In the center of Mall of America lies one of our country’s greatest amusement parks—Nickelodeon Universe. Spend a high-flying, thrilling day here and end it with a light show that will blow your mind, not your wallet.

Morning:

Although there are automated ticket kiosks at each of the park’s entrances, you can save $5 per ticket if you purchase wristbands online. What’s a wristband, you ask? All rides in the park have a point value, and each ride is worth a specific amount of points. In other words, you buy “points” to ride. Wristbands are the most economical, at $34.99 for all day unlimited, if you plan to spend a full day here…which you should.

The sprawling attraction covers seven acres, so it might be overwhelming at first glance. Don’t worry, you’ll get to enjoy all the fun. Warm up for a day of excitement on Backyardigans Swing-Along, a giant group swing that reaches heights of up to 27 feet. The ride is invigorating, exciting and breathtaking—not to mention, it gives you sky-high views of the amusement park below.

Other rides to try include Bubble Guppies Guppy Bubbler, Dora the Explorer El Circulo Del Cielo and Rugrats Reptarmobile. Kick things up a notch on a couple roller coasters before lunchtime. We recommend Swiper’s Sweeper and Fairly Odd Coaster for hairpin turns and plummeting spirals.

Lunch:

When you need a break from thrill seeking, head to Shake Shack for a modern day roadside diner style eatery. Located just outside the north end of Nickelodeon Universe, this restaurant offers delicious burgers, hot dogs, frozen custard and more. Try their custard flavor of the week in a shake or create your own custard concoction with different flavors, toppings and sauces.

Afternoon:

After lunch it’s time to slow things down a bit. Get in line for a fun challenge on Dutchman’s Deck Adventure Course. Fun for all ages, this attraction features an indoor zip line (the longest in North America), a spiral slide to send you spinning, and the tallest Sky Trail^®  ropes course in the world. Purchase your tickets for this special attraction online ahead of time for convenience.

Next up is a round of mini golf at Moose Mountain Adventure Golf. This 18-hole mini golf course is fun for the entire family. Enjoy putting the green high above Nickelodeon Universe and the one-of-a-kind north woods design. The course features life size moose, horses and more, along with cartoon trains, trucks and natural environment.

Evening:

Dinner at none other than Hard Rock Cafe on the main level of the amusement park is a must. Friday nights mean it’s time to Rock AND Ride! If you haven’t spent the day there and are just arriving or if you’d prefer to avoid the more youthful crowds, grab a Twilight Ride Wristband for $26.99 to access the rides from 5 to 10 p.m. Show your wristband at Hard Rock Cafe and receive a free kids meal with purchase of any adult meal. Then, join DJ Bob from 8 to 10 p.m. and boogie down to your favorite hits. In between dancing and riding, be sure to take in the Universe of Lights, a nine-minute light show complete with colors, music and smoke effects that transform the air space into a technicolor dream that is just as exciting as the rides within Nickelodeon Universe.

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