Craig and I decided that it would be a good bonding experience for us to go on separate trips with the girls to give them the one-on-one time they crave with either parent, and have the opportunity to create special memories together.

When the opportunity came to travel to Chicago, I jumped at the chance to take Kalyra as my guest.

Kalyra is a city girl, and I love cities that are laid back and beautiful, so Chicago was a perfect fit for both of us.

Chicago is glamorous and self-assured without being pretentious, and with its 24 beaches and 28 miles of lakefront shoreline, there is plenty of opportunity to unwind and connect with nature.

Chicago welcomes you in with the freedom to be yourself while you explore its vibrant neighborhoods, historical sites, arts and culture, magnificent shopping and architecture and natural beauty.

We visited for two seasonal events, The Chicago Flower and Garden Show and St Patrick’s Day, which were spectacular and worth planning your trip to Chicago around.

Things to Do on a Girls Trip to Chicago

If it’s your first time in the Windy City or if you’ve been here before and just looking for girlie things. todo, then you’ve come to the right place. Here’s what we did on our Mother/Daughter Chicago weekend getaway in March!

1. Visit the Chicago Flower and Garden Show

“Oh My God!!”

Kalyra squealed and bolted across the room the minute we walked into the Chicago Flower and>Garden Show

I chased after her looking up into the air to where she was pointing. High up in a whomping willow was a cutout of The Flying Ford Anglia.

“I love this place it’s the best,” she said as we walked through the rabbit hole, through the chamber of secrets, under the hanging white flowers and decks of cards, and past the mandrakes in secret garden created to showcase the secrets and mysteries of enchanted forests, wizards, mad hatters, witches and hobbits.

The theme of this year’s Flower and Garden Show was Flowertales, bringing the beauty of flowers and the joy of books together.

The entire show was themed around popular stories from The Wizard of Oz, Harry Potter, Alice in Wonderland and The Secret Garden.

It was creative, inspiring, beautiful and smelled so divine! It definitely had us longing to usher in Spring, and to one day have a delightful garden of our own.

Although I’m not too sure about my abilities to create something as pretty and vibrant.

The annual Tulip extravaganza is not to be missed for an explosion of color and glory. The show also has a kids’ activity garden, chef demonstrations and gardening speakers.

We often like to research places we are visiting before we go to help the girls connect and get excited. I am so glad we didn’t for the flower show. It gave Kalyra unexpected joy and she’ll always remember that now and walked out of the Flower Show saying,

“That was so awesome. I wasn’t expecting that. I can’t wait to tell Daddy.”

2. Visit The Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier

Navy Pier is home to the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Imax theatre and Centennial wheel, a year-round Ferris wheel offering views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.

It was another adventure Kalyra and I had together braving the fear of going high and spinning slowly.

Deep breaths were needed as we stopped atop letting passengers on and off below.

I loved it and was stoked we had three spins around giving us ample time to soak in the extraordinary Chicago skyline views and the aqua and teal waters of Lake Michigan.

3. Marvel at Prismatica

Another unexpected surprise was Prismatica, the kaleidoscopic art installation in Polk Bros Park just in front of the Children’s Museum.

There is nothing like artwork your children can interact with without fear that they will break something and be told off by the patrolling gallery guards.

The 25 pivoting prisms are more than six feet tall and perfect for spinning, taking in a psychedelic Chicago view, and capturing selfies with a difference.

4. See the river turn green on St Patrick’s Day

Chicago reminded me a lot of Dublin, Ireland so it was quite fitting that nearly a million people come to Chicago each year to celebrate this festival with the turning of the river green.

It’s probably one reason I felt so at home in Chicago, as Dublin was a place Craig and I lived in for a year.

The Chicago River is the central focus point of the city separating north and south, just like the Liffey in Dublin does.

And the atmosphere is the same – open, fun, friendly.

The tradition of dyeing the Chicago River green started by accident in the ’60s by the Chicago Plumbers Union.

They were dyeing the river to locate polluted parts of the river to clean it up. The dye just happened to be green and performed close to St Patrick’s Day.

Someone had the idea to do it every year and turn it into a celebration for the luck of the Irish.

It was incredible to watch the water turn highlighter green in front of our eyes. The dye is powdered vegetable based and environmentally safe.

We saw the river from various viewpoints throughout the weekend. It sure made the city even more vibrant and beautiful.

If you love celebrating St Patrick’s Day, Chicago is the place to do it in the US.

Bring your costumes and your patience – I saw some long queues to get into any of the many Irish bars around the city.

It certainly looked like great craic though!

In honor of my Irish friends, I did have a green cocktail to match the river during the dyeing ceremony.

5. Check Out Magnificent Mile Shopping

The Magnificent Mile is Chicago’s most famous shopping street, and one of the most famous in the USA.

It begins at the Chicago River and stretches 13 blocks north along Michigan Avenue to Oak Street. There are over 400 shops, over 200 restaurants and has some of the biggest names in retail.

I will remember this experience shopping with Kalyra as the day my baby girl was no longer a baby girl.

She took charge of the experience and the budget to select shops that would give her the most value for her spend. She chose all her own outfits and I could see her little fashionista spirit swell with independent pride.

We took care not to forget her sister back at home, picking up some great deals on clothes for her spring and summer wardrobe.

We’re not big shoppers, and the girls were in need of new clothes, so this was a lovely treat, and something Kalyra will always remember of Chicago.

I’m pretty sure that was her favorite part of the Chicago trip. Her only disappointment was that she had to wait until we returned to Raleigh to warmer weather so she could wear her new clothes.

However, she did jump into bed the night after shopping wearing her jumpsuit and new cardigan.

6. Have Lunch at the American Girl Doll Café

How long can you spend in a doll store?

At the American Girl Store it can stretch into the hours. I had to end the adventure after 90-minutes.

Kalyra was in heaven and it was fun watching her race from stall to stall, pointing out her favorites and choosing some clothes for her and Savannah’s dolls.

She had been jumping up and down with excitement over it as soon as she saw it on our itinerary.

The girls plan to visit all the American Girl Doll Stores in the US.

Our special treat at this one was to eat at the American Girl Doll Café – yes there is such a thing.

Gabriella, Kalyra’s beloved Girl Doll of the Year 2017, joined us at the table in a little seat given by the café. You can borrow a doll if you need to. I passed wanting to give all my attention to Gabriella instead.

It’s pink and flowery and the dolls get their own plastic meal to enjoy with you. It’s a cute experience and one I’m sure your children will love too.

The American Girl Doll Store and Cafe is located on the Magnificent Mile inside Water Tower Place, a shopping paradise with over 100 stores.

7. Check Out Art Installations by Walking the Streets

Chicago is one giant art gallery and lucky for the intrepid traveler, very walkable. We walked almost everywhere during our mother daughter Chicago getaway.

Kalyra was in charge of the budget and knew the fewer Ubers we took the more money we’d have for shopping. That’s one way to encourage your kids to keep walking!

There’s always something innovative and creative to look at on the streets of Chicago. The architecture of the city is unlike any other and makes it an exciting place to discover.

In the middle of unique and unusually designed skyscrapers, you’ll come across Gothic-style buildings, small limestone churches, or dive bars, or deep crimson red boutique with immense porthole windows (Ikram building) #dropthemic

You’ll come across art installations, murals and giant sculptures, one of which was donated to the city by Picasso.

Chicago is a city that embraces art and culture – you’ll feel inspired just walking the streets. Plus, there are beautiful parks and the giant lake to enjoy as well.

The skyscrapers aren’t really high at all and the streets are wide and sunny. Unlike other metropolis you feel you have personal space, which reminds me so much of home.

There’s something magical about a city that embraces, encourages, and celebrates art and innovation.

8. Visit Millennium Park

Who doesn’t want to get a selfie in the giant bean, officially known as Could Gate?

Kalyra had fun jumping up and down amongst the Chicago skyline and clouds reflecting in the stainless steel plates.

This elliptical sculpture, created by British artist Anish Kapoor has a concave chamber, which makes it fun to touch and take photos of yourself up close.

Cloud Gate is a hugely popular Chicago tourist attraction and is known as one of the best spots for selfies.

Cloud Gate is one of the main features of Millennium Park, a 24-acre public park in the heart of downtown Chicago.

The park has interactive public artworks, ice skating, play areas and the dazzling Pritzker Pavilion, which hosts outdoor concerts, and is a piece of art with its billowing “headdress” of brushed stainless steel ribbon.

Crown Fountain is another popular interactive artwork in Millennium Park, designed by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa.

Kalyra loved watching the faces in the two 50-foot glass block towers change.

They face each other at the end of a shallow reflecting pool (which was dry when we visited, but refreshing and playful in warmer months) and project video images from a broad social spectrum of Chicago citizens.

After you’re done admiring the art installations in the park, cross over the bridge from the Pritzker Pavilion to the Maggie Daley Park.

9. Visit Maggie Daley Park

The first thing Kalyra said when we arrived at the park was,

“I really miss Savannah. I wish she were here with me. She’d love this park.“

I realized then just how close the girls are and how lucky they are traveling together. They’re developing such a close bond.

I wasn’t the right person to fully appreciate the park with Kalyra, but she had a great time exploring the 3-acre Play Garden, whose design was inspired by Alice in Wonderland and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Maggie Daley Park is a relatively new lakefront green space designed with several low hills to give you vistas of Chicago’s famed skyline and lakefront.

Once again, Chicago bringing an element of play, imagination and artistic innovation with the park’ s skating ribbon, play gardens, rock climbing and bouldering walls, picnic areas and even an 18-hole miniature golf course.

Again, Kalyra has penciled that in as a must do when we return in the warmer months promising to bring back her sister and convince her to go down the slide.” (we better start planning that trip!)

It’s a pretty spot to relax and the kids will absolutely love playing here.

10. Take a Big Bus Tour

The Big Bus Tour is an open top bus that looks around the north and south of the river taking in the main tourist attractions in Chicago.

It is a hop on hop off bus that runs every 20 – 30 minutes.

The Big Bus Tour is a good way to get an overview of the city so you know what you want to come back and explore more deeply.

I enjoy these tours as the commentary gives you insights on the history and local culture.

The guides often point out insider secrets on cool things to see and do. We learned about Chicago’s various nicknames, the history of the Great Fire and the story behind some of the design features on some buildings.

It was also a great chance to sit and rest and soak up the city from a different angle. After a day of walking around the city, we were grateful to sit down and let someone else take us around.

In big cities like Chicago, time your bus tour right so you miss the heavy traffic periods, otherwise the Big Bus Tour can end up taking a lot of time.

Download the Big Bus app which will tell you more about the attractions at each stop, plus it has a handy bus tracker so you know how far away the next bus is.

11. See The Views at 360 Chicago Observatory

Looking for a skyhigh observatory?

360 CHICAGO observation deck, in the John Hancock Center is located 1000 feet above the famed Magnificent Mile offers breathtaking 360 degrees views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan.

360 Chicago observation deck is also home of TILT – Chicago’s highest thrill ride – an enclosed moving platform that literally tilts you out over Michigan Ave from the 94th Floor.

Would you dare to do The Tilt?

Kalyra and I contemplated it until we stood and watched others do it. Our hearts leaped and we knew it would be a fear that we couldn’t quite handle.

