construction of the Mall of America began in 1989 and it opened in August 1992. It was developed by the Ghermezian family's Triple Five Group. The site was previously occupied by the Metropolitan Stadium, which was demolished to make way for the mall. The mall's original purpose was to be a premier retail and entertainment destination.
Key Highlights & Activities
Shopping at over 500 retail stores. Experiencing rides and attractions at Nickelodeon Universe. Visiting the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium. Playing at the LEGO Imagination Center. Attending events and performances in the central atrium. Dining at over 50 restaurants and food establishments.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are located throughout the mall. Numerous seating areas and shaded spots are available. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the mall. A wide range of food vendors and sit-down restaurants are present.
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, offer fewer crowds. Mornings are generally less busy than afternoons. For photography, consider the ambient lighting from skylights during daylight hours. The mall is open year-round, with no specific tide requirements.
Facts & Legends
The Mall of America is built on the former site of the Metropolitan Stadium, where the Minnesota Vikings played. A small section of the original stadium's turf is preserved and visible in the mall's lower level.
Nearby Landmarks
- Centennial Lakes Park: 1.5km West
- Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP): 3.0km North
- Fort Snelling National Cemetery: 4.0km Northeast
- Edina Country Club: 4.5km Northwest