The Mall of America, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, isn’t just a shopping center, it’s an all-around experience. With over 500 stores, an indoor amusement park, an aquarium, and countless dining options, it’s easy to see why it attracts so many visitors. I can guarantee there is something for everyone, whether it be shopping, riding roller coasters, or just enjoying the atmosphere.
Stepping into the Mall of America for the first time feels like stepping onto another planet. With so much to see and do, every corner offers something new to discover, making it an exciting adventure for visitors of all ages.
“I was about eight years old when I first went to the Mall of America,” junior Cora Tinsley said. “I remember I was so excited to go to such a big mall.”
For first time visitors, the size and variety of attractions can be exciting but also overwhelming. When I arrived, I wasn’t sure where to start. But after taking time to explore, I found the experience thrilling. The Mall of America offers numerous stores that aren’t available in smaller cities, setting it apart from other shopping destinations. Visitors can explore a variety of these specialty shops, such as Chubbies for casual apparel, M&M’s World for candy lovers, Edikted for trendy fashion, and Nectar Bath Treats for luxurious bath products.
One of my favorite experiences was dining at Kuru Sushi, a restaurant known for its revolving sushi bar. Plates of sushi travel along a conveyor belt, allowing diners to grab what they want as it passes by. A talking robot even delivered our drinks, adding to the futuristic dining experience. Although I had been to Karu Sushi once before, the novelty hasn’t gotten old.
Of course not every attraction at the Mall of America will be fun for everyone. Even though the amusement park hasn’t always been called Nickelodeon Universe, the mall has always offered classic thrills like Pepsi Orange Streak to family water rides like The Log Chute. While some visitors enjoy the excitement of amusement rides others may prefer a more relaxed experience.
“My least favorite part of the Mall of America was definitely the amusement park rides,” Tinsley said. “As someone who doesn’t like heights, they were definitely not my cup of tea.”
We might not like everything at the Mall of America, but we can appreciate the fact the Mall offers a wealth of other attractions to cater to diverse interests. From the SEA LIFE Aquarium, to the B&B Theaters, and the numerous other entertainment options and unique shopping experiences, there is always something else to discover. The focus on variety ensures everyone can find something they love.
“I totally would recommend going,” senior Jack Welstead said. “It’s super cool to see such a diverse group of people all congregating in this one place that seems to have it all!”
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, the Mall of America offers an experience that goes beyond traditional retail. With endless options for entertainment, dining, and shopping, it’s a destination worth exploring.
