Community Exploration

MALL OF AMERICA Every year more than 40 million people go to the . No other mall in the world can say the same! It is on the former site of Metropolitan Stadium where the Minnesota Vikings and Twins played until 1982. Attractions include more than 520 stores (with no sales tax on clothing), Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Aquarium, LEGO Imagination Center, Adventure Mini Golf, more than 50 restaurants, and a movie theater.

How to get there: Board the METRO Green Line from any of the three campus light rail stations traveling west to the Downtown East Station where the new Minnesota Vikings stadium is currently under construction. At the Downtown East Station, get off the METRO Green Line train and get on the METRO Blue Line going south and ride to the Mall of America Station.

U of M Free Ride Weekend: This weekend Metro Transit is hosting a U of M Free Ride Weekend. University of Minnesota students can ride free on all Metro Transit buses and METRO lines (not valid on Northstar Commuter Rail) from 6:00 p.m. Friday, August 29 to 11:59 p.m. Sunday, August 31. Students must show their U Cards in order to ride free or they may be subject to fines. Show your U Card to the bus driver when you board a bus and to Transit Police officers on METRO lines if asked.

If you need assistance: If you get lost or need assistance, call the Metro Transit help line: 612-373-3333.

Safety and etiquette: Light rail trains weigh around 100 tons each and are very quiet, so it is very important to obey warning signs and comply with all barriers and street signals. Listen for train horns and warning bells, always press the cross button and look both ways before crossing the tracks by car, bike, or on foot, and do not walk along the light rail tracks. Be respectful of other people and their needs. Certain seats are designated for seniors and people with disabilities. Please allow these customers to use them. When riding the train, make sure that your belongings are not taking up seating space. Keep your mobile phone in a pocket or bag, and be aware of your belongings throughout your trip.

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