30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

There are many things you can do in Bloomington, Indiana, which is the campus of Indiana University and is situated in Monroe County. If you look in the right places, this awesome and vibrant city has a lot to offer.

30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

About Bloomington, Indiana

Its allure stems from the distinct identity created by the vibrant sense of community and pervasive culture.

The city is surrounded by numerous protected natural landscape areas, giving it a picturesque appearance on its own.

This city is also home to numerous educational attractions because Indiana University plays a significant role in the local community.

Even though Bloomington is regarded as a university city, there are still plenty of touristy things to do there.

30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

30 Amazing Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

The lovely city of Bloomington, Indiana, is 50 miles south of Indianapolis. Spend a weekend exploring the city’s parks, museums, and distinctive limestone buildings.

Visit the Indiana University Art Museum, take in a performance at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, and partake in some local wine tasting.

The WonderLab Museum of Science, Monroe Lake, and the Bloomington Farmers Market are among the best things to do with kids in Bloomington, Indiana.

Prior to your visit, make sure to call the restaurants and attractions to confirm the most recent opening hours.

1. Indiana University’s Eskenazi Museum of Art30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

One of the top things to do in Bloomington, Indiana, is to visit the Eskenazi Museum of Art at Indiana University, which has been open since 1941 and is the best university art museum in the country.

The museum, located on the campus of Indiana University, is home to an internationally renowned collection of over 45,000 works of art, including jewelry, paintings by Pablo Picasso and Claude Monet, and triangular African masks.

The permanent collection galleries, traveling exhibitions, and special installations at the IU Art Museum are all intended to encourage, uplift, and enrich the lives of each and every visitor.

On-site sculptures are also on display at the museum, which has nine curatorial areas spread over three floors. Free guided tours of the museum are available to visitors, but reservations are required.

2. WonderLab Museum of Science, Technology, and Health

One of the best science museums in Bloomington is the WonderLab Museum of Science, Health, and Technology, which offers opportunities for visitors of all ages to experience the wonder of science.

The museum succeeds in its mission by offering a fantastic selection of interactive and immersive exhibits, displays, and programs that pique curiosity, provoke thought, and promote scientific and technological exploration.

The Fitzgerald Hall of Natural Science, the Lester P. Bushnell WonderGarden, the George and Evelyn Brabson Discovery Garden, “How Things Work,” and various art exhibits are among the attractions.

This is a great place to go if you’re wondering what to do in Bloomington with kids.

Throughout the year, WonderLab also offers a wide range of educational and age-appropriate programs, interactive workshops, creative activities, and live animal programs for both adults and kids.

3. Monroe Lake is Among the Bloomington, Indiana, attractions

30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

Almost 24,000 acres of wilderness encircle Monroe Lake, a 10,750-acre reservoir southeast of Bloomington, and protected forests.

The lake offers nearby residents stunning and unspoiled outdoor recreation areas where they can take advantage of the great outdoors. It is spread across the two counties of Monroe and Brown.

On the eastern shore are the Fourwinds Resort and Marina, which houses over 800 boats, and the Ransburg Scout Reservation.

On the lake, visitors can fish throughout the year in addition to participating in other outdoor pursuits like boating, waterskiing, and kayaking.

Throughout the summer, knowledgeable interpretive naturalists offer a variety of programs at the visitor center.

Its address is 4850 S. State Road 446 in Bloomington, Indiana, and its phone number is 812-837-9546.

4. The Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University

The Musical Arts Center (MAC), located at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, is one of the country’s premier performance spaces.

It serves as the residence of the Jacobs School of Music Ballet Department and has a capacity for up to 1,460 people.

The Nutcracker, The Barber of Seville, Carmen, and Oklahoma are just a few of the world-famous productions that the Musical Arts Center and Ballet Department present every year.

The Jacobs School of Music provides a wide variety of music classes for both adults and children, summer academies, and adult summer workshops.

Phone: 812-855-7433 Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, 1201 East Third Street, Bloomington, Indiana

5. University of Indiana Tours, Bloomington, Indiana

30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

On a daily campus visit and tour, learn about the history of the university, and the vibrant community it is home to, and explore the magnificent campus grounds as you get to know the University of Indiana.

