Rapids Lake Education and Visitor Center Phone: 952-854-5900 |
3815 American Boulevard East, Bloomington
ATTENTION: Bloomington Visitor Center Building Closure
The Bloomington Visitor Center is in the process of being renovated with a new highly energy efficient heating and cooling and lighting system. Due to
construction delays the reopening of the building is now scheduled for early next year. The current projected opening is targeted for March 2010. During
this time we have no choice but to close the building to the public due to health and safety concerns. Refuge lands, including all trails are open
daily sunrise to sunset. Visitor information and trail maps are available on the kiosk and in brochure boxes. We apologize for any inconvenience
this may cause our visitors. Please call 952.854.5900 for updates on this project and potential re-opening dates.
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| The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Bloomington Visitor Center | |
Dedicated in 1990, the Bloomington Visitor Center is a gateway to the Refuge. Just a short drive from the Mall of America, the Bloomington Visitor Center features an information desk where a staff member can help you plan your Refuge visit, four levels of exhibits, a 125-seat auditorium where you can view a multi-image slide show, an art gallery that rotates exhibits every six weeks, classrooms, and the Blufftop Bookshop. That's just the inside of the building.
To get a glimpse of the multiple habitats within the Minnesota Valley take a hike on the Hillside trail just outside the Bloomington Visitor Center. The half-mile loop trail will take you through prairie, hillside forest, and wetlands. Ask for the Songbird Trail Pack at the information desk to learn about the birds that use the Refuge. One may also enjoy a panoramic view of Long Meadow Lake on our observation platform.
While at the Bloomington Visitor Center be sure to pick up a Calendar of Events to learn about the wonderful assortment of programs offered by Refuge interpreters.
The Bloomington Visitor Center is open:
April 1 through October 31 Tuesday - Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
November 1 through March 31 Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
During the winter season, the visitor center will be open the first full weekend (Saturday and Sunday) of each month 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
If you are interested in learning more about the Bloomington Visitor Center, programs, or the Refuge in general call us at 952.854.5900.
The Bloomington Visitor Center is located at 3815 American Blvd. East in Bloomington, across from the Airport Hilton Hotel. From I-494, exit on 34th Ave. and drive south. Turn left on American Blvd. East and drive 1/4 mile to the entrance on the right.
