Nickelodeon Universe Mall of America




Nickelodeon Universe, located inside Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, is the largest indoor theme park in the U.S. With 27 rides and attractions under one massive roof — all themed to Nickelodeon shows and characters — it’s a year-round destination for families, thrill-seekers, and ’90s kids reliving their favorite cartoons.
History & Background
The park originally opened as Camp Snoopy in 1992, part of the Mall of America’s launch. After licensing changes, it was rebranded in 2008 as Nickelodeon Universe, bringing in characters from SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dora the Explorer, and more. It operates independently of the Six Flags or SeaWorld chains and has since expanded with a sister location in New Jersey.
Ticket Prices & Packages
Ticket options vary based on ride level:
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All-Day Unlimited Wristband: ~$39.99–$49.99
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Point Passes: Pay-per-ride model (~3–6 points per ride)
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Twilight Discount: Evening-only wristband available
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Annual Passes for frequent local visitors
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Group and birthday packages are also offered
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Open 365 days a year, with climate-controlled comfort.
Typical hours:
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Mon–Thurs: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
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Fri–Sat: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
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Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Best times to visit:
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Weekday mornings or late evenings
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During cold Minnesota winters (huge draw for indoor fun)
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Early December for low crowds and festive vibes
Top Rides & Attractions
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TMNT Shellraiser – Indoor launch coaster with the steepest drop in the world (shared with NJ location)
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Pepsi Orange Streak – Scenic coaster winding through the park
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Avatar Airbender – Spinning, half-pipe coaster
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SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge – Compact coaster with vertical lift and inversions
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BrainSurge – Spinning arm thrill ride
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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock – Unique flipping ride with rider control
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Ghost Blasters – Interactive dark ride with targets and spooky effects
Family & Kids Rides
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Back at the Barnyard Hayride – Tractor ride through a countryside path
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Blue’s Skidoo – A gentle, whimsical mini coaster
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Dora’s Ferris Wheel & Swiper’s Sweeper – Smaller versions of classic rides
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Diego’s Rescue Rider, Rugrats Reptarmobiles, and Bubble Guppies Guppy Bubbler – Targeted at preschoolers
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Character meet-and-greets with SpongeBob, Dora, PAW Patrol, and more
Indoor Experience Highlights
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No weather worries – Full indoor climate control
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Open all year long, including holidays
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Free Mall of America entry — pay only for rides
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Multiple viewing decks for parents to relax and watch
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Moose Mountain Mini Golf and FlyOver America are nearby within the mall
Dining Options
While food isn’t sold directly inside Nickelodeon Universe, it’s surrounded by over 50 food courts and sit-down restaurants inside the Mall of America, including:
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Shake Shack
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Buffalo Wild Wings
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Rainforest Café (great for kids)
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Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, and Raising Cane’s are nearby
Snacks like cotton candy, popcorn, and ICEEs are available near ride entrances.
Hotels & Accommodation
Connected and nearby hotels include:
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Radisson Blu Mall of America – Direct indoor access to the park
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JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America – Luxury option with packages
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Hilton Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport – Free shuttle service to the mall
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Airbnb and Extended Stay Suites are nearby in Bloomington
Many offer Nick Universe ticket bundles and holiday deals.
Getting There & Parking
Address: 5000 Center Ct, Bloomington, MN 55425
Located in the Mall of America, just off I-494, 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis.
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Free parking garages with thousands of spots
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Light rail (Metro Blue Line) stops right at the mall
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Hotel shuttles and rideshare zones clearly marked
Tips for Visiting
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If possible, buy the all-day wristband — better value than point passes
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Rock Bottom Plunge and Shell Shock get the longest lines — ride early
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Great winter destination — combine with shopping, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and mini golf
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Come early on weekends to avoid stroller traffic and peak lines
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Download the Mall of America app for maps, deals, and event schedules