Bloomington, Indiana, 300 N. Jordan Avenue, 812-855-0661

6. Buskirk-Chumley Theater is one of the Bloomington, Indiana, attractions

30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

The Buskirk-Chumley Theater, a performance space in the center of Bloomington, hosts a variety of stage productions, shows, and entertainment for the neighborhood every year.

In addition to providing a warm environment for the general public to enjoy the arts, the location serves as a stage for artists who are both nationally and regionally well-known.

The Buskirk-Chumley Theater, a performance space in the center of Bloomington, hosts a variety of stage productions, shows, and entertainment for the neighborhood every year.

The venue serves as a stage for both regionally and nationally renowned artists, as well as a warm venue for the general public to take in the arts.

their address is 114 East Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana, and their telephone number is 812-323-3020.

7. Bloomington Farmers’ Market

30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

Each week, local farmers, artisans, and artists sell a variety of farm-fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and other organic goods at the Bloomington Farmers Market.

In addition to fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers, the market offers visitors a wide selection of delicious locally produced dairy products, charcuterie, homemade honey, jam, jellies, and pickles, as well as over 40 vendor stalls.

The market sells a variety of winter produce, cheese, chocolates, coffee, arts and crafts, and other winter-related items during the months of November and December.

Live music and other entertainment are also available at the market.

Their address is 1800 W. Old Shakopee Road, East Lot, Bloomington Civic Plaza, Bloomington, Indiana, and their phone number is 9525638700.

8. Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center, Bloomington, Indiana

30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

The Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple are the country’s two oldest and biggest Buddhist institutions, respectively.

Both were established by Thubten Jigme Norbu, the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet’s brother. At the center are numerous stupas, prayer wheels, sculptures, and shrines.

It was built with the intention of nurturing and preserving the rich culture and heritage of Mongolia and Tibet.

The Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, or “Field of Compassion” in Tibetan, and the monks’ lodgings are the center’s beating heart.

Visitors can take advantage of guided tours of the facility, which include stops at a reception area, a room designated as a shrine, and a bookstore.

During these stops, visitors have the opportunity to learn more about the history of Buddhism.

Its address is 3655 Snoddy Road in Bloomington, Indiana, and its phone number is 812-336-6807.

9. Wylie House Museum, Bloomington, Indiana

The Wylie House Museum, constructed in 1835 and owned and run by Indiana University Libraries, served as the residence of Andrew Wylie, the institution’s first president, and his family.

The historic home now serves as a museum that gives public guided tours and is devoted to depicting life at the Wylie home in the middle of the 19th century.

The museum offers educational programs and research opportunities for University students and faculty, aligning itself with the campus curriculum.

Every day of the week from May to November, free guided tours are offered, and the Wylie House has a small gift shop where guests can buy heirloom seeds grown in the museum gardens.

317-855-8028, 307 E 2nd St, Bloomington, IN 47401

10. IndiGo Birding Nature Tours is among the things to do in Bloomington, Indiana

In south-central Indiana, IndiGo Birding Nature Tours provides individualized, professionally guided birding and nature tours.

Visitors can choose from a variety of tours, such as hikes led by naturalists through some of the area’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, birding tours, “Fall colors” photography tours, historical tours of Brown County, and more.

Additionally, IndiGo Birding Nature Tours provides specialized excursions to some of the region’s most well-known sights, including Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area, Brown County State Park, Lake Monroe, and Hoosier National Forest.

Modern binoculars and spotting scopes are provided on every tour, along with refreshments and snacks.

Call 812-679-8978 to find it at 2432 E. Rock Creek Drive in Bloomington, Indiana.

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11. BBQ Train, Bloomington, Indiana

At the historic Short Stop Food Mart at the intersection of Smith Road and East 10th Street in Bloomington, there is a casual restaurant called BBQ Train.

The restaurant, which is conveniently located inside the Food Mart, offers a variety of barbecue dishes, including pulled pork, ribs, chicken, burgers, and brisket, along with mouthwatering sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw.

