things to do in bloomington il

Bloomington, Illinois, is a charming college town with a rich cultural scene, outdoor activities, and a variety of attractions. Here are some things to do in Bloomington, IL:

1. Illinois State University Campus: Take a stroll through the beautiful campus, visit the ISU Art Gallery, and explore the historic buildings.
2. Baker Arboretum: This 1,200-acre nature preserve features walking trails, gardens, and a variety of plant species.
3. McLean County Museum of History: Learn about the region’s history, from prehistoric times to the present day.
4. Bloomington Farmers’ Market: Every Saturday from May to October, visit the market to sample local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
5. Downtown Bloomington: Explore the charming shops, restaurants, and bars along Main Street and College Avenue.
6. Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts: Catch a show or concert at this intimate venue, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.
7. Illinois Shakespeare Festival: If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to catch a performance of a Shakespeare play at this outdoor festival.
8. Bloomington Public Library: This modern library features a beautiful atrium, a children’s section, and a variety of programs and events.
9. Lake Bloomington: Enjoy boating, fishing, or simply taking in the views at this scenic lake.
10. Bloomington’s Historic District: Take a self-guided tour of the historic homes and buildings in this charming neighborhood.
11. The Dome: Catch a sports game or concert at this indoor arena, which hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
12. Bloomington’s Food Scene: Try some of the city’s famous restaurants, such as The Flying Pan, The Egg & I, or The Toasted Frog.
13. McLean County Farmers’ Market: Every Thursday from May to October, visit the market to sample local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
14. Bloomington’s Art Scene: Explore the city’s many art galleries, including the ISU Art Gallery, the McLean County Museum of History, and the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts.
15. Outdoor Activities: Bloomington is surrounded by beautiful countryside and natural areas, making it a great base for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing.

Some popular events in Bloomington, IL include:

• Illinois Shakespeare Festival: A summer festival featuring outdoor performances of Shakespeare plays.
• Bloomington Blues Festival: A music festival featuring blues and jazz performances.
• Bloomington Farmers’ Market: A weekly market featuring local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
• Bloomington’s Downtown Christmas Parade: A festive holiday parade through the city’s downtown area.
• Illinois State University Homecoming: A celebration of ISU spirit, featuring games, concerts, and other events.

Overall, Bloomington, IL is a charming college town with a rich cultural scene, outdoor activities, and a variety of attractions to explore.