things to do in bloomington normal

Bloomington-Normal is a vibrant college town in central Illinois, home to Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University. Here are some things to do in Bloomington-Normal:

Outdoor Activities:

  1. Constitution Trail: A 24-mile trail perfect for hiking, biking, or jogging.
  2. Miller Park Zoo: A small zoo featuring a variety of animals, a playground, and a beautiful garden.
  3. Prairie Vista Golf Course: An 18-hole golf course with scenic views.

Cultural Attractions:

  1. McLean County Museum of History: Explore the history of McLean County and its people.
  2. Illinois Shakespeare Festival: Catch a live performance of Shakespeare’s plays during the summer.
  3. Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts: Hosts various concerts, plays, and performances.

Food and Drink:

  1. Uptown Normal: A vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and bars, including the famous Uptown Tavern.
  2. Downtown Bloomington: Visit the Bloomington Farmers’ Market (May-October) and try some local food.
  3. Destihl Restaurant and Brew Works: A brewery and restaurant serving craft beer and farm-to-table cuisine.

Shopping:

  1. The Shoppes at College Hills: An outdoor shopping center with a mix of national and local stores.
  2. Eastland Mall: A large mall with a variety of stores and a cinema.
  3. Downtown Bloomington: Unique shops, boutiques, and antiques.

Sports and Entertainment:

  1. Redbird Arena: Catch an Illinois State University sports game or a concert.
  2. Grossinger Motors Arena: Hosts various events, including hockey games, concerts, and shows.
  3. Bloomington Edge: Watch a summer baseball game.

Other Attractions:

  1. David Davis Mansion State Historic Site: Tour the historic mansion of Judge David Davis, a close friend of Abraham Lincoln.
  2. Prairie Aviation Museum: Explore the history of aviation in the Midwest.
  3. Children’s Discovery Museum: A hands-on museum for kids to learn and play.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Bloomington-Normal. The town has a lot to offer, from outdoor activities to cultural attractions and entertainment!

Rate this post