I would like to brave up for our next visit to Chicago and give it a go.

We were happy to settle for the extraordinary views of Chicago in every direction instead. Kalyra refuses to believe Lake Michigan is a lake and not an ocean.

It is really cool looking out over a lake and not being able to see the other side.

With 360 Chicago’s bar program within 875 N. Michigan, I recommend aiming to get up here for sunset and enjoying a drink as day turns into night.

Craig did that on our visit in 2004 and it was a highlight of our trip to Chicago.

12. See More Views at Skydeck Chicago and The Ledge, Willis Tower

Let’s keep those Chicago views going.

This time from the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, formerly the Sears Tower.

Skydeck in the Willis Tower is the home of The Ledge, the all glass balcony providing you with your ultimate thrill walking on air.

At 1,353 feet up, The Ledge’s glass boxes extend out 4.3 feet from the skyscraper’s Skydeck providing never-before-seen views of the city.

We waited some time to get up to the observatory level and then to get onto the ledge. But it was worth it. You think it’s going to be a breeze and then you step onto the platform and look down and freeze.

We shuffled slowly out to the ledge and did our best to love the experience.

It was fantastic, but I was glad it only lasted 2 minutes.

It’s funny how much that scares you, yet you’d easily walk out there if the floor was concrete and not worry!

The Willis Tower was once the tallest building in the world; it is now the second tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. I loved the view from here out over to the 360 Observatory building (875 N. Michigan, formerly the John Hancock).

The afternoon is the best time to come as the sun will be behind you.

13. Check Out Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Chicago. It’s pretty tree lined streets have great dining and music venue options and it’s only a mile from downtown.

Most attractive about it however is its namesake, Lincoln Park, a sprawling 1,208 acres of green space right near the Chicago lakefront.

Within the park is a free zoo open year-round, a nature museum and conservatory.

We took in the neighborhood with a walk from our breakfast spot at Batter and Berries to the Lincoln Park Zoo, where we wandered around watching lions, penguins and polar bears playing.

The zoo is one of the oldest in North America and one of the few free admission zoos in the US.

We then finished the morning with a stroll along the lakefront to get back into the city. It’s the perfect place in Chicago to reconnect with nature, yet still have that pretty skyline in the distance.

We have already penciled in a bike ride along here and a stand up paddle boarding session for our return in the warmer months.

Chicago offers so much for families. I love this city.

14. See a Cubs Game at Wrigley Field

Who said all girls weekends had to be girlie? If you and your girl friends are into sports, then be sure to try and catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, one of the most historic baseball fields in Chicago that has been open since 1914.

Grab yourselves a corn dog and some wine and enjoy the festivities.

Be sure to check out the timetable before visiting to see when game days are on.

15. Enjoy Brunch at Hampton Social

Brunch dates are one of the best things to do on a girls trip to Chicago, so be sure to do it with class and style at the Hampton Social.

Enjoy a refreshing glass of rose with a view of the river at the Hampton Social. Located in River North, it’s ideal for enjoying drinks out in the beer garden, and dining on delicious seafood dishes.

The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, but also elegant, so you can dress up or dress down, whatever fits your groups style.

16. Take a River Cruise

Check out the art murals along Chicago Riverwalk before heading out to see the city skyline on a river cruise.

If you’re only on a girlie weekend in Chicago, then this is a great way to take in all the sights whilst also spending quality time together.

You’ll sail past the architectural highlights of the city, such as the historic early skyscrapers of the Wrigley Building and the Tribune Tower, as well as see iconic works of engineering such as the circular Marina City Towers, Aqua, Trump Tower, and the Vista Tower.

Whilst you take in the sights, you can enjoy refreshments from the boats onboard bar.

17. Have a Spa Day

What’s a girls’ weekend with a spa day? One of my top recommendations for things to do with your girlfriends in Chicago is relax in a spa.

You will find relaxation at the Aire Ancient Baths spa, which is located close to the West Loop.

It’s set inside a restored 1902 factory, and offers a relaxing thermal bath, similar to what you would find in the Roman, Greek and Ottoman times.

You and your girls can sit back in the warm waters and let life’s stresses float away. They also offer hot stone massages and other wellness treatments.

Places to Eat in Chicago

Chicago is most famous for its deep-dish pizza, a particular style of hot dog, and Garret popcorn.

There are plenty more great meals to be had in the city. Here are the places we ate on our mother daughter getaway to Chicago.

It was especially lovely to sit down with my eldest daughter for meals and uninterrupted conversation and giggles. It’s something your children crave and appreciate so much.

Breakfast: Wildberry Pancakes

We arrived at 7:35 am, 5 minutes after opening and the restaurant was already full!

That’s how well known and popular Wildberry Pancakes is.

It is located next to Millennium Park and offers an extensive menu of pancakes in a variety of styles and flavors as well as some more traditional breakfasts.

Kalyra dove into a plate of silver dollar chocolate chip pancakes, and I stuck with smashed avocado on toast.

Breakfast: Batter and Berries

Located in Lincoln Park Neighborhood, Batter & Berries is famous for the French Toast Flight. Its a combination of four signature flavors of batter dipped Brioche.

Kalyra relished the Flight and rates the blueberry French toast as her favorite. The lemon one looked the best to me.

I settled their other famous dish, the hand shredded B&B cheese crusted hash. I saw a plate of it on almost every table.

Yes. It was delicious.

I had mine with the equally delicious special of the day: jambalaya omelet with shrimp and chorizo.

Lunch: Beatrix Café

You know a place is good when your 10 year old asks to go back there to eat. The Beatrix Café in Streeterville is a coffeehouse, restaurant and meeting place.

Our meals were simple, yet bursting with flavor.

I had the roasted cauliflower salad and Kalyra a simple pasta dish that she devoured. Both went well with our freshly squeezed juices.

We arrived early after our flight so sat in the small lounge area with a hot chocolate, latte and delicious pastries. I don’t usually eat desserts, but due to a rumbling stomach decided to have a grape coconut macaroon.

It was sensational. And Kalyra loved her cookie stuffed with oozing Nutella.

Dinner: Lou Malnati’s

So Chicago is famous for inventing deep dish pizza. It’s definitely a must when you visit Chicago.

Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is known as one of the best in the city and it has stayed true to Lou’s traditional recipe for over 40 years.

Make a reservation if you can because everyone in Chicago likes to eat this pizza. It’s in the charming Gold Coast neighborhood.

I loved deep dish pizza last time we visited Chicago in 2004. This time due to my gluten intolerance, I couldn’t eat it, but I happily watched Kalyra stretching out her mozzarella cheese.

I had a delicious gluten free pizza packed with anchovies, olives and mushrooms!

Sweets: Nutella Café, Eataly

Eataly is an Italian lovers dream: two floors of food, drinks and products to sample in Chicago’s River North neighborhood.

We stopped in for crepes slathered in hazelnut spread and a topping of your choice.

Kalyra went for banana, and it reminded me of my days living in Bangkok sneaking down to the streets for 10c banana pancakes. It was the perfect end to our first day in Chicago for Kalyra.

Don’t fear if Nutella is not your thing, Eataly has plenty more choices for sweets: gelato, cannoli, pastries and tiramisu and even wine and cheese if you prefer something a little more savory and strong!

Drinks: Cindy’s Rooftop

Make the occasion magical with drinks and a view at one of the best rooftop bars in Chicago. Not only is Cindy’s Rooftop a sophisticated and elegant bar to enjoy evening drinks, but it also has a delicious seasonal menu.

With award-winning cocktails and freshly sourced ingredients, this is the place to be if you want to wine and dine with your girls.

The ambiance is relaxed and welcoming, with excellent views of Millennium Park, Lake Michigan and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Where to Stay in Chicago on a Girls Trip

We stayed at the Cambria Hotel and Suites (the Magnificent Mile location), and the location was excellent.

We were a couple of blocks south of the river and only a five-minute walk to Millennium Park. It’s also right near public transportation, such as the “L” train line.

The rooms were comfortable and quiet and the bathroom large and the shower good – priorities. Kalyra commented several times how much she liked the hotel.

We were so busy we didn’t use any of the facilities but they also have fitness center, a bar and a restaurant.

Final Thoughts on A Girls Trip to Chicago

Kalyra and I had a lovely weekend together and I am so glad we decided to spend this precious one on one time with our daughters on special getaways.

Chicago is special and one of my favorite cities in the US and ranks highly as a favorite in the world.

It’s a city I see myself coming back to again and again to explore a little deeper.

Check out these popular tours of Chicago

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We take it very, very seriously.

Are you on the hunt for classic Chicago style pizza? Thin crust? Neapolitan?

You really can have it all. We’re highlighting 5 of the best pizza places in Chicago that will appeal to a wide variety of pizza lovers!

Whether you’re in town for a day or a weekend be sure to stop by one of these Chicago pizza places for a sensational culinary experience. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Chicago!

5 Outstanding Pizza Places in Chicago

1. Gino’s East Pizza

If it’s your first time visiting Chicago, Gino’s East is a great place to go to experience what Chicago deep dish pizza is all about.

You’re in for a real treat if you’ve never tasted cornmeal crust.

We Chicagoan’s can all agree that having a solid cornmeal crust is part of what makes deep dish pizza so dang good.

Gino’s is a classic, famous Chicago pizza restaurant with 8 other locations across the Chicagoland area!

Their pizza is consistently delicious and makes for the perfect place to kick back after a day exploring Grant Park or The Art Institute.

The pizzeria is easily accessible on foot to their South Loop location from the park.

Many people will tell you Gino’s East is where you go for the best deep dish pizza in Chicago. It’s a solid choice, however it isn’t my favorite.

Gino’s East: 521 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60605

2. Pequod’s Pizza aka where to get the “REAL” best deep dish in Chicago

I’ve lived in Chicago for nearly 10 years and have eaten at (more than I’d like to admit) many pizza restaurants specializing in deep dish pizza, and there is no better place than Pequod’s!

Trust me on this one.

The tomato sauce is perfection, toppings are plentiful and I’ll tell you there is something so wonderful about the perfect amount of crunch to their golden crust.

Venture out to the Lincoln Park neighborhood for lunch or dinner at Pequod’s Pizza.

A word of warning: deep dish pizza takes around 40 minutes to cook so order one of their fabulous apps like the jalapeno poppers or a salad to hold you over until the pizza is ready.

Pequod’s Pizza: 2207 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago IL 60614

3. Spacca Napoli Pizzeria

In the heart of Ravenswood you’ll discover Spacca Napoli which specializes in Neapolitan style pizza.

Step inside and you’ll instantly feel as if you’ve been transported into an Italian grandmother’s home in Italy.

The aromas, the art, the carefully selected ingredients, wine and music selection create the perfect setting for your Neapolitan meal.

For starters I’m absolutely head over heels for the caprese with buffalo mozzarella and my go to pizza order is always the Capricciosa pizza with tomatoes, black olives, mushrooms and artichokes. Yum!

Spacca Napoli: 1769 W. Sunnyside Ave. Chicago, IL

4. Jimmy’s Pizza Cafe

I realize not everyone gets excited about deep dish pizza, and that is totally okay.

How many people do you know would turn down New York style pizza? Not one? My thoughts exactly.

