Bloomington, located in the heartland of the United States, offers a spectacular array of family-friendly attractions, making it an exceptional destination for your next family holiday. From the remarkable Mall of America brimming with top-notch entertainment and shops, to the exciting Crayola Experience and the awe-inspiring SEA Life aquarium, Bloomington guarantees endless fun and adventures for your family.
No matter your preferences or budget, whether you're seeking a modern city-centre hotel close to the main attractions or prefer a peaceful setting closer to natural beauty, Bloomington has the right place for you and your family to stay. Read on to discover why Bloomington is a standout destination for family holidaymakers.
Things to do
Every corner of Bloomington seems to be sprinkled with a dash of magic for a memorable family holiday. With activities ranging from exploring underwater worlds to getting hands-on with art, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Discover our top picks for an extraordinary family adventure in Bloomington.
Kickstart your adventure by heading to the Crayola Experience at Mall of America. Revel in 25 hands-on creative attractions, from making art pieces with melted crayons to exploring the wonder of colours. A bespoke birthday package is available for an unforgettable birthday treat. Not far from here, lose yourself in the mesmerizing SEA LIFE aquarium, showcasing an astonishing variety of sea creatures. Kids will be gripped by the 300-foot long underwater tunnel, and the encounters with magnificent sharks and stingrays.
Don't forget to luxuriate in Bloomington's fantastic outdoors. Visit the Hyland Lake Park Reserve in the west for a family picnic, or the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge in the southeast for an exciting nature walk. In winter, skating or skiing become the favourite pastimes of local families, something you certainly won't want your kids to miss. Lastly, be sure to immerse in the rich history and culture Bloomington has to offer by taking a tour of the city, ensuring you a meaningful and educational addition to an already exciting family holiday.
When to visit
A city of Bloomington's appeal boasts a delightful surprise for families regardless of the season. Nonetheless, if warm weather activities are your family's preference, consider a visit from mid-June through early September. During this period, you'll relish the diverse outdoor attractions that Bloomington affords, from vibrant parks to the iconic Mall of America - the largest retail and entertainment complex in the entire country.
If snow sports enchant your family, the winter season offers an array of icy delights from skating to skiing, all set in the captivating white landscapes of Bloomington's parks. We do, of course, advise families to plan holidays outside term-time to prioritise the kids' education and grab the best off-peak deals. Rest assured, Bloomington is a family holiday destination for all seasons.
Things you'll love...
- Explore the largest retail and entertainment complex in the USA, the Mall of America, with over 520 stores, a theme park and aquarium.
- Step into a world of creativity and fun at Crayola Experience at Mall of America, offering 25 hands-on activities for kids.
- Visit the SEA LIFE at Mall of America, Minnesota's largest aquarium with a variety of sea creatures on show.
- Enjoy outdoor activities like skating and skiing in winter, or exploring green spaces like Hyland Lake Park Reserve and Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge.
- Learn about Bloomington's history, from the Mdewakanton Sioux natives to the rise of the city's economy, while enjoying the comfort of family-friendly hotels.
Main airport
- Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport
