Top 10 Mall of America Hotels

Ramada means "a shelter equipped with a roof but no walls." Doesn't sound so glamorous, does it? Well, look at it this way: No walls means infinite space for exploration--it means endless possibilities. And that's exactly what Ramada Mall of America exemplifies. Just a stone's throw from the Mall of America, the swanky IKEA department store, and a plethora of mouth-watering eateries, the Ramada provides plenty of space for discovery. And after a full day of investigating, kick back and enjoy the hotel's intoxicating amenities: A fully-equipped business center, a massive game room, indoor/outdoor pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and onsite restaurants.

If one were pressed to create a motto for a guest at this 255-room palace, it would likely go as such: "Work hard, play harder." The Ramada Mall of America possesses all of the business amenities to please even the surliest of traveling executives. Equipped with 32,000 square feet of meeting space (with full convention and banquet services), the hotel is more than capable of meeting all of your business and convention needs. Additionally, free high-speed wireless internet is provided throughout the hotel and guest rooms, allowing you to get down to the nitty gritty in between games of "Words with Friends." After a productive day, let the swirling waves of the whirlpool work out those knots in your back. Getting work done is all well and good, but you know what they say, "All work and no play makes the hotel guest a dull boy (or girl)." If you've already done your share of exploring the town, there's plenty of fun to be had at the hotel, beginning with the Backyard Outdoor Pool and Bar. Let the tropical atmosphere engulf you as you sip on a daiquiri, the gentle flames of the fire pit warming your legs, the live music cooing in the background. Dive into the perpetually heated crystal waters of the pool (the only outdoor pool in the area, by the way) and relax or horse around with your loved ones. After you dry off, head to the game room for a few rousing games of ping pong or billiards. And, if you're feeling cozy, flip on the flat panel television and catch a flick on HBO or the big game on ESPN, both of which are free. All in all, the Ramada Mall of America provides entertainment for all ages.

Entrance fees

The Ramada is quite fond of the little guys: There's no charge for children 12 and under and small pets are allowed (for a small fee). Additionally, free parking is offered.

Fun facts

The Ramada Mall of America has been welcoming guests for 49 years, making it Bloomington's first hotel.

Related Onsite Offerings

Only two miles from the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport, the Ramada offers free shuttles to and from the airport and Mall of America.

When describing the affable Embassy Suites staff, the term "Minnesota Nice" immediately comes to mind. So determined are they in making you feel as comfortable as possible, you might feel guilty leaving the hotel to go sightseeing. From the complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast to the tranquil hotel atrium to the casual in-house restaurants, the Embassy is brimming with the rustic simplicity and charm that makes the Midwest so appealing.

The reoccurring theme with the Embassy appears to be complimentary: complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast every morning, complimentary manager's reception every evening, complimentary business center, complimentary fitness center and gym, complimentary USA Today at your door--and the list goes on. So, what's with all this complementary hoopla? It may have something to do with the Embassy's grand scheme to make their guests feel as welcome as possible. This would explain why each room is furnished with the dream-inducing cloud known as the Suite Dreams bed by Serta rather than the standard mattress. Or why each room boasts two flat screen televisions with HBO and cable. If you ever do decide to leave your room, make sure to stop by Woolley's Steakhouse, which has been known as the South Metro's king of the cut for over 20 years. While dining, patrons are treated to a view of the exotic atrium foliage and flowing brooks. And, if the rural vibe isn't for you, 40 restaurants await you just a mile away in the shopper's paradise of Mall of America. Also within a mile are the historic Fort Snelling and the Minnesota Valley Wildlife Refuge. As you can see, the Embassy, like the entire state of Minnesota, offers culturally rich experiences in both natural and urban settings.

Related activities

Though the Embassy offers a pool, Water Park of America, with its Lake Superior wave pool, surf simulator, and 5,800 square-foot arcade, awaits just a mile down the road.

