Our recent research for a project in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area showed that the area continues to thrive as a hub for tourism, entertainment, and investment. From major attractions to transformative developments, here’s a look at what is new and what is coming soon:

• Mall of America Keeps Reinventing the Experience
  Bloomington’s iconic Mall of America remains a dynamic destination with fresh openings each year. New retail and dining additions include the NBA Store, FP Movement, Chubbies, Edikted, Macarons by Maddie Lu, Perk Up Kitchen, and more. Visitors can now enjoy the CoComelon Playdate kids’ play area, the immersive Activate gaming experience, and the Star Express miniature train ride. Even more exciting—a massive indoor waterpark called Mystery Cove is on the horizon, slated to open on the north side of the mall within the next two to three years.

• Live Music Takes Center Stage in Shakopee
  Construction is underway on a brand-new 19,000-seat amphitheater in Shakopee, southwest of Minneapolis. Operated by Live Nation, this venue will be the centerpiece of a sprawling 28-acre entertainment district surrounding Canterbury Park racetrack and casino. With a total investment of around $400 million, this development promises to bring high-energy entertainment and economic growth to the area over the next several years.

• Big Hits on the Horizon in Burnsville
  A bold new attraction is in the works for Burnsville, where Big Hits at the Gateway is proposed for a former landfill site. This ambitious project would feature a three-story, 100-bay driving range, 17 pickleball courts, a conference center, and a full-service restaurant and bar. With private investment expected between $40 million and $45 million, the project is still in early planning stages, but it could be a game-changer for the south metro.

• Blaine’s Vision for a Sports and Entertainment Hub
  The City of Blaine is planning a $750 million downtown-style sports and entertainment district on 40 acres near the National Sports Center. The concept includes a 3,500-seat stadium, hotel, food hall, and a mix of recreation and entertainment venues. This multi-phase project is designed to further establish Blaine as a year-round destination for sports tourism and leisure.

• MSP Airport Expands International Access and Amenities
  Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is investing in the future with a 157,000-square-foot expansion of Concourse G. Plans include a new two-story atrium, a wider central corridor, and three additional gates for international arrivals—all scheduled for completion by 2028. In the meantime, travelers can now enjoy new nonstop flights to Copenhagen, Rome, and Frankfurt, marking MSP’s continued global growth.