If you’ve been searching for an Airbnb in Bloomington, Minnesota—especially near the Mall of America—you may have noticed something strange:
There aren’t many options.
That’s not an accident.
🚫 Short-Term Rentals Are Banned in Bloomington
Bloomington has strict rules when it comes to short-term rentals. In fact, rentals of fewer than 30 consecutive days are not allowed anywhere in the city.
That means:
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No Airbnb
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No VRBO
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No short-term vacation rentals of any kind
Even if a listing appears online, it may not be operating legally.
So if you’re planning a trip to the area, this can be frustrating—especially since Bloomington is one of the most popular destinations in Minnesota.
But here’s the good news:
👉 You still have great options—just outside the city.
📍 Why People Want to Stay in Bloomington
Before we talk alternatives, let’s look at why Bloomington is in such high demand.
It’s home to:
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Mall of America (one of the largest malls in the U.S.)
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MSP Airport (just minutes away)
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Major event venues and business hubs
Whether you’re visiting for a family trip, wedding, business travel, or a weekend getaway, Bloomington is often the center of it all.
🧭 The Smart Move: Stay Nearby
Because of the short-term rental ban, savvy travelers are choosing to stay in nearby cities that offer:
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Legal short-term rentals
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Larger homes
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Better amenities
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More flexibility for groups
And often… a better overall experience.
🏡 Best Areas to Stay Near Bloomington
Shakopee
Just 15–20 minutes away, Shakopee is one of the best alternatives.
You’ll find:
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Spacious homes perfect for groups
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Easy access to highways
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Attractions like Valleyfair and Mystic Lake Casino
👉 Great for: families, events, group travel
Prior Lake
A quieter, more scenic option just south of Bloomington.
Known for:
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Lake views
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Relaxed atmosphere
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High-end vacation-style homes
👉 Great for: relaxing stays, weekend trips, small groups
Richfield
Right next door to Bloomington, making it one of the closest legal options.
👉 Great for:
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Quick access to Mall of America
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Short commutes to the airport
🏨 Why Not Just Stay in a Hotel?
Hotels are convenient—but they’re not always ideal.
Especially if you’re traveling with a group.
With a home rental, you get:
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Multiple bedrooms
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Full kitchens
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Living space to gather
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Easier parking and access
And often, better value per person.
✅ Final Thoughts
While you can’t legally book an Airbnb in Bloomington, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
In fact, staying just outside the city often leads to:
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Better accommodations
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More space
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A more enjoyable experience overall
If you’re planning a trip to the Twin Cities, don’t limit yourself to Bloomington.
The best stays might be just a few minutes away.
