Everything's bigger in Bloomington, including America’s largest indoor theme park, the seven-acre Nickelodeon Universe in the Mall of America. The amusement park just celebrated 15 years of entertaining families. Here, you can enjoy 27 rides that range from the tot-friendly Blue’s Skidoo to the big-kids-only Avatar Airbender. Make sure there’s room on your camera roll for pictures—your kids will want to remember meeting their favorite cartoon characters, including Aang, Blue, Diego, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Planning a family vacation everyone will enjoy can be tough. If time in nature—like camping in the country's best national parks—isn't quite your thing, why not move the party inside? From coast to coast, America is home to some pretty spectacular, fun-packed indoor amusement parks that offer something for everyone.
The best indoor amusement parks are massive playgrounds ready to be conquered year-round, no matter what the weather forecast holds. Thrill-seekers will enjoy roller coaster rides while those wearier of such adrenaline-pumping activities may enjoy classic arcade games (think skeeball and air hockey) or black light mini golf. Often, rides and games are available for all ages, from tiny tikes to big kids (grown-ups, too!) Another perk: these family-fun-packed venues often feature bars and restaurants on-site for parents in need of a break.