'This Is Sensory Overload': Mall Of America Debuts 'Candytopia'
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- If you've ever wanted to walk through an actual Candyland, you now have your chance at Mall of America.
The larger-than-life popup called "Candytopia" features more than a dozen rooms with interactive elements built for social media sharing.
Candytopia opens its gate to a life-sized mini-theme park.
"This is sensory overload, fueled by sugar," creator Jackie Sorkin said.
Sorkin, known as the "Candy Queen," created the experiential adventure.
"The inspiration here is fun. We are in the happiness business. We are in the treats business. We are here simply to spread joy, to create moments for people to come connect," Sorkin said.
Fourteen rooms are designed to fuel the imagination.
"It's so interactive, we invite and encourage our guests to touch. You know, you're going touch and taste and smell, and we want them to play with everything," Sorkin said. "We have these flowers that your step on the petal and they spray out scents."
Visitors are encouraged to mark the moment. Social sharing sparked the backdrops for Candytopia.
"It's how we are so connected to our devices What we say in Candytopia, this is an Instagrammers paradise," she said. "If you love social media this is for you. With studio lighting, everything is created and designed for the perfect-photo moment."
There are nods to Minnesota with a Prince tribute, and visitors will notice a Viking and the Mall of America logo in the Candy Art Room. Before you walk out, run your way into a pit of marshmallows. And heads up, parents: There are candy samples throughout the experience.
Candytopia opens to visitors on Thursday, March 7. Click here for ticket information.