Hidden Gems Inside The Mall Of America
Going inside the largest mall in America can bring you feelings of excitement but also anxiety. Where do you start in a mall with four of the largest department stores, a level dedicated to restaurants, two hotels, and an amusement park? Below you will find unique stores inside Mall of America that you cannot miss, kiosks by small local businesses, and tourist attractions that are worth the expenses.
The Mall of America is basically laid out in the format of a large square, consisting of four levels, that wraps around in a way where you can make a full lap. If you walk around one whole level in a complete lap it is roughly a mile-long walk. With this information, you might want to come into the Mall with a plan, so you don't end up walking many miles and wasting time. However, sometimes you may feel up for the adventure and see where the mall takes you. This guide will provide you with a better idea of what stores you want to hit and what attractions you want to see before your legs wear out.
1. Soul Sistas
This is a quick stop that doesn't even require you to walk inside a store as it is a kiosk. Soul Sistas is a black, woman-owned, local Minneapolis business with the purpose of protecting other women. The keychains sold are self-defense tools while making them cute and fashionable. The keychains consist of pepper spray, a rape whistle, flashlight, and brass knuckles. What more does a girl need? Location: 6110 North Market.
2. Wafels & Dinges
Bite into a taste of Norwegian heaven at this waffle stand. Choose either sweet or savory and have no regrets. Location: 360 West Market.
3. Third Degree Heat
If you're coming to the mall to pick up a new pair of sneakers or Jordan's then Third Degree Heat is your go-to shoe store. Walls full of shoes on display, you are sure not to leave empty-handed. Location: 334 West Market.
4. Aritzia
Brand new to the MOA and the first in Minnesota, Aritzia will bring you puffer coats, sweat suits, work clothes, to dainty tops made from high-quality material. This store is not cheap, so approach with caution! It is also fun to just window-shop the fancier stores as well (check out the Gucci store inside Nordstroms or the Canada Goose store too). Location: 115 West Market.
5. The Sugar Factory
This Instagram-worthy restaurant is only located in major cities across the US, and the MOA got lucky to be included. Order a fishbowl drink with dry ice and gummy worms, then go drunk shopping after. Location: 339 South Avenue.
6. The Crayola Experience
Crayola crayons have created an experience to enjoy for all ages but help to have a little one to truly celebrate the joy. With a special, small door made of crayons, they get to enter a world where they can draw anywhere, and come up with masterpieces of their own. Location: 300 South Avenue.
7. Sea Life
Now, this is an attraction that you will be in awe of no matter how old you are. With tunnels that are completely surrounded by water, fish, turtles, and sharks will swim all around you. Location: 120 East Broadway.
8. Disney
Be transported into a fairy tale when you walk inside the Disney store. From plush stuffed toys to tees with your favorite characters, there is something here for any age. Tip: arrive early, this store always has a line. Location: 118 South Avenue.
9. FlyOver America
Currently featuring Hawaii, different places in America are shown in this interactive ride. You feel as if you are really flying over the scenery, the wind blowing in your hair, and the sun shining brightly (all special effects, of course). Location: 5120 Center Court.
10. Nickelodeon Universe
Single tickets are available for purchase if you need a shopping break and want to hit a ride or two, along with unlimited ride passes. The Rock Bottom Plunge and Fairly Odd Parent roller coasters are my personal favorite ones. They are fast, big, and right on theme. The Log Chute is a classic too but warning, you may get a little wet on this one. Location: Center Court.
11. Hideaway Express
Hideaway is a popular destination for glass or any smoking needs. The express is a smaller selection compared to some of their larger smoke shops around the city but features the same beautiful glass pieces. Location: 532 East Broadway.
12. Lululemon Café
Calling all yoga fanatics and health nuts- your favorite athleisure brand now has a fueling café inside their retail space. If you're going to pay that much for leggings, you might as well get a smoothie to go with it. Location: 116A West Market.
13. LMNTS
This new, high-end streetwear clothing shop is one of the Mall's best-kept secrets. Located on the highest level, it is tucked away which makes it easy to miss but is definitely worth the escalator rides up to the top. Feel free to take a photoshoot up there with your new purchases; the white floors, open windows, and twinkle lights make a great backdrop. Location: 387 West Market.
