How Big is The Mall of America? Here’s All You Need to Know
The Mall of America is one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in the world. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, boasting more than 500 stores, a theme park, an aquarium, and much more. In this article, we will take a closer look at just how big the Mall of America is and some of its impressive features.
Size of the Mall of America
The Mall of America is located in Bloomington, Minnesota, just a few miles south of Minneapolis. It covers a total area of 5.6 million square feet, which is equivalent to more than 96 football fields. The mall has four levels, and its total retail floor area is approximately 2.8 million square feet.
The mall’s impressive size is a testament to its popularity and success. It attracts more than 40 million visitors every year, making it one of the most visited tourist attractions in the United States.
Stores and Restaurants
With over 500 stores, the Mall of America is a shopper’s paradise. It features a wide range of stores, from luxury brands like Gucci and Chanel to popular retailers like H&M and Zara. Visitors can find everything from clothing and accessories to electronics, home goods, and more.
The mall also has a vast selection of dining options, with over 50 restaurants and eateries. Visitors can choose from a range of cuisine, from fast food to fine dining, and everything in between.
Entertainment
The Mall of America is not just a shopping destination. It also offers a wide range of entertainment options, making it an ideal destination for families and visitors of all ages.
One of the mall’s most popular attractions is the Nickelodeon Universe theme park. It is the largest indoor theme park in the United States, covering an area of more than 7 acres. The theme park features more than 25 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and more.
In addition to the theme park, the mall also has a SEA LIFE aquarium, where visitors can explore the underwater world and learn about marine life. Other entertainment options at the mall include a miniature golf course, a comedy club, and a movie theater.
A Brief History of the Mall of America
The Mall of America opened its doors to the public in August 1992. It was built on the site of the former Metropolitan Stadium, which was home to the Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Vikings. The mall was designed to be a one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, and it quickly became a popular tourist attraction.
Features and Amenities
The Mall of America has many features and amenities that make it stand out from other shopping centers. Here are a few notable ones:
1. Indoor Theme Park
The Nickelodeon Universe theme park is one of the mall’s main attractions. It features more than 25 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and a zip line.
2. Aquarium
The SEA LIFE aquarium is another popular attraction at the mall. Visitors can see a variety of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays.
3. Dining
The mall has over 50 restaurants and eateries, offering a wide range of cuisine from fast food to fine dining.
4. Shopping
The Mall of America has more than 500 stores, including popular retailers like Apple, Nordstrom, and Macy’s. Visitors can find everything from clothing and accessories to electronics, home goods, and more.
5. Entertainment
In addition to the theme park and aquarium, the mall has other entertainment options, such as a miniature golf course, a comedy club, and a movie theater.
Sustainability Efforts
The Mall of America is committed to sustainability and has taken steps to reduce its environmental impact. Some of these efforts include:
1. Recycling: The mall recycles over 60% of its waste, including cardboard, paper, and plastic.
2. Energy Efficiency: The mall has installed energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems to reduce energy consumption.
3. Public Transportation: The mall encourages the use of public transportation by offering discounts to visitors who arrive via bus or light rail.
Location and Accessibility
The Mall of America is conveniently located near the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers. It is also located just off several major highways and is connected to the Metro Transit light rail system, which provides easy access to downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Events and Activities
The Mall of America hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, making it a year-round destination. Some of the events include live music performances, fashion shows, and celebrity appearances. During the holiday season, the mall transforms into a winter wonderland with a giant Christmas tree and festive decorations.
Family-Friendly Amenities
The Mall of America is an ideal destination for families, with a range of family-friendly amenities, including:
1. Nickelodeon Universe: The indoor theme park is a popular attraction for families, with rides and attractions for all ages.
2. Crayola Experience: This interactive attraction allows kids to explore their creativity and learn about art.
3. LEGO Store: The store offers a wide range of LEGO sets and merchandise, as well as a play area where kids can build and create.
4. Toddler Tuesdays: Every Tuesday, the mall hosts special activities and events for toddlers, including storytime and sing-alongs.
