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New Yorkers 1st Choice
South Loop District's best

Kid-friendly fun activities

Activities that keep kids genuinely engaged rather than just burning off energy in a loud, chaotic room.

Based on 110 Opinions
+107
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Updated April 2026
01
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Adventure sports center

Adventure sports center offers intricate game rooms with unique mechanics like laser grids and pressure-sensitive tiles. Energy stays fast paced and engaging with a mix of co-op and competitive play. Visitors find it fun and interactive, suitable for all ages and group types.

Offers a fun environment for kids and adults alike. Hosts birthday celebrations that make kids feel special. Provides activities that kids enjoy and parents find worthwhile.

Activities here deliver high energy and engaging fun. Sessions last about 90 minutes and keep the excitement going throughout.

People are saying

"The staff here make the fun activities awesome and explain everything well."

"It's a blast for kids and adults looking to burn energy."

"It's a great place for a fun date night with interactive games."

Good to know

1

Activate Bloomington is suitable for both kids and adults, making it a versatile event space.

2

Visitors should wear sports clothes and shoes for the best experience.

3

The venue offers a free 10-minute trial for new visitors to try out the activities.

02
Museum of Illusions - Mall of America image 1

Space features cool illusions, mirror tricks, and flashing lights that create a fun and trippy atmosphere. Visitors find many photo opportunities with helpful guides to capture unique shots. The environment stays easy-going and not overcrowded, encouraging relaxed exploration.

Optical illusions captivate kids of all ages and keep them entertained for over an hour. Staff members help with lost items, and the exhibits create a fun, engaging experience for birthdays and family visits.

Lots of super fun photos to create make the visit lively. Activities like falling from a building illusion add excitement for friends and family.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with lots of cool exhibits and photo opportunities."

"It's super fun and great for kids."

"It's so Solo Friendly; the staff happily takes your photos."

Good to know

1

The ticket price is $28 per person, excluding toddlers and babies.

2

The museum is located on the second floor down past H&M.

3

Expect a fun experience for all ages, especially kids.

03
The Escape Game Minneapolis image 1
Escape room center

Escape room center offers intricate, beautifully designed rooms with themes like sci-fi and deep sea adventure. Atmosphere feels engaging and supportive, encouraging teamwork with fun, challenging puzzles. Some rooms can get uncomfortably warm due to limited air circulation.

Kids from 6 to 14 find the experience super fun and engaging. Staff like Michael, Daisy, Eva, and Tyler make kids feel welcome and excited about the adventure.

Escape rooms offer a cosmic crisis challenge with engaging puzzles. Staff like Ben and Zach keep the energy high, making the experience consistently fun.

People are saying

"It was a really fun and engaging experience."

"The staff at the Escape Rooms are so friendly and amazing!"

"It's so Kid Friendly; the staff gave my son a stuffy!"

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure availability.

2

The venue accommodates up to 8 players per room for a more engaging experience.

3

Team-building events can be arranged for corporate groups with prior notice.

04
Nickelodeon Universe image 1

Indoor theme park with a giant glass roof creates an outdoor atmosphere protected from weather. Bright colors and Nickelodeon character theming fill the space, making it imaginative and lively for kids. Multiple thrilling roller coasters and safe play areas keep energy high and families engaged.

Parents do not need tickets to ride with their kids, making it easy to enjoy together. Rides range from gentle attractions for little ones to intense roller coasters for thrill seekers, creating a great environment for kids to have fun.

High-energy indoor amusement park offers a mix of thrill rides, nostalgic themes, and a colorful vibrant space. It delivers fun for all ages and great family time.

People are saying

"This Mall has a super fun indoor amusement park with exciting rides."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with rides for everyone."

"It's a blast with fun activities for everyone, from kids to adults."

Good to know

1

Tickets are $52 for a wristband to ride all attractions.

2

Toddler Tuesday offers four hours of access for $15, with one adult free.

3

The park hosts seasonal events throughout the year.

05
Rowan Mall of America image 1
Ear piercing service

Clean, immaculate studio offers a family-friendly vibe with a calming atmosphere. Licensed professionals perform painless ear piercings using both device and needle methods. Jewelry selection includes high-quality metals with comfortable backs.

Licensed nurses provide ear piercing services with great care and patience. Kids experience a safe, comfortable, and fun environment during their first or additional piercings.

Fun experience stands out with staff like Nurse Ingrid, Jessie, and Erin making activities enjoyable for kids. The environment stays clean and easy to navigate, adding to the overall comfortable and safe vibe.

