Mall of America

The largest shopping mall in the country really is large — so large, in fact, that three U.S. Bank Stadiums could fit inside it. At 5.6 million square feet, there’s room for every kind of store, restaurant and kids’ activity, making the 25-year-old mall a customizable — and fully heated — experience.

Like a town square, the mall is laid out in four, three-level lanes around a full-fledged, indoor amusement park, Nickelodeon Universe (952-883-8800), complete with roller coasters and a log flume. The first level of South Avenue has several high-end shops, like Hugo Boss, A/X Armani Exchange and Burberry. East Broadway’s first level is for sports fans: Hockey Minnesota (952-854-9484) has Wild and Gophers paraphernalia, and and Pro Image Sports (952-960-0783) is your shop for Final Four merch or any other fan gear.

The third level of West Market includes Minnesota-themed shops for purchasing a stuffed moose or Minnetonka moccasins. And Rybicki Cheese (952-854-3330), a shop devoted to our neighboring state, stocks Packers gear and foam cheese heads, and ample samples of cheddar. Head over to Old Vine Wine and Spirits to buy a bottle from local distilleries and

If you’re looking to kill time or distract children, the mall’s got you covered. Mini-golf, maze games and escape rooms abound on the third floor, and a smaller fourth level houses a comedy club and virtual reality arcade. Sea Life Aquarium (952-883-0202) gives guests hands-on access to starfish and other creatures in a touch tank. Crayola Experience (952-851-5800) lets kids draw on the walls.

It doesn’t take much work to find whatever Mall of America experience you are looking for. Just pull in to one of the 12,750 parking spots, walk through any door, and go until you can’t go anymore.