Direct skyway connection to Mall of America (no coat needed)
FireLake Grill House serves genuinely excellent farm-to-table food
Modern, design-forward rooms that feel far cooler than a typical mall hotel
Quick Take: It’s the best hotel attached to the mall, but it’s still a hotel attached to a mall—expect high traffic and wear.
Reviewed by @twincities.twinmom: I stayed here with the family and the direct skyway access to the mall was a lifesaver. The kids' glamping tent kept them entertained for hours while we enjoyed the luxe lobby. It was the easiest family trip we've taken in years.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
The hype
Travelers love the convenience and the upscale vibe, but many note the rooms are starting to show their age with worn carpets.
Reality check
You are paying for the location; service can be slow during peak check-in times and the 'Executive Lounge' access isn't always worth the upgrade cost.
You are planning a multi-day shopping spree at MOA
You are visiting in winter and hate the cold
You appreciate a good cocktail and locally sourced dinner on-site
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
Housekeeping: Generally reliable, though high turnover means you might find missed dust or worn edges.
Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are usually spotless, but the design (frosted glass) is the main complaint, not the hygiene.
Maintenance: High traffic is taking a toll; expect some scuffed baseboards and worn carpets in hallways.
Linens & towels: Standard upscale hotel quality—crisp and clean.
Odors & scents: Lobby smells fresh (signature scent), but some hallways have had isolated reports of musty/stale odors.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
Hallway chatter from excited families
Bathroom light leaking through frosted glass doors
Before you book
Good to know
The hotel is connected to the mall via a climate-controlled skyway on the 2nd floor.
Coffee pods in the room are often generic; grab a cup at the Caribou Coffee in the skyway instead.
Check-in can be chaotic around 3-4 PM due to the sheer volume of guests.
What to pack
Walking shoes (the mall is massive)
Swimsuit (just in case the pool is open)
Eye mask (to combat the bathroom light leak)
Room Genie
Best picks
Valley View rooms (South facing) for less traffic noise than City View
High floor (10+) for better views and less hallway foot traffic
Rooms to avoid
Rooms near the elevator banks (high foot traffic)
Lower floors facing the highway/city side if you are sensitive to road hum
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a quiet room on a high floor (10+), specifically a 'Valley View' room if available, away from the elevators.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a free shuttle to the airport?
Yes, there is a complimentary shuttle to MSP airport, but it runs on a schedule so book your spot at the front desk.
Does the hotel have free breakfast?
No, breakfast is not included in standard rates. It's served at FireLake and costs roughly $20-30 per person.
Is the pool saltwater or chlorine?
It is a saline (saltwater) pool, though check current status as closures for maintenance have been reported.
Can I walk to the mall in winter without a coat?
Yes! The skyway connects directly to the mall, so you can shop, dine, and visit the aquarium without stepping outside.
Is there a resort fee?
No explicit 'resort fee' is charged, but parking is a significant daily cost ($24+).
Are pets allowed?
Yes, it is pet-friendly with a non-refundable fee of approximately $100 per stay.
Insider Tips
✨
The 'Business Class' or Executive rooms get you access to the lounge with free breakfast and evening drinks—do the math, it might be cheaper than buying meals separately.
✨
FireLake Grill House uses honey from their own rooftop bee colony in their cocktails and dishes.
✨
You can pick up your Mall of America coupon book at the front desk (often included in packages).
5 things to know before you go
💡The bathroom doors are sliding frosted glass that don't seal shut, meaning zero privacy for sounds or light.
💡The 'City View' is basically a view of the highway and IKEA.
💡There is a Caribou Coffee right in the skyway connection, which is often faster than the hotel breakfast.
💡The lobby has cool 'pod' chairs that are actually great for a semi-private work call.
💡Housekeeping is by request or every other day for some rate types, so don't expect daily turnover automatically.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Radisson Blu Mall Of America is located and what's nearby.