Spend a Half Day at MOA®
If you only have half a day to spend at Mall of America®, here are a few highlights to help you make the most of every minute.
For the early birds, one of the best-kept secrets is that the Mall opens three hours before most retail stores. That means you can arrive as early as 7 a.m., grab coffee, and ease into the day while you get your bearings. You’ll likely see hundreds of dedicated Mall Walkers on their daily laps (a Minnesota tradition in itself) and it’s a surprisingly peaceful way to experience the building before the energy of the day ramps up.
Fun fact: Each level of the Mall is about 1.2 miles long, so if you walk all three shopping levels (not including Level 4), you’ve basically completed a 5K. Frankly, we should be handing out medals.
If breakfast is on your agenda, you’ll find coffee available early in several locations (including Caribou Coffee, Starbucks, and more), or you can treat yourself to something memorable at Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café on Level 1, which opens around 8 a.m. most days. It’s one of those places that turns breakfast into an experience rather than just a meal.
Once stores open, you’ll quickly realize there’s no way to see everything in a half day, so focus on a few standout stops. Every year we welcome dozens of new retailers; some you may want to prioritize this visit include POP MART (home of the wildly popular LABUBU collectibles), the NBA Store, Samsung, Laderach, MINISO, Mango, and MAVI.
Pro Tip: Purchase a Mall of America coupon book and shopping bag at any of our three Guest Service desks, located near the North, West, and East first floor entrances. Not only do they make great souvenirs, but the offers inside can add up to significant savings throughout your visit.
If you’re looking for entertainment but don’t quite have enough time for the full experience, use point passes at Nickelodeon Universe®. If you only have time for a ride or two, you can’t miss The Pepsi Orange Streak; it’s great fun for everyone! Or visit SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium and check out the walk-through underwater tunnel. Other ideas include checking out DUCK! on Level 3, which is claw-machine paradise, or stop by the Build-A-Bear x Hello Kitty & Friends Workshop nearby. They’re close to each other, easy to fit into your schedule, and fun whether you’re traveling with kids or just embracing your inner child.
You have so many options when hunger hits — but if you’re short on time and want something satisfying, Roni’s Mac Bar in the South Food Court delivers comfort food at its finest. It’s cheesy, filling, and fast. If you’re looking for something a little more elevated (with a side of culinary theater), Mogouyan Hand-Pulled Noodles is a guest favorite. Watching the noodles being made fresh right in front of you is part of the experience!
Pro Tip: If you find yourself in the Huntington® Bank Rotunda, pause for a moment and take it in. There’s often a major event happening (from cultural celebrations to celebrity appearances) but even when it’s quiet, this space has history. Some of the world’s biggest musicians, movie stars, athletes, authors, fashion icons, and even championship wrestlers have stood right where you’re standing, connecting with millions of guests over the years. It’s one of those places that reminds you just how unique this destination really is. Take a selfie. You won’t regret it.