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Local picks

Kid-friendly places in South Loop District

You need a space that welcomes your children without making you feel like you are imposing.

Based on 924 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Activate Bloomington image 1
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Adventure sports center

Adventure sports center features laser grids and pressure-sensitive tiles for thrilling play. Birthday parties create a fun environment that kids love and parents appreciate. Games mix co-op and competitive modes, keeping energy high for all ages.

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.

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 offers cool illusions and mirror tricks that captivate kids and adults alike. Staff provide great support, making it perfect for family visits and birthday fun. Visitors enjoy a relaxed vibe with plenty of chances for unique photos.

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.

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
Rowan Mall of America image 1
Ear piercing service

Clean studio offers a calming atmosphere with licensed nurses providing painless ear piercings. Kids enjoy a safe, fun environment with high-quality jewelry and 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.

People are saying

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

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

"The staff at this Mall were so kind and patient."

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.

04
Banter by Piercing Pagoda image 1

Jewelry store uses a pressurized device for ear piercings, making a distinct stapling sound. Staff show gentle care to keep kids calm and comfortable. The place feels sanitary with hand sanitizing common but glove use varies.

Staff show gentle care and patience with kids during ear piercings. They keep children calm and comfortable throughout the process with attentive and kind support.

People are saying

"The staff here are so patient and kind with kids during piercings."

"Brianna was so helpful picking out jewelry and guiding the experience."

"The staff made my piercing experience comfortable and calm."

Good to know

1

The equipment used is single-use for better sanitation during piercings.

2

You can choose a needle piercing for an extra cost if preferred.

3

The total cost for a lobe piercing is about $50.

05
Oppa Sweets image 1
Dessert shop

Inventive cotton candy characters with edible face labels delight kids in a clean, quiet shop. Mini portions and allergy-friendly treats make it perfect for families. Unique cotton candy burritos offer a fun twist on classic flavors.

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

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."

"I loved the cotton candy ice cream burrito."

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.

06
The Escape Game Minneapolis image 1
Escape room center

Escape room center features intricate puzzles and engaging themes like sci-fi and deep sea. Staff such as Michael and Daisy create a kid-friendly atmosphere for ages 6 to 14. Some rooms may feel warm due to limited air flow, but teamwork and fun stay strong.

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.

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.

07
Final Cut Sports Barbershop image 1

Barbershop offers detailed fades in a relaxed vibe with friendly energy. Kids get modern mullets and care for autism, plus back to school supplies. Clean, inviting space welcomes all ages with genuine conversations.

Barbers handle kids' haircuts with care, including those with autism. They offer modern mullet and fade styles that kids enjoy, and sometimes give away back to school supplies.

People are saying

"The barbershop cuts here are worth more than money."

"This place is so Kid Friendly; they were patient and kind during my son's haircut."

"I got a great straight razor shave and haircut here."

Good to know

1

Kids' haircuts are more expensive than average.

2

There is usually no wait time for haircuts.

3

The barbers are experienced and skilled.

08
Nickelodeon Universe image 1

Indoor theme park with a giant glass roof offers a bright, lively space filled with Nickelodeon characters. Rides suit all ages, from gentle to thrilling, and parents ride free with kids, making it truly kid friendly and fun for families.

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.

People are saying

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

"Seeing old Nickelodeon characters brought back great memories and felt nostalgic."

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

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.

09
Tradehome Shoes image 1
Shoe store

Shoe store offers comfortable seating and friendly service for a chill shopping vibe. Kids get guided to the sneaker section with help finding correct sizes and affordable options. Staff stay professional and helpful throughout busy times.

Staff guide kids to the sneaker section and help find shoes that fit specific needs. Children pick favorites and receive correct sizes plus similar options, often leaving with reasonably priced shoes.

People are saying

"Julian at this footwear store was so knowledgeable and helpful."

"It's so Kid Friendly; Ted was patient and helpful."

"Manni and Pierce helped me find comfortable shoes."

Good to know

1

The store offers a Military 🎖️ Discount.

2

Expect a good variety of shoe styles and brands.

3

The store is well stocked with great brands and attractive shoes.

10
Edikted- Mall of America image 1

Clothing store buzzes with a DJ and discount wheel, creating a lively vibe. Staff speak fluent Gen-Alpha, making it kid friendly with fun accessories like hair claw clips. Apparel offers affordable, high-quality pieces favored by college shoppers, though sizing runs small.

Staff connect well with kids, speaking fluent Gen-Alpha and matching their energy. The store offers age-appropriate winter clothing and fun accessories like hair claw clips and slouchy socks that excite children.

People are saying

"The staff here really helps you find the perfect Women's Clothing."

"The Mall staff here are so friendly and eager to help you."

"The staff here is so helpful finding age-appropriate clothes for my daughter."

Good to know

1

The sizing runs small, so consider trying on before purchasing.

2

Quality of the clothes is generally high for the price.

3

The fitting room line is usually short, making it easy to try on items.

11
Riddle's Jewelry - Mall of America image 1

Bright, energetic space offers a huge selection of jewelry and watches with affordable prices and fast repairs. Staff handle kids with care, letting toddlers pick a special kids ring. Clear guidance on jewelry qualities and metal allergies ensures a confident choice.

Staff show attentiveness to young children and handle rowdy kids with care. They let toddlers pick out a special kids ring to take home, adding a fun touch.

People are saying

"The staff at this jewelry store are incredibly helpful and knowledgeable."

"The staff at this Ring Store are super friendly and helpful."

"The staff here are so helpful, especially with kids."

Good to know

1

They offer a warranty on their jewelry and free cleanings for all their items.

2

The turnaround time for repairs is typically around two weeks.

