Welcome to Bloomington! Nestled just outside of the Twin Cities, Bloomington offers countless exciting attractions and activities for visitors and locals alike. After you’ve checked into one of the city’s 40+ hotels and taken advantage of the special packages, it’s time to get refreshed, put on your walking shoes, and explore the best ways to spend a long weekend staycation in Bloomington.
Vertical Endeavors (courtesy of Vertical Endeavors)
DAY 1: Get your adrenaline pumping at the Midwest’s premier indoor rock-climbing facilities, Vertical Endeavors, where guests of all ages and abilities can challenge themselves and have a blast exploring the sport of rock climbing.
When you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Luna di Luna for lunch—don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you. Luna di Luna, housed in a former Taco Bell, offers authentic, house-made Italian fare and an impressive wine selection in a cozy, art-filled atmosphere.
Afterwards, head to the Bloomington Center for the Arts, featuring performing arts theaters, art galleries, and studios, as well as the acclaimed productions and exhibitions of the resident Artistry organization. Or pay a visit to Hyland Lake Park Reserve – this scenic prairie landscape has an elaborate play area and walking trails.
Before winding down for the evening, try Ciao Bella, a local favorite for Italian flavors. Take a seat on the stunning terrace or enjoy the local art collection in the dining room. Don’t forget budino for dessert!
Nickelodeon Universe
DAY 2: No weekend in Bloomington is complete without a full day spent at Mall of America. The nation’s largest retail and entertainment complex has hundreds of stores and dozens of restaurants—from chic boutiques and modern menswear to immersive attractions and tech-savvy stores, the mall offers something for everyone.
Did you know Mall of America is home to a thrilling 7-acre indoor theme park, Nickelodeon Universe? Here, visitors of all ages can enjoy heart-pounding rides and roller coasters—plus photo ops with SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, and more. Rides not your thing? Head to SEA LIFE Mall of America to marvel at the underwater world of exotic fish, sharks, and stingrays. Wherever you land at Mall of America, you’re sure to encounter hours of endless entertainment.
Many of the Mall’s restaurants feature, interactive settings—such as Rainforest Café or Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville. You can also settle in for dinner at Cedar + Stone, Urban Table, which offers a vibrant farm-to-table dining experience that celebrates Minnesota’s farmers and distillers. Or check out The Fair on 4 for all things fair related—think mini doughnuts, corndogs, and funnel cakes (and go karts, too!).
Historic Fort Snelling (courtesy of Minnesota Historical Society)
DAY 3: Begin your last day with a fuel stop at Backstory Coffee Roasters – plenty of coffee drinks, breakfast, and pastry options await. Then, head out for a peaceful hike at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, a serene oasis known for its peaceful and picturesque landscape. Visitors can borrow explorer backpacks and binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing.
For lunch, visit Hazelwood Food + Drink or its more casual neighbor, Pizza Novara. Each restaurant offers delicious, made-to-order dishes with views of Mall of America and plane takeoffs and landings at the nearby MSP International Airport. Then, visit one of Bloomington’s nearby museums or historic sites for an engaging, yet educational experience, such as Fort Snelling. Visitors will hear stories from a pivotal time in America’s history and can explore nearby nature trails.
Finish the afternoon with a walking tour of Bloomington’s South Loop art murals and artboxes. Download the Otocast app to access the South Loop Public Art Audio Tour and embark on a self-guided exploration of the community’s vibrant art scene. The location-based app provides detailed information, photos, and artist interviews to enrich your understanding of over 35 public art installations.
Wrap up your staycation with a beer and food truck dinner at Bloomington’s first brewery, Nine Mile Brewing Co., which offers a taproom experience rooted in the local community and serves up a diverse selection of craft beers in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
