The giant Mall of America, in Bloomington MN, has always had plenty of fun for families, including an indoor theme park called Park at MOA, with seven acres and more than 30 rides and attractions.
In 2008, however, this theme park took a great leap forward as a fun place for families, re-branding, as they say, and expanding into Nickelodeon Universe, with five new rides, re-themed old rides, and new status as the largest indoor amusement park in the US.
Nickelodeon Universe
"Nickelodeon Universe" is the first theme park with Nickelodeon branding, with new and old rides matched to popular characters from Nickelodeon's tv shows: SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, and other faves.
Those who want "thrill rides" will find nine choices. For instance: tThe SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge coaster has loops and spirals, caverns and Bikini Bottom scenes (and a height requirement of 48”, just so you know.) The The Fairly Odd Coaster is another thrill ride themed to a Nick tv show; Jimmy Neutron has an attraction, too.
Nickelodeon Universe has plenty of non-thrill as well: Family Rides, such as the El Circulo del Cielo ferris wheel with Dora the Explorer and Boots, Log Chute water ride, and lots more. And the younger set has a bunch of Kiddie Rides, such as Rugrats Reptarmobiles. (Click above to see photos.)
Finally: is this a new trend? Dining marketplace "Eats" offers "healthy, gourmet options" for kids and adults.
Other Nickelodeon-themed Fun Places for Families
Nickelodeon already had another themed fun place for families: the popular Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn, in Orlando, with two waterparks and games and entertainment by Nickelodeon. Also , Nickelodeon is teaming up with the Marriott hotel chain to build Nick-themed resorts, and with Royal Caribbean International Cruise Line, for cruises -- read more about Places to Have Nickelodeon Themed Fun.
at the Mall of America web site.
*Photos courtesy of Mall of America: Nickelodeon Universe