Getting there

From Airport - take 494 West to 34th Avenue Exit. Go South (left) to American Boulevard. The hotel is at the corner of 34th Avenue and American Boulevard. From Minneapolis - take 35W South to 494 East to 34th Ave exit. Go South (right) one block to American Boulevard. Hotel on corner of 34th and American Boulevard. From St. Paul - take 35E south to 494 West to 34th Ave Exit. Go South to American Boulevard.

Related Onsite Offerings

For a more casual onsite meal, check out The Corner Bar, which offers a wacky array of innovative appetizers (one seasoned with a Corner Bar original dubbed "Diablo Spice") and pizza made from scratch.

The Radisson Hotel Bloomington by Mall of America is the Swiss Army knife of lodgings. It has it all: spacious rooms, impressive amenities, a spa, a water park, an arcade, a fitness center. Heck, if you're not exactly a shop-a-holic, this grandiose edifice of architectural exuberance could serve as your entertainment source all by its lonesome.

The guest is immediately greeted by an awe-inspiring castle of stone, slate, and natural wood when they pull into the Radisson parking lot. Its Baroque beauty is a sign of things to come, as the interior is equally lavish. Massive 42-inch high definition televisions adorn the walls, surrounded by Duvet-style comforters and an in-room vanity. And forget about a pool--The Radisson houses the largest indoor water park in the country, the hydro-blasting, H2O utopia known as Water Park of America. Not enough? Let's not forget about the Trillium spa, where guests are pampered to the tune of facials, massages, hot stone therapy, pedicures, manicures, and any other cures that may exist. Not to mention the three on-site restaurants that offer a smorgasbord of gourmet cuisine. Situated in the South Metro area of Minneapolis, the Radisson sits in a prime location. The Mall of America, Downtown Minneapolis, and St. Paul are all within the grasp of the eager tourist. Dance the night away at the Shout House Dueling Pianos Bar in Minneapolis, shop like you've never shopped before at Bloomington's own Mall of America, or marvel at the aesthetically stimulating State Capital building in St. Paul, supporting the second largest marble dome in the world.

Address

1700 East American Boulevard, Bloomington MN 55425, USA

Entrance fees

Free parking and underground heated parking (for an additional fee) are provided.

Related Onsite Offerings

The Radisson offers three distinct meeting rooms to host business meetings and social events for up to 400 people, including one located inside the Water Park of America.

Whoever said, "Distance makes the heart grow fonder," certainly wasn't speaking of the Best Western Plus Bloomington Hotel at Mall of America. Literally located across the street from the Mall of America, the only thing standing between a hotel guest and a shop-induced coma is an extreme case of jet lag. Advertising a modest sophistication, the Best Western Plus provides impressive amenities, sincerely warm service, and simple yet elegant decor.

Rather than flexing their 211-guestroom muscles, Best Western Plus chooses instead to flaunt their generous hospitality. Offering a free deluxe continental breakfast, 400-count sheets, down comforters, and free parking, this is a towering hotel with bed and breakfast attention to detail. Unlike the primarily old-fashioned bed and breakfasts, however, Best Western Plus chooses to evolve with its guests' increasingly advanced technological needs. In-room HSIA and iPhone/iPod chargers are plentiful, 42-inch flat-screen HD televisions adorn the walls, complimentary high-speed wireless internet propels your gadgets, and a free 24-hour business center awaits busy professionals. Furthering the contemporary motif, the guestrooms take on a coffee shop feel with their mocha brown color scheme, cherry hardwood furniture, and modern lighting fixtures. Timeless, though, is the hotel swimming pool. In addition to the standard pool, Best Western boasts a five and under pool with a pirate ship-themed water slide and stationary water guns designed for water fights of epic proportions. And what is more timeless than filling one's stomach with delicious morsels? Look no further than RedRossa Italian Grille, the onsite provider of authentic Italian and American cuisine, created by passionate chefs using fresh ingredients.

Dates and Prices

For the thrill seekers: The Nickelodeon Universe Package includes one night of lodging, two unlimited ride wristbands, one Mall of America coupon book, and deluxe continental breakfast from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. daily. This package starts at $149.99 + tax and is subject to availability.

