20 best & Fun things to do in bloomington illinois
Looking for the best things to do in Bloomington, Illinois? Bloomington, Illinois, is a city known for so much more than just its namesake. Located in the heart of Central Illinois, Bloomington is home to some of the most elite schools and colleges in the entire country. A perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty makes this city one of a kind.
Bloomington is a great place to live. If you are looking for a place to call home and an environment that nurtures your talents, Bloomington may be the answer. This city offers so many things to its residents and visitors.
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Chicago or other larger cities, Bloomington is an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature. Here are some of our favourite things to do in Bloomington, IL. You can also check out the best restaurants in Bloomington, Illinois.
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20 best things to do in Bloomington Illinois
#1. Miller Park Zoo
First off, we’re going to start with the obvious. The Miller Park Zoo is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Bloomington, Illinois. You’ll find a diverse collection of animals and plants spread across 25 acres of the lush, natural landscape.
This zoo is home to many species of exotic animals, including Asian elephants, Bengal tigers, giraffes, white rhinos, and more. You can also see various birds and other animals native to the Midwest.
The zoo is home to many different kinds of reptiles, too, including snakes, turtles, and lizards. The Miller Park Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free, but parking is $5 per vehicle.
Address: 1020 S Morris Ave, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#2. David Davis Mansion State Historic Site
Next on our list of things to do in Bloomington is a visit to the State Historic Site of the David Davis Mansion. The mansion, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Illinois Register of Historic Sites, is the former home of Bloomington’s second mayor.
The architectural details of this sprawling home are impressive, and you can see traces of the original construction here. The David Davis Mansion State Historic Site is located at 703 West Monroe Street in downtown Bloomington.
The site is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the mansion is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, $2 for children, and free for children under six. The site also offers a variety of other attractions, including a botanical garden, the Davis Mansion Museum and Gift Shop, and a self-guided walking tour.
Address: 1000 Monroe Dr, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#3. McLean County Museum of History
Another must-see in Bloomington is the McLean County Museum of History. This museum is home to various artefacts and memorabilia, including a vast collection of early McLean County artefacts such as farm tools, household items, clothing, and more.
You can also see a collection of military artefacts, including equipment and uniforms from soldiers who fought in the Civil War, World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.
This museum is located at 801 West Walnut Street in downtown Bloomington. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Admission to the McLean County Museum of History is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, and $2 for children.
Address: 200 N Main St, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#4. 3rd Sunday Market
The 3rd Sunday Market is one of our favourite things in Bloomington, IL. This market is held on the third Sunday of each month in downtown Bloomington, and it’s a great place to pick up arts, crafts, and vintage items.
You can also get food and drink at one of the many vendor stalls, and there’s often live music and other entertainment, too. The 3rd Sunday Market is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month.
Admission to the market is free, but parking is $2 per vehicle in downtown Bloomington. You can find more information about the market and other downtown events at the Bloomington Downtown Management District website.
Address: 1106 Interstate Dr, Bloomington, IL 61705, United States
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#5. Prairie Aviation Museum
Next on our list of best things to do in Bloomington, IL, this weekend is a visit to the Prairie Aviation Museum. The museum is home to a vast collection of vintage and modern aviation-related items, including aeroplanes, helicopters, engines, cars, and other machines.
The museum is located at the McLean County Airport, at 1250 West Airport Road, in Bloomington. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for students, and $5 for children. The McLean County Airport website can find more information about the museum and other airport events.
Address: 2929 E Empire St, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States
#6. Lil Beaver Brewery
Bloomington has a thriving craft beer scene, and one of our favourite things to do in Bloomington is a trip to the Lil Beaver Brewery.
This brewery is a great place to try a variety of barrel-aged beers, such as gimme brown, jake brown, and banana bread. You can also get a wide range of standard craft beers, including a selection of IPAs and stouts.
Lil Beaver Brewery is located at 516 West Kirkman Road in Bloomington. The brewery is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. You can find more information about the brewery and other downtown events at the Bloomington Downtown Management District website.