That’s where Jimmy’s Pizza Cafe in Lincoln Square comes in.

Maybe it’s a bit crazy I’m recommending a New York style pizza joint in Chicago but I strongly feel it would be a sin if I didn’t, because frankly this place is phenomenal.

At this casual eatery you can order pizza by the slice or a whole pie.

I like to keep it classic at Jimmy’s and order plain cheese or pepperoni, with a side of garlic knots. They also make really great beignets too!

Jimmy’s Pizza Cafe: 5159 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625

5. Happy Camper Chicago

For a trendy pizza joint one must pay a visit to Happy Camper in Old Town.

Inside you’ll be wowed by the creativity of this place. Old school campers converted into seating, a bullet bar, and a neon sign of the great lakes. It’s the coolest!

Happy Camper serves fabulous cocktails and of course they make some killer pizza pizza!

The menu is extensive with nearly 30 different creations to choose from, or you can create your own.

My favorite is the the Dime Piece topped with chicken, jalapenos, cream cheese, chili flakes, garlic and olive oil.

Luckily they are open for lunch, dinner and brunch on the weekends. Bonus! They are open until 3 am for late night pizza on the weekends.

Hot Tip:

If your order their hangover iced coffee at brunch it may come with a donut on the side.

You can definitely count on having a great time at this Chicago pizza restaurant.

Happy Camper: 1209 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610

I hope you enjoyed this round up of some of the best pizza places in Chicago, its a great jumping off point for getting to know good Chicago pizza.

Planning a Trip to Chicago

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Any burning Chicago pizza questions or comments? Tell us below!

I first heard about Mall of America® in Bloomington, Minnesota a couple of years ago when a travel blogging conference was held there. I was confused as to why they’d host it in a mall.

But then I learned, Mall of America (MOA) is much more than just a mall and there are endless things to do at Mall of America.

It’s a gigantic retail space that is also a dining and entertainment space AND full of attractions the family will love.

We love unique travel experiences, that’s the point to our America Unplugged journey, and Mall of America provided us with a travel opportunity we otherwise wouldn’t seek out.

The girls screamed and cartwheeled across the lounge room floor for five minutes when they learned about all the fun attractions at Mall of America. 

We spent five days in Bloomington, Minnesota, three of those were full-days in the mall, where we did not step outside to do anything else.

Everything we needed was in the mall, including our accommodation.

We’ve created this ultimate guide on things to do at Mall of America with kids in partnership with Bloomington CVB and Mall of America.

We hope it will help you plan an amazing Mall of America vacation.

Things to do at Mall of America

Check out our video offering an overview of Mall of America:

1. Attractions in Mall of America

It’s not just shopping and restaurants, there are plenty of attractions in Mall of America to keep all members of your family entertained.

Take your pick from theme parks to aquariums, flyovers and high ropes courses.

There are also signature experiences on offer like Behind-the-Scenes at SeaLife, Mediterranean cooking classes at vomFASS, and local culinary dishes at FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar. 

Let’s learn more about these Mall of America attractions.

1. Nickelodeon Universe®

In the middle of MOA are seven acres of theme park fun.

Nickelodeon Universe, the amusement park at Mall of America, has 27 rides which includes thrilling roller coasters and rides for younger children.

The theme park is surrounded by landscaped gardens and high atrium helping you to feel like you are outside.

I have two favorite memories from our time at Nickelodeon Universe:

1. Fairly Odd Coaster

We all jumped into the cart of the Fairly Odd Coaster thinking it would be a tame ride similar to the wild mouse.

On the first drop, we spun quickly around and all screamed. Cautious Savannah’s face fell and turned white. My screams were mixed with bellows of laughter for the rest of the ride.

On the morning we were leaving she decided to give the Fairly Odd Coaster another go and loved it, requesting to stay in the Mall for longer so she could keep riding it.

2. SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge Roller Coaster

Kalyra and I first went on the SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge roller coaster together.

It has a 90-degree slow steep climb up. Kalyra was scared, so in an effort to take her mind off it, I suggested we sing a song on the way up.

Failing any other song coming into my head, I belted out a rendition of Mary Had a Little Lamb. We laughed so hard that we barely noticed we’d already began the dip of the 90 degrees drop on the other side!

We stayed on and went one more time. This time I found a Pink song from my brain to sing.

All up, Kalyra went on this ride several times by herself.

A few of the other rides the girls loved were the Backyardigans Swingalong, the Pepsi Orange Streak, and the Splat-O–Sphere.

We also loved the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock flying ride.

Cost: There are different packages you can purchase. An all-day wristband costs $35.99 See more here.

2. Dutchman’s Deck Adventure Course

This high rope obstacle course and zip line are located within the Nickelodeon Universe theme park and is one of the most thrilling things to do at Mall of America.

The Ghostly Gangplank Ropes Courses begins with the Barnacle Blast Zip Line across the length of Nickelodeon Universe theme park.

Then you’re let loose to play on the three levels of the ropes course.

We do these a lot and this one was a fun one and pretty high up. It took a while to ease into it and stop shaking. Just breathe deep and try not to look down.

The harness has you!

Our funniest moment was when Savannah schooled us in how to walk the 56 ft high plank.

I was actually going to chicken out, but she strode out in front of us, walked out to the edge of the plank, looked down and out over the theme park and then wiggled her butt.

She then strode back with a confident victory smile. How could you not follow that? I stood at the end of the plank and wiggled my butt too. Craig and Kalyra followed suit.

I hope that you will do the same when you visit.

The obstacle course ends with the Anchor Drop Spiral Slides back to the bottom.

Once you reach the bottom you can walk back up the stairs to do it again – as many times as you like. We had to pull the girls out after about 10.

Cost: $15.99 one-time pass

3. FlyOver America

FlyOver America is a 4D simulation ride.

It uses the latest technology to simulate a hang gliding flight with a bird’s eye view of the most awe-inspiring sights over the US (and Canada, during a limited time engagement).

We loved flying over America and identifying the places we had already visited on our America Unplugged trip, and those we were still excited to visit.

Be prepared for a fully immersive experience with this attraction.

I loved smelling the pine trees as we flew over them and experiencing the mist of Niagara Falls.

Savannah says the FlyOver was her favorite thing to do in Mall of America.

Cost: $18.95 adults $14.95 kids (12 and under)

Signature MOA Experience – Go Behind the Scenes at SEA LIFE® Minnesota Aquarium

Yep, there’s even an aquarium at Mall of America which is home to over 10,000 living sea creatures.

You can explore various underwater worlds through exhibits such as the tunnels of Shark Cove, ray lagoon, rainbow reef, and the mysteries of the rainforest.

Don’t miss the Seahorse Kingdom and Jellyfish Discovery.

Not only are they wildly pretty, but our girls found them the most fascinating and learned a lot about them from our guides – one of the educational things to do at Mall of America.

SEA LIFE® Minnesota Aquarium at Mall of America offers several signature experiences, one being a 45-minute guided Behind-the-Scenes Tour.

The tour takes you above the tunnels and into the laboratory to learn how they maintain and care for the water, tanks and sea creatures, including those who are sick or injured.

Don’t forget to take your underwater selfie at the Rainbow Reef.

See more Signature Experiences at SEA LIFE® Minnesota Aquarium here.

Entry Price: $24.49 Adults (13+), $17.49 kids (3-12 years)

5. Crayola Experience and Store

Are you ready for some art lessons?

As I am not gifted and talented in this area, I search for art experiences when we travel to ensure I’m incorporating that into our roadschooling curriculum.

Thank you, Crayola Experience, on the third floor of Mall of America.

You could spend a couple of hours in here drawing, painting, coloring and even designing your own crayon labels.

The Crayola experience is divided into 25 art stations, each exploring unique ways to use crayons to create art.

We especially loved the art drip.

You stick a crayon in a machine that melts it as it spins around so the melted crayon sprays over the page and hardens into a circular design.

It was groovy and gave the girls an insight into different artistic forms and mediums.

The Crayola experience is the only place in the world where the magic of Crayola comes alive.

Admission: $20.99 (3+)

Retail Experiences at MOA

Families who shop together stay together right?

With over 520 retail stores, you’ll be staying together for a long time, and it’s another one of the fun things to do at Mall of America.

Want another great reason to shop at Mall of America? There is no tax in Minnesota on shoes and clothing!

6. Signature Experience – VomFASS Cooking Class

VomFASS understands that the secret to an enjoyable food and wine experiences is directly related to the quality of the foundation ingredients.

They work hand in hand with small artisanal producers to source the finest vinegars, oils, liqueurs and spirits.

Their motto is try before you buy so spend time perusing the rick oaken casks for your perfect oil and vinegar flavors.

You can pop into the section next door to sample wine and liquor as well. I was happy to see a selection of local Minnesotan wine which I sampled and it was light and refreshing.

VomFASS offers a signature Mall of America experience with their Mediterranean style cooking class, the Art of Delicious Dining.

Owner, Tamara Kramer, guides you through cooking a three-course tasting meal whilst giving information on the Mediterranean lifestyle, the health benefits of oils and vinegars and how to use them.

Kalyra took over as head chef and did an extraordinary job of making the Spring Salad and homemade dressing and two of the flavorful Flatbreads (pizza): tomato and basil pesto and Whiskey BBQ steak.

Savannah helped to make the chicken and artichoke pesto pizza.

We paired our pizza with red wine and ended with a delicious dessert combination I never could have imagined – ice cream with lemon olive oil and blueberry balsamic vinaigrette.

The food was light, healthy and delicious.

In keeping with the Mediterranean lifestyle, the servings were exactly what the body requires, not your typical humongous US portions.

The 90-minute cooking class starts at $35 a person.

Learn more here about vomFASS cooking classes + wine and spirit appreciation classes!

7. Disney Store Opening

To experience a special Mall of America opening ceremony, head over to the Disney Store at Mall of America.

A spectator is chosen from the crowd – Savannah bravely volunteered – to receive the key to the store and open it. It’s one of the coolest things to do at Mall of America with kids! 

8. The LEGO Store

If you’re looking for a place to rest that will occupy the kids for a while, head to the LEGO store at Mall of America, just outside the theme park entrance.

They have a sitting area outside with LEGO work station, which we utilized many times for rest breaks.

You can also step inside the store for some LEGO shopping – there’s a pick-a-brick wall with 180 different LEGO elements to choose from.

Be sure to marvel at the LEGO sculptures on the roof of the LEGO building. The robot one is solid LEGO on the inside except for a metal spine!

9. American Girl® Store and Bistro

It’s my girls’ mission to visit every American Girl® Store in the US. They are intending to send me broke.

Although I hide my wallet when I visit, I do love seeing their reactions when they wander the store checking out their favorite American Girl Dolls, dreaming big and learning a lot about history along the way.

Kalyra can tell me the background story of many of them and I love how she can connect to dolls like Melody from the Civil Rights era as she’s experienced so much of it on our travels.

So at the top of our girls list of things to do at Mall of America was hit up American Girl. 

We spent a couple of hours in the American Girl® Store in Mall of America Bloomington, shopping, pampering our AG girls Gabriella and Julie with a hair and nail salon treatment, and lunch at the American Girl® Bistro.