Catering and freshly prepared barbecue delivery are both provided by BBQ Train.

Corner of East 10th Street and Smith Road, Bloomington, Indiana, 812-219-7731

12. Tranquil Vibe Day Spa, Bloomington, Indiana Attractions

In a chic and opulent setting, Tranquil Vibe Day Spa provides a variety of relaxing and therapeutic treatments, massages, and facial services.

Choose from a variety of spa services or unique spa packages, which include hydrotherapy treatments for restorative and healing, therapeutic and relaxing massages, body treatments, waxing services, and facial and skin treatments.

The spa has spacious, welcoming treatment rooms with calm decor and imported linens.

A specially designed hydrotherapy suite, a peaceful room for pre- and post-treatment or service relaxation, and a lovely patio with a view of a bubbling creek are also included. In the summer, visitors can unwind on the patio.

Phone: 812-287-8024, address: 383 S Park Ridge Road Suite 101, Bloomington, Indiana 47401

13. Activities in Bloomington, Indiana: Anatolia

Anatolia, one of Bloomington’s top ethnic eateries, is named after the broad peninsula that lies between the Black and Mediterranean Seas.

They offer a traditional Turkish and Mediterranean menu at Anatolia, which is situated in the center of Fourth Street’s already diverse neighborhood.

Dishes on the menu range from baked dolma (Turkish stuffed grape leaves), moussaka, and lamb kebabs to stuffed eggplant, veggie guvec, and baked tilapia.

Anatolia, one of Bloomington’s top ethnic eateries, is named after the broad peninsula that lies between the Black and Mediterranean Seas.

A traditional Turkish and Mediterranean menu is offered at Anatolia, which is situated in the center of Fourth Street’s already diverse neighborhood.

Dishes on the menu range from baked dolma (Turkish stuffed grape leaves), moussaka, and lamb kebabs to stuffed eggplant, veggie guvec, and baked tilapia.

Alcohol is not served at the establishment, but soft drinks and fruit juices are.

Bloomington, Indiana, 405 E 4th Street, 812-334-2991

14. Oliver Winery in Bloomington, Indiana

30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

William Oliver, a law professor at Indiana University established Oliver Winery in the 1960s, and has since become known for its top-notch wines.

Oliver Winery, one of the biggest in the country, strives to create wines that accurately reflect the flavor of the premium grapes the vineyard produces.

They make a variety of wines, such as sparkling wines, semi-dry and dry whites and reds, and dessert wines.

The winery also makes Beanblossom Hard Cider, Bubblecraft, and Camelot Mead, a light wine made from honey.

It also conducts weekend tours of the winery’s production facility and cellar in addition to daily wine tastings.

Additionally, visitors can purchase a variety of wine-related items and accessories from the gift shop in addition to taking gourmet picnics on the farm.

Phone: 812-876-5800 or 800-25-TASTE 200 E Winery Rd, Bloomington, IN 47404

15. Cardinal Spirits: Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

A craft distillery in Bloomington, Cardinal Spirits creates a variety of spirits including premium whiskey, rum, gin, vodka, and specialty liqueurs.

Cardinal Spirits is a craft distillery that produces its assortment of spirits using locally sourced ingredients and goods. It was founded to “increase a connection between people.”

They also use a continuous column still on-site to ferment and distill all of their products.

Whiskey, vodka, gin, rum, and bourbon are examples of spirits.

Seasonal spirits and Songbird liqueurs are also included. Visitors can enjoy cocktails, distillery tours, and tastings at Cardinal Spirits.

922 S. Morton St., Bloomington, IN, 47405; telephone: 812-202-6789

16. Bub’s Burgers and Ice Cream are also part of Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

Bub’s Burgers and Ice Cream was founded in 2003 and has since grown to be a well-liked franchise with three different locations. They are well-known for their All-American menu of traditional burgers, fries, and ice cream.

The restaurant, which has locations in Carmel, Zionsville, and Bloomington and has won numerous awards, specializes in burgers.

Hand-ground beef patties, freshly baked buns, and fresh salads and sides are all homemade.