3

Expect quick service; many repairs are completed on the same day.

12
The LEGO® Store Mall of America image 1

Bright toy store shines with giant Lego sculptures and a lively interactive play area where kids build freely. Friendly staff offer kindness and help while the Pick-a-Brick wall draws Lego fans of all ages. Crowds add energy but can feel cramped.

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.

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.

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SEA LIFE at Mall of America image 1

Underwater tunnel offers shark views that thrill kids and adults alike. Interactive touch pools and a stamp book keep toddlers engaged. Crowds make it lively but can feel muggy during busy times.

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.

People are saying

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

"I saw so many different fish, sharks, and turtles."

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

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.

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FlyOver America image 1
Amusement park ride

Suspended chairs face a four-story spherical screen showing stunning American views with wind, mist, and scents. Kids love the thrilling ride that holds their attention and amazes families. Seating is comfortable and spacious, making it a calm, immersive flight experience.

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.

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.

15
ClimbZone at Mall of America image 1

Walls burst with colorful themed designs that spark adventure and fun. Kids enjoy creative challenges that boost confidence, while adults tackle varied difficulty levels with a self-belay safety system. Seating areas offer comfort and a safe, well-maintained space for all.

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.

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.

16
M&M’S Mall of America image 1

Three floors of massive candy walls and colorful displays create a lively, fun space. Kids love the blue M&M character and bright candies, though sampling can be hit or miss. Visitors enjoy mixing custom blends and exploring unique 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.

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.

17
Hot Topic image 1
Clothing store

Walls packed with graphic T-shirt prints create a lively spot for music and anime fans. Kids enjoy anime and Pokemon shirts plus toys that help with focus. Plus sizes and styles from pastel girly to edgy keep everyone happy.

Kids find anime and Pokemon shirts here, with staff helping to pick out cute kawaii tops. The place offers fun toys for children with ADHD to keep them engaged.

People are saying

"This place is so Kid Friendly, my daughter is infatuated with it."

Good to know

1

Hot Topic carries plus sizes without requiring advance orders.

2

The store has a great selection of band shirts and pop culture apparel.

3

The layout is spacious, making it easy to navigate and shop.

18
Rock Of Ages Blacklight Minigolf image 1

Indoor 18-hole mini golf glows under black lights with neon art and music themes. Space feels tight and has poor ventilation, making it sweaty for kids and adults. Groups with kids may feel rushed due to faster groups waiting behind.

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.

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.

19
Moose Mountain Adventure Golf image 1
Miniature golf course

Indoor miniature golf offers an 18-hole Bigfoot theme with tricky elevation changes. Kids love the simple layout that suits all ages. Expect a lively atmosphere and possible long waits due to high traffic.

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.

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.

20
Barnes & Noble image 1
Book store

Large bookstore offers wide selection of books and toys with a cozy atmosphere. Children's section is welcoming and has a junior area for young kids. Visitors enjoy Starbucks cafe and free WiFi while reading in a peaceful setting.

A welcoming children's section offers a wide variety of books and magazines, including a junior area for very young kids. Staff help find specific books, and there are places to sit and browse comfortably.

People are saying

"It's a great Reading Spot with a wide selection of books and gifts."

"It's so kid friendly with a great children's section and lots of books."

"It's a nice cafe to escape the hustle and bustle."

Good to know

1

Barnes & Noble has a wide selection of books, toys, and gifts for all ages.

2

The store features a Starbucks and a cafe with seating available.

3

Free WiFi is available, which is better than the mall's WiFi.

21
Princess and Diva Spa Fun Shop image 1

Bright, princess-themed decor and Disney songs create a fun, welcoming space. Kids enjoy high-quality spa services like manicures and pedicures with staff who make them feel special. The place stays busy with happy children and offers practical touches like lockers and a photo area.

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.

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 Spa staff is so kind and makes you feel special."

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.

22
Crayola Experience Mall of America image 1

Large indoor space buzzes with colorful walls and multiple playgrounds. Kids love the jungle gym and hands-on crafts. Staff are helpful, and restrooms are kid-friendly, making it easy for families to enjoy.

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.

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."

"You can make your own crayon and see your art come to life on screen."

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.

23
Element Bloomington Mall of America image 1

Spacious rooms with kitchenettes and filtered water add comfort. Kids enjoy a low chlorine pool and staff offer special care for children with Autism. Courtyard's firepits and gas grills create a relaxed outdoor vibe despite some plane noise.

A low chlorine pool offers a gentle swim spot for kids. Thoughtful staff provide personalized care like special room assignments and birthday cards for children with Autism.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is fresh, delicious, and surprisingly complimentary."

"James made our hotel stay incredible and so welcoming."

"This place is so kid friendly, my son wanted to celebrate his birthday here."

Good to know

1

Weekdays there is a manager's hour where light appetizers are available.

2

Breakfast ends at 10:00 AM; plan accordingly.

3

The hotel is located across the street from the Mall of America.

24
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar image 1
Japanese restaurant

Revolving sushi plates and a robot drink delivery make dining fun and interactive. Kids love the lively, Tokyo-style sushi bar vibe and tasty dishes like ramen. Touchscreen ordering adds convenience and keeps everyone engaged in a noisy, crammed space.

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.

People are saying

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

"I thought the concept and atmosphere were pretty cool."

"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.

25
WhirlyBall Twin Cities image 1
Amusement center

Huge amusement center buzzes with whirlyball courts and a multi-level laser tag arena that keep kids active and thrilled. Modern bowling lanes add variety while open dining and a lively bar offer space for all ages. Birthday parties shine with fun for both kids and adults.

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.

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.

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South Loop District, Bloomington

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