The bistro has magnificent views out over the theme park, delicious meals, including a course for your dolls.

If you don’t have a doll, the Bistro has one you can borrow to sit with you at the table.

Note: As of March  20, 1019 the American Girl Doll Store will be closed in Mall of America

Food at Mall of America

From gourmet restaurants to casual cafes, there is plenty of food in Mall of America to satisfy everyone’s tastes and budgets.

We experienced the following restaurants at Mall of America.

10. Signature Experience: FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar

For a signature dining experience at Mall of America, head to FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar inside the Radisson Blu, one of the Mall of America hotels.

FireLake is an upmarket casual restaurant that specializes in regional dishes using locally sourced produce.

It’s a true Minnesota inspired experience and it’s a wonderful addition to the dining scene at Mall of America.

FireLake Grill was our favorite dining experience at Mall of America. We didn’t even feel like we were in the Mall.

I loved getting to taste the locally wild caught walleye with wild rice. Both are sourced from the local Indian tribes who are the only ones with permission to commercially fish.

We also enjoyed our woodland mushrooms with salmon, and a poutine type dish, Minnesotan Dirty Fries.

11. Hard Rock Café

Hard Rock Café is one of the few chain restaurants we enjoy visiting.

We’re rock fans, so it makes sense.

Plus, they have gluten free options for their food, their burgers are delicious and reasonably priced.

You can do a memorabilia tour at the Hard Rock Cafe in Mall of America, Bloomington. Let the server know you’d like to do one and they’ll find someone to take you around and share the significance of various pieces.

Of course, at the Hard Rock Café in Mall of America, Minnesota, you are going to see memorabilia from local pop royalty, Prince.

A glassed cabinet, including his Purple Rain suit is dedicated to him in the hallway leading to the restaurant.

We had lunch at the Hard Rock Café on our first day visiting Mall of America. I suggest sitting out on the patio for relaxing views over the theme park with roller coasters zipping past overhead.

And if you’re looking for bars at Mall of America, parents with older kids could easily sit here and relax with a drink while their kids have fun in the theme park.

We were fortunate to eat dinner at Hard Rock on a Friday evening as they have a local acoustic band, Monkeys in the Zoo, live on stage.

They sang several Prince songs, which was perfect after visiting Paisley Park and experiencing Prince the Tour.

12. GameWorks

If you love arcade games, another one of the fun things to do at Mall of America is head up to GameWorks, on the 4th floor of Mall of America, for dinner, beers and some car racing fun.

It brought back memories of my time as a youth playing arcade games, especially on vacations with new found friends.

I especially loved the basketball throwing game. I used to play in a shooting position for netball, which is a similar game we play in Australia.

It was fun to slip back into that role and get almost every ball I shot through the net. I’ve still got it!

13. Culinary on North

We dined at the brand new Culinary on North addition on Level 3, Central Parkway, which is essentially a lovely food court at Mall of America.

There is also the South Street Dining area on Level 3. You will find your typical food court chains. We ate at:

• Shake Shack – since visiting New York, we have become fans of Shake Shack. It’s our fast food go to. I particularly love the coffee milkshakes.

• Thai Express for delicious Pad See Ew. It was gluten free which is not typical for this dish, so I was excited.

14. Caribou Coffee

Caribou coffee is the winner for best coffee in Mall of America.

Caribou is a chain, BUT it’s a local chain, and the coffee is good.

They can be found in various locations around Mall of America; we loved that there was one right outside the lobby of The Radisson Blu Mall of America, making it our first stop each day.

Hotels near Mall of America

You have over 40 hotels near Mall of America MN, with two hotels connected to Mall of America (Radisson Blu and JW Marriott). 

Most of the hotels in Bloomington MN near Mall of America offer a free shuttle service to and from the mall.

We stayed at two of the Bloomington hotels and have written the following in-depth reviews:

• Great Wolf Lodge, Bloomington Minnesota
• Radisson Blu, Mall of America, Minnesota

Fun Facts About Mall of America

1. Mall of America is the largest retail shopping mall in the US.
2. How big is Mall of America? 32 Boeing 747’s could fit inside the Mall and 258 Statues of Liberty could lie inside the Mall.
3. Mall of America is committed to green design. For example, no central heating is used in the public areas, only solar energy and body heat. For a state that gets a lot of snow this is super impressive.
4. 70°F (21°C) is the constant temperature inside Mall of America year-round, it’s the perfect winter vacation.
5. 30,000 live plants and 400 live trees climb as high as 35 feet tall in Nickelodeon Universe.
6. Mall of America is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, attracting more than 40 million visitors annually, more than twice as many people as the world’s largest amusement park, the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.
7. 4 out of 10 visitors to Mall of America are tourists.
8. 350+ events are held at the Mall each year – I told you there was plenty of things to do at Mall of America!

Tips for Visiting Mall of America

• Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult (21+) in the Mall on Fridays and Saturdays from 4 p.m. until close. While most 15-year–olds would hate this rule, I think it’s a fantastic way to keep everyone safe and reduce potential problems.
• Mall of America is easy to get to with a light rail from Minneapolis and St Paul and the International airport (12 minutes away). Ditch the boring airport lounge for long layovers and spend a few hours in the Mall.
• Mall of America has teamed up with Uber to make getting to and from the Mall of America easier with five specific pickup or drop-off zones.
• Download the Mall of America app for maps, stores, and money saving deals. There’s a digital concierge to answer your questions. For those how like more traditional methods, there’s a Mall of America visitor guide and directories all through the Mall to help you get around.

• Stay longer and enjoy the attractions and experiences the greater Bloomington area, and nearby Minneapolis and St Paul have to offer.
• For a list of stores at Mall of America click here!
• The address for Mall of America is: 60 East Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425
• For current opening hours at Mall of America, and directions to Mall of America. click here!
• Save more money – The Big Ticket Adventure Pass is a 3-day bundled attraction pass that gives 30% savings on top attractions in Mall of America and Twin Cities. The Bloomington Attraction pass includes Nickelodeon Universe®, SEA LIFE® Minnesota Aquarium, FlyOver America, Crayola Experience, and the Minnesota Zoo (including IMAX experience). Purchase the pass online. You’ll receive a pass via email or text., which you show to the attractions attendant for admission.

Looking for things to do near Mall of America?

Check out our post on the 7 best things to do in Bloomington MN (and surrounds)

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Can you suggest any fun things to do at Mall of America? Or have any helpful tips for a visit to Mall of America? Please share in the comments.

You are in the right place!

Bloomington, Minnesota is home to the renowned Mall of America®.

It’s also close to the Minneapolis International Airport and the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St Paul, and is situated in Minnesota, the state of 10,000 lakes.

If you’re looking for a dynamic family vacation that involves adventure, nature experiences, fun attractions, signature experiences and family-friendly hotels, then Bloomington, Minnesota is the place for you to visit.

We spent six days exploring the Bloomington region in a paid partnership with Bloomington CVB and Mall of America.

Below are seven fun things to do in Bloomington MN (or close to Bloomington). 

Be sure to click the links for more in-depth guides on several of the different Bloomington attractions mentioned.

Best Things to do in Bloomington MN

1. Shop, Play, Stay and Eat at Mall of America (MOA)

Mall of America in Bloomington is so much more than a retail space and is well known to be one of the best things to do in Bloomington, MN.

It’s the largest indoor retail and recreation complex in America and includes a theme park, multiple family-friendly attractions, entertainment and dining options to suit any style and budget.

I never imagined a mall could entertain me for three days, but it did, as there are so many things to do at Mall of America.

We didn’t step foot outside, nor need to (inside the mall is 72 degrees all year long) and we stayed at the Radisson Blu Mall of America which is attached to the mall via a skyway! 

With theme park thrill rides, high ropes courses, cooking classes, art experiences, Sea Life aquarium, live music and signature food experiences, we created many memorable moments as a family.

Even our two other daughters, American Girl Dolls, Gabrielle and Julie, had a salon experience and delicious lunch with us.

Don’t forget to dedicate time for shopping in the 520 retail stores. Clothes and shoes are sales tax free in Minnesota!

Related Post – 14 things to do at Mall of America

2. Follow a Love Story at Minnehaha Falls and Regional Park

Follow the love story of the Indian Princess, Minnehaha and Indian warrior Hiawatha at the nearby Minnehaha Regional Park, a large city park on the shores of the Mississippi River.

The love story was told by the poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s popular Song of Hiawatha.

Longfellow never visited the area but pieced together the love story based on the native oral traditions of local Indian tribes.

You can see a statue of Hiawatha carrying Minnehaha on an island in the middle of the creek above the falls bearing Minnehaha’s name.

Minnehaha Falls thunders 53 ft. over limestone bluffs in the middle of this city park and is one of the top things to do in Minneapolis.

The loving spirit of Minnehaha and Hiawatha emanates out of the river to be shared freely with the people of Minneapolis and all those who visit.

You can view the falls from above and from below by following the trail down into the gorge. 

The trails continue along Minnehaha creek which takes you to the Mississippi River less than 1/2 mile away from the falls.

There are picnic areas, a café with local craft beer on tap, further walking trails, gardens and playground areas within the park.

You can even see the Longfellow house, a 2/3 scale replica of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s home in Cambridge, MA.

Unfortunately, 2018 was the year of late spring for the majority of the United States, and Minneapolis had a rare late April blizzard only a few days before we arrived.

The normal lush, green jungled landscape surrounding Minnehaha Falls and river walk was not present, but it looks like this:

For us Australians though, the waterfall looked pretty spectacular with frozen icicles on either side of the water gushing over the lip.

We sure don’t get that in Australia!

You can see more of Bloomington in our travel video:

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3. Explore Nature at the Richardson Nature Center

Can you believe only a few weeks before visiting Richardson Nature Center we saw our first frozen lake, ever?

We delighted in seeing a couple more when we visited Richardson Nature Center.

We also loved hiking through the small layer of snow slowly melting into spring.

As mentioned above, it was late coming this year, so we didn’t capture Richardson Nature Center in its blooming, green glory of Spring.

But we did capture the spirit of the time you can have in this area when you visit Bloomington, MN and are looking for some great natural experiences.

The Richardson Nature Center offers peace and beauty in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Inside the center you can meet resident raptors, reptiles, eagles and amphibians up close.

Be sure to pull up a rocking chair to watch the active bee hive and backyard wildlife around the lake.

Outside, you’ll find hiking trails through diverse habitats of oak forests and wetlands. Look out for deer, foxes’ ospreys, and other wildlife.

Kids will love the Nature Exploration Area where they can dig, build and climb in their own forts.

4. Inspire your Creativity at Paisley Park Museum and Tour

Paisley Park was the home of Prince and his recording studio.

You can now take a tour of Paisley Park to learn what it was like for Prince to create, produce and perform inside his private sanctuary.

Tours of Paisley Park Museum include iconic concert outfits worn by Prince, awards, musical instruments, artwork, motorcycles, and rare music and video recordings.

The VIP experience gives you access to a longer tour with access to additional rooms and studios, and, if you visit on Thursday, you get a bonus recording opportunity with Prince.

What a joyful experience it was to stand in Studio B and record the verse to Raspberry Beret with Prince over a pre-recorded track.