Other food favorites on the menu include chicken sandwiches, grilled Mahi Mahi, elk burgers, and the well-known Bub’s Hotdog.

Phone: 812-331-2827, 480 N. Morton Street, Bloomington, IN

17. Butler Winery, Bloomington, Indiana

30 Attractions and Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana

The Butler Winery is Indiana’s fourth-oldest operating winery, having been founded in 1983 by Jim and Susie Butler.

According to the belief that wine made from locally grown grapes reflects the character of the climate, soil, and people who grow them, the winery, which is located in the center of the Indiana Uplands viticultural area, creates wines with a distinctive character.

Butler Winery uses a variety of grapes, such as Chambourcin, Chardonel, Cabernet Franc, and Tannat, to produce wine in both stainless steel and American oak barrels.

On Saturdays and Sundays, the wine farm offers cellar tours and wine tastings.

Wines can also be purchased from the farm and a shop in town, along with a variety of unusual wine accessories and presents.

Phone: 812-332-6660, 6200 E Robinson Rd, Bloomington, IN

18. Bloomington, Indiana Attractions Includes Lennie’s Gourmet Pizza

Lennie’s Gourmet Pizza is open seven days a week for lunch, dinner, and brunch and offers a variety of delectable, wood-fired pizzas with gourmet toppings as well as a variety of unique entrees.

Lennie’s offers menus with favorites like chicken wings, meatballs, pasta, soups, salads, and, of course, pizza, all made with the freshest ingredients from regional farmers and producers.

All meals come with craft beer from Bloomington Brewery, one of Lennie’s Gourmet Pizza partners, and gourmet toppings like blue cheese and apple or Portobello mushrooms and goat’s cheese are available on the pizzas.

Phone: 812-323-2112, 514 E Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47408

19. Upland Brewpub is among the things to do in Bloomington, Indiana

The Upland Brewing Company, a brewery that has been making beer for more than 14 years, has its main tasting room and office in the Upland Brewpub.

Upland Brewpub will charm beer lovers and foodies alike with its cozy, inviting pub-like restaurant and tasting room.

It is challenging not to love the extensive menus of both inventive and creative beer and food.

At least seven of the brewery’s home brews are available on tap, rotated seasonally, and are served in a sampler or by the glass.

Seasonal lunch and dinner menus are also offered.

Additionally, the bar offers a great selection of 6-packs, bombers, and growlers to go with its local and foreign wines.

Every Saturday and Sunday, visitors can take advantage of guided tours around the brewery to learn more about the brewing process and how the ale is produced.

Phone: 812-336-2337, 350 West 11th Street, 4060 Profile Parkway, Bloomington, Indiana

20. The Runcible Spoon, Bloomington, IN

In the center of Bloomington, there is a quaint restaurant called The Runcible Spoon that serves hearty, home-cooked food and freshly brewed coffee.

When it first opened in 1976, the restaurant gained notoriety for being the only coffee roaster in the area, a practice that is still practiced today.

The fragrant coffee at this restaurant draws both locals and tourists.

The Runcible Spoon is open every day of the week from 8:00 a.m. to midnight and offers a wide selection of food, including homemade pancakes, freshly baked pies, soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pasta, vegetarian specialties, and seafood.

Phone: 812-334-3997, 412 East 6th Street, Bloomington, Indiana

21. Things to Do in Bloomington, Indiana Includes Monroe County History Center

A small group of locals worked hard to establish the Monroe County History Center because they wanted to make sure that future generations could learn more about the early years of Monroe County.

The center now has a building of its own where a changing array of exhibits are on display.

Transportation Roots, the Legacy of Gayle and Bill Cook, Hoosier Quilts from Pioneer Country, Limestone History, and the 1830s Pioneer Life exhibit are just a few of the fascinating stories featured in the Monroe County History exhibits.

Most of the collection is available for online viewing if you are unable to visit the center.

202 East 6th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408; 812 332 2517; Monroe County History Center

22. Fountain Square Mall

This distinctive mall is both a popular tourist destination and a local shopping destination because it is housed in a historic building in the heart of Bloomington.

With unique shops like the Game Preserve and family-run restaurants like Stefano’s Cafe, it offers more options than a typical mall.

