Nickelodeon Universe fills the central court of Mall of America with something that still surprises first-time visitors: a full theme park, indoors, open all year. Roller coasters twist between the balconies of the mall, a log flume splashes beneath the skylights, and character-themed family rides fill the floor, all at a comfortable room temperature even when Minnesota is frozen outside. Tiqets describes the park as having around two dozen unique rides and attractions, and the mix suits every age, from toddler carousels and spinning rides to thrill coasters for teenagers. The park is free to walk through, so non-riding parents and grandparents can follow the children around, and you can pay per ride with points or buy an unlimited wristband. The wristband is the better value if you plan to ride more than a handful of times. The Tiqets product linked on this page is the any-day unlimited ride wristband, which you collect at a staffed register on the day, and it can be cancelled or rescheduled free of charge until twenty-four hours before your visit. The park is a highlight of any family trip to the Twin Cities, and a lifesaver on a cold or wet day.
How to visit: Tiqets lists park hours of 11am to 8pm from Monday to Thursday, 10am to 9pm on Friday and Saturday, and 11am to 7pm on Sunday, though hours vary through the year, so check the official schedule for your date. Show the smartphone voucher at a staffed register to collect your wristband. The wristband is valid only on the day you use it, cannot be shared or exchanged, and each rider needs their own. Rides carry height requirements, so measure young children before you promise them the biggest coaster.
What to expect: the park is lively, noisy and bright, and lines vary from almost nothing on a school-day morning to long waits on weekends and holidays. Because it is open-plan, you can see and hear the park from every level of the mall, and parents often take turns while others shop or eat nearby. Wheelchairs can be rented on a limited, first-come basis.
Making the most of it: go on a weekday, arrive at opening and ride the most popular coasters first. Take breaks at SEA LIFE or the food courts, then come back for a final round as the day crowd thins. Keep the wristband on, as you will need it at every ride.
What to expect
The experience
An indoor theme park with around two dozen rides and attractions, from toddler rides to roller coasters, in the central court of Mall of America.
Best time
Weekday mornings at opening, outside school holidays, for the shortest lines.
How long
Three hours for a good session, up to a full day for keen riders.
Tips
Check height requirements before you go, collect your wristband at a staffed register and keep it on all day.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with children of any age and teenagers who want coasters whatever the weather.
- Families
- The best family attraction in the Twin Cities, with rides for toddlers through to teens and free entry for non-riders.
- Couples
- Fun for young-at-heart couples, though most will prefer FlyOver America for a shorter thrill.
- Pair with
- SEA LIFE Minnesota for a calmer hour, or a meal in the mall between ride sessions.
- Time needed
- Three to six hours.
Good questions
Is Nickelodeon Universe indoors?+
Yes, the whole theme park is indoors, in the central court of Mall of America. It is open all year whatever the weather outside.
What does the unlimited ride wristband include?+
It gives unlimited rides on the park’s rides and attractions for one day. It is valid only on the day you use it and cannot be shared.
Can I cancel my Nickelodeon Universe wristband?+
The Tiqets wristband can be cancelled or rescheduled free of charge until twenty-four hours before your visit. After that it is non-refundable.
Do non-riders need a ticket for Nickelodeon Universe?+
No, the park is open to walk through, so parents and grandparents can follow along without a wristband. Only riders need a wristband or points.
Are there height requirements on the rides?+
Yes, each ride has its own height requirement, from gentle family rides to bigger coasters. Measure children before you go so they know which rides they can try.
