Bloomington, Minnesota

The Mall of America redefines retail therapy near Minneapolis. Beyond 520 tax-free shops (yes, no sales tax on clothing and shoes!), this massive complex packs in entertainment: ride coasters at Nickelodeon Universe, marvel at SEA LIFE’s aquatic tunnels, or get creative at the Crayola Experience. New additions like FlyOver America’s virtual flight simulation keep things fresh. With 300+ annual events — from concerts to fashion shows — and a sleek new north wing featuring a JW Marriott and global brands like Zara, it’s no wonder 32 million visitors flock here yearly.

SEA LIFE at Mall of America brings you closer than ever before to thousands of sea creatures, including sharks, sea turtles, rays, jellyfish, seahorses and more! Plus, fun interactive activities throughout the aquarium, including stamp stations with dive books and WOW! facts, make SEA LIFE at Mall of America the perfect family fun destination. Swim with the sharks in what was named "the best shark exhibit on the planet" by Animal Planet or view the scary creatures from a 300-foot glass underwater tunnel.

The Minnesota Zoo, located in nearby suburb Apple Valley, houses hundreds of species of wild animals. Daily animal shows include cow milking demos, penguin feedings, and the World of Birds show. Each summer, the annual Music in the Zoo concert series brings popular musicians to town.

Visit Prince's private estate and production complex in Chanhassen, Minnesota. Fans will experience first-hand what it was like for Prince to create, produce and perform.

Artistry is a nonprofit that serves a regional audience of more than 80,000 people annually. Housed in the Bloomington Center for the Arts, Artistry produces seven theater productions per season, curates 14 visual arts exhibitions each year, offers year-round classes and workshops both on-site and throughout the community, and works with the City of Bloomington and other partners on creative placemaking and public art projects.

The Northwest Airlines History Center honors the airline that was once headquartered in Minnesota. Many unique and interesting artifacts, historical documents and pictures are on display, and a collection of airplane models dates from Northwest's beginning in 1926.

Open 365 days a year, zoo exhibits include gorillas, giraffes, polar bears, penguins, and more. The Marjorie McNeely Conservatory presents seasonal floral shows in the Sunken Garden. If you're visiting in August, don't miss the annual Japanese Lantern Lighting Festival, a family-friendly celebration of Japanese culture.

The 193-acre Minnehaha Park features a 53-foot waterfall, limestone bluffs, and river overlooks. Paved trails offer visitors the opportunity to see the park on bike or foot. Visit the park during the winter months to see the waterfall completely frozen over.