Unique Shopping Options
The Mall of America is home to many unique shopping options, including:
1. The LEGO Store: The LEGO Store is a must-visit destination for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages. The store offers a wide range of LEGO sets and merchandise, as well as a play area where kids can build and create.
2. FlyOver America: FlyOver America is a virtual flight ride that takes visitors on a breathtaking tour of the United States. The ride combines state-of-the-art technology with stunning visuals to create an unforgettable experience.
3. The Minnesota Store: The Minnesota Store is a one-stop shop for all things Minnesota. The store offers a wide range of Minnesota-themed gifts and souvenirs, including clothing, food, and home decor.
4. American Girl: The American Girl store is a favorite destination for young girls and doll enthusiasts. The store offers a wide range of dolls, accessories, and books, as well as a salon where visitors can get their dolls’ hair styled.
5. Build-A-Bear Workshop: Build-A-Bear Workshop is a popular destination for kids and adults alike. Visitors can create their own stuffed animals, choosing from a wide range of options for the animal, clothing, and accessories.
6. SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium Store: The SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium Store is a unique shopping option for marine life enthusiasts. The store offers a wide range of aquarium-themed gifts and souvenirs, including clothing, toys, and home decor.
7. Games by James: Games by James is a unique toy and game store that offers a wide range of board games, puzzles, and toys for all ages. The Mall of America is not just a shopping destination, but it’s also a hub for cultural experiences, dining, and attractions. Here are some additional details about the Mall of America that visitors may find interesting:
Art Installations
The Mall of America features numerous art installations throughout its halls, making it a unique and vibrant cultural destination. One of the most notable installations is the “African Beadwork” sculpture, which features thousands of colorful beads woven together to create a stunning piece of art.
Dining Options
The Mall of America is home to over 50 restaurants and eateries, offering a wide range of cuisine options, from fast food to upscale dining. Visitors can find everything from sushi to burgers to gourmet cupcakes, making it easy to satisfy any craving.
Fitness and Wellness Options
The Mall of America also offers fitness and wellness options, including a 1.3-mile walking path that allows visitors to get some exercise while enjoying the mall’s sights and sounds. There is also a fitness center, yoga studio, and spa for those looking for a more intensive workout or relaxation experience.
Nickelodeon Universe
Nickelodeon Universe is an indoor theme park located inside the Mall of America, featuring over 25 rides and attractions for all ages. It includes roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, a zip line, and more, making it a fun and exciting destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mall of America
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Mall of America and answers to help visitors plan their trip:
Q. What are the Mall of America’s hours of operation?
A. The Mall of America is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 9:30 pm and on Sundays from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. However, holiday hours may vary, so visitors are encouraged to check the mall’s website for updated information.
Q. How many stores are in the Mall of America?
A. The Mall of America has over 500 stores, making it one of the largest malls in the world. Visitors can find everything from high-end designer brands to specialty shops and local boutiques.
Q. Is there a fee to visit the Mall of America?
A. No, there is no fee to visit the Mall of America. Visitors can enter the mall and explore its many attractions and stores free of charge.
Q. Are there any hotels located at the Mall of America?
A. Yes, there are several hotels located at or near the Mall of America, including the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, the Radisson Blu Mall of America, and the Hyatt Regency Bloomington-Minneapolis.
Q. Is there parking available at the Mall of America?
A. Yes, the mall has a massive parking garage that can accommodate up to 12,000 vehicles. Parking is free, and visitors can access the mall directly from the garage.
Q. What kind of events are held at the Mall of America?
A. The Mall of America hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including concerts, fashion shows, and community events. Do check the mall’s website for an up-to-date calendar of events.
Conclusion
The Mall of America is one of the largest and most popular shopping and entertainment complexes in the world. With over 500 stores, a theme park, an aquarium, and much more, it offers something for everyone. Its impressive size and range of offerings have made it a top tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can uncover the wonders of the Mall of America and create unforgettable memories.
