If you’re looking for a first-class outdoor experience for your next adventure, Bloomington, MN can add to it, and is minutes from the Mall of America for:
· Bird Watching – Along the Minnesota River, and around several lakes
· Bush Lake – A popular spot for paddling enthusiasts
· Hyland Lake Park Reserve – Offers several biking and hiking trails
· Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge – Off-road trails for biking, bird watching, and hiking
· Minnesota River – Paddle to the confluence of the Mississippi, also several lakes and wetlands to explore.
Bloomington offers many fun activities, such as mountain biking, bird watching along the Minnesota River, or paddling to the confluence of the Mississippi River. After dancing on the pedals that connect to several South Metro paved trails, hiking the nature trails, or paddling the lakes and rivers. Take a break and enjoy some indoor fun at the world-renowned Mall of America, along with several other nearby attractions.
Places to Ride in Bloomington
There is no shortage of pedaling fun for all experience levels in Bloomington. You can comfortably share the designated bike-friendly streets with motorists, tour the many paved trails along the roads and parks, or hop on one of the connecting off-road trails. Ride your bike to the Hyland Lake Park Reserve, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, and the Normandale Japanese Gardens. At Hyland, you can relax at the beach, play disc golf, go for a nature walk, and more. Or, venture along the trail in the Minnesota River bottoms with your mountain bike or hiking shoes and binoculars.
Multi-modal Transportation expands your touring options.
Along with many connecting trails to other parts of the Twin Cities, consider using a city bus or the light rail to expand the reach of your next bike adventure. The city buses and light-rail lines allow you to board with your bike on the east side of the Mall of America. Then ride your bike back to Bloomington on the connecting paved trails. Learn more about multi-modal opportunities at Metro Transit during your visit.
Walk/Hiking Opportunities
There are many hiking and walking opportunities when visiting Bloomington. Here is a list of free maps to get you started.
City of Bloomington
Minnesota River Bottom Trail
Bass Pond and Old Cedar Bridge Trail
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
Long Meadow Lake Trail
Moir/Central Park
Paddling Opportunities and more
Bloomington offers several paddling opportunities at Anderson Lake, Bush Lake, Normandale Lake, Penn Lake, and the Minnesota River. Many places along the banks and shorelines here are ideal for bird watching.
Available Maps for Exploring Bloomington
Bass Pond and Old Cedar Bridge Trail
Moir/Central ParkAnderson LakeBush LakeNormandal LakePenn Lake
Area Bike Shops and Clubs
ERIK’S Bike Board Ski |431 E 78th St, | 952-886-0800 | Website
ERIK’S Bike Rentals | 6515 Richfield Pkwy|952-886-0800 | Website
Freewheel Bike | 3916 W Old Shakopee Rd| 952-888-1427 | Website
Pedego | 1355 Mendota Heights Rd. | 612 827-5000 | Website (E-bike Rentals Available)
REI | 750 W American Blvd, | 952-884-4315 | Website
After exploring Bloomington’s outdoors
There will come a time when you may need a break from your outdoor adventure here. If you need a breather, Bloomington offers numerous places to take a pause. And thanks to the city’s bike-friendly atmosphere, you can still get some pedaling in on your way to:
Mall of America 60 E Broadway Bloomington, MN 55425
Normandale Japanese Garden
9700 France Ave S
Bloomington, MN 55431
Bloomington Historical Museum
10200 Penn Ave S.
Bloomington, MN 55431
AMF Southern Lanes
7941 Southtown Dr.
Bloomington, MN 55431
Hyland Lake Park Reserve & Play Area
10145 Bush Lake Rd
Bloomington, MN 55438
Where to Eat
Nothing complements a memorable day on the trails like a great meal. The city offers many choices, whether it’s your favorite fast-food joint or a place to sit and enjoy a nice burger and beer. Here, you will also find countless restaurants to satisfy your appetite, no matter what you crave.
Where to Sleep
A good night’s sleep makes all the difference, and Bloomington offers countless lodging options. A place where you can kick back and relax after a hard day of exploring. A lodge providing various amenities to make your stay memorable. Whether you want to relax in the hot tub or enjoy a good book in your room, there are plenty of options available.
WI-FI Hotspots and the Library
You will find Wi-Fi access in many coffee shops, restaurants, and hotels throughout the area. The public library is another good option. There are two libraries in Bloomington: the Penn Lake Library at 8800 Penn Ave S. and the Oxboro Library at 8801 Portland Ave S., another good option.
Nearby Airports
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport
Fort Snelling Unorganized Territory, MN 55111
Planning your next adventure here
See the Bloomington Travel & Tourism Bureau for more detailed information on planning your next trip to Bloomington, MN.