Come one, come all to the greatest ice spectacle of them all. Mall of America® is constructing a 40-foot tall Ice Castle completely out of icicles this Winter. Visitors and families can view this one-of-a kind spectacle not to be missed, spanning more than one acre, from late December to February 20, 2013. The Ice Castle will be constructed from icicles grown from 4 million gallons of water and fused together to form shimmering archways, tunnels, walls and caverns. Walk through and take it all in or have your photo taken to capture the memories of your exciting adventure into this unique creation.

Make a weekend of it in Bloomington, MN! Bloomington offers 38 economy to family-friendly hotels, all located within minutes of Mall of America, home to Nickelodeon Universe®, and area attractions. With rates starting at $59 a night and incredible getaway packages available, come and see the Ice Castle, but stay for the tax-free shopping, incredible attractions and outstanding hospitality. And, don’t forget to purchase The Big Ticket™ Attraction Pass, offering a 30% discount to the 6 top attractions in the Twin Cities.

Check rates and availability at Bloomington's 38 hotels, which offer warm shuttle rides to the Mall of America.

Other Area Family Events

The 2013 Saint Paul Winter Carnival kicks off winter January 24-Febrauary 3, 2013 in true Minnesota fashion! Hunt for the famed Treasure Hunt Medallion throughout the days of the carnival, or take in one of two parades and the mesmerizing ice and snow sculptures and a skating rink in Rice Park. Dress warm and pick up a cup of hot chocolate during the events for memorable times.

The US Pond Hockey Championships will take place January 18-20 on the gigantic Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis. An eight-year old tradition in Minnesota, close to 400 teams take to the ice in a hard-fought competition for the coveted Golden Shovel. Stop down, take a look at all of the hand constructed rinks on the lake and cheer on the amateur teams as they play their heart out in the Minnesota elements.

The Red Bull Crashed Ice World Championship makes it way to Saint Paul, Minnesota, for the second year in a row on January 24-26, 2013 as one of five stops around the world. Two hundred of the toughest, fastest, ice cross downhill racers will go head-to-head through a downhill course full of mind-and-body-bending jumps, turns and slides – all against the backdrop of the historic Cathedral of Saint Paul with thousands of spectators bearing witness. This year's track promises to be one of the most difficult in the series. This year's stop in Saint Paul will be one not to be missed, so book your hotel stay in Bloomington, Minnesota and make a winter adventure of your stay in Bloomington.

Bush Lake Ski Jump in Bloomington is home to the International Nordic Ski Jumping Competition January 23, 2013. The stadium lights will be ablaze as the elite athletes from NORWAY, FINLAND, POLAND, CANADA and all across USA will be taking to the slopes in Head To Head competition. Many former and future Olympians will be there perfecting their form and will be soaring up to 300 feet for trophies and cash prizes. Enjoy the spectacle from outside, or take in the action from the brand new chalet. A must see for every skiing enthusiast, you will not be disappointed by the excitement of this unique event in the heart of Bloomington, MN!