24 Fun & Best Things To Do In Bloomington, IL

Whether you live in Bloomington, Illinois, or are just visiting, this is the best place to find fun things to do. Take a look at our full list of the top 24 fun and interesting things to do in Bloomington, IL. This will help you get the most out of your time there.

Bloomington, Illinois, is in McLean County and is known as a lively center of history, culture, and entertainment. The David Davis Mansion and the McLean County Museum of History are two important historical sites in the city.

The city of Bloomington is very beautiful, and there are many fun, educational, and entertaining things to do both inside and outside. From Miller Park to the Constitution Trail, there are many things to see and do that you can find during your stay.

24 Fun And Best Things To Do In Bloomington, IL (2024)

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1. Miller Park

Visitors of all ages can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities and other fun things to do in Bloomington, IL, at Miller Park, which is the first stop on your trip.

The public park has a beautiful lake where you can take paddleboats, a zoo with animal shows, softball fields, playgrounds for kids, and a pavilion for events.

There are also memorials to veterans, sand volleyball fields, a minigolf course, and a preserved steam locomotive in the park.

People who go to Miller Park can relax outside, learn about animals at the zoo, take a paddleboat ride on the lake, play sports, or have lunch with family and friends. All of these activities are sure to make memories.

2. McLean County Museum Of History

There are many interesting things for everyone to do in Bloomington, IL at the McLean Couty Museum of History, which is a repository of local history that keeps and shows the stories of the people who made Bloomington and Illinois what they are today.

The museum has a study library, an archive, and a lot of artifacts about the lives of people who were close to Abraham Lincoln and the history of farming and industry.

The McLean Couty Museum of History is a great place to learn more about Bloomington’s history, connect with the past, and discover the interesting stories of people who lived in the past.

Address: 200 N Main Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.

3. 3rd Sunday Market

One unique thing to do in Bloomington, IL, during the summer is to check out the 3rd Sunday Market. It’s a treasure trove of unique finds, collections, and secret gems for casual shoppers.

There are over 450 vendors from 17 states at the business hub. They sell a wide range of antiques, collectibles, crafts, garden items, Americana, folk art, keepsakes, and more.

Finding unique items, going on treasure hunts, and talking to friendly sellers in a busy place are all things that you can do at the 3rd Sunday Market.

4. Pleasant Lanes Family Fun Center & Kegler’s Pub

Find a lot of fun things to do with your family this weekend in Bloomington, IL, at Pleasant Lanes Family Fun Center & Kegler’s Pub, which has everything you need for family fun.

There are 32 bowling lanes, an 18-hole golf course, two sand volleyball courts, and Kegler’s Pub, which has draft drinks, a full bar, big-screen TVs, video games, and a beer garden.

Have a day full of fun things to do. Bowl or play mini-golf with your friends, grab a bite to eat and a drink at the pub, and relax while making memories in a friendly atmosphere.

5. Epiphany Farms Restaurant

At Epiphany Farms Restaurant in Bloomington, IL, you can find romantic things to do with your partner. This farm-to-table restaurant loves serving fresh farm food.

The restaurant has a seasonal menu with meals made with ingredients grown on their 20-acre farm or from nearby small farms. The setting is warm and friendly.

You can enjoy creative and tasty treats made with the freshest ingredients, see how farm and table come together, and have a great time eating in a friendly space.

Address: 220 E Front Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.

6. Altitude Trampoline Park

You can let out your inner jumper at Altiplano Trampoline Park, a place where you can have active fun with lots of jumping and other fun things to do in Bloomington, IL.

There are wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, a spot just for children, slam dunk lanes, a trapeze swing, climbing walls, extreme dodgeball, and Ninja warrior paths at the trampoline park.

No matter what you’re into or how good you are at jumping, Altitude Trampoline Park has something fun for everyone, from people who just want to jump for fun and some friendly competition to people who want to be professional athletes.

Address: 1702 General Electric Road, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.

7. The Castle Theater

For music lovers, one of the most interesting things to do in Bloomington, IL is to see the best shows at The Castle Theater, a lively live music venue with unique experiences.

This vaudeville and sleep-movie house-turned-theater attraction has a cool atmosphere, different kinds of music, and beautiful building styles. It can fit over 700 people in different ways.

When people go to The Castle Theater, they can enjoy live music in a new way by discovering new artists from various music styles, watching children’s shows, or renting the venue for events.

Address: 209 E Washington Street STE 1, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.

8. Prairie Aviation Museum

As an art lover, one of the best things to do today in Bloomington, IL should be to visit the Prairie Aviation Museum. It is a treasure trove of aviation history that shows how flight has changed over time.

The museum has a huge collection of well-preserved airplanes, engines, and helicopters, including famous models like the F-14 Tomcat, the A-4 Skyhawk, and the Bell Huey chopper.

