Are you from Normal, Illinois, or are you just visiting and looking for fun things to do? Good luck! Take advantage of your time in Normal, IL by reading this guide, which includes a full list of the 30 best and most fun things to do there.

Normal is a city in McLean County, Illinois, and is known for being home to Illinois State University, which adds to the city’s lively and active vibe.

Normal is an important city in McLean County. It has a beautiful and interesting cityscape, as well as many fun, educational, and entertaining indoor and outdoor sites to make your visit more enjoyable.

Many interesting places to visit and things to do are waiting for you on your trip, from the Children’s Discovery Museum and Uptown Normal to the historic Normal Theater and the Constitution Trail.

30 Best And Fun Things To Do In Normal, IL (2024)

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1. Mother Murphy’s     

Mother Murphy’s is a beautiful headshop that has a lot of different things to do in Normal, IL this weekend. It’s a great place to start your trip.

The store has been open since 1968 and sells clothing, tapestries, incense, and other counter-culture things.

When you go to Mother Murphy’s, you can learn about the history of the area and look at a huge collection of unique items.

Address: 111 1, 2 W North Street #2, Normal, IL 61761, United States

2. Maxwell Park

Maxwell Park is a big beehive with lots of fun things to do and nature areas in Normal, IL. Families can find many fun things to do there that are also pet-friendly.

The park is proud to have softball fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, a dog park, a disc golf course, hiking walks, and a nature area spread out over 125 acres.

Picnics and fun times with family are welcome. Athletes can use the sports facilities. People who love nature can explore the trails, and dog owners can have fun with their pets.

Address: 305 N Parkside Road, Normal, IL 61761, United States

3. Children’s Discovery Museum

The Children’s Discovery Museum is a paradise with interactive facilities created to ignite a passion for learning through play and other fun things to do in Normal, IL, for kids.

The museum features different hands-on experiences covering various themes like agriculture, health, art, and science, and comprises the country’s largest children’s museum exhibit, AgMazing.

An adventure promises hours of amusing exploration for kids and adults, parking interests, innovation, and a sense of marvel through practical activities and programs.

Address: 101 E Beaufort Street, Normal, IL 61761, United States

4. Bronze Giraffe Antiques

The antiques and collectibles section of Bronze Giraffe Antiques makes it a unique place for shoppers in Normal, IL to do fun things.

The store sells arts and crafts, primitives, and furniture that were found in old houses.

Bronze Giraffe Antiques has a lovely collection of interesting things, and you can find hidden gems among them.

Address: 1720 Bradford Lane, Normal, IL 61761, United States

5. CEPCU Arena

Previously known as the Redbird Arena, the CEPCU Arena is a 10,200-seat multi-functional arena offering different fun things to do in Normal, IL, for everyone.

The arena opened in 1989 and is on the campus of Illinois State University. It is where the Illinois State Redbirds play basketball and volleyball, both for men and women.

Going to the CEPCU Arena for an event is a thrilling way to cheer on the Redbirds, enjoy a show, or do something else fun.

Address: Illinois State University, Athletics Campus, Box 2660, Normal, IL 61790, United States

6. University Galleries

Contemporary art from all over the world can be found in the University Galleries at Illinois State University.

Normal, Illinois has a lot of interesting things to see and do. The gallery has art from both well-known and up-and-coming artists, with a focus on less-popular pieces.

Looking through the University Galleries will lead you to art that will make you think, artist talks, and special events.

Address: 11 Uptown Circle #103, Normal, IL 61761, United States

7. Fiala Brothers Brewery & Beer Hall

If you like beer, one of the best things to do in Normal, IL, is to check out Fiala Brother Brewery & Beer Hall. This brew bar is famous for its craft beers and tasty food.

The brewery has taprooms, delicious grilled cheese sandwiches, a huge selection of whiskeys for bourbon lovers, and beers made with ingredients grown in the area.

You can enjoy unique beers and tasty food in a welcoming space that encourages socializing, like a traditional German beer hall show.

Address: 127 E Beaufort Street, Normal, IL 61761, United States.

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8. The Normal Theater

You can watch your favorite movie at The Normal Theater, an Art Moderne movie theater in Normal, IL, that also has fun things to do at night.

The theater has been around since 1937 and shows a carefully chosen mix of classic, independent, foreign, and cult films, as well as special events and rentals.

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The Normal Theater is one of the most beautiful places for couples to go in Normal, IL. Visitors can enjoy the restored building by watching different movies on the big screen with their loved ones.

Address: 209 W North Street, Normal, IL 61761, United States.

9. Stave Wine Bar & Market

One of the best things to do this week in Normal, IL is to go to Stave Wine Bar & Market, where you can find good wines in a nice space.

This place has a lot to offer, like a wide range of wines by the glass and bottle, craft beers on tap and in bottles, meats, and cheeses to go with your drinks.

Fans of wine can try a variety of wines, enjoy delicious food to go with them, and enjoy a friendly and open atmosphere at Stave Wine Bar & Market.

