Mall of America® in Bloomington, Minnesota will unveil the first-ever FlyOver America attraction this spring. FlyOver America is a flight simulation ride that brings guests on a breathtaking, aerial tour of some of the greatest landmarks and regions throughout the United States in virtual flight technology. The attraction will be a fully immersive experience including wind, mist and even scents while soaring across some of America’s most spectacular sights.The destination attraction is designed for locals and tourists alike and is suitable for ages 4 and older. During the feature ride, guests will strap in and be suspended in the air with feet dangling 10 to 25 feet above the ground in specialized ride vehicles before a giant half-spherical dome screen. Guests will truly feel the thrilling sensation of flight as they move in concert with the FlyOver America film and use of special effects.
“The addition of FlyOver America will offer guests a one of a kind experience while adding to the many lifelong memories we are committed to helping our guests create during each visit to Mall of America,” said Doug Killian, Senior Director International Tourism for Mall of America. “The innovative technology and talent behind the attraction reinforces Mall of America as a must-visit tourist destination.”
A worldwide team of technicians is creating the custom-built attraction; manufacturers and consultants, including Los Angeles based former Disney Imagineer Rick Rothschild. Production is currently underway for the FlyOver America film as the FlyOver film crew visits every region in the country, filming from a helicopter over the course of the year to capture all seasons.
“Building on our success in Canada, we looked at many sites around the world before choosing Mall of America and the state of Minnesota for our US expansion,” said Andrew Strang, co-founder of FlyOver®. “We couldn’t imagine a better home for our first FlyOver America and are honored to launch at this world-renowned location. The appeal of feeling like you’re truly soaring over stunning landscapes in a fun environment is universal.”
FlyOver America will be located in the southwest corner of Nickelodeon Universe in the center of Mall of America. Admission will be separate from Nickelodeon Universe attraction passes.
Mall of America is the largest U.S. retail and entertainment complex with over 40 million annual visitors. It is home to more than 520 world-class shops with no sales tax on clothing or shoes; Nickelodeon Universe, the nation’s largest indoor family theme park; SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, a 1.3 million gallon walk-through aquarium; Hard Rock Cafe©; Moose Mountain Adventure Golf; Theatres at Mall of America, Radisson Blu Mall of America and the new JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America. The Mall is located next to Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport, an attractive gateway to the Rocky Mountain region.