I certainly didn’t let fear of what others would think stop me from singing and bopping like it was 1999!

That’s the spirit of Paisley Park.

It invites you to lose your inhibitions, embrace the truth of who you are, and express that creativity and joy.

I loved Prince as an artist, and after visiting the museum, and gaining a greater insight into his private life, I have a much deeper respect for him as a person.

If you’re a music fan, this is definitely one of the best things to do in Minnesota.

Tickets for Paisley Park Museum can only be purchased online. See here for more details

5. Learn About the Legend on Prince the Tour

Follow up your visit to Paisley Park with Prince the Tour run by Captain Randy.

This three-hour tour in a black van, sprinter or bus takes you to different places in Chanhassen (where Prince lived) and Minneapolis.

As you drive to each significant place, you’ll be hearing personal stories of Prince’s childhood, his musical career, philanthropic efforts, and the ginormous heart and spirit of this small statured musical icon.

Some of the stops include:

• Prince’s childhood home and neighborhood
• The theater where he held his first live concert
• Kid’s home in the movie Purple Rain
• Prince’s favorite record shop
• and the gigantic purple mural of Prince

I hope you take the time to give him the Prince mural a kiss. Share the picture with us when you do.

6. Devour a Juicy Lucy Burger

Ready for a delicious new take on an American burger?

One where the cheese oozes out from the middle of the patty?

Head to the 5-8 Club, home of the original Juicy Lucy. The 5-8 Club began as a speakeasy back in 1928, serving beer and liquor illegally along with light food.

Since then it’s grown into one of the legendary places to eat in Minnesota to chow down on some delicious Juicy Lucy burgers and sweet potato fries with marshmallow blue sauce.

It’s a unique combination of marshmallow and blue cheese, which, when paired with the sweetness of the sweet potato, is a taste sensation.

Just like the Juicy Lucy, which is a cheeseburger that has the cheese inside the meat patty rather than on top.

Choose your preferred Juicy Lucy and grab your napkins.

Kalyra went for the Saucy Sally smeared with a Thousand Island dressing; I stuck with a classic filled with pepper jack cheese, and Craig went all out with the juice with the Thanksgiving Juicy, a turkey burger stuffed with cheese and stuffing and topped with beans and gravy!

In 2014, the Travel Channel ranked the 5-8 #1 in America for tastiest place to chow down.

Time Magazine also listed the Juicy Lucy as one of the most influential burgers of all time.

And earlier this year (2018), Jimmy Fallon stopped in for one during the Super Bowl.

It’s certainly one of the best things to do in Bloomington, MN. (OK, it is actually just across the city line in Minneapolis, but it’s close enough to count!)

Thanks 5-8 for changing the way I approach an easy Saturday night dinner at home.

I can guarantee once you leave, you will not be able to speak easy about the Juicy Lucy!

7. Take a Rhythms of the River Road Trip

Why not take a rich musical journey along the Mississippi River?

Rhythms of the River is a musical road trip that also takes in the beauty of the Mississippi River, its history and the various cultures that sprung up along its banks.

The trail begins in Bloomington/ Minneapolis Minnesota (where the Mississippi begins) and ends in New Orleans, Louisiana (where the Mississippi River spills into the Gulf).

Some of the experiences you can expect to enjoy along the way are:

• Paisley Park and the Prince the Tour with Captain Randy in Bloomington
• The Grand Ole Opry, Nashville
• Graceland and Stax Museum of American Soul Music in Memphis
• Mississippi Blues Trail
• Natchez Trace Parkway
• Preservation Hall in NOLA or Mardi Gras if you time it right!

Save on Bloomington Attractions with The Big Ticket Adventure Pass

The Big Ticket is a 3-day bundled attraction pass that gives 30% savings on top attractions in Mall of America (MOA) and Twin cities including:

• Nickelodeon Universe
• Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium
• FlyOver America
• Crayola Experience
• Minnesota Zoo (including IMAX experience)

Purchase the pass online. You’ll receive a pass via email or text, which you show to the attractions attendant for admission.

Places to Stay in Bloomington, MN

There are over 40 hotels near Mall of America, and two hotels in Mall of America. We stayed at the following hotels in Bloomington MN.

Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota

The Great Wolf Lodge in Bloomington, Minnesota is one of the hotels near Mall of America. It’s only a short 10-minute walk to the north entrance of the mall, or a free shuttle ride away.

Great Wolf Lodge is a fun resort that adds richness to your family travel memories.

With its famous indoor water park and MagiQuest game, it’s an attraction in itself and the perfect complement to the fun you can have in Mall of America and the greater Bloomington area.

Click here to read our in-depth review of Great Wolf Lodge

Radisson Blu Mall of America

For those who love convenience and style, Radisson Blu MOA is the hotel for you!

As one of only two hotels at Mall of America, its location cannot be beat.

I loved the access to my room – and everything I forgot to pack – during my stay playing, shopping and eating inside Mall of America.

There are lots of fun things to appreciate within the hotel, like the Marty the Moose Passport Scavenger Hunt for kids, the relaxing pods in the foyer, and the butt chair – don’t forget the selfie in it!

Click here to read our in-depth review of Radisson Blu, Mall of America

Plan Your Trip to Bloomington, MN

• For more hotels in Bloomington MN near Mall of America click here. 
• For more information on the Great Wolf Lodge Bloomington MN click here. Don’t miss their helpful FAQ page.
• For more information on Radisson Blu Mall of America click here.

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Do you have any tips on things to do in Bloomington MN?? Or any questions for your upcoming trip? Share in the comments.

How many times have you been out exploring on your vacation and realized you’ve forgotten something in the hotel that could enhance the day a little?

Sunscreen, hats, cameras, money, tickets even.

The list is endless and the struggle can be real coming up with a solution or alternative!

During some free time on our visit to Mall of America® in Bloomington, Minnesota, we of course went shopping. With over 500 retail stores and lots of great sales, there was probably no better time.

“Oh no!” I head slapped, I’ve left the Mall of America coupons book in our room.”

The Coupon Book offers over $2,000 worth of savings for many of the stores in the United States’ biggest shopping mall, including restaurants, and can be purchased for $9.95 at any of the Mall of America Guest Services desks located at all main entrances.

P.S. we have a great deal for all y Travel Blog readers. You can get a complimentary coupon book using this voucher!

“Hang on Craig. You take the girls to the Lego store and I’ll run back up and get it.”

Our hotel room at the Radisson Blu, Mall of America was one level up the escalator and a short walk along the skyway connecting the Radisson Blu to Mall of America.

When you spend time in Minnesota you’ll soon learn that many of the buildings are connected by skyways – bridges in the sky – to help pedestrians get around during the freeze of winter.

In three minutes, I was in the hotel room grabbing the coupon book and running back down.

That’s when it hit me how awesome it was to be staying at a Mall of America hotel. 

I made use of our convenient hotel location over our three-night stay to switch between outfits for shopping, high ropes obstacle courses, and then dinner during our days exploring the mall.

I think I may have even snuck back to wine hour in the business lounge at Radisson Blu after a few child meltdowns.

Oh wait, maybe I just dreamed about doing that. Or maybe it was me really having the meltdown.

An Effortless Vacation at the Radisson Blu, Mall of America (MOA)

The minute we drove up to the Radisson Blu MOA, Savannah spied the elegant and clean lined black exterior, and the valet service, she exclaimed,

“I love this hotel. This is so fancy.”

She loved it even more when we walked in the room. And this was after staying at the Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota, which both girls adore.

We visited Bloomington, Minnesota, in a paid partnership with Bloomington CVB and Mall of America. And The Radisson Blu had everything we needed to make our time at Mall of America memorable.

The suite style rooms were comfortable and stylish and offered us a table, which gave us the space to work while the girls rested or played.

Our trip was busy so we didn’t have a lot of time to do that, but it helped our productivity when we did.

I loved popping down to the skyway of a morning to grab my latte from Caribou Coffee, a local chain that makes excellent coffee. And they had a big blackboard the kids had fun writing on.

We didn’t step outside the mall for three days. We didn’t need to and it was fantastic.

And in case you don’t know, the temperature inside Mall of America is 72 degrees all year long!

The business lounge was a welcome respite for an afternoon of Mall of America fun. We’d sit down to relax with a glass of wine, some cheese, and a little too many M&Ms.

I loved the view from the lounge, you could watch the planes coming in and out of the nearby Minneapolis/St.Paul International Airport (only a short light rail ride away) and look over the mall to get a sense of the size of it.

The business lounge also offered a buffet breakfast, which made it easy for us to fill up and prepare for the day ahead.

If you’re looking for a more ala carte breakfast experience, the FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar offers hearty breakfast yummies like Farmhouse Breakfast, Walleye Hash, gluten free lemon ricotta waffles and healthy smoothies.

Mall of America has a fantastic concierge service as well.

If you call them, they will collect your shopping from where you are in the mall and take it back to your room for you at Radisson Blu. Isn’t that so cool?

It saved us lugging around our American Girl Doll shopping for the afternoon. Seriously, how much can you spend on doll’s clothes?!

Marty The Moose Scavenge Hunt Passport Program

If you have kids, they will love the Marty the Moose program and scavenger hunt. Radisson Blu has designed a scavenger hunt for three different age levels.

Don’t forget the most important thing to find – the Marty the Moose mascot hiding in the lobby. The girls had to show me where it was.

It’s a great way to engage the kids, help them to get to know their surroundings and feel more like they are staying with family.

Radisson Blu Mall of America also has a signature offering: you can have a tent put in your room for the kids to sleep in. Makes it a fun adventure for the kids to camp in the middle of a hotel room.

Our Favorite Features of the Radisson Blu:

The Radisson Blu at Mall of America, Bloomington has a few special features I urge you to engage with.

The pods down by the fire in the lobby.

They are so pretty and comfortable and many people commented on our photo of them, some requesting they be shipped all the way to living rooms in Australia.

You won’t want to get out of them. The girls, unfairly spent way more time in them than me.

The featured wall length fire crackling beside them adds to the cozy ambiance. Relax with a good book and a glass of wine and watch the world go by.

The Butt Chair on the second floor lobby.

Or as we say in Australia, the Bum Chair.

We loved these chairs and you can imagine the jokes that were told. Get your selfie in the Butt Chair.

There are lots of other cool red chairs to choose to sit in as well. Choose your favorite and share your pics of it. I liked the plush sofa type chairs.

See more of the butt chair and Radisson Blu in our video:

The Fitness Center

I’m mad on fitness centers in hotels now as I strive to keep up my boot camp routines.

This one is massive and has individual muscle weight machines, as well as weights, yoga balls, running machines and more. There is also a pool next door.

FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar

The FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar is a signature dining experience at Mall of America, Minnesota and is situated in the Radisson Blu hotel.

It’s a family-friendly upmarket casual restaurant. If you’re looking for a stand out dining experience at Mall of America, this is it.

I know you may be thinking that a hotel restaurant can’t look and taste so good, but the restaurant keeps with the chic and sleek lobby and innovative butt chair foyer.

It’s wooden beams, muted colors and modern furnishings are soothing and comfortable.

The wide wall of windows offer beautiful natural lighting, but also a glimpse into the world outside. You feel miles away from the hustle of the mall.

