Minnesota is a beautiful place, but I’d like to see what the rest of the country looks like too! How about you?
With four young boys in tow – we don’t get to see as much of the world as we’d like to. However, at Mall of America, you can see the most beautiful parts of the U.S. when you experience FlyOver America.
Our family of six visited this attraction during Christmas vacation and we LOVED it! It was an incredibly unique way for all of us to see parts of our great country that we have not seen before.
Each picture on this wall is a location that you fly over during your ride!
It’s a 4D/Virtual reality ride that makes you feel like your soaring through the open air (yet seated) with a giant screen and 180 degree views! The seats move up and down and sway to the side.
When you fly over the pine trees, you feel the wind in your face and SMELL PINE!
When you fly over the ocean towards Hawaii – you get spritzed with WATER!
During the holiday season, your trip also takes you to the North Pole. If you have children, visiting in November and December will be extra fun because there are “elves” that pop up throughout your travels. My boys got excited when they’d spot an elf. If the adventure wasn’t entertaining enough, adding silly elves certainly keeps kids engaged!
Here’s what I heard from my boys as we walked out of the FlyOver attraction:
George, Age 12: It was really cool! It gave me good memories.
Clark, Age 10: That was so good! I liked the blowing wind, smelling stuff, and splashes of water.
Paul, Age 8: I liked finding the elves and seeing them do funny things.
Luke, Age 5: That was SO fun! Can we do it again?!
Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for a future post that will include 30 things to do at Mall Of America besides SHOP! Subscribe so you don’t miss that one!
When we decided to move to Minnesota, we had NO IDEA where to plant our roots. There are hundreds of towns within a 30 mile radius of Minneapolis and we checked out MOST of them. Nearly every person we asked would tell us why their city was the BEST one in Minnesota. That made our decision extremely difficult, but we finally settled in Lakeville …and we LOVE it here!
(Buck hill is on the border of Lakeville and Burnsville)
Luke loves to Rock Climb!
Lifetime Gym – We are spoiled with a REALLY nice Lifetime Gym in Lakeville! Not only is it a great place to exercise, but we also love the Rock Climbing area (included with membership), Parents Night out (included with Membership!) and Swimming (awesome outdoor and indoor pools with waterslides)!
To celebrate her birthday, my sister Haili rented a house in Florida and asked if we’d come to celebrate with her!
Um…YEAH!
In June, I was in Florida for my cousin’s wedding. It was the first time I’d been back there in TWELVE years – George was in my tummy! As I was sitting on the beach in June, I imagined how much fun my boys would have if they could visit this beautiful place. I could see them splashing in the waves, laughing, playing, and making forever memories. I said a little prayer that we’d somehow, sometime soon, have an opportunity to bring them back here.
And three months later….my prayer was answered!
Next stop…Florida!
We arrived at the Panama City airport Tuesday night, but my checked bag was not so lucky. American Airlines said it wouldn’t be delivered until the next night. The bag contained ALL of our swim stuff. For our FIRST EVER family beach day, my boys didn’t have their swim trunks and I didn’t have a swimsuit. We also didn’t have sunblock, our beach towels, or life jackets.
Thankfully, boys were able to swim in their regular shorts, and Haili let me borrow a swimsuit and her beach supplies. (Thank you Haili!)
Playing with the skim board
Super cute suit that Haili let me borrow!
First splash
First glimpse at the ocean
I had never been to the northwest part of Florida, and was surprised how beautiful it was – especially Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, and the entire 30A area.
Cutest little coffee shop on Alys Beach
As we walked out to the beach on our first morning in Florida, my boys could not believe how BIG the ocean was. They’d never seen a body of water that went as far as the eye could see. They ran immediately to splash in the waves – and were surprised that it was SALTWATER. (I forgot to mention that).
What a JOY it was to watch my dream and prayer come true – the kids were laughing, playing, splashing and having SO MUCH fun. I got to catch up with my sister, and step-mom…the boys had so much fun playing with their cousins…it was perfect.