People are saying

"The staff here is so professional and great with kids."

"I got a great piercing here and would definitely go back."

"It's a super fun experience for kids."

Good to know

1

Ear piercing is available for children above 5 years old.

2

A licensed nurse pierces ears using both device and needle methods.

3

The environment is clean and sanitary for procedures.

06
SEA LIFE at Mall of America image 1

Underwater tunnel offers unique views of sharks, sea turtles, and rays swimming overhead. Crowds, especially children, create a loud and busy atmosphere that can feel muggy. Interactive features include touch pools and opportunities to feed stingrays, adding hands-on experiences.

Shark tunnels and the jellyfish area capture toddlers' attention well. A free check-in book lets kids collect stamps at each section, making the visit interactive and fun for young children.

Aquarium offers a fun experience for kids and families with a larger space than expected. Feeding the sting rays adds an extra charge but is very enjoyable.

People are saying

"SEA LIFE at the Mall was an amazing and fascinating experience."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly aquarium where kids always had fun."

"It's so much fun for the kids and families."

Good to know

1

Toddler Tuesday offers special activities for young children and families.

2

Tickets for the Mermaid Event cost $27 for adults.

3

The aquarium features a touch pool where visitors can interact with sea life.

07
The LEGO® Store Mall of America image 1

Bright toy store filled with giant Lego sculptures visible from multiple mall floors creates a magical atmosphere. Crowded and sometimes cramped, it offers interactive play areas where kids build freely, adding lively energy. The Pick-a-Brick wall and diverse Lego sets attract fans of all ages.

An area for kids to build anything they want keeps children engaged. Staff show kindness and helpfulness, improving moods and assisting with lost items. The store offers a build your own figure option that kids enjoy.

Spacious layout offers plenty of fun LEGO sets to explore. Frequent free events create a lively, kid-friendly atmosphere that encourages creativity and play.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with impressive Lego displays and build areas."

"This place is super fun and definitely Kid Friendly."

"The giant Lego statues and displays are really cool."

Good to know

1

They offer a build your own figure event on 3/20, which kids enjoy.

2

Expect long lines on weekends due to high visitor volume.

3

The store limits customer numbers to prevent overcrowding.

08
M&M’S Mall of America image 1

Three floors showcase massive candy walls and colorful merchandise featuring M&M mascots. Bright lighting and vibrant displays create a fun, lively atmosphere with many photo opportunities throughout. Visitors mix custom M&M blends and explore unique products like clothing and gifts.

Bright colorful candies catch kids' eyes, and they enjoy spotting the blue M&M character. Sampling options exist but can be inconsistent, as some employees may refuse without explanation.

Vibrant displays and a massive candy wall create a colorful setting. Interactive installments and make-your-own experiences add fun activities and personalized souvenirs.

People are saying

"You can design your own M&Ms for a fun activity."

"I found the store really cool with lots of M&Ms and fun merchandise."

"It's a great place for kids to enjoy the experience."

Good to know

1

The store has two floors dedicated to M&M products.

2

Expect to pay significantly more for M&Ms than at grocery stores.

3

Unique flavors of M&Ms are available on the second level.

09
ClimbZone at Mall of America image 1

Walls burst with colorful themed designs that create a playful, adventurous atmosphere. The space welcomes both kids and adults with varied difficulty levels and a self-belay safety system. Seating areas allow for watching, and the environment feels safe and well-maintained.

Walls offer clever and creative challenges that build both confidence and climbing skills. Staff provide personalized guidance, making the experience engaging and repeatable for kids.

Climbing offers quick and easy fun that doubles as exercise. Multiple wall themes provide engaging visuals and photo backdrops, making it a great activity for kids to stay active and entertained.

People are saying

"The manager, Eric, was exceptional and helped problem-solve challenging spots."

"The rock climbing gym has colorful, imaginative, and themed walls for an adventure."

"The manager, Eric, made our fun activities incredible."

Good to know

1

The cost for 30 minutes of climbing is $20.99, and unlimited time costs $24.99.

2

Spectators must pay $3.99 to enter and accompany kids under 16.

3

Monthly passes are available for $14.99 on weekdays and $24.99 any day.

10
FlyOver America image 1
Amusement park ride

Suspended chairs face a four-story spherical screen that shows gorgeous views of America enhanced by wind, mist, and scents. The atmosphere feels immersive and realistic, simulating flight with comfortable, spacious seating. The experience suits families and offers a unique, calm ride without high adrenaline.

