THE ULTIMATE STAYCATION
Welcome to Bloomington! Nestled just outside of the Twin Cities, Bloomington offers countless attractions and activities. After settling into one of the city’s 50+ hotels and taking advantage of exclusive packages, it’s time to dive into what the city has to offer. Scale new heights at adventure parks, wander scenic trails, world-class shopping, or dine at top-notch restaurants.
DAY 1: GET ACTIVE
Kick off your weekend with high-energy fun at Vertical Endeavors, one of the Midwest’s
premier indoor rock-climbing facilities. With climbing options for all skill levels, this
is the perfect activity to challenge yourself. After working up an appetite, head to Luna di Luna for lunch. This charming Italian eatery, tucked away in an unexpected location, serves delicious handmade pasta and authentic dishes in a cozy, artsy setting.
In the afternoon, explore Hyland Lake Park Reserve for snow-covered trails and panoramic views, or visit the Bloomington Center for the Arts for rotating exhibitions. For dinner, try Ciao Bella, a beloved local spot for Italian cuisine. Whether you choose to dine in their art-adorned dining room or on the heated terrace, make sure to finish with their signature budino for dessert!
DAY 2: MALL OF AMERICA
No trip to Bloomington is complete without a visit to the Mall of America. As the largest mall in the U.S., there’s no shortage of things to do. Spend your day exploring hundreds of stores and attractions. Plus, enjoy rides and roller coasters at Nickelodeon Universe, or immerse yourself in the wonders of SEA LIFE Mall of America, for a more tranquil experience. For dinner, enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Cedar + Stone, Urban Table, which highlights Minnesota’s best local ingredients. If you’re in the mood for a
casual, lively atmosphere, head to Rainforest Café or Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. For added fun, head to The Fair on 4, where you can enjoy classic fair foods and arcade games.
DAY 3: ART, HISTORY, NATURE
Start your day with breakfast at Taste of Scandinavia, a local bakery celebrating Nordic flavors, or Backstory Coffee Roasters, for coffee and pastries. Then head to the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge for a serene winter hike, and enjoy birdwatching with binoculars. For lunch, stop by Hazelwood Food + Drink or its sister spot, Pizza Novara, both offering delicious meals with views of Mall of America and nearby airport activity.Wrap up your staycation with a self-guided tour of Bloomington’s South Loop Public Art. Download the Otocast app to explore over 35 installations, learning about the stories and artists behind these colorful murals and art boxes. End the evening at Nine Mile Brewing Co., where you can enjoy craft beers and food trucks in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
EDITORS TOP 10
• Museum Of Illusions
• The Salt Cave
• Moose Mountain Adventure Golf in Mall of America
• ProKART Indoor Racing
• Hidden Falls Park
• Mall of America®: Crayola Experience
• Full Tilt Tavern
• Whirly Ball
• Edinborough Park
• Normandale Japanese Garden
The Mall of America is a destination like no other, with over 520 stores and a world-class entertainment hub. Highlights include Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Aquarium, minigolf, virtual reality, live events, and a variety of dining options—offering something for all ages.
STAY
Element Bloomington
Mall of America
Renaissance Minneapolis
Bloomington Hotel
JW Marriott
EAT
Luna di Luna
Ciao Bella
Cedar + Stone
Urban Table
SHOP
Mall of America
PLAY
Vertical Endeavors
Bloomington Center for the Arts
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
Bloomington’s South Loop Public Art
EVENTS
Bloomington Indoor Farmers Market
February 8 and March 8
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KEEP EXPLORING
Visitors Guide - Bloomington MN - Mall of America Vacation & Travel Guide
