Finding a place to crash near the biggest mall in the country is, honestly, a bit of a headache. You’ve got dozens of options ranging from budget motels that smell like old carpet to high-end spots that charge a fortune for "ambiance" you'll never use. If you are looking at the Four Points by Sheraton Mall of America, you're probably trying to hit that sweet spot between "I don't want to go broke" and "I'd like a clean bed and a decent shower." It’s a solid choice, but there are some things about the location and the setup that might surprise you if you’ve never stayed in the Bloomington/Minneapolis area before.
Let's get one thing straight: this hotel isn't literally inside the mall.
Some people get confused because of the name. It’s actually located about five miles away in Richfield. That’s a roughly 10-minute drive depending on how the traffic is behaving on I-494. If you were picturing yourself walking out of your room and immediately seeing a LEGO store, you'll be disappointed. But, for many travelers, being a few minutes away is actually a blessing because it keeps you out of the frantic, 24/7 chaos of the immediate mall perimeter.
The Reality of Staying at Four Points by Sheraton Mall of America
Most travelers choose this Marriott-bonvoy property because they want reliability. You know what you're getting. It’s that familiar, slightly corporate but comfortable aesthetic. The rooms at the Four Points by Sheraton Mall of America are generally spacious, which is a huge plus if you’re traveling with kids or lugging around six bags of new clothes from a shopping spree.
The beds are usually the highlight. Sheraton’s "Signature Sleep Experience" isn't just marketing fluff; those mattresses are genuinely better than what you’ll find at the budget chains down the street. It’s the kind of bed where you lie down "just for a second" and wake up three hours later wondering what year it is.
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The fitness center is decent, too. It’s not a Gold's Gym, but it’s got enough weights and cardio machines to burn off the calories from that massive Cinnabon you probably ate for lunch. Plus, there's an indoor pool. In Minnesota, an indoor pool is basically a legal requirement for survival during the eight months of winter. It’s nothing fancy, but it keeps the kids occupied while you catch your breath.
Navigating the Airport and Mall Logistics
One of the biggest perks here is the shuttle.
Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is a massive hub, and navigating it can be stressful. The hotel provides a shuttle service that covers both the airport and the Mall of America. This is a game-changer. Renting a car in the Twin Cities can be pricey, and parking at the mall is its own special kind of purgatory during peak season. Using the shuttle saves you the $20-a-day "convenience" fees and the headache of finding your car in a sea of ten thousand silver SUVs.
However, you've got to be smart about the schedule. Shuttles don't just appear by magic; they run on a loop. If you miss your window, you might be waiting 30 minutes. Always call the front desk to confirm the current times, especially because staffing levels in the hospitality industry can occasionally cause schedule shifts.
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Why Richfield Might Be Better Than Bloomington Proper
Being in Richfield gives you a slightly different vibe than staying right on the Bloomington strip. Honestly, it feels a bit more "local." You’re close to spots like Woodlake Nature Center if you need to see some actual trees after spending hours under fluorescent mall lights.
There are also some great food options nearby that aren't overpriced tourist traps. If you want a break from the mall food court, you can find some fantastic authentic spots within a short drive. The hotel itself has an on-site restaurant, usually a version of the "Best Brews" program Four Points is known for, where you can grab a local craft beer. It’s convenient for those nights when you’re too tired to even think about looking at a menu.
Small Details That Make a Difference
- High-speed Wi-Fi: It actually works here. Whether you’re trying to finish a work presentation or just streaming a movie, you won't be staring at a buffering wheel for twenty minutes.
- Coffee in the room: They usually provide Starbucks or a similar high-quality brand, which is a step up from the "brown water" served at some competitors.
- The Staff: People in Minnesota are famous for "Minnesota Nice," and it usually holds true here. The front desk staff are often local experts who can tell you the best way to avoid traffic or which mall entrance is least crowded.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price is always the sticking point. The Four Points by Sheraton Mall of America typically sits in that mid-range bracket. You aren't paying the $300+ rates of the JW Marriott or the Radisson Blu that are physically attached to the mall. You’re also not paying the $80 "sketchy motel" rate.
If you are a Marriott Bonvoy member, it’s a no-brainer. You rack up points, and the status perks—like late checkouts—can be incredibly useful when you have a late flight out of MSP. If you aren't a loyalist to a specific brand, compare the total cost. Factor in the free shuttle vs. the cost of an Uber/Lyft. If you plan on going to the mall and the airport multiple times, the shuttle alone could save you $60-$100 over a weekend.
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Common Misconceptions to Avoid
Don't expect a 5-star resort experience. This is a business-traveler-focused hotel that caters to families on the weekend. It's clean, functional, and professional.
Some people complain about the noise from the nearby highway or the airport. To be fair, you are in the flight path of a major international airport. That’s just the reality of staying in this part of the Twin Cities. If you’re an incredibly light sleeper, bring some earplugs or ask for a room on a higher floor away from the main road. Most guests find the soundproofing to be adequate, but it’s worth noting if silence is your top priority.
Actionable Steps for Your Stay:
- Book the Shuttle Early: As soon as you check in, get the shuttle schedule and, if they allow it, reserve your spot for your return trip to MSP.
- Check for Packages: Sometimes they offer "Shop and Stay" packages that include gift cards or breakfast vouchers that aren't advertised on third-party booking sites.
- Download the Marriott App: Use it for mobile check-in and to chat with the front desk if you need extra towels or have a question without having to walk down to the lobby.
- Explore Richfield: Don't spend all your time at the mall. Take ten minutes to drive to a local park or a neighborhood eatery to see the real Minnesota.
- Ask for a "Quiet Side" Room: When you arrive, ask if there’s a room available on the side of the building facing away from the I-494 corridor to minimize road noise.
Staying at the Four Points by Sheraton Mall of America provides a balanced experience. You get the amenities of a global brand, the convenience of a free shuttle, and a location that keeps you close to the action without being buried under it. It’s a practical, smart choice for anyone looking to maximize their time and budget in the Twin Cities.