Clark and his cousin Elle
I love how the 11 of us could spend hours at the beach and never get bored.
Each afternoon, we’d come in for lunch. The little kids would rest, and a few of us would take a walk. We loved discovering the unique wildlife and plant life in Florida.
Elle and Henry
On a nature walk
Each evening, we’d all go back to the beach to play and watch the sunset.
We ate most meals at home, but one night we went out and had a fabulous dinner at a placed called “George’s” to celebrate Haili’s 40th birthday.
As we were going to bed on our last night, I received a text that our flight the next morning had been canceled. We called American Airlines and were on hold for TWO solid hours, then on with an agent for another hour as she figured out how to get us home – the only option was staying another 24 hours.
Screen shot of my 3 hour+ phone call
Obviously disappointed to stay another day in Florida
Luke and Paul
My sister and step-mom’s Delta flight was NOT canceled, and they flew home. So, Ted and I, and our boys, found a great price at a Hampton Inn, directly on Panama City Beach, and spent our last day there. It was a sweet way to end the trip — bonding with my boys on the beach!
Panama City Beach
I asked everyone what they loved and will remember most about this trip. Here are their answers:
George said, “Seeing the ocean for the first time. Also, cousins and big waves!”
George and mom
George and dad
Clark LOVED playing on the skimboard and pushing/pulling his brothers and cousins on it. Clark said his favorite parts of the trip were, “Cousins and water!”
Paul spent nearly the entire time looking for creatures – he found fish, lizards, crabs and jellyfish. Paul told me his favorite part of Florida was “catching stuff!”
Luke enjoyed building sand castles and playing in the waves. Luke told me his favorite part of Florida was playing with his cousins and being in the water.
Luke built this “castle” and stuck a feather in the top
Ted loved being with family, playing with the kids on the beach, and crab hunting.
I loved being with family – eating meals together, taking walks, playing in the ocean together, and the gorgeous sunsets every night made the perfect end to each day.
Our last dinner together in Panama City – Diego’s burritos
I’m fascinated at how God creates a beautifully unique sky every. single. night. The gifts He gives in nature are phenomenal. They are SO un-necessary, and often un-appreciated, but breathtaking and spectacular. I’d be sitting on the beach watching the sunset and wondering why every person in Florida wasn’t sitting with me. It’s one of the most magnificent sights I’ve ever seen.
Ted
Luke
I’m SOOOO incredibly grateful for Haili renting the house and inviting us to come. I’m grateful that Ted took time off work so that we could take this trip together. I’m grateful for answered prayer. I’m grateful for the beauty in Florida and for time with family!
Cutest little coffee shop on Alys Beach
Thanks to my sister Haili for making this trip a reality
Visit my instagram page and click “Florida 2019” to see additional pictures and videos from our vacation!
Summer is for making memories! Here’s the highlights:
A visit from Mom
Grandma came for her first summer visit in Minnesota! We got to spend a few awesome days together, which included knocking an item off the Minnesota Bucket List – a visit to Mill City Museum (click here to read about it). Then she graciously watched ALL FOUR boys so I could go to Florida for my second favorite memory of the summer…
My Cousin’s wedding in Florida
I spent four wonderful days with family in Sarasota, Florida to celebrate the wedding of my cousin (who’s like a little sister to me). My uncle rented a big house that used to belong to Flavor Flav and I spent 3 nights with family there – and one night with my sister on Long Boat Key. It’s the first time I’ve been back to Florida in SO long and forgot how much I love it there.
Me and my sister, Krista
View from Flavor Flav’s former house
There’s something soul-healing about walking on the beach, soaking in some sun, and playing in the waves.
My cousin’s wedding was absolutely BEAUTIFUL and I’m grateful I could be there!
A Unique Birthday
Dropping off diapers and wipes at a Pregnancy Center
Hiding Dollars at the Dollar Tree
Ended my birthday with burgers at B-52
I learned how not to dread turning a year older – make it about OTHERS! This year my boys and I researched ways to give back to our community. On my birthday, we spent the day making a difference!