Address: 5 Finance Dr, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States
#7. Bloomington Ice Center
If you’re looking for an exciting way to spend the afternoon, the Bloomington Ice Center is a great place to visit. This indoor ice skating rink is home to the world’s largest indoor ice skating rink, over three times larger than the typical public rink.
The rink is also home to various programs, including ice skating lessons and group activities. The Bloomington Ice Center is located at 204 West Court Avenue in downtown Bloomington.
Admission to the center is $9.95 for adults, $8.95 for seniors, and $7.95 for children and students. You can also purchase combo passes that include admission to the center and access to the Bloomington Indoor Sports Center.
Address: 201 S Roosevelt Ave, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#8. Ovation Carmike Theater
If you’re visiting Bloomington during the spring or summer, you should visit the Ovation Carmike Theater. The theatre is one of the best places to visit in Bloomington, and it’s a great place to see various shows and events.
The Ovation Carmike Theater is located on the south side of town, making it an easy and accessible place to visit. The theater is a beautiful building open to the public and is home to various events throughout the year. The theater is especially busy in spring and summer, making it a great place to visit.
If you’re visiting Bloomington during the spring or summer, you should visit the Ovation Carmike Theater. It’s one of the best places to visit in Bloomington.
Address: 415 Detroit Dr, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States
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#9. Eaton Studio Gallery
The Eaton Studio gallery is a great place to learn more about the arts, and it’s located in a beautiful building in the center of town.
The Eaton Studio Gallery is home to various events and exhibitions throughout the year, including exhibits by local artists. The gallery is also a great place to explore the arts, with exhibitions and events on various topics.
The gallery is open to the public, and admission is free. If you’re visiting Bloomington during the spring or summer, you should visit the Eaton Studio Gallery. It’s a great place to explore the arts in Bloomington.
Address: 411 N Center St, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#10. Grossinger Motors Arena
The Grossinger Motors arena is a great place to watch various events, including concerts and sporting events, and is located in the middle of the city.
The Grossinger Motors Arena is home to various events and activities, including sporting events and concerts. The arena is also open to the public, making it a great place to visit.
If you’re visiting Bloomington during the spring or summer, you should visit the Grossinger Motors Arena. It’s a great place to watch sporting events and concerts.
Address: 101 S Madison St, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#11. Eastland Mall
One of the most iconic malls in the entire Midwest, Eastland Mall is a must-see for any visitor. The six-story Westfield South Plaza is the crown jewel of Bloomington and is the city’s only indoor shopping centre.
The extensive South Plaza offers more than 180 stores, including many nationally known brands. You can also find speciality shops that focus on clothing, home furnishings, or gifts. Stop by the Eastland Fall Festival if you’re visiting the area in the fall.
This annual event showcases the best of Bloomington’s arts and crafts. You can also find food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities. If you visit the area during the summer, visit Eastland Mall’s outdoor shopping centre.
Several family-friendly attractions offer shade and entertainment, including the Country Thunder sound and light show, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Mini Golf course, and the Splash Snoop Dogg water play area.
Eastland Mall is a great place to find everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and home decor. It’s also home to many specialty stores, including a yoga studio, a flower shop, and a sports store specialising in soccer equipment.
Address: 1615 E Empire St, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#12. Joann Goetzinger Studio and Gallery
If you are looking for one of the best ways to spend a weekend in Bloomington, head to the Goetzinger Studio and Gallery. Located in the heart of downtown, the Goetzinger is a must-visit art gallery.
The gallery features both local and national artists, showcasing a wide variety of styles. The gallery is open daily, and admission is free. In addition to the art gallery, the Goetzinger also features the Joann Goetzinger Studio. The studio features art classes for all skill levels, so there’s something for everyone.
The Goetzinger is also home to the only museum in the entire state dedicated to the great American artist Norman Rockwell. The museum features a small collection of Rockwell’s work and displays about his life and work.