Going to the Prairie Aviation Museum is a great way to learn about the past of flying from the first pioneers to today’s cutting-edge machines.

Address: 2929 E Empire Street, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.

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9. David Davis Mansion

One exciting thing for tourists to do in Bloomington, IL is to go on an adventure to the David Davis Mansion, which is a beautiful example of a Golden Age building and an interesting piece of American history.

The mansion has 36 rooms that have been carefully restored to reflect the style and wealth of the middle of the Victorian era. These rooms include grand parlors, bedrooms, a library, a formal dining room, an 1872 wood house, a ban, a stable, outbuildings, and a flower garden.

Take tours that learn more about the life and impact of David Davis, a Supreme Court Justice and Abraham Lincoln’s confidante, to get a feel for life in the 1800s.

10. Herb Eaton Studio Gallery

The Herb Eaton Studio Gallery is a place where art lovers can relax and enjoy works of art. It’s also a place where they can connect with the creative works of Herb Eaton and find other unique things to do in Bloomington, IL.

The store has a collection of Herb Eaton’s paintings, such as impressionistic landscapes, scenes from the Midwest’s beautiful nature, and still lifes. Other exhibitions by local and area artists are also shown.

By visiting the Herb Eaton Studio Gallery, you can get lost in Eaton’s art, show appreciation for his unique view of nature, and discover new art styles.

Address: 411 N Center Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.

11. Grady’s Family Fun Park

For fun things to do with your family this weekend in Bloomington, IL, take a trip to Grady’s Family Fun Park, a popular beehive that has fun things for people of all ages.

There is an 18-hole miniature golf course, a restaurant, bumper boats, a fighting cage, and an arcade with many video games at this famous spot.

Get away from the stress of the day by going to Grady’s Family Fun Park. You’ll have a great time laughing, competing, and making memories that will last a lifetime.

12. Bloomington Ice Center

Everyone can enjoy public skating, ice hockey, figure skating, and other fun and exciting things to do in Bloomington, IL, at the Bloomington Ice Center, which can be used for many different things.

The ice center has a large ice rink, bleacher seating, skate rentals, public skate classes, hockey tournaments, and time set aside for lessons and practice in figure skating.

At Bloomington Ice Center, you can reach your full skating potential by going for a skate, training your skills, watching a hockey game, or cheering on local figure skaters.

13. Iron Coyote Challenge Park

Are you looking for a place that is full of fun things to do and physical tasks for people of all ages? Iron Coyote Challenge Park is the place to go today for a wide range of exciting things to do in Bloomington, IL.

There are many Ninja Warriors courses, climbing walls, a 60-foot zipline, party rooms, a full-service cafe, and a viewing mezzanine at the park. The high ropes course has more than 35 obstacles.

At Iron Coyote Challenge Park, you can try your balance and agility on the ropes, climb the walls, soar through the air on the zip lines, and watch other people have fun while you snack and drink.

Address: 4113 Oakland Avenue, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.

14. Constitution Trails

Constitution Trails is a special must-use trail that was built in 1989 and runs between the cities of Bloomington and Normal. It offers a variety of outdoor opportunities and other romantic things for couples to do in Bloomington, IL.

The trail is over 35 miles long and includes rest areas, picnic tables, green spaces, and paved walks. It is also known as “Bloomington-Normal’s Best Park Amenity.”

Constitution Trails is a great place to get some good exercise, see different parts of Bloomington-Normal, and enjoy the view.

Address: 900 S. Linden Street. Underwood Park, Normal, IL, United States.

15. Evergreen Memorial Cemetary

One unique thing to do in Bloomington, IL, today is to visit Evergreen Memorial Cemetery, which has been a beautiful park-like resting place for over 190 years.

The cemetery covers 47 acres and has winding paths, tall trees, a peaceful mausoleum, well-kept grounds, a burial area for people who died in the Civil War, historic markers, and burial plots.

In the cemetery, there are also memorials for soldiers who died in wars and other major events.

People who go on trips to Evergreen Memorial Cemetery can honor the dead, relax on the peaceful grounds, and learn about Bloomington’s past from the monuments and memorials.

Address: 302 E Miller Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.

16. Upper Limits Climbing Gym

Upper Limits Climbing Gym is a great place to let out your inner monster. It’s a haven for climbers in Bloomington, IL, with exciting, difficult, and other unique things to do.

The gym is proud of its more than 20,000-square-foot climbing wall with different routes for different skill levels, as well as its wave wall, bi-level cave, outdoor bouldering area, and kids’ area.

When you go to Upper Limits Climbing Gym, you can work out your whole body, compete with other people, push your mind and body, and feel the thrill of hitting new heights.

17. Illinois Shakespeare Festival

This summer, there are lots of fun things to do in Bloomington, IL, thanks to the Illinois Shakespeare Festival (ISF), a professional theater company with lively shows.