My baby sister’s wedding in Oklahoma
Another whirlwind weekend with family in another part of the country. I loved spending time with family, celebrating Brooke and her new husband, Jeff!
She had the sweetest wedding, surrounded by big trees, on a beautiful lake.
My sister, her new husband, and new step-daughter
Fueling up for wedding prep
Presenting…the bride!
Fourth of July in Indiana
Shipshewana
Rise and Roll Donuts
An annual tradition – me and my sister with all of our kids
We spent several days with our Indiana family – boating, tubing, fishing on the Lake. We also explored Amish country in Shipshewana, Indiana.
On our way home from Indiana, we stopped for an…
Adventures in Illinois
We visited two places I love… Bien Trucha for the world’s best tacos and…
Blackberry Farm – A fun spot we’ve been visiting since the boys were babies!
We came back home to spend the rest of the summer at home. Some of the highlights for July and August are…
Exploring the Twin Cities
We went fishing, explored parks and beautiful spots around the Twin Cities.
Como Zoo and Conservatory
Egly Burger Challenge
BURGER CHALLENGE STOP #5
We are on the hunt for the best burgers in the Twin Cities. This summer we tried FIVE different burgers places. When we finish, I’ll blog about what we discovered!
Mall of America
Co-producers
Apple Camp
Lego store fun
Log Ride
We love having Mall of America just a few minutes away. George and Clark did a free video editing camp at the Apple Store and all four boys tried their first roller coaster.
Back-to-School Ice cream party
We texted our neighbors, set out ice cream and toppings and 30+ people showed up in our front yard for a back-to-school ice cream party. Super easy and fun for everybody! I wish I would have snapped a picture of the crowd gathered in our front yard – but I didn’t, and it is one of the sweetest memories of the summer.
The Minnesota State Fair
THE GIANT SLIDE
I was going to skip the fair this year, but a friend gave me four free tickets so I took Clark, his friend Sam, and Luke.
We tried some new foods, rode the Giant Slide, enjoyed the Fair from up above on a ski-lift type ride called the Sky Glider and played some games. It was the last thing we did before school started and Clark called it his “favorite thing” all summer…well, “and cousins.”
The Difference a Year Makes
Sisterhood
One year ago, I attended a ladies night (Sisterhood) at our church alone. I sat by myself and chatted with complete strangers. This year I came with this group of phenomenal women.
I’m shocked at what a difference a year can make. Last summer we did some grieving and moving – this summer was filled with friends and happy memories.
It’s been fun to go back and reflect on the summer and see the generosity of friendship, the beauty of nature, and the Goodness of God in all of it.
Thanks for joining me on the summer road trip down memory lane.
Subscribe to follow along on our adventures through Fall!
One year ago, New Life Church was hosting an amazing children’s/family ministry conference called The Gathering. It was during this conference that my husband accepted a job with Target, which meant we’d be moving to Minnesota.
I love Colorado, and I also loved working with this team at New Life. I was struggling with the idea that this chapter would be ending soon.
On the last night of the conference (last year), each person who helped lead the conference was given a box of cereal from Dr. Michelle Anthony – my (former) boss and Family Ministry Pastor. She gave me a box of S’mores and told me that she would like S’more of me. It took everything in me not to burst into tears right then. Just a couple days later, I’d be sharing the news that we’d be moving and she’d be getting S’less, not S’more.
I went home from the conference and shared how I was feeling with Ted. He encouraged me to come back to the conference in 2019 and volunteer.
So this year, I went to Colorado for a Volunteer Vacation! I came to assist, learn, and connect with my New Life friends!
When I first arrived in Colorado Springs – tears filled my eyes. This city has such a special place in my heart, and I was so happy to be back.
The morning of the conference, I drove over to New Life Church with my friend Holly, and helped with the last minute details. All morning I was greeted with love and hugs from friendly faces. It was pure joy.
