Spending quality time with tweens can be tricky — especially when screens and busy schedules get in the way. If you’re ready to trade passive errands (like trailing behind them at Sephora or driving them to activities) for something more interactive and memorable, you’re in luck. Maplewood Mall is full of fun, hands-on experiences that are perfect for tweens and their grown-ups.
Twin Cities Slime | Maplewood Mall
Hours: Monday- Thursday: 12 PM – 8 PM Friday and Saturday: 10 AM – 8 PM Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Get ready for some gooey, colorful fun! This spot lets kids mix, swirl, and customize their very own slime with glitter, scents, and even charms. It’s a sensory experience that’s just the right mix of creativity and mess (without the cleanup at home). Even tweens like to get in on the slime experience and something fun to take home. Want more details about Twin Cities Slime? Check out our full adventure here.
Handmod | Maplewood Mall
Hours: Monday and Tuesday: CLOSED Wednesday – Saturday: 10 AM – 8 PM Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
For your budding artist, the DIY Art Studio offers everything from painting ceramics to decorating wood signs. Tweens can let their imagination run wild and take home a handmade masterpiece. They can create something for themselves or encourage them to create something for a friend or loved one! And while you’re there, take the opportunity to create something for yourself as well. Painting is therapeutic for everyone! Curious about our DIY painting experience? See all the fun and details here!
Critter Country | Maplewood Mall
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10 AM – 8 PM Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Animal lovers will be in heaven! The mall’s pet store features an “Animal Lounge” where kids can interact with bunnies, ferrets, guinea pigs, turtles, and more. It’s an engaging way to learn about different animals, get in those furry cuddles, but leave the work at the mall. For you pet owners, it also has a full pet store to pick up anything you might need while supporting a local business!
Tween-Friendly Shopping
Hours: Monday- Saturday: 10 AM – 8 PM Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
From trendy accessories to the latest phone cases, there are plenty of stores that cater to tween tastes. Let them browse their favorite brands and pick out something that shows off their personal style — a little independence goes a long way! Stores like Hollister, H & M, Journeys, Ragstock, and more are all under one roof. There are a variety of kiosks, including jewelry, sunglasses, and piercings.
Spinning Wylde: A Specialty Cotton Candy Café | Maplewood Mall
Hours: Monday and Tuesday: CLOSED Wednesday – Saturday: 12 PM – 8 PM Sunday: 12 PM – 6 PM
Finish the day with a magical treat. This Instagram-worthy café serves fluffy, colorful cotton candy creations in 75 different flavors. It’s the ultimate sugar rush in the most fun way possible. Don’t forget to check them out at the MN State Fair, especially to see what the new flavor will be! Then sit back and relax on their delightful “patio” overlooking the Venetian carousel transported from Europe. Maybe you will even convince them to go for a ride!
Maplewood Mall makes it easy to spend a full day exploring, creating, and having fun — all in a safe, indoor environment. With so much to do, your tween won’t want to leave (and honestly, you might not either). Make sure to check Maplewood Mall’s website, they often have special events happening.