Now you’re ready to savor a true Minnesota food experience.

FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar Mall of America is a farm to table experience, incorporating fresh and local produce where possible into regional dishes.

The word FireLake represents the wood fire cooking of the food that comes from the 10,000 Minnesota lakes – yes they do have that many!

This restaurant has also been honored for its outstanding wine program in Wine Spectator’s 2017 Restaurant Awards, among other winners all over the globe!

I was delighted to taste walleye, the local wild caught fish from Red Lake.

Walleye is a fish the local Indian Tribes can catch and sell along with wild rice, which accompanied my walleye. It was healthy, light, delicious and socially responsible.

Craig enjoyed his woodland mushrooms with salmon.

We also shared a poutine type dish Minnesotan Dirty Fries style: hand cut fries, with a red wine reduction, cheese curds and oven roasted mushrooms.

Fries will never taste as good for me ever again!

On the rooftop of the Radisson Blu, Mall of America are bee hives. The hotel takes the excess honey and uses it in their restaurant.

The menu will let you know what dishes have the local honey in it with a small bee next to it. We tried it in the honey lavender cheesecake for dessert which had such subtle flavors.

I’m not usually a cheesecake lover but I did not find this dessert too overbearing and rich. It was light and tasty.

Hotels Near Mall of America

There are 43 hotels in Bloomington, MN, just short shuttle rides away form the mall, but there are only two Mall of America hotels: the Radisson Blu and J.W. Marriott.

To speak to the quality of both of these hotels at Mall of America, during the Super Bowl hosted in Minneapolis, the Philadelphia Eagles stayed at the Radisson Blu, and the New England Patriots stayed at the J.W. Marriott.

We definitely chose the winning hotel to stay at!

Can you imagine the atmosphere after the Eagles won?

Related Posts:

• 7 best things to do in Bloomington MN
• 14 things to do at Mall of America

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The girls had been counting down since the GPS struck 12 minutes until she announced we had arrived at The Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota in Bloomington MN. 

They were sitting forward in their seats, wolf ears on and wands at the ready.

When the GPS said, “you have arrived”, they ran out the door past the multitude of families juggling suitcases.

“Hmm. Their cars look just as packed and disorganized as ours,” I mused as I passed by them giving a small sigh of relief that I was not alone!

I’d have that feeling for the next four nights watching other families interact with each other. We’re all doing our best to balance the arduous task of parenting with the joy of shared quality moments with our kids. 

Great Wolf Lodge Resorts help to take the stress out of travel so you have more time for the memories…once the bags are unloaded of course. 

Our stay in Bloomington was hosted by Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota in partnership with Bloomington CVB and Mall of America.

A Great Hotel Near Mall of America (MOA)

The Great Wolf Lodge Resorts are our girls’ favorite family-friendly hotel chain.

When they found out we were staying at the Great Wolf Lodge Bloomington MN for our trip to Mall of America they screamed and cartwheeled for five minutes. 

This hotel in Bloomington MN only opened in December in 2017, so everything is new and fun.

The only problem is the girls never want to leave as they have so much fun there. 

The good news is, Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota is a short 10-minute walk, or a free two-minute shuttle bus ride from Mall of America®, which is one of the 7 best things to do in Bloomington MN.

Although, we will be showing you a few more cool things to do in Bloomington MN outside of Mall of America – like Paisley Park and Prince the Tour.

There are over 40 hotels near Mall of America, but onlytwo hotels attached to Mall of America. 

Radisson Blu is one of those Mall of America Hotels and we also stayed there.

See the Great Wolf Lodge in action in our video:

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Great Wolf Lodge Takes Care of The Entertainment

The Great Wolf Lodge is for those who want to also have their hotel filled with attractions and amenities to delight their children.

What I love the most about staying at a Great Wolf Lodge Resort (this is our third one so far on our American Unplugged road trip) is that the girls are always entertained, and I can sit down and have time for myself.

Yes. I can even read a book by the side of the water park (or catch up on blogging). 

Literally unheard of for any parent with kids.

We let them run around the resort of an evening (yes careful running is allowed at Great Wolf Lodge Resorts) waving their wands on their MagiQuest missions, attending a Pajama party and listening to a bed time story.

We’re either relaxing by the bar, or with a wine down service in our room.

I would like to tell you I’m binge watching Suits on Netflix, but to be honest I’m usually catching up on work.

But that’s okay, because you won’t be me. You can binge watch Netflix and know that your children are safe and having a ball.

The Great Wolf Lodge Indoor Water Park

One of the reasons the Great Wolf Lodge Bloomington MN is an excellent choice for a hotel near Mall of America is its famous indoor water park.

It complements the fun attractions at the Mall. Your fun doesn’t have to end at Mall of America, it can continue once you get back to your resort.

Even after you check out, you can stay for the whole day and still gain access to the Great Wolf Lodge water slides and activities.

The Great Wolf Lodge Minneapolis didn’t have our family favorite water slide – The Tornado, but they have the River Canyon Run, which we felt was just as good!

We weren’t expecting it to be so. You choose a movie theme as you race through the slide, lights are projected onto the slide and music is played as you fly up the sides of the water slide wall.

I felt like I was going to fall out every single time we went down. Kalyra and I screamed and giggled.

There is a kid’s water playground with the tipping buckets and smaller slides.

After several hours working up the courage, Savannah finally went on her first waterslide and loved it.

Seeing her face light up as she conquered her fear was a memory I won’t forget. 

We could not get her off it after that.

My favorite was possibly Wolf Rider Wipeout the surf simulator.

I may have grown up by the beach but I’m not a great surfer. I had visions of me messing up my entry and completely wiping out, or worse having my costume bottoms get stripped.

I was going to chicken out but Kalyra coaxed me out of it.

I listened carefully to the lifeguard’s instructions and then executed my leap into the wave brilliantly. I had a blast riding the wave with no wipe outs or moons!

See how long you can ride the wave for and if you can manage a tricky 360 maneuver.

The Great Wolf adventures don’t end in a tube floating on the lazy river, although you’d be quite happy for it to end there!

MagiQuest

MagiQuest is our girl’s favorite activity at Great Wolf Lodge. It’s the best activity designed for kids ever. I love how creative and engaging it is.

Because we had a longer stay at the Bloomington Great Wolf Lodge than normal, they were able to complete their MagiQuest game and move onto the next level.

Not only do they have to solve riddles and find hidden treasures, the quest sends them walking up and do down two levels and across the length of the resort so it’s fantastic exercise.

What is MagiQuest?

You purchase a wand at the MagiQuest Marketplace, choose a Magi name, and top it with special powers, receive instructions for your quest and get busy completing it.

Wave your wand at treasure chests, portals, crystals and other treasures you find within the halls of the Great Wolf Lodge.

You’ll be protecting realm portals, battling evil dragons, fighting goblin kings and collecting totems and crystals to earn the title of Master Magi.

Each quest takes 15 – 30 minutes to complete.

You can take your wand home as a souvenir and bring it back to use on your next Great Wolf Lodge stay. It was the first thing the girls packed for our trip to Bloomington.

If you want to drag your kids out of Mall of America, just tell them they can go home to your Great Wolf accommodation and play MagiQuest.

They’ll play it for hours!

Other Great Wolf Lodge Attractions

With our Wolf Pass, we were able to get glitter tattoos from Scooops Boutique, create our own Great Wolf Lodge kids character, play games at the Northern Lights Arcade and mine for gems at Oliver’s Mining Co.

We had a fun time playing Ten Paw Bowling as we always do.

And the girls scaled up the rock climbing walls. It’s their favorite thing to do and have attended rock climbing camp a couple of times so are quite the pros.

The High Ropes Course was probably the most challenging indoor obstacle course I have done.

There’s a lot of breath catching when you look down from three stories above with only a tight rope between your feet. The most challenging was the log you had to walk across that rolled slightly under your feet.

Savannah and I were going to skip it until one of the guides took us yup to show us how to get across.

It was actually quite easy to cross and showed us just how much imagined fears get in the way of doing things.

And the secret obstacle was a short plank jutting out from the side. When you stepped on the edge it actually bounced down like a sea saw which gave you quite the shock!

Dining at Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota

You don’t have to wander too far from your activity to find food at the Great Wolf Lodge Minneapolis.

The Barnwood offers farm to table food choices with a diverse menu for kids. Our favorite meal is the wild mushroom risotto. The chicken wings are also delicious as an appetizer.

While there are a couple of gluten free options, I’d love to see a few more. It’s okay if you are staying one or two nights, but if you stay longer, you want a bit more variety.

Campfire Kitchen offers morning buffets and evening buffets on selected nights of the week. On other nights, it offers the Barnwood menu.

Hungry as a Wolf offers shareable pizzas, pastas and salads.

Buckets Incredible Craveables in the water park have family favorites, including delicious burgers.

Don’t forget to stop by Dunkin Donuts for a sweet treat and a good latte or across from it is your favorite cup of Ben and Jerry’s Chunky Monkey.

Great Wolf Lodge Rooms

There are a variety of rooms available at the Great Wolf Lodge. The suites with a living room area provides ample room for families. 

We had a Queen Cabin Suite.

It features a queen bed and a Great Wolf kids-themed KidCabin with two sets of bunk beds. I loved how the kids had a separate room which they were more than happy to play and bunk in.

I also loved the fitness center, which I’d visit at 6am every morning and had views over the water park.

It had all the equipment I needed, and plenty of space for me to complete my HIIT training.

Truly, order the wine down service.

Wine and chocolates delivered to your suite door! That’s the kind of memories we want to make – fun for the kids, time out for the parents.

A perfectly balanced life paired with a perfectly balanced red.

The Service at Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota

I’m writing a separate section about the service at the Great Wolf Lodge. I don’t usually do that, but it was a standout.

I mentioned it in this post about sharing my thoughts on being a foreigner in a strange land.

I’m not sure if it’s because we were Australian and sounded so different and exotic – well that could be part of the reason – but the staff were wonderful.

They were so friendly, energetic and helpful to us and the girls on every store and every attraction we visited.

I was really impressed.

That kind of service helps parents create those memorable moments. They feel safe knowing their children are being looked after and treated kindly and joyfully by all those they come in contact with.

Grab the Wolf Pass for Discounts

If you’re staying at the Great Wolf Lodge for a few nights, it’s a great idea to consider grabbing a Wolf Pass ($99.99 per package).

It gives you access to many of the Great Wolf Lodge activities and attractions for a discounted price. 

Wolf Pass Package Includes:

• One MagiQuest or ShadowQuest game
• One Compass Quest game
• Classic or color wand, standard topper or Magi belt
• One animal at Creation Station (outfit not included)
• One 12 oz. candy cup
• One pair of Great Wolf Lodge goggles
• One Glitz Glitter Tattoo
• One game at Howl at the Moon Glow Golf
• One Leather Treaty wristband
• One movie at Howly Wood XD Theater
• One game at Oliver’s Time Challenge
• One $5.00 Paw Points game card
• One game of bowling at Ten Paw Alley

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Have you stayed at the Great Wolf Lodge in Minnesota? Or what would you most like to do on your first visit?

