by Kim Remesch

Created on: May 06, 2009   Last Updated: February 05, 2011

Combine the all-consuming magic of Disney with the best shopping to be had in the country, and you've recreated what already exists as The Mall of America in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Mall of America stands as the the world's largest, fully-enclosed retail and entertainment spot in the United States. It's a shopping mecca integrated with entertainment for the non shopper.

While the entertainment attractions are certainly a draw, it's the 520 specialty stores that keep shoppers piling in. It's little wonder that hard-core shoppers and curiosity seekers alike actually plan bus trips to the Mall of America.

You'll find some old standards: Nordstrom's, Bloomingdales (which carries both Anne and Calvin Klein), Best Buy, Macy's and Sears. Even the old favorites have a twist at the Mall of America. Chanel, Chloe and Gucci all maintain boutiques in Nordstorm's, for example.

For housewares, there's Williams's Sonoma and The Afternoon, a store that carries a menagerie of goods from books to barware. The Mall boasts itself as eco-friendly housewares.

If fashion is your passion, look for The Limited, newly remodeled or the Coach store, which features purses in every shape and color, but all with the same high-end coach quality of double stitching. If comfortable footwear is your thing, the Crocs store is a must-see. The Hat Shark will help you find that perfect item to top your fashion ensemble.

There's always something new cropping up at the Mall of America, so check back often. Recent additions include True Religion (which features jeans, western shirts and sweatpants that they tout as having a vintage appeal). A NikeStore exists as well. An athlete can find THE perfect shoe for any sports endeavor.

Feeling a little naughty? Another new store comes gratis of Fredericks of Hollywood. At the other end of the spectrum, but still naughty.the Harley Davidson store.

The specialty stores set the Mall of America apart. Check out Beauty by Chris, City Shirts, Do it Yourself Spa, if you're looking to pamper yourself in style,

While the shopper in the group goes to town, creating smoke with the credit card, those of you who aren't power shoppers can take in Nickelodeon Universe, a unique theme park located inside the enclosed shopping area. In all, this Universe features 24 feature rides. The shop-a-holic can find something in Nickelodeon Universe as well within the Nickelodeon store.

The mall operates seven days a week: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m., and Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. For more information, you can download a visitors guide at http://www.moainformation.com/vg/vg.html. You can even subscribe to a monthly newsletter to learn what events will be happening at the Mall. For more information, call 952-883-8800.

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