Stop by the gallery or studio to see what the city’s art community is up to. You may run into an artist passing by, or you can meet a fellow enthusiast.
Address: 313 N Main St, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#13. Red Raccoon Games
For nearly a century, the Red Raccoon Games have been a part of Bloomington’s culture and history. The games are an eight-day festival of sports events, concerts, and other activities celebrating the city’s history and culture. This is also one of the fun things to do in Bloomington, il, today.
The Red Raccoon Games are not for the faint of heart; they’re renowned for their rowdiness. The Red Raccoon Association organizes the Red Raccoon Games. The organization aims to preserve Bloomington’s history and culture while promoting athletic events and sports competitions.
In addition to celebrating sports, the games also promote cultural events, such as concerts featuring popular musicians. The Red Raccoon Games are a great way to spend a few days in Bloomington. The events take place at multiple venues around the city, making it easy to find a place to stay and enjoy the festivities.
Red Raccoon Games also hosts adult sports events, including events for billiards, softball, and volleyball leagues. The venue also has a high-ropes challenge course and an amphitheatre featuring musical acts.
Visitors to Bloomington can enjoy seeing events at Red Raccoon Games. The venue is housed in a historic building that dates back to the early 20th century. You can easily visit this historic building during your visit to Bloomington.
Address: 309 N Main St, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#14. The Chocolatier Inc
Chocolatier Inc is a popular local candy store and ice cream shop. The shop has a huge selection of hard and soft candy, homemade jelly sweets, and more than 800 varieties of homemade ice cream.
The shop also serves coffee, smoothies, and other beverages, a wide variety of chocolate candy and treats, and a wide variety of ready-made foods and snacks infused with chocolate. Chocolatier Inc features a variety of unique treats, including new and experimental flavours.
The shop also offers custom-order cakes and other confections and gluten-free, low-calorie, and organic options. The Chocolatier Inc is located in the city’s downtown district, just off the walking path behind the Bloomington Center for the Arts.
You can stop by The Chocolatier Inc while visiting Bloomington or spending the weekend in the city. The shop’s address is 801 South Walnut Street, and you can find directions on the store’s website.
Address: 3 Finance Dr, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States
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#15. Gradys Fun Park
Located on the southern edge of Bloomington, the 87-acre Gradys Park is great for families to spend their weekends. The park features a large play area for kids of all ages, a swimming pool, and the Gradys Amusement Park, a huge assortment of rides.
The park is also home to various other amenities, including an 18-hole disc golf course, a pavilion, and a large playground. If you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, Gradys Park is a great choice.
The park is also a great place to visit, as the swimming pool is open during the day and the play area is open until 11:00 p.m. If you plan on visiting during the day, make sure you bring plenty of food and drinks, as there are no concessions available at the park.
Address: 1501 Morrissey Dr, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#16. Mass VR – Bloomington
Mass VR is a large-scale virtual reality centre that offers visitors the chance to experience various activities, including flying in a virtual plane, shooting a virtual gun, and even surfing the Internet.
The Mass VR is owned by Midway, an entertainment company that also runs the thrill-seeking Acceleration thrill attraction nearby Peoria. Visitors to the Mass VR in Bloomington are provided headsets, allowing them to experience VR activities.
Mass VR is open daily to the public, and admission is free. The VR centre is just off Interstate 74, making it a quick and easy place to visit. Visitors can also walk to the center from the downtown area.
Address: 4 Currency Dr, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States
#17. Pheasant Lanes
As one of the best things to do in Bloomington, IL, bowling is a great way to spend time with friends and family. Although the city has multiple bowling alleys, the Pheasant Lanes is one of the best.
The Pheasant Lanes is a family-friendly bowling center that is open daily. The lanes are modern and well-lit, making it easy for anyone to bowl. The Pheasant Lanes also feature a large arcade area, making it an ideal place for families to spend an afternoon.
It is also a great place to bowl and it’s also a great place to eat. The lanes are about a mile from the Pheasant Lanes Restaurant and Bar, which features burgers, pizza, and other items that are perfect for a snack after bowling.