Armed with a song in my heart, a Prince T-Shirt and a purple glittery butterfly tattoo on my shoulder, we set off to spend the day with the ghost and memories of one of the greatest artists of our time at Paisley Park on a Prince Tour!

Prince Nelson Rogers. The Enigma and Unpronounceable Symbol.

Or most loved as, Prince.

A Prince concert was the first concert I attended without a chaperone when I was in high school. My girlfriends and I had seats up in the nosebleeds.

His small stature was little more than a speck below but his spirit and energy filled up the room and spilled out onto the streets of Sydney.

We danced, sang and screamed for the entire concert.

He was that kind of a performer and artist. Every note, tune and dance move pulled you in with its perfect energy.

I only knew he was from Minneapolis when Justin Timberlake sang a tribute to him at the Super Bowl this year.

When the folks from Bloomington CVB asked us a few weeks later if we’d like to tour Paisley Park and go on the Experience Prince Tour when visiting Minneapolis area, we were like “Oh My God Yes!!”

Prince Tour of Paisley Park Museum: The VIP Experience

Visiting Paisley Park on the VIP Experience Tour was one of the best tours we’ve done so far in the US, and is one of the top things to do in Minneapolis.

The Paisley Park Museum is a wonderful tribute to Prince, but also to imagination and creativity.

It’s a small insight into his very private life and his dedication to musicology.

Prince played 27 instruments – all self-taught – and through them produced one innovative hit after another fusing sounds of pop, R &B, rock, soul, jazz and funk.

He was a musician, a singer, a director, a producer, an engineer, an actor, an innovator, a fashion icon, and the ultimate definition of cool.

“Cool means being able to hang with yourself. All you have to ask yourself is, ‘Is there anybody I’m afraid of? Is there anybody who if I walked into a room and saw I’d get nervous’?’ If not, then you’re cool.” – Prince

For him, the purpose of life was to live with the complete freedom to express who you are without fear of what others think.

The Creative Space at Paisley Park

“The music for me doesn’t come on schedule” – Prince.

Paisley Park was designed to allow this unannounced creativity to flow to Prince (and anyone who visits).

Prince was known to lock himself in a room when the inspiration arrived and then a few hours later walk out with a hit tune like Nothing Compares to You.

Candles and incense could be found in almost every room.

Pot pourri sat under his piano and musical instruments, and his favorite space – the “galaxy room” filled with ultraviolet lights, drawn planets and starry skies was his small meditation room to the side of Studio B.

On the outside, Prince’s Paisley Park Estate doesn’t look like much more than a sterile industrial building on the side of a busy road.

No photography or video is allowed inside Paisley Park, but the mental images will never me!

As you walk inside, a large mural of the symbol sitting over Prince’s eyes stares upon you reminding you that there are no limits or no walls on creativity in this space.

Paisley Park eclectically opens up into a kaleidoscope of patterns, colors and shrines to music, funk, inspiration and freedom.

“That’s when stars collide, when there’s space for what you want, and your heart is wide open.” – Prince

The atrium, a bright welcoming space was designed so the light coming out of the sun roof into the dark starry night would symbolize creative energy.

The walls are floating clouds reminding you to let go and let flow.

Above the atrium is an elaborate model recreation of Paisley Park. In it remains Prince’s ashes.

The Symbol in places in front of it and blow on the floor. Above it and off to the side is a cage of white doves looking over him in honor and peace.

The rooms off the atrium showcase various albums and success like Diamonds and Pearls and Love Sexy, a few of his favorite guitars, and a wall filled with musical awards and multi-platinum selling albums.

Memorabilia from concerts and movies stand in displays in various rooms, including his purple motorbikes.

An entire room is dedicated to Purple Rain. Formerly, it was the dance studio and the place Prince would convert into a basketball court when it was time to play.

Our guide, Marshall, emanated a gentle spirit that felt connected to the space and Prince.

A musician himself, Marshall respectfully moved us around the Prince museum room-by-room sharing stories and being sure to let us know we were welcomed and appreciated.

In the Studio: Where the magic was made

We went into Studio B, the analog studio, which was a free creative space. It was here that we were able to relax and slip into Prince’s musical day.

In one corner, sat his piano with lyrics painted on the top. In the other corner sat his ping pong table.

Prince was a skilled ping pong player and we were able to play a couple of games while we waited for everyone to get their photo taken with a life-sized photo of an afro Prince and record a song over one of his tracks.

When you do the VIP Paisley Park Tour on a Thursday, you get to go into the studio and sing with him.

I tapped into his fearless creative energy, bopped and sang the chorus of Raspberry Beret. I hear you Prince and I’m being cool alongside you.

This is the kind of energy that is in Paisley Park: divine energy, creative energy, light and happy.

From everything I’ve heard about the man, who is adored and worshipped in Minneapolis, I am sure he would be very happy with how the tours at Paisley Park are conducted.

We ventured into Studio A where most of his music and hits were created.

He wasn’t the only artist recording hits in there, but others such as James Brown, Madonna, Celine Dion, and R.E.M.

We saw his recording chair where he sat and recorded his vocals, which is unlike most artists who stand.

Prince sat because while he was recording he was also working the control panels to produce and engineer every part of the vocals and tracks.

“I feel so happy and free playing every instrument” – Prince

No wonder he was such a successful musician. The talent was there for sure, but even more so was the commitment to excellence.

The music was everything to him and he was perfect in his execution and making it pure. We were able to stand in there and listen to an unreleased track, Rough Enough.

I hope in the coming years these unreleased tracks and behind the scenes videos of his musical life are released and shared with the world, so we can continue to experience the joy of his music.

A Symbol for Freedom

“What would we do in a perfect world where we are completely free?” – Prince.

Even if you don’t like his music, you can be inspired by this man who created a lifestyle where he had this gift of freedom.

I loved how he took back the creative control of his work by changing his name to the Symbol to craftily get out of the recording deal with Warner Bros records who was trying to change his creativity too much.

In doing so, he paved the way for other musicians to reduce the middle man’s fingers on art.

“When I became a symbol, all the writers were cracking funnies, but I was the one laughing. I knew I’d be here today, feeling each new album as my first”. – Prince

I’ll admit it Prince, I giggle every time I hear you call yourself the Unpronounceable Symbol Formerly Known As Prince.

Genius play!

Paisley Park After Dark

We finished the tour in the sound stage, where he’d practice for tours, hold small events, and where a couple of movies were filmed.

Off to the side was the intimate club, Paisley Park After Dark.

We heard stories of how Prince would pop-up unannounced and sing to the crowds from the small stage. One night, Madonna appeared as well, and they performed together.

No one knew when he was coming though, and he’d often arrive at 2 or 3am in the morning. Only the dedicated of fans would still be there for the treat.

Sometimes, instead of singing he’d play his favorite movie for his guests: Finding Nemo!

It as an absolute treat to spend time with Prince the legend in his home and recording studio. His legacy and legend will continue to live on.

As Prince once said, “he wanted to be remembered only for his music.” Well maybe a little of his fashion and cool style as well.

The adventure did not end with the Paisley Park tour.

With my new purple scarf wrapped around my neck, we jumped into a black van with purple letters emblazoned on the side Experience the Tour.

Prince the Tour that is with Captain Randy.

Experience Prince the Tour

Local, and former DJ, Randy was asked, not long after Paisley Park began conducting tours, to start a Prince the Tour experience of Minneapolis and Chanhassen the area where Paisley Park and Prince’s home is located.

It was a wonderful way to continue the Prince story.

Randy was a fantastic guide: warm and friendly, with a few good jokes thrown in, plenty of enthusiasm, and most importantly, a love for Prince and his hometown.

On the Prince tour we heard stories of Prince – what is known so far – about his upbringing, his musical career, his quiet philanthropic contributions, and the positive impact he had on the lives of the local people and the millions of people who loved his music

These stories can be heard and felt with the creative memorabilia left behind by his fans that visit both sent to Paisley Park and those left in Graffiti Tunnel, which was our last spot on the Prince the Tour.

Graffiti Tunnel is across the road from Paisley Park.

It goes under the road out front and the tunnel is covered in Purple Graffiti – messages, symbols, and pictures and leads out the other side to a fence adorned with purple ribbons, posters, letters and artists sketches.

Paisley Park collects these and rotates them on the memorabilia wall inside the Paisley Park Museum.

There was an abundance of them on our visit as the anniversary of Prince’s death had just passed and the big Celebrating that was held in his honor.

This is testament to creative, joyful spirit of Prince.

He didn’t want his passing to be fussed over or mourned, he wanted his life and legacy to be celebrated.

His community and fans knew this, so they celebrate with him each year.

Prince Tour Attractions in Minneapolis

On the tour we stopped outside Prince’s home where he lived as a child, and where his sister now lives.

We also stopped by Kid’s house from the movie Purple Rain, which Prince owns.

Purple tributes to him sat on the doorstep.

Capri Theater was where Prince held his first concert in 1979, selling out two shows of 240 tickets at $4 each. Imagine!

We followed the growth of his music career to First Avenue, nominated as one of the top five music venues in the world.

Only the best musical acts earn a start on the Wall of Stars at this venue.

Prince’s gold star looked upon the wall of silver stars of artists, like Pearl Jam, Smashing Pumpkins, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

It was here that upon his death the fans gathered, blocking off the surrounding streets and singing Prince tunes to honor this great man.

The world misses him.

A few days later in Dallas, a stranger stopped us to talk about Prince after noticing Craig’s Paisley Park T-Shirt.

We talked to him for some time sharing our memories and telling him about the tour.

“I miss Prince” he said like he was a long-lost friend. “There was just no one else like him.”

We need more musicians like him.

Musicians that make it about the music, the instruments, the messages, the creativity, and the beauty of the song.

Not the fame or the awards, but the spirit of creativity.

The Reign of Electric Fetus

One of our favorite spots on the tour was Electric Fetus record store.

It’s unusual name reflective of the hippy era of its birth. In a world of Spotify and iTunes, it’s incredible to see this record store still in business and thriving.

Electric Fetus was Prince’s favorite record store and he would often visit incognito.

In true Prince thoughtful spirit, he’d phone the owners first checking if it was okay for him to come in. He never wanted to arrive and cause a scene and make the owners stay back late or deal with mania.

Electric Fetus was the last place Prince was seen publicly before his death.

We spoke with the owners who told us that just the week before for the Celebration the store was packed.

It’s a landmark place for Prince fans to visit now.

We were fortunate that there were still some 7-inch vinyl limited editions left of Nothing Compares to You.

It was released for the Celebration and Electric Fetus was the only brick and mortar store granted permission to sell it.

Only 1984 copies were sold, which was the year he wrote and recorded the song.

Prince originally gave the song to The Family to record, but it wasn’t until Sinead released it in 1990 that it became a well-known hit.

I have that vinyl in my souvenir bag. I’ve just now got to get a record player to listen to it!

Hail to the Purple Reign: The Prince Mural

The final stop on our tour was back in Chanhassen where we stopped by the big Purple mural on the wall of Chanhassen Theater.

The theater was a place he’d often book out for private showings – he loved going to the movies.

Sometimes when he wasn’t feeling Paisley Park After Dark, he’d phone the theater in the early hours and book it out. He’d then send all the party goeers there telling them,

“I’m not feeling it tonight, but I’ve booked out the theater and all concessions for you to go there and continue the fun.’