Kids of all ages enjoy the thrilling ride that keeps their attention with a focus on the screen. Watching their expressions of amazement and thrill stands out as a highlight for families.

The experience offers a fun ride over the entire US with realistic visuals and no waiting time. It feels informative and enjoyable, appealing to all ages including seniors.

People are saying

"It felt like flying, which was really fun and realistic."

"The Mall of America's FlyOver experience felt truly magical and realistic."

"It feels like you're actually flying over America."

Good to know

1

Ticket prices are $23.99 for adults and $17.99 for kids, including tax.

2

The ride lasts less than 20 minutes, which may feel short for the price.

3

FlyOver America transforms into a holiday wonderland through January 2, 2025.

11
Oppa Sweets image 1
Dessert shop

Inventive cotton candy characters come to life with edible face labels in a clean, quiet shop. The atmosphere suits families, especially kids, with mini cotton candy portions that balance size and flavor. Prices reflect the location, offering a variety of smooth, fluffy desserts including unique cotton candy burritos.

Kids enjoy cotton candy characters and mini cotton candy options. Allergy-friendly treats make it easy for children with restrictions to join in.

Fun experience stands out here, with activities that engage kids and adults alike. The spot offers a lively atmosphere that makes it a great stop after other outings.

People are saying

"This place is super Kid Friendly, the cotton candy characters are amazing."

"The cotton candy here tastes super good and is so fluffy."

"Watching them craft the cotton candy characters is really fun."

Good to know

1

The small cotton candy costs over $10 plus tax, while the large is over $19.

2

Kids can enjoy their own mini cotton candy for $10.75.

3

The shop isn't very busy, so the wait time is surprisingly fast.

12
WhirlyBall Twin Cities image 1
Amusement center

Huge amusement center offers three whirlyball courts, multi-level laser tag arena, and modern bowling lanes. Atmosphere is lively and noisy with children running freely and multiple parties creating a bustling vibe. Space includes open dining areas and a bar with plenty of seating for sports viewing.

High energy games like laser tag and whirlyball keep kids active and entertained. Birthday parties here offer fun for both kids and adults, with kids rating the experience highly.

Playing WhirlyBall offers a very fun and engaging experience with multiple rounds possible in a short time. The venue stays clean and suits both team building and casual play, making it enjoyable for adults and entertaining for kids watching.

People are saying

"I found the fun activities here to be a ton of fun."

"The pizza here is fresh and delicious."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with tons of arcade games."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended for group events to ensure availability.

2

A minimum of 10 people is required to book a WhirlyBall session.

3

Expect to pay $4 for shoe rentals, which is not mentioned upfront.

13
Princess and Diva Spa Fun Shop image 1

Princess-themed decor and Disney songs create a bright, welcoming ambiance with colorful, inclusive wall art. The space feels mellow and friendly, often busy with children under 8 enjoying a fun, organized experience. Lockers and a photo area add practical touches, though some furnishings show wear.

Offers high-quality, kid-focused spa experiences with services like manicures, pedicures, and makeup. Staff engage kids with thoughtful attention to make them feel confident and pampered during visits and birthday celebrations.

Girls enjoy manicures, pedicures, and makeup in a fun, engaging setting. The spa offers a BFF experience that makes celebrations like birthdays exciting and memorable.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly spot for birthday parties and special treats."

"The staff here are so kind and attentive with your nails."

"The staff here is so friendly and engaging during fun activities."

Good to know

1

The spa offers a $110 princess and diva package that includes a dress and wand.

2

Expect cleanliness as the salon maintains a strong emphasis on hygiene.

3

The spa is suitable for children up to age 8; older kids may not enjoy it.

14
Moose Mountain Adventure Golf image 1
Miniature golf course

Indoor miniature golf course features an 18-hole layout with a Bigfoot theme and challenging elevation changes that require careful play. The atmosphere is lively and busy, often with long waits due to high traffic and no system to space out groups. The course offers unique hole designs that prevent easy shots and provide significant replayability.

The course offers a simple layout that works well for both little kids and big kids. Kids enjoy playing here, and the activity suits young children for fun and time-killing.

The 18-hole course offers a fun and challenging mini golf experience with a recurring Bigfoot theme. Friendly staff add to the enjoyable atmosphere for players of all ages.

People are saying

"Playing this mini golf course was a fun time for everyone."

"This place is not kid friendly; food arrangements were a mess."

"The golf course here is challenging but rewarding with unique holes."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid busy times.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The weekend price is around $16 for 18 holes.

