Rapids Lake Education and Visitor Center
Phone: 952-854-5900 |
3815 American Boulevard East, Bloomington
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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 or volunteer can help you plan your Refuge visit, interpretive and education exhibits, a 125-seat auditorium where you can view wildlife videos, an art gallery that rotates exhibits every six weeks, 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.
The Center is closed all Federal Holidays and may experience weather related or other periodic closures. Please call to confirm hours.
If you are interested in learning more about the Bloomington Visitor Center, programs, or the Refuge in general call us at 952.854.5900.
Hiawatha Light Rail: Depart at the American Blvd-34th Avenue Station. Proceed east on American Blvd East for 1/4 mile to the entrance on the right.
Bus: Routes 5, 54, 415, 440, 441, 442, 444, 445, 515, 538, 539, 540, and 542. Depart at the Mall of America, proceed north on 24th Avenue for 2 blocks. Proceed east on American Blvd East for 1 mile to the entrance on the right.
Driving: From Interstate 494 exit 34th Avenue and head south. Proceed east on American Blvd East for 1/4 mile to the entrance on the right.