The theater owners gave over this wall to Kiwi graffiti artist, Mr. G to create this portrait.

And of course, what else can you do after such a memorable day with the Purple Reign but kiss the Prince?

Even though Savannah didn’t think he looked like a Prince, she leaned over to give him one too.

This Day. This Man. This Creative Divine Purple Energy.

Related Posts: 

• 7 things to do in Bloomington MN
• Staying at Great Wolf Lodge – a family-friendly hotel near Mall of America.
• Staying at Mall of America

What is your favorite Prince memory? Have you experienced a Paisley Park Museum or Prince the Tour?

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As part of our city guides series, we interviewed local girl Lisa Lubin who moved to Chicago in 1998 because she accepted a job as a producer with ABC-TV in Chicago, and it was her job to cover all the fun things to do in Chicago – the best restaurants, bars, attractions and hotels.

In this post Lisa share’s with us her insider tips on the best things to do in Chicago for those looking for the best places to eat, stay, drink, and explore.

Why Visit Chicago?

I truly believe (and it has been confirmed by others) that Chicago is the best city in the United States to visit or live in. Boom. Hands down victory.

Seriously, New York is great and I’m from that area, so it did take me awhile to admit it out loud, but Chicago has everything NYC has, except it’s cleaner, greener, and more friendly. Plus it’s just easier to live in.

And for a traveler, it’s a wonderful place to visit to see world renowned architecture (with one of the best skylines in the world), world-class museums and public art, parks, food from around the world, and the amazing and huge lakefront with the lakefront trail (Lake Michigan is so big that we can’t see the other side, so it appears we are on an ocean).

What to Do in Chicago

Millennium Park

This is an amazing art-filled park right downtown.

See a free concert, snap photos of the “Bean”, check out the video fountains, just enjoy the gardens, or grab a beer at vast outdoor beer garden at the Park Grill.

There is also Grant Park and

The Loop

This is the heart of the business district. During the week it’s full of workers scurrying about.

The area is full of some great architecture like the Willis Tower (Sears Tower), the Jeweler’s Building, the Cultural Center, the Thompson Center, The Board of Trade and more along the Chicago Riverwalk trail.

For a different view, take the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s boat tour on the Chicago River.

Michigan Avenue

This is Chicago’s most popular shopping street.

Michigan Avenue’s most popular stretch is just about a mile long (hence it being called the Magnificent Mile) and full of all the favorite shops like Macy’s, Nike, the Disney Store and the Apple Store.

Plus don’t miss two of my favorite buildings – the beautiful Wrigley Building and it’s neighbor just across the street, The Tribune Tower (a building I had the pleasure of working in a couple years ago).

Chicago Lakefront

One of my favorite things to do in Chicago is visit our huge, ocean-like lakefront.

On warm, sunny days folks of all kinds will be out enjoying the lake by running, cycling, roller blading, boating, walking or just sunning themselves.

Rent a bike and ride for miles north from Navy Pier, through Oak Street Beach, to North Avenue Beach (stop for a beer and a burger at Castaways at the Boat House), watch some volleyball and enjoy the view of the city.

Museum Campus

A place for a beautiful stroll (and one of the best skyline views in the city), the museum campus has some of our great museums from the Adler Planetarium to the Shedd Aquarium to the Field Museum of History.

And right nearby, you can’t miss the Art Institute of Chicago.

A Go City Chicago Pass will save you money on 30+ Top Chicago attractions. Pick the ones you want. 3 pass types to suit all travelers. Click here for more information

Chicago Neighborhoods

Chicago is a city of neighborhoods.

Nothing will give you a better feel for the real city than getting out of downtown by just a couple of miles and venturing into the ‘hoods where real Chicagoans live, work, and play.

My favorites are the village-like areas of Lincoln Square and Andersonville.

A stop in Wrigleyville is a must to see Wrigley Field (the second oldest baseball field in the U.S.) plus the neighborhood is full of fun bars and restaurants.

Where to Eat in Chicago

My favorite thing to do in Chicago? Eat.

Chicago has hundreds of restaurants and bars of all varieties and ethnicities. From Ethiopian to Thai to sushi to Peruvian, you can just about find anything. I could make list upon list of where to eat, so here are just a few ideas.

Some affordable, yet tasty spots:

• Hot Doug’s
• Kuma’s
• Xoco
• Cozy Noodles
• Ba Le
• Big Star
• Belly Shack

For a splurge try:

• The Girl and the Goat
• Sunda
• Japonais
• Frontera Grill
• Purple Pig

Great areas for Ethnic, local joints:

• Devon avenue for Indian
• North Broadway for Ethiopian
• Argyle Street for Vietnamese
• Milwaukee Avenue for Polish

Where to Drink in Chicago

Like restaurants, there is no shortage of bars in Chicago. If the weather is nice be sure to go al fresco and try one of the great rooftop bars, beer gardens, or sidewalk cafes.

Posh/trendy:

• Signature Room
• The Wit
• Many bars along Hubbard Street

Sports Bars:

• The Globe Pub for soccer/football
• Wrigleyville Bars

Great outdoor space/rooftops:

• The Wit Hotel Roof
• The Terrace at Trump Tower
• Studio Paris
• Vertigo Sky Lounge
• Park Grill
• Gene’s Sausage Shop
• Pegasus Rooftop
• Sheffield’s Beer Garden
• Moody’s Pub

Best Place for a Night on the Town

Chicago’s live theater scene rivals New York’s. For a great show, check out the many theatres in the Loop that are part of “Broadway in Chicago.” For discount tickets, go to Hot Tix.

Dozens of famous comedians such as John Belushi, Gilda Radner, Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Mike Myers, Chris Farley, Stephen Colbert, and Tina Fey came out of Chicago’s Second City. Go for a great comedy show.

Tours of Chicago (Sightseeing & Passes)

Get Your Guide

Is our preferred tour booking company for their great deals and service. They offer up to 24 hour cancellation, skip the line benefits and more. Check each tour for specific details.

See what tours and attractions are available for Chicago.

Viator tours

Viator is one of the industry leader when it comes to tours, activities, tickets and passes with a list of hand-picked tours and things to do in Chicago from local insiders.

Check out the Chicago City Pass which gives you discounted admission to five of the city’s premier attractions.

Be sure to compare with the Go City Chicago Pass, which may be the better value as it offers 30+ Top Chicago attractions and 3 different pass types. It depends on what you want to do and see. Click here for more information

Where to Stay in Chicago

Cheap:

• Hosteling International Chicago
• Airbnb options for Chicago

The Opposite of Cheap:

• Four Seasons
• The Peninsula
• The Wit
• The James
• Park Hyatt

Markets & Shopping in Chicago

Michigan Avenue is our 5th Avenue, but prettier. Gorgeous Christmas decorations in winter and flower-filled parkways in spring and summer.

Oak Street is just at the north end of Michigan Avenue. This is where you go to window shop, as you’d need a lot of cash to drop here on name brands like Gucci, Prada, and Barney’s New York.

State Street has been revived as that “great street.” Starting south of the river, you can find tons of affordable shopping here at popular shops like Old Navy, Forever 21, and the grand Marshall Field’s Department store (now Macy’s).

If you are here in summer, don’t miss the Green City Market up in Lincoln Park every Saturday.

How to Get Around Chicago

Public transport is great in Chicago – so much so that I do not own a car.

To get around, I simply either walk, ride my bike, or use the trains or buses. You can take the “L” also known as the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority), most places you will want to go.

Buses and trains use the same “CTA card” (that you can get out of a machine at the airport when you arrive) and fares are $2.00 and $2.25 respectively. Keep in mind this money saving tip: For one fare, you can transfer two times in a two hour period.

Best Time of Year to Visit Chicago

Personally, I like all seasons, but yes, we can have a very cold winter which is often below freezing. The snow is pretty at Christmas time and there’s ice skating and the amazing German Market in Daley Plaza.

But for the most comfortable times of year, I would say Spring, Summer, and Fall – between May and September or October.

Getting There and Away

Chicago has two airports – O’Hare International and Midway – and both are connected easily to the city by the CTA train for just $2.25. It’s super easy and cheap.

Chicago is the home of United Airlines, so there are tons of their flights here.

Southwest is one of my favorite options for cheaper flights between Chicago and many other U.S. cities. Their online fares can be very cheap – for example, a one-way to New York City recently cost me just about $90.

You can also take the Amtrak train to and from Chicago to other cities in the USA including all the way to California.

There are long distance buses as well, including the cheap ride, Mega Bus (with hit or miss reviews) to many other mid-western cities.

Best Insiders Tip for Travel to Chicago

My best insider tips on what to do in Chicago would be for a great view of the city for the price of a drink, skip the observation tower fee and go to the Signature Room Lounge on the 96th floor of the John Hancock tower.

Duck inside these buildings in the Loop for neat interiors (don’t forget to look up):

• The Rookery
• The Thompson Center
• The Cultural Center
• Macy’s (has a Tiffany Ceiling)

Get on the Brown Line and ride north until the end. You will pass through lots of Chicago’s young and trendy neighborhoods where many folks actually live.

Good stops to get off at for a stroll:

Armitage Avenue – boutique shops

Belmont – want a piercing or tattoo to remember your visit to Chicago? This is the place for that…and other fun fringe stuff – sex shops, boystown, and as always, great food.

Southport – get off and walk north for lots of bars and restaurants in this cute Lakeview ‘hood (where I happen to live)! Come say hello!

Western – take a wander into one of my favorite ‘hoods, charming Lincoln Square. The former German neighborhood is now an eclectic area that still retains a bit of European flavor in its main square and outdoor cafes.

Grab an amazing pastry at the Austrian Cafe Selmarie, sit in the sun with a beer on the rooftop of Gene’s Sausage Shop, or settle into a good book and glass of wine (and free wifi) at the locally-owned Book Cellar. Pure Chicago in one ‘hood.

I love Chicago Because

I’ve never lived anywhere else where so many residents love their city. And I’ve never met a traveler that didn’t fall in love with it as well.

It’s very likeable – clean, friendly, fun, youthful – there is a great energy here and yet so many are down-to-earth in their Midwest mentality.

There is a great pride here – everyone knows we live in a great place and it’s an infectious attitude. When it starts to get warmer, everyone comes out to enjoy this wonderful, gleaming city by the lake. Even after traveling the world, I still can’t get enough of it.

Planning A Trip to Chicago

• Booking.com has over 200 properties in Chicago including hotels, apartments and hostels. You get free cancelation on most rooms and a best price guarantee.

Flights to Chicago

• Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, book directly through the airline (no extra fees).
• Scott’s Cheap Flights have insane deals on flight prices.

Car Rental in Chicago

• RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, and Europcar. You probably won’t need a car for Chicago, but if you plan on any day trips.

Author Bio: Lisa Lubin is a three-time Emmy® Award winning television writer, producer/director, photographer, and video consultant.

She documents her (mis)adventures on her blog, LLworldtour.com, with photographs and articles from the road/train/rickshaw/camel. Her writing and photography has been published by the Wall Street Journal, the Chicago Tribune, Smithsonian and American Way Magazine. She recently launched LLmedia, a video consulting business.

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