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Nickelodeon Universe tourist attraction in Minneapolis, MN
Photo: Victor victorino
View of Nickelodeon Universe in Minneapolis, MN
Photo: Andrea Magness
View of Nickelodeon Universe in Minneapolis, MN
Photo: Juawana Hall

Nickelodeon Universe

4.5(17,073 reviews)$$$Amusement Park
🕑 4-6 hours👶 Best for ages 3-12, though something for everyone. Preschoolers adore the Nickelodeon character meet-and-greets and gentler rides in the PAW Patrol area, while grade-schoolers thrill on coasters like the SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge. Height requirements vary by ride, with options for tots to teens.

About

Nickelodeon Universe is America's largest indoor theme park, spanning seven acres within Mall of America. With 27 rides ranging from thrilling roller coasters to gentle kiddie rides, all themed around SpongeBob, PAW Patrol, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and other Nickelodeon favorites, it offers year-round climate-controlled fun regardless of Minnesota's weather.

Highlights

  • SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge - exciting roller coaster with underwater theming
  • PAW Patrol Adventure Bay - dedicated area for preschoolers with gentle rides and character experiences
  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock - spinning coaster that's a family favorite
  • Pepsi Orange Streak - suspended roller coaster circling the entire park
  • Regular character meet-and-greets with SpongeBob, the PAW Patrol pups, and other Nickelodeon stars

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive right at opening (10 AM weekdays, 11 AM Sundays) for shortest lines and first dibs on popular rides like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell Shock coaster
  2. 2.Purchase wristbands online in advance for significant savings compared to gate prices and skip the ticket counter line
  3. 3.Park in the East or West ramps closest to the North entrance for easiest access to Nickelodeon Universe
  4. 4.Bring socks for kids,many attractions require them, and they're expensive to buy at the park
  5. 5.Download the Mall of America app to check real-time ride wait times and plan your route efficiently

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) during the school year offer the lightest crowds. Avoid weekends, holidays, and summer afternoons when wait times can exceed an hour for popular attractions. Early birds catch the shortest lines.

What to Know

All-day ride wristbands typically range from $40-60 per person (pricing varies; under 3 free). Parking at Mall of America is free for the first several hours. Food courts and restaurants throughout the mall provide numerous dining options, and the park has several snack stands inside.

Seasonal Notes

Being fully indoors makes this ideal year-round, especially during harsh Minnesota winters. Special holiday decorations and events occur during Halloween, Thanksgiving, and winter holidays. Summer tends to be busiest with tourists and local families on break.

Nearby Eats

The entire Mall of America surrounds the park with options for every taste and budget. For kid-friendly picks, try Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (theme restaurant with interactive trivia) on the fourth floor or the extensive food court on level one featuring quick options from pizza to Asian cuisine.

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