15
Rock Of Ages Blacklight Minigolf image 1

Indoor 18-hole mini golf course glows under black lights with neon artwork and music themes for each section. The space feels tight but offers a unique, fun atmosphere with creative obstacles and vibrant murals.

Groups with kids often feel rushed due to faster groups waiting behind. The space has poor ventilation, causing kids and adults to sweat quickly even with little activity.

Music-themed indoor 18-hole mini golf glows under blacklights with colorful decor and cool paintings. Wearing white adds to the fun by making you glow too.

People are saying

"The glow-in-the-dark mini golf course is super cool and unique."

"The blacklight artwork at this mall spot is really impressive."

"The mini golf here is glowy and unique."

Good to know

1

Admission fee is $14.99 per adult, making it relatively affordable.

2

Expect about an hour wait during peak times, especially on weekends.

3

The course can take about 30 minutes to complete if played at a relaxed pace.

16
Crayola Experience Mall of America image 1

Large indoor space features colorful walls and multiple playgrounds for different age groups. Atmosphere feels noisy and energetic, with kids engaging in crafts and interactive activities. Bright store area contrasts with dim, cave-like experience zones, offering a mix of creative stations and play areas.

Hands-on activities and a jungle gym keep kids engaged for hours. Helpful staff and kid-friendly restrooms add to the easy experience for families.

Lots of fun activities keep kids entertained. The place offers a family-friendly environment that appeals to children around 9 years old and up.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly with tons of activities to keep them busy."

"I loved molding clay and painting; it was surprisingly good art."

"It's amazingly fun with lots of activities to keep kids busy for hours."

Good to know

1

Admission is $24.99 for the entire experience.

2

The cafe at the Crayola Experience has been closed since before Covid.

3

Kids aged 10 and under will enjoy the Crayola Experience the most.

17
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar image 1
Japanese restaurant

Revolving sushi plates and a robot drink delivery system create an interactive dining experience. The space feels crammed and lively, often noisy with a Tokyo-style sushi bar vibe. Ordering happens via touchscreen monitors, adding convenience and novelty.

Kids enjoy the robot drink service and the revolving sushi bar adds a fun, interactive vibe. The atmosphere keeps children engaged while they try dishes like ramen and tuna cheek bone.

A revolving sushi bar creates a fun environment with a traditional guru-guru style setup. The atmosphere stays lively and engaging throughout the visit.

People are saying

"The revolving sushi bar is a fun experience with robots bringing drinks."

"The revolving sushi bar offers a fun experience with robot drink delivery."

"It's so Kid Friendly, the robot delivering drinks is a huge hit!"

Good to know

1

During busy times, expect a wait for a table of about 2 hours.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

Most items can be ordered via tablet and delivered on a conveyor belt.

18
Air Traffic Toys image 1

Small space packed with massive toy selection including puzzles, board games, and skill toys. Bright, inviting layout encourages easy browsing and playful exploration. Offers family games, novelty toys, and plenty of demo items for hands-on experience.

Lots of great items for kids fill the space, making it fun to explore. Staff help kids learn new games, though they might miss small details like a child carrying a stuffed animal.

A fun atmosphere fills the store with a variety of toys and activities to explore. The place offers a hands-on experience that keeps things lively and engaging.

People are saying

"The staff here makes Fun Activities amazing and helpful."

"It's really Kid Friendly; the staff helped my son learn new games."

Good to know

1

The store offers a wide selection of puzzles, games, and novelty toys.

2

Prices for stickers start at $2.99, making them affordable.

3

There are plenty of demo toys available for customers to try.

19
IKEA image 1
Furniture store

Showrooms arranged as complete rooms create an inspiring maze that encourages exploration and creativity. The atmosphere feels serene with a Scandinavian aesthetic featuring clean lines and neutral colors. Amenities include a children's play zone and a casual food area offering affordable Swedish dishes.

A children's zone offers an hour of supervised play while parents shop. Affordable kid's meals like Mac and cheese cost less than $3, and a free daycare near the entrance lets parents browse hands-free.

Walking through the store offers a fun experience with plenty to explore. Kid events provide entertaining activities for children, and grabbing lunch adds to the overall enjoyable outing.

People are saying

"I loved the Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce."

"It's fun exploring the maze-like showrooms and imagining life there."

"They have a supervised children's zone for an hour of play."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right by the entrance, especially after 7 p.m.

2

Paying with a card is recommended to avoid long waits at the cashier.