14. Carlo's Bakery
The hit television show, Cake Boss, comes to life now in Minnesota along with Carlo's other bakeries located on the East coast. The cannolis are a must. Location: 335 North Garden.
15. Morphe
If you love makeup, the brand new Morphe store is one of the few full Morphe makeup stores in America. Usually, you can find the brand inside larger stores such as Ulta or Sephora, but now the mall has a whole space dedicated just for them. Location: 262 West Market.
16. Sencha Tea Bar
Sencha is a local Minnesota tea bar with locations in the MOA, Uptown Minneapolis, and downtown Saint Paul. Try an iced green tea with a flavor like a mango and add strawberry jellies for the tea of your dreams. Location: 392 North Garden.
17. Shake Shack
The beloved burger and shake joint is a part of one of the Mall's many food courts. The double cheeseburger and chocolate shake will leave you satisfied and in love. Shake Shack rivals In-And-Out, so you know it's seriously good. Location: 332 North Garden.
18. 4THELOVE
The Mall of America has a neat little section called the Community Commons where local artists can showcase their work. 4THELOVE is a black-owned, clothing business with a social justice cause after his city was in despair over the death of George Floyd. If you were emotionally moved by his death but not sure how you can make a difference, supporting businesses like this one is a great start. Location: 238E South Ave.
19. GameWorks
The Mall has many toy stores, electronic game shops, and board game stores. GameWorks is different because you get to play while in the store. This arcade holds hundreds of video games, bowling, and food. The eccentric display and design of the store will suck you right into this fantasy world to play. Location: 401B East Broadway.
20. I Love Minnesota
Lastly, show some love for the state that is bringing you this great mall by visiting the Love from Minnesota shop. Showcasing the nature, lakes, and love for our city, pick up a souvenir from here. Location: 372 West Market.
Whether you end up coming with a game plan of what stores to stop in or decide to wing it, make sure you stop at one of these hidden gems while visiting the Mall of America. Support some local businesses, stores wanting social change or protection, or just have a sweet treat if you need a break from it all. No matter what you're feeling, the Mall of America will have it.
Opinions and Perspectives
Aritzia's personal shopping service is actually really helpful. Worth booking ahead.
4THELOVE designs are so meaningful. More than just clothing, its art with a message.
The Disney store cast members make every visit special. They really maintain the magic.
Love how the Community Commons rotates local vendors. Always something new to discover.
Third Degree Heat staff really know their sneakers. Great for advice on fits.
Sencha Tea Bar's seasonal specials are amazing. Try the pumpkin chai in fall.
The Crayola Experience is actually fun for adults too. Brought out my inner child!
Soul Sistas owner is often at the kiosk. She's so passionate about women's safety.
FlyOver America is a must-do. Such a unique way to see different parts of the country.
Wafels & Dinges portions are huge. Definitely shareable if you're not super hungry.
Carlo's Bakery cream puffs are worth every calorie. Trust me on this one.
The mall maps need updating with all these new stores. Got lost looking for Morphe!
I Love Minnesota store actually has stylish stuff. Not just typical touristy items.
Hideaway Express has beautiful pieces. Their local glass selection is impressive.
LMNTS aesthetic is perfect. Modern but not trying too hard. Great addition to the mall.
The Log Chute at Nickelodeon Universe hasn't changed in years and that's what makes it special.
Community Commons is such a great initiative. Love discovering new local businesses there.
Aritzia's return policy is strict but their clothes last forever. Investment pieces for sure.
The Sugar Factory drinks are basically liquid sugar but so fun for special occasions.
Found some rare Jordan's at Third Degree Heat. Expensive but worth it for collectors.
Those brass knuckle keychains at Soul Sistas are both cute and make me feel safer walking to my car.
The Disney store magic is real. Love watching kids faces light up when they walk in.
Sencha Tea Bar's mint mojito tea is refreshing after hours of shopping.
4THELOVE's message is powerful and their designs are beautiful. Bought several shirts as gifts.
The Shake Shack versus In-N-Out debate is real! I think Shake Shack wins for their shakes alone.
GameWorks is great for teenagers. Keeps them entertained while parents shop.
Morphe's selection is impressive. Finally got that James Charles palette everyone was talking about.
FlyOver America makes me motion sick but my family loves it. The effects are incredibly realistic.
The smoothies at Lululemon Café are overpriced but delicious. The protein punch one is my favorite.
Third Degree Heat helped me find sneakers I couldn't get anywhere else. Great for collectors.
Sea Life is pricey but worth it. The behind-the-scenes tour is fascinating.
Anyone else feel like the mall keeps getting better? The new additions have really improved the experience.
My kids begged to go back to Crayola Experience. The melted crayon art station was their favorite.
Wafels & Dinges reminds me of street food in Brussels. Such authentic taste!
Carlo's Bakery lives up to the hype. Their tiramisu is just like the one I had in Italy.
The mile-long lap on each floor is great for exercise during winter months. I do my morning walks there.
Agree about the lack of rest areas. They should add more seating throughout the mall.
LMNTS has the best photo spots. The lighting up there is perfect for showing off new purchases.
Those fishbowl drinks at Sugar Factory are definitely meant for sharing. Learned that the hard way!
Who else thinks the food court needs more vegetarian options? Shake Shack is great but we need variety.
The I Love Minnesota store has the best souvenirs. Much better quality than typical tourist shop stuff.
Tried parking on level 4 near Nordstrom as suggested. Made such a difference in navigating the mall!
The Log Chute at Nickelodeon Universe is classic Minnesota. Been riding it since I was a kid.
I found Soul Sistas through this article and their products are genius. Practical safety tools that actually look cute!
Love that they included Community Commons. It gives small businesses a chance to reach a wider audience.
The prices at Aritzia made my eyes water but the quality is undeniable. My coat from there has lasted three Minnesota winters.
Does anyone else get lost every time they visit? Even with the map I somehow always end up going in circles.
Just tried Hideaway Express. The staff was super knowledgeable and helpful with recommendations.
Lululemon Café seems a bit pretentious but their smoothie bowls are actually really good.
The mall's commitment to including diverse businesses like 4THELOVE really stands out to me.
I was surprised by how good Shake Shack is. The concrete mixers are incredible!
GameWorks is perfect when you need a break from shopping. Love that they serve food too so you don't have to leave.
Morphe store is dangerous for my wallet! Went in for one eyeshadow palette, came out with three plus brushes.
The Disney store always has lines but the staff makes the wait worthwhile. They're so enthusiastic and helpful.
Third Degree Heat has amazing selection but the prices are steep. Still, where else can you find so many rare sneakers in one place?
Sencha Tea Bar is my go-to spot for a shopping break. Their jasmine milk tea with lychee jelly is fantastic.
Anyone else think the mall needs more rest areas? My feet were killing me after a few hours.
FlyOver America is such a unique attraction. The Hawaii feature made me feel like I was actually there!
I disagree about Carlo's Bakery! The wait is part of the experience and their pastries are fantastic. Try the lobster tail pastry!
The cannolis at Carlo's Bakery are good but not worth the long wait times. You can find better at local Italian bakeries.
Sea Life was better than I expected. The tunnel where sharks swim over your head is incredible.
The layout can be overwhelming on your first visit. I walked 5 miles according to my fitness tracker just browsing around!
LMNTS is seriously underrated. Found some unique pieces there that I haven't seen anywhere else.
The Crayola Experience was a hit with my kids! We spent three hours there and they didn't want to leave.
I appreciate how they've included local businesses like Soul Sistas and 4THELOVE. Gives the mall more character than just having chain stores.
Honestly, Sugar Factory is more about the show than the taste. The drinks are fun but overpriced. You're paying for the experience and photos.
Has anyone been to The Sugar Factory? Those drinks look amazing on Instagram but wondering if they're worth the price?
Coming from Europe, I was skeptical about an indoor amusement park, but Nickelodeon Universe really impressed me. The Rock Bottom Plunge is no joke!
The savory waffles are amazing too! I had one with pulled pork and coleslaw. Trust me, it sounds weird but it works!
Those waffles at Wafels & Dinges are absolutely incredible! I tried the sweet one with Nutella and strawberries. Anyone try their savory options?
I visited MOA last weekend and Soul Sistas really caught my attention. Such an important mission combining fashion with safety. I bought two keychains for my daughters.