Best Things to do in Bloomington | Must-see attractions 2025

Nickelodeon Universe

Mo-Sa 10:00-21:30, Su 11:00-19:00

Theme Park

5000 Center Ct (Mall of America)

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Nickelodeon Universe in Bloomington, Minnesota, features 28 rides themed after popular Nickelodeon franchises, located within the Mall of America.

Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

Entry is free. Unlimited-ride wristbands are $37, individual ride tickets range from $3.80 to $7.60.

Mall of America

10:00 AM–9:30 PM

Mall

60 E Broadway (btwn Lindau Ln & Killebrew Dr)

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Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, hosts 520+ shops, 50+ restaurants, an indoor theme park, and an aquarium, attracting 40 million visitors annually.

Duration: More than 4 hours.

Free. Special attractions like Nickelodeon Universe and SEA LIFE Aquarium have separate admission fees.

The Works Museum

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

9740 Grand Ave S

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The Works Museum in Bloomington, Minnesota, is an interactive science museum for children, fostering curiosity through hands-on exhibits and educational programs.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

$10 for adults, $5 for children (ages 3-17), discounts available for groups.

Miller Park Zoo

9:30-4:30

Zoo

1020 S Morris Ave Miller Park

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Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington, Illinois, features diverse animal exhibits, zookeeper interactions, and family-friendly activities in a public park setting.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $8, Children (3-12): $5, Seniors: $6. Children under 3 are free.

Fort Snelling State Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

101 Snelling Lake Road

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Fort Snelling State Park in Bloomington offers scenic trails for hiking, biking, and skiing, along with a golf course and swimming opportunities.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours.

Free. Some amenities may involve separate fees.

Children's Discovery Museum

Tu-Sa 09:00-17:00; Su 12:45-17:00; PH off

Museum

101 E Beaufort St Uptown Circle

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Children's Discovery Museum in Bloomington, Illinois features hands-on exhibits across three floors, promoting learning through play for children and adults.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Mount Normandale Lake Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

84th Street and Chalet Road

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Mount Normandale Lake Park in Bloomington features beautiful natural landscapes, walking trails, and recreational opportunities, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. No admission fees are required.

Wood Lake Nature Center

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Nature reserve

6710 Lake Shore Dr S

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Wood Lake Nature Center in Bloomington, Minnesota, features a wildlife area with a floating boardwalk and diverse ecosystems for nature lovers.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require a fee.

Hyland Lake Park Reserve

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

10145 Bush Lake Rd

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Hyland Lake Park Reserve in Bloomington, MN features diverse ecosystems, trails, and recreational activities across over 1,000 acres, ideal for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Some activities or rentals may incur a fee.

Minnesota Masonic Heritage Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

11411 Masonic Home Drive

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Minnesota Masonic Heritage Center in Bloomington showcases the state’s Masonic history through exhibits, performances, and event spaces in a unique architectural setting.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

General Admission: $10, Students & Seniors: $8. Free for children under 12.

Minnesota Sea Life Acquarium

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Aquarium

120 E Broadway (in Mall of America)

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Minnesota Sea Life Aquarium in Bloomington features 100+ exhibits with diverse aquatic life, turtle encounters, and a 300-foot underwater tunnel for immersive experiences.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $24.99, Children (3-12): $19.99, discounts for seniors and military personnel available.

Northwestern Health Sciences University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

2501 W 84th St (Penn Ave. S.)

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Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, Minnesota, specializes in acupuncture, oriental medicine, chiropractic, and massage therapy education and research.

Duration: 1-2 hours for campus tours and events.

Free access to public events and workshops. Some specialized courses may require payment.

Illinois Wesleyan University

Open all day

University

1312 Park St

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Illinois Wesleyan University, a liberal arts college in Bloomington, Illinois, offers a rich academic environment with diverse programs and historic architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Campus access is open to the public with no admission fee.

SEA LIFE Centre Minnesota

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Aquarium

off I-494 at 24th Ave

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Located in Bloomington, Minnesota, SEA LIFE Centre features a 1.2 million-gallon aquarium with diverse marine life and interactive exhibits at the Mall of America.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

General Admission: $25.99 for adults, $19.99 for children aged 3-12. Discounts for online purchases and combo tickets.

Hyland Hills Ski Area

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Ski Area

8800 Chalet Rd

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Hyland Hills Ski Area in Bloomington, MN offers 9 ski runs catering to various skill levels, along with a terrain park, making it a prime location for winter sports enthusiasts.

Duration: 3–5 hours.

Paid. Pricing varies based on age and special events.

Braemar Golf Course

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

6364 John Harris Dr

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Braemar Golf Course in Edina, Minnesota, is a popular public course known for its challenging layout and scenic views, offering a great golfing experience for all skill levels.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

Varies based on age and resident status. Check for special rates during weekdays.

Dred Scott Playfield

Dawn to Dusk

Event hall

10820 Bloomington Ferry Rd. (at W Old Shakopee Rd.)

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Dred Scott Playfield is a neighborhood park in Bloomington, Minnesota, featuring ample recreational space and sports grounds for community enjoyment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fees for park use.

Brandon Square Mall

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Minneapolis

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Brandon Square Mall is a major shopping center in Bloomington, offering a variety of retail shops, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Some entertainment zones may require a paid ticket.

Centennial Shops

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

France Avenue South (Gallagher Drive)

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Centennial Shops in Bloomington offers a vibrant mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options, making it a popular destination for shopping enthusiasts.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No entry fees required for visiting the shops.

