Why Is Bloomington Worth Visiting?
Bloomington is a town in Central Illinois that is definitely worth visiting. With a population of around 80,000 people, it is the perfect size – not too big and not too small. The climate is also perfect, with all four seasons represented. No matter when you visit, there are plenty of things to do in Bloomington, IL, including shopping, dining, and entertainment.
And of course, there are the people. They’re friendly and welcoming, which makes for a great atmosphere. So if you are looking for a place to visit that has everything you could want, be sure to put Bloomington at the top of your list. You won’t be disappointed!
Things to Do in Bloomington, IL for Families
If you are traveling with family, there are plenty of things to do in Bloomington, IL that will keep everyone happy. In fact, the city is brimming with attractions geared towards kids!
The Miller Park Zoo is a great option for animal lovers of all ages. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more exciting, try Grady’s Family Fun Park. With go-karts, mini golf, and a batting cages, it’s the perfect place to spend a day. Altitude Trampoline Park is another great option for families. This huge indoor trampoline park is perfect for kids (and adults!) of all ages.
For something a little more low-key, there are plenty of options as well. The Pheasant Lanes Family Fun Center has arcade games, mini golf, and a bowling alley. Or, challenge yourself and your loved ones at Iron Coyote Challenge Park, where you can test your skills on a variety of ninja obstacles!
Last but not least, there’s the Children’s Discovery Museum. With interactive exhibits and a variety of educational programs, it’s the perfect place to take the kids.
Iconic Bloomington Museums and Art Centers
In addition to being home to a variety of family-friendly attractions, Bloomington also boasts several museums that are perfect for history buffs. The first stop on your list should be the McLean County Museum of History. This museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of McLean County. It’s also home to a variety of rotating exhibits, so there’s always something new to see.
The Prairie Aviation Museum is another great option. This museum is housed in a restored World War II hangar and features a variety of aircraft, as well as exhibits on the history of aviation.
Historic Sites in Bloomington
If you’re interested in art, be sure to visit the David Davis Mansion State Historic Site. This beautiful home was once owned by Supreme Court Justice David Davis. It’s now a museum that houses an impressive collection of 19th-century art.
Finally, no trip to Bloomington would be complete without a visit to the Illinois Wesleyan University campus. This historic university is home to a variety of museums, including The Ames Library, which houses over 200,000 volumes. If you’d like to visit Illinois State University as well, you can take a short drive to Normal.
Art Galleries and Centers in Bloomington
If you’re looking for a place to view some art, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Bloomington. Here are some art galleries to pop into:
- McLean County Arts Center – home to temporary exhibitions and pottery classes;
- The Hangar Art Co. – an art gallery featuring young artists and praised for its diversity;
- Inside Out: Accessible Art Gallery and Cooperative – a place where you can view and purchase the works of local artists.
In addition, Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts hosts Broadway shows, concerts and dance performances. It has hosted artists such as Duke Ellington, Pablo Casals, Beverly Sills and more. The venue holds over 500 events every year, so you’re sure to find something to enjoy no matter when you visit.
Parks and Recreation in Bloomington, IL
In addition to a variety of museums and historic sites, there are plenty of outdoor things to do in Bloomington, IL. The city has dozens of parks, several of which are quite big. Maxwell Park, for example, covers over 100 acres. And Miller Park is perfect for golfing, hiking, and picnicking.
Grossinger Motors Arena
Grossinger Motors Arena was opened in 2006 and has been hosting events such as concerts and sporting events ever since. It has a seating capacity of 7,000 people, and it’s located right in downtown Bloomington. While you’re there, you can also visit the Bloomington Ice Center, which is attached to the arena.
Golf Courses
Highland Park Golf Course is one of the most popular golf courses in Bloomington. It’s a course that measures over 5,539 yards long, characterized by hilly terrain with creek meandering. It’s enjoyable for everyone from beginners to experts. Other places to hit the links in Bloomington include:
- Lakeside Country Club;
- Prairie Vista Golf Course;
- Bloomington Country Club.
Shopping at Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market
Every Saturday from May to October, the Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market sets up shop. You’ll find fresh produce, flowers, baked goods and more. It’s the perfect place to stock up on groceries for the week or to pick up a bouquet of flowers for your hotel room.
There’s also the Market Square Shopping Center, which is home to a variety of retailers, including Target, Best Buy and Bed Bath & Beyond.
Enjoy Your Trip to Bloomington!
So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to things to do in Bloomington, IL. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in this historic city. Thanks for reading!
Have you ever been to Bloomington, IL? What’s your favorite thing to do there? Let us know in the comments below.
Similar Posts:
- Top Things To Do In Illinois – Tourist Attractions And Places To Visit And Things To See
- Things to Do in Springfield, IL: A Look at Tourist Attractions in Springfield, Abraham Lincoln’s Former Home
- Things to Do in Peoria, IL. Top Tourist Attractions, Things to Do with Kids & Events in Peoria
- 10 Best Things to Do in Champaign, IL. Champaign-Urbana Attractions You Can’t Miss
- Things to Do in Naperville, IL: Fun Activities and Things to See in Downtown Naperville and Beyond
- Best Free Things to Do in Chicago – Places to Have Fun without Spending a Penny
- Things to Do in Rockford, IL. We’ve Compiled a List of Top Rockford Tourist Attractions and Best Places to Go
- Things to Do in Palm Desert and Around Palm Springs – World-Famous Attractions Between the Mountains and the Desert
