If you were planning to head out to Bloomington today, you probably noticed the vibe is a little different than your average Sunday. Honestly, the Mall of America is such a massive machine that it’s almost never "quiet," but today, January 18, 2026, has been a mix of high-energy fan events and a somewhat tense atmosphere fueled by local news headlines.
Basically, if you’re looking for a simple "is it open?" the answer is yes. But there's a lot more moving under the surface.
The LEGO Ninjago Takeover and SEA LIFE Crowds
Right now, the Huntington Bank Rotunda and the North Court are buzzing because it’s the final day of the Ninjago Days at the LEGO Store. You’ve probably seen the kids running around with paper masks; it’s been a massive draw all weekend. While the LEGO store is always a zoo, today is particularly packed because it's the tail end of the event.
Simultaneously, SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium is in the middle of its Homeschool Month. Because it’s a Sunday, you’re seeing a crossover of local families and tourists, making the East side of the mall near the aquarium entrance pretty much a standing-room-only situation.
What’s New on the Retail Front?
If you haven't been here in a few months, the directory looks wildly different. We’ve seen a wave of openings recently, including the Samsung Experience Store and KPOP NARA, which has been a huge hit with the younger crowd. People are also lining up for Sweet Crunch Tanghulu—that candied fruit trend isn't slowing down one bit.
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Security Realities and the "ICE Presence" Context
You might have noticed a few more "Level 3" security jackets than usual. There’s a reason for that.
Over the last 48 hours, news has been circulating about a significant ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) presence in the Twin Cities. This has caused a lot of anxiety in the local community. While some businesses in Minneapolis and places like the Somali Mall (24 Mall) have reportedly shuttered or reduced hours out of caution, the Mall of America management has confirmed they remain fully operational.
However, the tension is palpable. Some shoppers have mentioned on social media that the crowds feel a bit thinner in certain wings, likely due to people choosing to stay home amidst the regional unrest. It’s a stark contrast to the usual carefree "weekend at the mall" energy.
Safety at MOA: What Most People Get Wrong
Every time something happens near the mall, people start panicking about safety. Let’s be real: when you have 32 million visitors a year, things happen. But today, the mall is operating under its standard, multi-layered security protocol.
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- Behavior Detection: MOA uses "Behavior Detection Officers" (BDOs) who are specifically trained to look for suspicious intent rather than just weapons.
- K9 Units: You’ll likely see the bomb-sniffing dogs today; they are a permanent fixture.
- Facial Recognition: Since 2024, the mall has integrated facial recognition software to track individuals who have been previously trespassed or are on "persons of interest" lists.
There was a report earlier this morning about some roped-off areas near the North Garden, but that appears to be related to routine maintenance on the HVAC systems rather than any security incident.
Recent History and Context
It's worth noting that the mall has been on high alert since the gun-related incidents of late 2025. Today, those "weapons detection systems" (which look like slim pillars you walk through) are fully active at major entrances. They aren't as intrusive as airport security, but they definitely change the entry experience.
Navigating the Mall Today: Practical Advice
If you are actually at the mall right now or planning to go in the next few hours, here is the ground-level reality of what you’ll face:
- Parking Strategy: The East and West ramps are filling up fast due to the LEGO event. Your best bet is actually the North Lot, even if it means a slightly longer walk in the cold.
- The PEP Policy: Remember that the Parental Escort Policy (PEP) is in full effect. Starting at 3:00 p.m., anyone under 16 must be with an adult who is at least 21. They are strict about this. Don't be surprised if security asks for ID at the transit station or the main doors.
- Dining: If you’re hungry, avoid the North Food Court. It's a madhouse. Head to the newer Giordano’s on Level 3, South. It’s a bit more "sit-down," but the wait times have been more manageable today.
What to Watch For This Evening
As the sun goes down, the energy usually shifts from families to teenagers and tourists. Given the current political climate in Minneapolis and the rumors of standby military units in the region, expect a visible police presence in the parking lots tonight.
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It’s not meant to be alarming, but it is the reality of being a high-profile "soft target" in a major metro area during a tense week.
Next Steps for Visitors:
Check the official MOA Twitter or "X" account for any immediate gate closures before you leave. If you’re traveling via the Light Rail (Blue Line), give yourself an extra 20 minutes; transit security has been conducting more frequent "welfare checks" today, which is slowing down the schedule. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep your phone charged, and enjoy the Ninjago builds while they're still up.