Because my kids weren’t with me, I got to focus my whole week helping wherever needed … AND catching up with SO many dear people. I loved every minute of it.
In a season of all things new, spending several days in a place that holds so much familiarity & treasured relationships, felt like a well-timed gift.
Though I didn’t sleep much, I came home from my Volunteer Vacation refreshed and full.
If you have some vacation time coming up and aren’t sure what to do – consider a “Volunteer Vacation!” Take the opportunity to go somewhere and help with something. Every non-profit organizations can use an extra set of hands. And when you make time to bless someone or something, you always get blessed in return!
Here is an (affiliate) link to a book filled with ideas on short term adventures that will benefit you and others!
It was our first day of Summer Vacation and time to check something off our Minnesota Bucket list with a visit to the Mill City Museum. Imagine stepping into a museum that was once a bustling flour factory. The Mill City Museum in St. Paul was once the site of the General Mills (aka Cheerios) factory that was devastated by a flour explosion. The Minnesota Historical Society put the ruins to good use by creating a beautiful museum that shows the history of the flour industry in Minnesota, as well as how flour is turned into food.
I read beforehand that the museum doesn’t have their own parking. Thankfully, we found a place to park right outside the museum and the cost was only $1 per hour. There was also a parking garage right across the street, so finding a place to park wasn’t a problem.
From the moment we walked into the building, I was impressed with how nicely this historical building has been maintained.
First, we explored an old box car that was originally used to transport the flour all over the country. The original railroad track is still there.
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Next, we walked around the museum that was filled with hands-on exhibits. My boys LOVED the ‘water room’ where they could rebuild the city of Minneapolis and create a ‘log jam.’
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Be sure to check out the museum’s demonstration kitchen – if you are lucky, you may get to enjoy a freshly made Betty Crocker treat. My boys loved the ‘snacks’ they were served.
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For an immersive experience, be sure to check out the ‘Flour Tower’ exhibit, where you’ll be transported back in time and experience what it was like to work in the factory. This exhibit is a large elevator with seating inside. The elevator takes you up, stops at each level, opens up the doors, and shows you a glimpse into that level of the factory. There’s a video in the background with old footage, and voice recordings of men and women who used to work in the original factory. It was fascinating to hear the voice recordings of former workers sharing their memories and stories.
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Inside the freight elevator
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From the elevator, we went to the observation deck to take in the beautiful view of Minneapolis, the Stone Arch bridge and the Mississippi River. The Stone arch bridge was originally a train bridge, but is now a pedestrian walkway.
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From the observation deck at Mill City Museum
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After that, we went to view the 19 minute video, “History of Minnesota.” As someone new to Minnesota, the movie was informative and interesting!
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The Remains of the inside of the General Mills FactoryThis mill was erected in the year 1879 on the site of Washburn Mill which was totally destroyed on the 2nd day of May 1878, by fire and a terrific explosion occasioned by the rapid combustion of flour dust. Not one stone was left upon another and every person engaged in the building instantly lost his life. The following are the names of the faithful and well tried employees who fell victim of the awful calamity. E. Burbank, C Weing, E Grandman H Hicks, C Penning, P Judd, C Kimball, W Leslie, F Merrill, E Merrill, W. Savage, O Shie, A Smith, C. Wilbur. Labor Wide as the Earth has its Summit in Heaven.
Did you know that flour floating in the air is deadlier than GUN powder?
The original mill was built in 1874 but destroyed in a flour dust explosion that killed 14 people.
We walked outside the back door of the museum to explore the ruins of other mills along the channel. The channel was created to feed the mills with needed water power.
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The entire visit took about 3 hours. This museum is great for people ages 5 to 85. It would also make a unique date night.
We loved it and highly recommend a visit to Mill City Museum. (I was NOT paid for this endorsement.)
Ticket prices can be found by clicking here. However, I’d recommend purchasing the Minnesota History family pass that will get you into the Mill City Museum, Fort Snelling, the History Center, and more.
