Mall of America & Twin Cities Parks

About

Minnesota's Twin Cities region packs an incredible variety of experiences into one accessible metro area. At the center of it all stands Mall of America in Bloomington - the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the United States, with over 520 stores, an indoor theme park, an aquarium, and dozens of restaurants spread across four floors.

But Minneapolis offers far more than shopping. Minnehaha Park, one of the city's oldest and most beloved green spaces, draws visitors to its stunning 53-foot waterfall on Minnehaha Creek. The falls cascade into a limestone gorge surrounded by mature trees and winding paths. In winter, the frozen falls create a magical ice formation that's worth the trip alone. The park connects to miles of trails along the Mississippi River, and its picnic areas and gardens make it a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.

The Chain of Lakes - a series of connected urban lakes including Lake Harriet, Lake Calhoun (Bde Maka Ska), Lake of the Isles, and Cedar Lake - forms one of the finest urban park systems in the country. The lakes are ringed by paths popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists. Lake Harriet features a bandshell with free summer concerts, a small sailing school, and a charming restored streetcar. Bde Maka Ska offers swimming beaches, kayak rentals, and waterfront dining.

Together, these three destinations capture what makes the Twin Cities special: world-class indoor attractions paired with genuinely beautiful outdoor spaces, all within easy reach of each other. The metro area's excellent bus and light rail system connects many of these spots, with the Blue Line running directly to Mall of America from downtown Minneapolis. Whether you're visiting in the warmth of summer or the crisp cold of a Minnesota winter, you'll find plenty to enjoy. Plan at least two full days to experience the best of what this area has to offer.

Accessibility

Mall of America was designed with accessibility as a priority. All public spaces, doorways, and hallways are fully ADA compliant. Wheelchair and electronic cart rentals are available at Guest Service Desks throughout the mall. The facility offers a Sensory Guide for Nickelodeon Universe, its indoor theme park, to support visitors with autism and sensory sensitivities. SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium on the first level is wheelchair accessible, though it does not rent wheelchairs directly - visitors should rent from the mall's Guest Service Desks before entering. Elevators connect all four levels of the mall.

Minnehaha Park features paved paths to the main overlook above the falls, making the primary viewpoint accessible to wheelchair users. The upper park area includes accessible restrooms and picnic facilities. Some trails leading down into the gorge below the falls are steep and may present challenges for mobility device users. Contact the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board for current trail condition details.

The Chain of Lakes trail system includes paved, relatively flat paths around each lake that are generally suitable for wheelchair users and mobility devices. Lake Harriet's bandshell area offers accessible seating for concerts. Accessible parking is available at multiple points around the lakes.

The Metro Transit Blue Line light rail, which connects downtown Minneapolis to Mall of America, is fully wheelchair accessible with level boarding at all stations. Contact individual venues for the most current accessibility accommodations and seasonal availability.

Visitor reviews

Rated 5 out of 5 from 1 visitor review.

Mall of America was a great visit, and easy to traverse.

More accessible places in Minnesota

• Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden (Minneapolis)
• Minneapolis Institute of Art (Minneapolis)
• Science Museum of Minnesota (St. Paul)
• Minnesota Zoo (Apple Valley)
• Mall of America (Bloomington)
• Voyageurs National Park (International Falls)