3

IKEA offers a kid-friendly event that is fun for children.

20
B&B Theatres Bloomington 13 @ Mall of America image 1

Movie theater offers comfortable reclining seats with heating and a full bar and snacks in the lobby. Atmosphere is generally quiet and spacious, allowing easy access to seats even when others recline. Sensory backpacks and assistive devices support a more inclusive experience.

Reclined seats and varied food options keep kids comfortable and happy. Staff like Mark are kind and fun, making visits smooth. The place welcomes families with babies and toddlers, offering a relaxed atmosphere for all ages.

Trivia, bingo, and game nights offer fun and engaging activities. Hosts like Mark create a welcoming and lively atmosphere that keeps events entertaining.

People are saying

"The reclining seats made the movie experience so comfortable."

"Mark made the trivia event a fun experience with his great energy."

"It's a great place for fun, kid-friendly events."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and convenient at the Mall of America.

2

The theater allows outside food to be brought in.

3

Trivia night occurs regularly and is a fun experience.

21
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant decorated with Forrest Gump memorabilia and movie quotes creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Loud music fills the space, making conversation challenging. Unique license plate signs at tables signal servers, adding interactive fun.

Staff show great kindness and accommodate large groups with kids well. Kid meals come out quickly, and activities like trivia include prizes for children.

Movie-themed decor and fun trivia from servers create a playful vibe. Guests can signal servers by flipping a sign from Run Forrest Run to Stop Forrest Stop, adding to the interactive experience.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp, is delicious."

"The staff here are so kind and accommodating to kids."

"The Forrest Gump trivia and memorabilia make for such fun activities."

Good to know

1

Trivia night features Forrest Gump questions and happens during meal service.

2

Happy hour offers a selection of discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Expect a fun and interactive trivia experience with prizes for participants.

22
DeLeo Bros. Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Vintage pizza parlor with 80s and 90s decor and arcade games creates a nostalgic atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and fun, blending retro elements with a casual mall setting. It attracts those looking for a quick, enjoyable meal with a touch of old-school charm.

Kids enjoy the old-fashioned arcade games and react enthusiastically to the staff's excitement. The pizza gets strong approval from children, making it a lively spot for birthday celebrations.

Walls display history and story that add to the vibe. A few arcade games and 80s movie memorabilia make the atmosphere lively and fun.

People are saying

"This pizza is incredibly delicious and fresh."

"The cheese pizza here is delicious and fantastic."

"The pizza here is so fresh and tasteful, I could get morbidly obese."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is available in the east ramp, which is convenient for pickup.

3

The introductory price for a slice is $5, which is a good deal.

23
Sugar Factory Minnesota image 1
American restaurant

Loud, chaotic atmosphere with birthday celebrations featuring singing and light shows. Decor mixes over-the-top themes with signs of wear and cheap quality. Drinks often come with dramatic dry ice effects, and food ranges from tasty onion rings to inconsistent quality.

Staff provide extra candy necklaces to keep kids happy and avoid fights. Birthday celebrations feature over-the-top treats and fun milkshakes with dry ice that kids enjoy.

Huge drinks with fun presentation stand out, including milkshakes and dry ice beverages that appeal to all ages. The wide selection of fancy beverages with and without alcohol creates a lively atmosphere for celebrations and casual outings.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and fresh."

"It's so Kid Friendly, the milkshakes and dry ice drinks are really fun."

"The drinks and milkshakes here are huge and so much fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at this restaurant, even if tables appear open.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere with many birthday celebrations during your visit.

3

The prices for food and drinks are considered high by many visitors.

24
Ebisu image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store offers a wide selection of snacks, drinks, beauty products, and household items from Japan. The interior feels cramped with loud music and displays manga figurines and wall art. Customers enjoy exploring unique items despite the busy, somewhat chaotic atmosphere.

Unique candy and snacks catch kids' attention here. The store offers blind boxes that attract families willing to travel for exchanges. Children find the selection engaging and fun.

A really fun Asian import store offers a unique browsing experience with interesting items. It stands out as a must-visit spot for those looking for something different and enjoyable.

People are saying

"It's a fun place to browse for unique snacks and goodies."

"This convenience store has unique Japanese snacks and drinks."

"I wish they'd tell you the exchange policy for blind boxes."

Good to know

1

Ebisu offers a wide range of Japanese snacks, drinks, and beauty products.

2

The store has a strict 7-day exchange or refund policy for most items.

3

Prices for snacks and drinks can be higher than average convenience stores.

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