Minneapolis has TONS of great options for lunch or dinner after a visit to the museum. We chose Popol Vuh, but Hope Kitchen is another place we’d recommend.
Krista is a loving mom to four beautiful kids, a wife to her childhood sweetheart, and an Interior Designer in Indiana.
Krista and her husband Nate
Since arriving home after our family vacation in Hawaii, I’d been feeling a sense of longing for something I can’t put my finger on. I am sure the gray weather hasn’t helped, but it’s something more. While away, I had many awakening moments, and felt so much joy and peace. Even simple things like driving a Jeep with the rag top off, my hair blowing in the wind, the sun warming my skin and the tunes lifting my soul, felt almost supernatural; especially with the backdrop of the Hawaiian scenery unfolding before me with each twist and turn of the road! I had a few ‘once in a lifetime’ adventures like hiking 8 miles along one of the most majestic and rigorous coasts in the world, to a breathtakingly beautiful waterfall; it seriously did take my breath away for a moment. Another incredible moment was when my daughter Kate’s prayer was answered. Since the moment Kate heard we’d be visiting Hawaii, she’d been praying each night for God to let her meet one of her role models: Bethany Hamilton. God answered her prayer when we happened to be in the SAME place at the SAME time as Bethany!
Kate is SO happy to be meeting Bethany Hamilton!
Krista and the waterfall
The green church we visited on Easter Sunday
I can remember sitting in a quaint green church on Easter morning trying to hold back tears. I was feeling a sense of awakening to how I was made, how God made me, as well as what makes me feel alive and engaged with who I am and the life around me. It also was an awakening to some ways I’m conforming that aren’t really true to how I am made – conforming to my environment and people for one reason or another.
Back at home, I was cleaning up breakfast, doing laundry, and picking up toys (that were just picked up). I felt a since of sadness and frustration wash over me. I thought, “Is this all I’m ever going to do?” I turned to Nate sighing. He asked what was wrong and what was fluttering through my mind. I told him how I wanted to feel the way I did in Hawaii. In Hawaii, the mundane chores were enjoyable. I wanted to go back to the way we were in Hawaii-completely natural-with no make up and no hair brush. I loved how I could let the ocean water and air style my hair, and it was beautiful. We could walk barefoot almost everywhere, even shopping! I felt a sense of belonging and at home in a place I’d never been.
Nate reminded me of what the Hawaiian pastor taught one Sunday in a Hawaii…
Pastor Steve, in a small tent with maybe 100 people, taught from a passage in Philippians. This passage talks about praying with joy. He went on to describe how amazing it is when you think about Paul and all he went through. Paul wrote about JOY while in prison! Throughout Paul’s life, he had times where he was in need, and other times when he had plenty, he experienced the best and worst of life. Paul encourages us, as believers in Christ Jesus, to choose contentment and joy in all things, situations and places. Paul tells us to count it “all” joy. Pastor Steve paralleled this all to the deeper meaning of Aloha.
Aloha means ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye,’ but it also mean SO MUCH MORE. Aloha means joy, and more specifically, finding joy in the mundane…maybe even choosing joy in the mundane. It is being in harmony and unity with your REAL self, with God and mankind. It involves being honest, truthful, patient and humble. Aloha (joy in the mundane) isn’t just something to experience in Hawaii, it’s found…WITHIN!! Even though I experienced it in such a deep way on an island in the Pacific, it doesn’t stay there. I can experience “Aloha” wherever I am! Joy is on the inside of me and I will CHOOSE it!
There is a part of me that wants Heaven on earth and life to be easier than what it is, for me and for others. I’m beginning to see that the longing itself is beautiful. We were made to long for more. The longing actually leads us to “Aloha”. It can lead us to unity and harmony with our real self, God and humanity. I am a living example that He does satisfy, amaze, and leave us at peace like nothing else when we seek Him in what He is saying and doing in the mundane. I believe true Aloha only comes from Him and is also a journey with Him.