There are three mainstage productions at the festival. They include well-known tragedies and comedies by Shakespeare, lesser-known works by modern writers, and shows and programs that are fun for the whole family.

Add some magic to your summer by going to see a play live. When you go to the Illinois Shakespeare Festival, you can get lost in Shakespeare’s old works or find new plays and stage versions of old ones.

Address:  48 Sunset Road, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.

18. Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market 

One of the best things to do this weekend in Bloomington, IL, is to check out the Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market. It’s a busy, bright market with fresh food grown nearby.

The market is located near the famous downtown square and has vendors selling seasonal fruits and veggies, farm-raised meats and eggs, locally baked goods, and items made by skilled artisans.

In this business hub, you can also find honey, flowers, plants, and locally roasted coffee beans that are presented in a way that makes them stand out.

People can stock up on fresh, high-quality ingredients, find unique food items, and talk to local sellers one-on-one in a lively setting.

The Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts (BCPA) is a state-of-the-art place for events, performances, and training programs. If you want to do something fun in Bloomington, IL, at night, you should put it on your list.

This site is called “The Crown Jewel of Bloomington” and has a 1,200-seat hall with great sound, a ballroom that can be used for different things, and well-equipped meeting rooms.

The entertainment center also has up-to-date sound and lighting systems that give both artists and audiences unique experiences.

There is something for everyone at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts, whether you want to see live theater, a fast-paced dance show, or a comedy show.

Address: 600 N East Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.

20. Prairie Vista Golf Course

Making a tee time at the standard and well-kept Prairie Vista Golf Course is one of the fun things to do this weekend in Bloomington, IL.

The golf lodge has been around since 1991 and is a good task for both experienced and new golfers. The public and city 18-hole course is spread out over a large area and measures 6,745 yards from the back tees. It has a 127-degree slope and a par of 72.

The Pinecrest Golf Course also has beautiful views of the area where you can sit and unwind while you wait for your turn to play. The course, also has classes for players of all ages.

Address: 502 W Hamilton Road, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.

21. Tipton Park

In Bloomington, IL, one fun thing to do with family and friends is to go on a trip to Tipton Park, which is a big, beautiful place to relax in the open air.

The beehive is split into two parts that cover 50 acres each. The northern part has a nature area, a fishing lake, a playground for kids, and an old-fashioned shelter.

In contrast, the southern part has soccer and softball areas, a splash pad, and a paved 2-mile asphalt trail that’s great for walking, running, or biking.

Address: 2201 Stone Mountain Blvd., Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.

22. Illinois State University

If you’re looking for educational things to do near Bloomington, IL, Illinois State University is the oldest public university in the state and has a long history of training teachers. It’s in Normal, IL, which is only a 5-minute drive away.

The school has been around since 1857 and offers both undergraduate and graduate studies in a wide range of fields, such as business, education, fine arts, and liberal arts and sciences.

In addition, the beautiful park is right in the middle of campus and has a great mix of old and new buildings that make it a great place to learn.

Different student events and organization programs are held to explore the town’s charm, giving guests and students a unique and interesting college experience.

Address: 100 N University Street, Normal, IL 61761, United States.

23. Walt Bittner Park

Walt Bittner Park is a public park in Bloomington, Illinois, where everyone can relax, play sports, and find other fun things to do with their family.

The park covers 8.4 acres and has lots of green space, walking trails, a playground for kids, and sports facilities like a baseball field, a basketball court, and a softball field.

Walt Bittner Park has nature, recreation, and a place to connect with nature and other people, no matter what your hobbies are.

Address: 5 Finance Drive, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.

24. Lil Beaver Brewery

If you like wine, one of the best things to do in Bloomington, IL, today should be to check out Lil Beaver Brewery. It’s a famous spot for well-made beer and tasty bar snacks in a friendly atmosphere.

The brewery specializes in heavy stouts and offers a wide range of beers, from traditional styles to seasonal ones, to suit your tastes. There is also a tap room where you can make sure that the flavors of the mixed beers taste great.

Along with their beers, the brewery has a full-meal menu with tasty snacks, burgers, pizzas, salads, wings, and sweets.

Here at Lil Beaver Brewery, you can enjoy a cold beer after work, a hearty meal, or a live sports game on one of the TVs.

Address: 5 Finance Drive, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.

25. Bloomington Public Library

For people of all ages, the Bloomington Public Library is an important part of the community. It offers great services, events, resources, and other learning activities in Bloomington, IL.

The Ladies’ Library Association started the library in 1857. It has books, audiobooks, ebooks, magazines, events for people of all ages, public computers that can connect to the internet, and comfortable areas.

You can discover a world of information at the Bloomington Public Library, borrow books, go to interesting programs, or just read a book in a friendly space.

Address: 205 E Olive Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.

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