Located in the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, the Nickelodeon Universe theme park has reopened after a hiatus due to COVID-19. With some restrictions put into place, you can assure the park has your family’s safety as its top priority, and because of this, you’ll need to get your tickets as soon as possible for your next vacation. From family attractions to thrill rides, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy.
WHERE TO STAY
Stay near the Mall of America in the Radisson Blu Mall of America Hotel. The convenience of having just a short walk to the main attractions is unbeatable. Everything is in one place, and if you decide to fly, you won’t have to worry about renting a car. Just a short ride in an Uber or cab will take you right to the center of everything. The hotel features beautiful interior decorations, modern rooms, a pool, a gym, and a complimentary breakfast.
WHERE TO EAT
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Based on the classic comedy-drama film, Forrest Gump, the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is a family-friendly seafood restaurant. All meals have a home-cooked feel, just in case you’re feeling a bit homesick. If seafood isn’t your favorite, they also have a selection of burgers, steaks, and pasta. Additionally, there is a fun gift shop with Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and Forrest Gump merchandise.
The Rainforest Cafe
If you’re looking for a fun experience while eating, you might find yourself at the Rainforest Cafe. Here, guests will find themselves completely immersed in a forest with fun, themed dishes including Rasta Pasta, the Jungle Turkey Wrap, and the Sparkling Volcano brownie dessert. On your way out, stop by the gift shop that is attached to the restaurant and filled with fun toys and games and a few fun shirts for the kids.
The FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar
For a more formal experience, dine in at FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, located right in the Radisson Blu Mall of America Hotel. This beautiful and modern restaurant offers a menu with breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. While the lunch menu is only available Thursdays through Sundays, there is still so much to choose from on the dinner and breakfast menus.
WHAT TO DO
Visit the Nickelodeon Universe, of course! With over 20 rides and several attractions, such as blacklight mini-golf, adventure golf, and an adventure course, there is plenty of fun for everyone in the family. Nickelodeon Universe is also wonderful for guests who are on the autism spectrum as their team members get training on sensory awareness, motor skills, social skills, and communication. The theme park also has quiet spaces and noise-canceling headphones to accommodate you and your children.
If you have had your fill of Nickelodeon Universe, there is still plenty to explore in the Mall of America, including the SEA LIFE Aquarium. This aquarium holds a 1.3 million gallon aquarium filled with sea turtles, sharks, sawfish, stingrays, jellyfish, and seahorses. Guests will also have the chance to touch stingrays and sea urchins and feed them as well. This beautiful, educational experience is one worth taking note of.
It almost goes without saying that if you’re in the Mall of America, you know there’s plenty of stores where you can shop ‘til you drop. Featuring over 520 stores, you’ll get a day full of shopping unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before.
One final must-see is the Crayola Experience in the Mall of America. With activities pulling out the creative side of your youngster, you’ll be here all day. Attractions include the Crayon Factory Show where you’ll learn how crayons are made, Melt and Mold where you can make your own crayons in a super fun shape, and Wrap It Up! where guests will learn how their crayons are wrapped and even wrap some themselves.