So I leave you with a heart full of Mahalo. Mahalo simply means “Thank you!” However, the deeper meaning involves thankfulness to God for our past, present and future. I’m hoping it touches a part of your heart and awakens you as it did me!
Krista and her 3 oldest kids – Kate, Mason, and Jack
We were planning to have a “staycation” in Minnesota for Spring Break – possibly knocking out some of my bucket list items, but at the last minute, we decided to jump in the car and drive to Oklahoma.
The Tulsa area is a special place for Ted and me. This is where we met, fell in love and got married. It’s where we purchased our first little home and where we still have lots of friends and family! It’s always nice to be in Oklahoma.
Saturday
We arrived at my in-laws house on Saturday and spent the evening catching up with our Oklahoma family.
Two of my sisters
Cousins
Sunday
We visited Life Church with friends, then spent the afternoon with more family. The day was warm and the sun was out and it felt so good to be in the sunshine!! I forgot how glorious the warm sun feels!
Sunday night Ted and I went out with two couples who have been friends since before we were all married. We laughed til our cheeks hurt and our dinner at Red Rock Canyon Grill was incredible!
Our server was a girl named Tiffany Rogers, who I knew from nearly 20 years ago. I hadn’t seen her in person since she was 8 years old, but we are social media friends. She is a GREAT writer and will soon be publishing her first book. Click here to find her on instagram.
George hanging in a POD
Luke on the slide
George on the zip line
The boys
Luke and Nana in the Mirror Maze
Paul on a Pear
Monday
Monday we spent the morning at an amazing new park called the Gathering Place. This place was named the best park in America and that is COMPLETELY accurate. It’s 100 acres of beautiful landscaping and incredible play areas for kids. Swings, zip line, climbing structures of every sort, slides, a music area, a castle, canoes, a water area and more. They spared no expense at making this the most amazing park in the world. And it’s FREE to the public!!! Thank you to the Kaiser Family, to Tulsa, and all those who sponsored this incredible place. It’s worth a trip to Tulsa just to visit this awesome park. No matter your age, you will LOVE IT!
Afterwards, we visited the church where we got married. It’s the first time we’d been back since our wedding day! We also found the spot where we took our engagement photos and re-enacted one of them.
2019
2001
2001
2019
Wednesday
I woke up and went for a run. I heard the sounds of birds and frogs, I could smell spring blooming, I spotted a pair of cardinals, a BRIGHT bluebird, and then a BALD EAGLE flew right over my head. It literally took my breath away.
For lunch, we met my step-mom, step-sister, and her kids at a yummy BBQ place called Burn Co., then went back to the Gathering Place.
Paul and Ava, enjoying the view from the BoatHouse
Thursday
Ted and I explored one of our favorite places (Utica Square), sat outside a coffee shop to read, then had an early dinner at Los Cabos. They have great Mexican food and outdoor dining.
Luke watching Clark fish
Paul caught a fish!
Friday
The boys went fishing, we played games, and then packed to head home.
We took time at dinner to reflect on what we loved about our week in Oklahoma and agreed that we loved EVERYTHING!
Tuesday is the BEST day to visit Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America.
First of all, no crowds (except in December).
Second – Toddler Tuesday
This name is deceiving. It’s not just for “Toddlers” … it’s open for anyone!
Nearly every Tuesday throughout the year, there is a special performance or activity for children in the Rotunda. There are also discounts on food and entertainment. Click here for the schedule of events.
I took my boys (ages 11, 9, 6, and 4) to Nickelodeon Universe on a Tuesday and they all got the special wristbands that cost $14.99 each, which includes unlimited use of 16 rides for 5 hours! Plus, parents with little ones can ride along for free! I got to be a “chaperone” for my four year old on nearly every ride.
Here are some pictures and information on what’s included with this wristband:
1. Pineapple Popper (Jumpy Castle)…all four of my boys LOVED it! It was in their top five favorite attractions. BRING SOCKS! You must be wearing socks or you CAN NOT jump!