Highlights

Offering 4,500 square feet of meeting space, Best Western can accommodate up to 232 people.

Getting there

From South: I-35 North, Slight Right to I-35E (3.8 miles), Merge onto MN-77 N/Cedar Ave (6.1 miles), take Killebrew Drive Exit, Take Immediate right into parking lot. From North: I-35 South to MN-62 E (2.1 miles), Take Exit onto MN-77 S (2.1 miles), Take Killebrew Drive Exit (1.2 miles), Turn Right at stop light and Immediate right onto frontage. From East and Mpls/St. Paul Airport: I-94 West, To I-494 South (17.9 miles), Take Exit MN-77 S (0.2 Miles), Follow signs for Killebrew Drive. From West: I-494 East, take MN-77 S (0.6 miles), follow signs to Killebrew Drive.

A healthy traveler is a happy traveler: An adage the Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Bloomington seems to take to heart, as they offer a plethora of activities and edibles that do a body good. Mall of America is conveniently located 5.5 miles away, which could serve as quite the nice hike for all you health nuts.

Immediately upon checking in, you will realize that health is the name of the game--The aptly named Stay Fit Kit is available at the front desk. This kit details various exercise techniques that can be performed in the privacy of a guest room. If you're not too embarrassed to work out in public, mosey on down to the fitness center and suck wind on the cardio machines or sculpt your guns by pumping weights. Finish off your fitness regimen with a few laps around the indoor pool and vanquish those aches and pains with a soak in the whirlpool. For a post-workout snack, head to the Pavilion Pantry (open 24 hours) and grab a bite to eat. Note: It doesn't have to be healthy; you've earned some trans fats. The hotel itself accommodates the modern fitness buff, equipped with complimentary high-speed wireless internet, exclusive Garden Sleep System bedding, ergonomic chairs, and a business center. Free shuttles will transport you to the Mall of America and the airport. If you're more into fresh air and wildflowers than shopping, head over to Normandale Lake Park (just half a mile away) and explore all Mother Nature has to offer.

Address

5140 American Blvd West, Bloomington, Minnesota, 55437, USA

Highlights

The Hilton Garden Inn understands that English isn't everyone's first language; therefore, they house a multi-lingual staff.

Though Minnesota may be the hockey state, there is no professional sports team more beloved in the Land of 10,000 Lakes than the Minnesota Twins. So, it goes without saying that a trip to the Twin's home stadium, Target Field, is a must. Grab your homer hankies, slip on a Twins cap, and grab a seat in the state of the art stadium.

With the vibrant Minneapolis skyline idling in the backdrop, it's difficult to focus on the baseball diamond at Target Field. Completed in 2010, the sports fan's mecca was voted the #1 stadium experience in North America by ESPN the Magazine. Go ahead. Take a stroll around the ballpark. Inhale the fresh grass clippings, the pine tar, the famous Jucy Lucy Burgers (served at the Town Ball Tavern). After the game, explore the lively nightlife of Downtown Minneapolis. Before the game, reap the benefits of game day happy hour and grab a few half price drinks at one of the numerous First Avenue Bar and Grills. The hotel itself offers a fair share of athletic activity. Visit the fitness center and get your heart pumping as you push yourself on the cardiovascular equipment or wail on your pecs with the free weights. Afterward, do a cool down in the indoor pool and unwind in the whirlpool. After a day of physical excursion, melt into the down comforters and pillows and phone room service. It's time for this sports fan to retire.

Highlights

For a little sun and snack, explore the onsite Bar-B-Q and picnic area.

Related activities

For the avid golfer, try out Braemar Golf Course, a luscious 18-hole excursion just ten miles away.

Related Onsite Offerings

The elegant courtyard and gazebo are perfect for wedding ceremonies and receptions.

The Country Inn & Suites can be summed up in one word: convenient. Positioned just across the street from the Mall of America, guests can rest assured that the majority of their walking will take place within the gargantuan shopping center. And prime location isn't the only convenience the good folks at Country Inn & Suites have graced their customers with. Round the clock facility hours, comforting amenities, and myriads of options boldly declare: "The traveler is always right."