Address: 804 N Hershey Rd, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States
#18. Orange Theory Fitness
Orange Theory Fitness is a 24/7 certified health club open to members of all ages and fitness levels. The Orange Theory is located in the heart of Bloomington, making it easy for residents and visitors to visit the health club.
The Orange Theory Fitness is a great place to get a workout while also enjoying the best things to do in Bloomington, IL. The health club offers a variety of classes and activities, including yoga, spin, weight training, and a variety of martial arts.
Fitness is a great way to get a workout and enjoy the best things to do in Bloomington, IL, all in one place. The club is also family-friendly, making it a great place for everyone to enjoy themselves.
Address: 1500 E Empire St A-13, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#19. BEER NUTS® Brand Snacks
Beer Nuts are a snack that is perfect for any occasion. These nuts are crisp and flavorful, and perfect for any beer. You will find what you like most with 22 different flavours and varieties.
The Beer Nuts snack shop offers an array of delicious beer nuts and other great snacks. Feel free to stop by and see the Beer Nuts team at The Beer Nuts store at 417 S Walnut St.
The Beer Nuts store is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can expect to find a vast array of Beer Nuts snack varieties and flavours at the Beer Nuts snack shop. This includes flavours like Honey Mustard, BBQ, Salt and Vinegar, and more. Discover your new favourite Beer Nuts snack flavour today!
Address: 103 N Robinson St, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
#20. Bloomington Spice Works
If you’re craving some authentic Indian cuisine without leaving the state of Illinois, you can make a stop at Bloomington Spice Works. This spice shop is known for its various spices, including Indian spices such as garam masala, kasoori methi, and more.
You can also find a variety of spices that are perfect for flavouring savoury dishes or sweet treats. The Bloomington Spice Works is a speciality spice shop that offers a variety of Indian spices and herbs. The shop sells bulk quantities of spices, in addition to bulk grains, herbs, and other items.
This allows it to be a source for a variety of speciality items. If you are in the area, it is a great place to pick up some Indian spices to add to your pantry or a few spices to cook with. It is also a great place to pick up a gift for someone!
Address: 507 N Center St, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
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What Is Bloomington Illinois, known for?
Bloomington is known for its vibrant arts scene, small-town feel, and a large university. Aside from being a college town, Bloomington features a variety of attractions for tourists and locals.
Explore the historic Monroe Art Center, one of the largest art museums in Illinois, or take in the sights at the nearby Monroe Farmers’ Market.
In addition to art and farmers’ markets, Bloomington also offers a variety of parks and nature trails, which make it a great spot for outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy hiking or biking, Bloomington has a trail or park for you. Nearby forests and parks also make exploring the state’s natural beauty easy.
What is the weather condition in Bloomington, Illinois?
Bloomington, Illinois, enjoys a mild climate, two-thirds of the year and a short growing season. The city’s average annual temperature is 44 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average annual rainfall is 21 inches.
You can expect unseasonably warm temperatures during the summer, and the winter is mild, with temperatures hovering around freezing.
As a college town, Bloomington is a great place to visit during spring and fall. Summer temperatures in Bloomington can be high, but the city also features plenty of activities and festivals to keep you busy.
Is Bloomington, Illinois safe?
Bloomington is a safe city to call home. The city of Bloomington, as well as the surrounding counties, are all considered to be among the safest in the state of Illinois.
Violent crimes do occur in Bloomington, but those tend to be rare. Even though the city does have a significant college population, there are too few incidents involving students to make the city a dangerous place for visitors.
Plan your trip in Bloomington, Illinois
Bloomington doesn’t just have a great name, and it also has a lot to offer. This Midwestern city is perfect for people who want to enjoy the outdoors while living in a city with a small-town feel.
You can explore the city or head to one of the nearby state parks, where you can see native flora and fauna or enjoy recreational activities like biking or fishing.
You can also visit one of the many art museums or attend a symphony performance. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Bloomington, Illinois, you’ve come to the right place.