Pineapple Popper – Super fun for all four boys!
2-3. Crazy Cars and Rugrats Reptarmobiles: We ALL loved the bumper cars! There are two different “bumper car” rides. The Crazy Cars are larger “two-person” bumper cars that are faster and more fun for the bigger kids – and adults! (Adults ride free on the large bumper cars if you have little ones). The Rugrats Reptarmobiles are smaller, slower, one person bumper cars. Luke preferred the small one because he could drive! My boys all rode both of these rides over and over.
4. Back at the Barnyard Hayride – A small roller coaster that’s moves pretty fast around the track and just has a “little” drop – everyone enjoyed this!
5. Swiper’s Sweepers – My boys called this the “cars that drift” and thought the ride was awesome – they wanted to ride it over and over!
6. Diego’s Rescue Rider – fun for the kids
7. Big rigs – Semi trucks that go around the track. Luke liked this the most because he thought he was really driving!
8. Train (aka: La Aventura De Azul) – All four of my boys rode this, but Luke was the only one who liked it – because #tooslow.
9. Ghost Blaster – I’m not a fan of ‘ghost’ anything, but my 9 and 11-year-old LOVED shooting the “bad guys” (ghosts). This was their favorite ride because they got to use guns and earn points for each thing they shot. I wish they’d switch this up to something less creepy because it did make my little guys a little scared. Legoland in the Chicago suburbs has a similar ride called “Kingdom Quest” where you are challenged to shoot the ‘non-creepy’ lego villians in order to save the princess . The one at LegoLand is better, but they both have the same concept – and are super fun for those 6 and up. I even had fun shooting!
10. Ferris Wheel (aka: el Circulo de Cielo) – We all enjoyed this. It’s fun to see the mall from the top of the Ferris Wheel. You get great view!
11. Carousel/Merry-go-round – Classic ride. Only my little guys wanted to ride this.
12. Rock bottom Plunge – Mixed reviews from my 3 oldest. I think they are still a little young to enjoy this! However, I’m a grown adult and don’t like the dropping rides!
Paul’s face … I’m not sure he’s liking it!
Paul smiling at the end!
13. Blue’s Skidoo – Simple kids ride that goes around and up and down. Fun for the younger kiddos!
14. Adventure Bay Playground – this is not a ride, but an open play area similar to what you find for free at many malls. My four year old enjoyed this play area.
15. Bubble Guppy Bubbler – My kids LOVED this ride but I hated it. Next time, I’ll let them ride alone. The ride goes up and has spins and I got so sick that I almost threw up. Don’t ride it if (or your children) don’t like spinning, get nauseous easily, just after eating, or you have a weak stomach.
16. Wonder Pets FlyBoat – This ride lifts you 20 feet, then bounces you up and down until you make a soft landing. My kids enjoyed this one. It’s much more kid-friendly than the ‘rock bottom plunge.’
Overall, the wristband was well worth the cost. We all had SO MUCH FUN!
Here are other things to look for:
Special performances for kids! Every Tuesday, there is some sort of “show” and activities for kids in the Mall’s Rotunda.
The characters are out to say ‘Hi,’ pose for pictures and give high-fives!
Home Plate! Did you know that before Mall of America, there was a baseball field on this property? Mall of America is built on the site of the former Metropolitan Stadium. Try to find HOME PLATE somewhere in Nickelodeon Universe. Clark found it!
Metrodome
The Mall of America coupon book – This can be found at any Information Counter in the mall. The book is similar to an “Entertainment Book” and filled with valuable coupons for the Mall – including shops, food and attractions!
Includes more than 200 coupons for the mall!
Use this coupon and the coupon book will only cost $4.95!
Parking: Parking is FREE and each parking lot section has a different name. Take a picture of where you park, as well as the first store you see when you walk into the mall. After shopping for several hours, it’s easy to forget which door you came into and what lot your car is in!