Options, options, options. America's largest mall is a hop, skip, and jump away (Note: The jump may be unnecessary.). You can hop on the Light Rail Transit and be at the Metrodome, Target Field, the Target Center, or Guthrie Theater within minutes. Yes, choosing what cultural phenomenon to immerse yourself in is like trying to pick out what flavor of ice cream you want perched atop your waffle cone at Baskin-Robbins. But the decision-making doesn't end once you're back in your hotel room. On the contrary. It has only just begun. Whether you're a weary traveler on business looking to recharge your batteries, a close-knit group of friends looking for a low-key gathering, or a couple on a romantic excursion, Country Inn and Suites has got the room for you. The five guestroom and suite options vary in size and theme. And, because everyone is wired a bit differently, it's your choice as to when you want to eat and explore. IHOP offers a 24-hour room service and the fitness center is open (you guessed it) all day and all night. Finally, because they want to give you options, you get to choose between two indoor pools and whirlpools.

Highlights

While it is fairly standard for hotels to offer complementary coffee, Country Inn & Suites offers free coffee, cookies, and candy (also available at any time).

Fun facts

The hotel achieved a 4 Green Key rating on a scale of 1-5 through the Green Key Eco-Rating Program. Environmentalists rejoice!

Related Onsite Offerings

No need to waste your precious gasoline. Free shuttle service to and from MOA and the airport are offered.

Nestled in between Bloomington and Downtown Minneapolis, the Courtyard offers easy access to sizzling diversions in both cities, whether it be a plastic bag-collecting romp at the Mall of America or a gazing session at the award-winning Minnesota Zoo, which features 3,700 majestic animals of 518 different species.

What does the Courtyard have in common with the word "access"? There is much to see (two C). Lame joke, I know. But that doesn't change the fact that you need only walk out your door and onto your balcony to gain an elevated view of the buzzing, friendly city that is Minneapolis. If you'd prefer a ground-level glimpse of the city, plop down in the brick-laced courtyard and soak in the Minnesota sun. If you're more of a literal consumer, the Courtyard offers complementary access to a plethora of facilities: a sprawling fitness center, indoor pools, a full-service business center, and the appetizing on-site restaurant Jake's (all handicap-accessible). While it can be beneficial to stop and smell the roses from time to time, you've got to get out there and live. Lace up your sneakers and sign up for an onsite fitness class. Get that blood pumping through your veins; get that sweat dripping from your pores. It's all in preparation for: Shopping! You've got to be nimble to maneuver around those vast MOA crowds. You've got to be alert to find that once-in-a-lifetime deal. First, release those endorphins at the fitness center and then get yourself sharpened up for some shopping. If you're not a shopper, scope out the 10,000 sea creatures at the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium at MOA.

Address

7800 Bloomington Avenue South, Bloomington, Minnesota 55425 USA

Related activities

Pamper yourselves, ladies. A nearby beauty shop awaits, ready to bring out those cheek bones. Just ask at the front desk.

The Homewood Suites by Hilton was recently named a bronze winner by the Telly Awards for their culture training video entitled "Be at Home...Today!" Well, it wouldn't exactly be a stretch to declare that this video's name directly correlates to the hotel's amiable atmosphere. With on-the-house wireless internet, daily newspapers, separate dining tables in-room, and a 24-hour convenience shop, you'd be hard-pressed to feel anywhere but at home.

Stroll into the lobby with your pooch at your side, as our furry little friends are more than welcome. Settle into the spacious, modernly furnished suites, which offer separate living and sleeping quarters. Still not homely enough for you? Free high-speed internet access is provided to allow you to keep up with work or play, as if a fully functional kitchen, which includes a 2-burner stove, a refrigerator, and a dishwasher. It literally has everything (including the kitchen sink). If you want to stay current with your workout routine, a fitness center and pool are both provided. Yes, conjuring up that at-home feeling in a foreign land can be a beautiful thing, but we must remember that part of being in an unfamiliar territory is exploring its attractions, celebrating its unique flavor. Look no further than Nickelodeon Universe and American Girl (located just across the street at Mall of America) for some good clean family fun. With dozens of rides modeled for scaredy cats do dare devils, Nickelodeon Universe is the formula for family fun. And to experience all that is female, visit American Girl, where dolls reign supreme. There's even a doll hair salon. So, for ages 1-91, the Homewood Shores is a must.

