This Saturday, March 15, at 9 a.m. (CT) the number-one kids' brand, Nickelodeon, and Mall of America the country's largest shopping and entertainment destination, celebrate the grand opening of Nickelodeon Universe, a seven-acre theme park featuring 18 new Nick-themed rides and attractions. Nickelodeon Universe is a seven-acre indoor park located in the center of Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn. The grand opening celebration of the re-branded, first-ever Nickelodeon theme park will feature special appearances by TEENick talent including: Miranda Cosgrove (iCarly); Nat Wolff and Alex Wolff (The Naked Brothers Band); and Lil' J.J. (Just Jordan); and a special performance by multiplatinum recording artist, Ashlee Simpson.

"The grand opening of Nickelodeon Universe, marks a very exciting time for us, as the Nickelodeon brand continues to expand to bring more hands on entertainment experiences to families," said Howard Smith, Executive Vice President, Nickelodeon Recreation. "This represents the perfect marriage of two entertainment entities, Nickelodeon, the number-one brand for kids, and Mall of America, the top shopping and entertainment destination in the country. Nickelodeon Universe will provide hours upon hours of excitement for kids and their families."

"Over the past year we have witnessed an amazing transformation of our amusement park," adds Maureen Bausch, Executive Vice President, Mall of America. "We are thrilled to have partnered with Nickelodeon to create Nickelodeon Universe. Guests to the park will be amazed at the new rides and theme. We have guests from around the country and the world visit our park, and everyone is certain to enjoy their experience here."

Nickelodeon Universe will feature rides themed with Nickelodeon hit properties from the past and present, including: SpongeBob SquarePants; Dora the Explorer; Go, Diego, Go!; Avatar: The Last Airbender; The Fairly OddParents; Rugrats; Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius; The Wonder Pets!; and many more. The newly re-branded rides will be family oriented thrill rides with a Nick twist.

For more information, visit www.nickelodeonuniverse.com