Yorktown Mall

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

3301-3535 Hazelton Rd (York Ave.)

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Yorktown Mall in Bloomington is a major shopping destination featuring over 150 stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities, catering to diverse shopping needs.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No entry fee, but charges may apply for special events.

St Richard's Catholic Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

7540 Penn Ave S (at 76th)

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St Richard's Catholic Church in Bloomington serves a vibrant community, offering spiritual services and events since its establishment in 1965.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcome for special events.

Nativity of Mary Church and School

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

9900 Lyndale Ave S

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Nativity of Mary Church and School in Bloomington is a Catholic institution known for its community-driven programs and dedicated education for students.

Duration: 1–2 hours for church service; longer if attending events.

Free admission for church services. School enrollment fees may apply.

St. Michael's Lutheran Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

9201 Normandale Blvd

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St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Bloomington offers a serene worship environment with a focus on community and spiritual growth.

Duration: About 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged for special events and programs.

Southtown Baptist Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Minneapolis

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Southtown Baptist Church in Bloomington, USA, offers a welcoming community hub and engaging worship experiences.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed but not required.

Dar Al-Farooq Islamic Center

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mosque

Minneapolis

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Dar Al-Farooq Islamic Center is a mosque located in Bloomington, Minnesota, supporting the Muslim community and promoting interfaith dialogue.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require prior registration or donations.

Bethel's Rock

10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

7461 Oliver Ave S

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Bethel's Rock is a community-oriented church in Bloomington, Indiana, offering worship services and various community programs to engage all ages.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted to support community programs.

Bloomington Covenant Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

10150 Xerxes Ave S

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Bloomington Covenant Church, founded in 1975, offers a welcoming community for worship, education, and service within a modern architectural setting in Bloomington, US.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations welcomed for specific events and programs.

Oak Hill Lutheran Bretheran Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

Bloomington

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Oak Hill Lutheran Brethren Church offers a serene spiritual atmosphere and community events in Bloomington, United States, fostering faith and connections.

Duration: 1-2 hours for services and events.

Free. Community events and special programs may have specific fees.

Cedar Valley Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

8600 Bloomington Ave

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Cedar Valley Church in Bloomington, United States, is a vibrant community hub known for its architectural beauty, spiritual activities, and inclusive events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free for regular services. Special events may require tickets.

Riverside Reformed Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

10201 Nicollet Ave S

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Riverside Reformed Church in Bloomington, United States, is a historic place of worship known for its unique architectural style and community engagement.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require paid tickets.

Unity South Church

10:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

7950 1st Ave S

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Unity South Church in Bloomington, United States, offers spiritual enlightenment and community activities, emphasizing acceptance and personal growth.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a ticket fee.

Oxboro Evangelical Free Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

9431 Nicollet Ave S

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Oxboro Evangelical Free Church in Bloomington, MN, focuses on community engagement and spiritual growth, promoting a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Portland Avenue United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

8000 Portland Ave S

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Portland Avenue United Methodist Church in Bloomington, United States, offers a blend of spiritual and community activities, known for its beautiful architecture and welcoming atmosphere.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Special events may have associated costs.

Community Of The Cross Lutheran Church

Available for events upon request

Church

10701 Bloomington Ferry Rd (Bloomington Ferry Rd & Old Shakopee Rd)

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Community Of The Cross Lutheran Church in Bloomington, United States, offers a welcoming atmosphere and community-focused services, enhancing spiritual growth and fellowship.

Duration: About 1-2 hours for services.

Free. Donations are welcomed for special programs.

Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport

24 hours

Airport

4300 Glumack Dr (at MN Hwy 5)

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Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport serves the Twin Cities area and provides extensive domestic and international flight options with modern amenities.

Duration: 1-2 hours depending on flight schedules.

Free to enter. Costs apply for parking and some airport services.

Bloomington Old Town Hall

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Public Building

2200 W Old Shakopee Rd

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Bloomington Old Town Hall, constructed in 1883, is a prominent historical site featuring distinctive architecture and offering insight into local governance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

evergreen church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

2300 E 88th St

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Evergreen Church in Bloomington, United States, is a community-focused place of worship, known for its modern architecture and vibrant congregation activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Holy Emmanuel Lutheran

12:00 PM–3:00 PM

Church

Minnesota

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Holy Emmanuel Lutheran is a historical church in Bloomington, USA, known for its beautiful architecture and community engagement since its founding in 1930.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations for church maintenance are appreciated.

Bloomington Civic Theater

7:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

1800 Old Shakopee Road (98th Street)

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Bloomington Civic Theater is a vibrant community theater in Bloomington, USA, producing a variety of performances since 1966, showcasing local talent and culture.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

General Admission: $20. Discounts available for seniors and students.

Hyland Greens Golf Course & Driving Range

6:30 AM–8:00 PM

Golf Course

10100 Normandale Blvd. (btwn W. 102nd St. & Hyland Greens Dr.)

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Hyland Greens Golf Course & Driving Range offers an 18-hole course, a driving range, and lessons, set in Bloomington, Minnesota for golfers of all skill levels.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours.

Green fees vary by season. Discounts for seniors and juniors apply.

Southtown Shopping Center

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

7801 Penn Ave S (American Bld)

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Southtown Shopping Center in Bloomington, Minnesota, offers diverse retail options, dining, and entertainment, making it a key shopping destination in the area.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Individual stores may have their own pricing.