23. Mother Bear’s Pizza

Mother Bear’s is a must-go-to restaurant, hailed as serving the best pizza in Bloomington (and possibly southern Indiana).

With no frills, unadorned wooden tables, chairs, and benches along with stained-glass light fixtures, this rustic restaurant is decorated in the traditional pizzeria style.

If you don’t want to share, have a 6″ pie all to yourself. If you want to share with family or friends, get larger sizes.

Don’t forget to sample their delectable wings and breadsticks.

24. Monroe County Courthouse

The Monroe County Courthouse, located in Bloomington’s downtown, is a notable building.

Visitors can take an amazing tour of the Beaux-Arts building. Visitors can also enjoy the historic structure lit up for Christmas during the holiday season.

25. Pictura Gallery

For regional and popular art, Bloomington is the place to be. A nonprofit art gallery called The Pictura Gallery explores and celebrates various types of photography.

This gallery, which opened its doors in 2008, specializes in showcasing photography as it has changed over time.

Along with a wide range of exhibitions of modern photography, Pictura also organizes a number of free public events all through the year, as well as educational programs, workshops, and lectures intended to encourage community interaction and creativity.

26. FARMbloomington

FARMbloomington is a hip, contemporary farm-to-table restaurant that uses international flavors to create a variety of delectable, hearty recipes that highlight the home-cooked cuisine of southern Indiana.

Their vibrant menu features dishes with international flavors, from a local bison burger to a salmon filet with Caribbean influences.

27. Stroll Through the B-Line Trail

You can easily navigate this city on foot by using the B-Line Trail, which is a great route to take.

This 3.1-mile path, which is essentially a paved pedestrian walkway, makes it easier to get around Bloomington without a car.

This trail was once a railway connector before it was turned into a walkway.

The B-line Trail is unique because of how many attractions you can access by simply walking along this path.

The city’s Farmer’s Market, the downtown area, and other attractions like the WonderLab museum are all accessible by strolling through it.

Energy-efficient lighting on the path makes it safer for people to use at night.

Along the path are various fitness stations as well.

28. Learn About Nature at the Indiana University Arboretum

In addition to students, Indiana University attracts a large number of tourists and residents because it has many attractions.

The university’s arboretum is a peaceful and serene area that both locals and visitors adore.

Prior to becoming an arboretum, this area on campus served as the site of the original Memorial Stadium.

First established in 1984, the Arboretum now provides anyone who visits it with a quiet and open space to relax and slow down their pace.

Keep in mind that the arboretum begins to bloom in late April, so come then to see it in its most lovely state.

29. Ride Across Wapehani Mountain Bike State Park

Are you looking for some difficult biking routes to raise your heart rate?

Visit Wapehani Mountain Bike Park right away.

You can mountain bike nearly 5 miles of challenging single-track trails at this location.

The tracks here are more appropriate for intermediate and advanced riders, so it’s not for the faint of heart.

Get ready for a wild ride with breathtaking scenery as your backdrop.

You can still go here if you still want to see the beauty of the area.

You can enjoy the 46 acres of parkland’s hiking and trekking trails.

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30. See What’s Inside The Garret

Not many people are aware of this fascinating location.

However, you’ll undoubtedly be familiar with The Garret if you enjoy oddities and unusual places.

The Garret, one of the city’s oldest ornate limestone structures, was once the headquarters of BG Hoadley Quarries.

Garret family once again acquired this property in 1974; it was formerly known as the “Batman House.”

The family’s curio collection, which includes geological specimens, antiques, and, surprisingly, numerous lamps, is displayed inside this building.

This building, which was first built in 1895, is regarded by many as the most complex Victorian home in the city.

So definitely check out this place if you enjoy the unusual.

Summary

Bloomington, a well-known college town, is renowned for its ethnic diversity and vibrant nightlife. There is always something to do in Bloomington.

If you’re older than 21, Kilroy’s and Dunkirk are the best places to be. If you love Indiana University and the athletic teams, there are many stores that support them.

If you like to shop, Bloomington has a ton of local shops and even some big-name national chains.

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