Highlights

Don't fuss, young ones. High chairs and cribs are available free of charge.

Getting there

From the North-I 35: Take I 35 South to 35E South. Take 35E South to I 494 West. Take I494 West to 24th Avenue. Follow 24th Avenue Southbound all the way to Killebrew Drive. Hotel is located on the corner of 24th Avenue and Killebrew Drive, attached to Chevy's Mexican Restaurant. From the South-I 35: Take I 35 North to 35E North. Take 35E North to 494 West to Hwy 77 South. Take Hwy 77 (Cedar)South to Killebrew Drive. Killebrew Drive goes one way around to the south side of the Mall of America. At the second stoplight on Killebrew Drive go right into parking lot; hotel is immediately on left hand side, attached to Chevy's Mexican Restaurant. From the West-I 94: Take I 94 to 494 East. Take 494 East to Hwy 77 (Cedar) South. Follow Hwy 77 (Cedar) South to Killebrew Drive. Killebrew Drive goes one way around to the south side of the Mall of America. At the second stoplight on Killebrew Drive go right into parking lot; hotel is immediately on left hand side, attached to Chevy's Mexican Restaurant. From the East-I 94: Take I 94 to 494 South. Take 494 South to 494 West to 24th Avenue South. Follow 24th Avenue Southbound to Killebrew Drive. Take a right onto Killebrew Drive. Take a left at the first set of lights into parking lot; hotel is located immediately on left side attached to Chevy's Mexican Restaurant.

Related Onsite Offerings

For those of you on business, audio/visual equipment rental, a business center, a fax, meeting rooms, a photo copying service, and a printer are all available.

When asked about their least favorite aspect of traveling, many a vacationer would simply reply, "Traveling." From canceled flights to crying babies to chatty aisle mates yet to discover breath mints, flying can be a real drag. Luckily, after an arduous flight, further travel is unnecessary at the Hyatt, as it's directly adjacent to the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport. Not coincidentally, such tourist destinations as the Mall of American, Downtown Minneapolis, and St. Paul are also within arm's reach.

Settled on the outskirts of Bloomington, the Hyatt is the perfect launching point to visit the Mall of America/Minneapolis/St. Paul trifecta. Hop on the Light Rail and explore the intoxicating Downtown Minneapolis nightlife or catch a show at the esteemed Guthrie and Orpheum Theaters. If you're searching for eye candy, look no further than Minnesota's own capital, St. Paul. Stand in awe of the Victorian architecture lining the streets of Grand Avenue or visit the might State Capital Building itself. Finally, give your checkbook a workout at the Mall of America. While city life is a treat, you must not forget life's simple pleasures. Yes, I'm talking about fishing. Minnesota, the Land of 10,000 Lakes, actually has more coastline than California, so you should have no problem finding a fishing hole. While the water may not be overly abundant in the city, sidle on over to the nearby mighty Mississippi River and drop in a line. You won't regret it. Amidst all of these excursions, you may forget how accommodating the hotel itself is. Well, don't. With luxurious beds fit for a king (king-sized, at least), free wireless internet, a sparkling indoor pool, massive high definition televisions, and a 24-hour guest kitchen, the Hyatt's amenities are just as pleasant as its location.

Highlights

The onsite Intimate Bakery Cafe serves up Starbucks specialty coffees, premium beers, and sophisticated wines.

Fun facts

The Hyatt is a 100% smoke-free facility. Your lungs will thank you.

Related Onsite Offerings

Release your inner nerd. The Hyatt offers an e-room, equipped with complementary computers and a printer.