Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/593532
courtesy mall of america, lea currie (drink) W I N T E R 2 0 1 5 | G O I N G P L A C E S 21 THE HIDEAWAY After several hours spent shopping, we figuratively pat ourselves on the back – our hands are full of shopping bags – for choosing to stay at the Radisson Blu Mall of America (www.radissonblu.com/hotel-mall-of- america). Directly connected to the mall, it's the perfect haven when we need a breather. (If you don't want to stop shopping, concierge services will meet you anywhere in the mall and deliver bags to your room.) Considering we've walked the equivalent of one kilometre on each of the mall's four levels, we decide to pamper ourselves at the hotel's Solimar Spa (www.solimarspa.com). A manicure and pedicure is just what this girls' weekend, and our weary limbs, ordered, and the luxurious, calm setting is the perfect pause I need after the stimulating environment of the mall. The mall beckons us back though, and we spend our time shopping, dining, playing and relaxing – all with- out having to step outside. Everything is within reach of our freshly polished fingertips. OK, so maybe it is a clichéd girls' weekend, but it's time spent together, and isn't that the point? (clockwise from top) Replenish your energy at Tucci Benucch; Masu's Love Gummi cocktail; the Solimar Spa. Step into the cockpit at A.C.E.S. Flight Simulator for a realistic portrayal of flying, complete with barrel rolls and crash landings. Surround yourself in action in the Surround View Flight Simulator as real-world imagery flies past. Or challenge a friend to a Second World War combat simulator with classic fighters such as the P-51 Mustang. www.flyaces.com You know what they say about comedians – they're funny. They have to be to get on stage at Rick Bronson's House of Comedy. The comics' résumés boast appearances on the various late shows, as well as stints on Saturday Night Live and Comedy Central. www.houseofcomedy.net Although it's tucked in the basement, SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium is anything but bargain-basement. Swimming with thousands of sea creatures, such as jellyfish, sea horses, sharks and turtles, the attraction brings a welcome view of the ocean to those of us land-locked back home. Immerse yourself, or at least your arm, in the cold underwater world of the Pacific Northwest Rockpool, or pet the stingrays (their name gives them a bad rap; they're actually very gentle), both recent additions to the aquarium. Mall of America also hosts more than 400 free events each year, from celebrity appearances and musical performances to book signings and product launches. www.mallofamerica.com/events THE INSIDE TRACK A.C.E.S. Flight Simulator. SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium. THE TABLE Prior to exploring Mall of America, we reminisce over dinner and cocktails at the elegant-meets-chic FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, located inside the Radisson Blu. The cheese board is a scrumptious smorgasbord that pleases every taste bud, while dishes of Minnesota beef are crowd favourites. www.firelakerestaurant.com The high energy of Hard Rock Café – one of nearly 200 locations found in 60 countries around the world – is infectious as loud music churns through the speakers, making feet tap and eliciting a few sing-alongs and even more "I love this song" remarks over burgers and fries. www.hardrock.com Tucci Benucch serves up Italian food the way it was meant to be created and consumed – with fresh ingredients, classic recipes, house-crafted sauces and lots of heart, served in surroundings reminiscent of an Italian grandmother's table. www.tucci-benucch.com Japanese cuisine is so much more than sushi, and Masu proves it with delicious Izakaya offerings, robata (skewers of veggies, fish or meat slow-grilled over charcoal), steamed buns and rice bowls. With names such as Love Gummi and Rainbow Gummi, the spirits sound innocent but pack a punch. www.masusushiandrobata.com After a long day of walking, satisfy your appetite at Crave. In a trendy, vibrant setting, you'll find quintessential American food such as burgers, steak and pasta, as well as a sushi bar. Save room for a more than generous portion of one of the specialty desserts such as the s'more brownie. www.cravemoa.com GP