Address: 111 W North Street, Normal, IL 61761, United States.

10. Rosa Parks Commons

Rose Parks Commons is a public space in Normal, Illinois, named after Rosa Parks, a civil rights worker who was praised for not giving up her bus seat. It has lots of free things to do for people of all ages.

There is a lot of green area with benches and walking paths in the public park, which is great for peace and fun.

People who like to have fun and be in nature will enjoy a trip. They will also learn more about Rosa Parks by visiting many well-known monuments and signs.

Address: 105 E Raab Road, Normal, IL 61761, United States.

11. Illinois State University

One of the most educational things to do in Normal, IL is to go to Illinois State University. It is the state’s largest public university and has a long history of training teachers.

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.

12. The Corn Crib   

Get immersed in the exhilarating atmosphere at The Corn Crib, a multi-purpose stadium that makes room for different outdoor activities in Normal, Illinois.

The baseball team, the Normal CornBelters, plays their home games at the park, so it’s mostly used for baseball.

You can feel the excitement of summer academic baseball and cheer on the local team, the Normal CornBelters, after a game at The Corn Crib.

Address: 1000 W Raab Road, Normal, IL 61761, United States

13. Ryburn Place Gifts & Gab

This weekend in Normal, IL, there are lots of fun things to do at Ryburn Place Gifts & Gab, a gift shop with a friendly setting where customers can look around and talk.

The store sells a variety of gifts, such as souvenirs, home goods, and items that were made by hand. There is also a place for people to talk and get together.

By looking around Ryburn Place Gifts & Gab, you’re sure to find unique gifts and have a good time talking to shop owners and other customers.

Address: 305 Pine Street, Normal, IL 61761, United States.

14. Anderson Park

This summer, Anderson Park in Normal, Illinois, has a lot of fun things for families to do that are free. The park is open to both tourists and locals.

The park covers 10.5 acres and has a playground, picnic areas with grills, basketball courts, a ballfield, a paved walking path, a zip line, and the Anderson Aquatic Center, which has swimming pools and water slides.

You can take it easy in a beautiful garden, have a family lunch, play on the playground or sports courts, and cool off in the water.

Address: 503 E College Avenue, Normal, IL 61761, United States

15. Duffy Bass Field

As the home field for the Illinois State University Redbird baseball team, Duffy Bass Field is a baseball park.

There are many fun things for athletes to do in Normal, IL, and the field has room for over 1,200 spectators, 1,000 seats, a smooth playing area, and training facilities.

Get a chance to see a college baseball game on the well-kept field and see the Illinois State Redbirds play live.

Address: 700 Gregory Street, Normal, IL 61761, United States

16. Budget Blinds Of Bloomington, IL

One of the cool things to do in Normal, IL is to go to Budget Blinds Of Bloomington, a store that sells blinds, shades, curtains, and other stylish home decor.

There are free in-home consultations, professional designs, measuring services, expert installation, and a wide range of stylish window treatments at reasonable prices at this shop.

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Budget Blinds Of Bloomington can help you find the best window covers for your needs by making the process as personal as possible.

Address: 115 Susan Drive I, Normal, IL 61761, United States

17. One Normal Plaza

There are many exciting things to do in Normal, Illinois, at One Normal Plaza, a large park with many fun and relaxing things to do.

The park covers 22 acres and has a playground, a community garden, an inline hockey rink, and open room for sports fields. It is one of many fun things to do today in Normal, IL.

When you go to One Normal Plaza, you can relax, have fun, and connect with the place’s history as a home for soldiers’ children who had lost their parents.

Address: 601-691 E Lincoln Street, Normal, IL 61761, United States

18. Camelback Bridge

One of the best things for people of all ages to do in Normal, IL is to check out Camelback Bridge, a restored wooden bridge that spans the Constitution Trail.

The treasure is made with a unique kingpost pony truss design and rare Phoenix columns. Visitors can admire a preserved piece of history while visiting the important landmark.

Address: 142-100 E Virginia Avenue, Normal, IL 61761, United States

19. White Oak Brewing

White Oak Brewing is a custom-built brewery with a public bar that gives you a wide range of unique things to do in Normal, IL, at night.

Craft beers of different styles, like IPAs, stouts, and kölschs, are available for purchase at the brewery. This lets tourists try the newest locally made beers in a cozy setting.

20. Rader Family Farms 

Rager Family Farms, a fourth-generation working farm, should be on your list of free things to do in Normal, IL, in the fall if you love nature.

The farm has a pumpkin patch where you can pick your own, a 10-acre corn maze, hayrides, a jumping pillow, farm animals, and food stands.

Enjoy a fun-filled fall tour with games for the whole family and a chance to learn about farming while making memories that will last a lifetime.

Address: 1312 Ropp Road, Normal, IL 61761, United States

21. 3rd Sunday Market

Find unique things to do near Normal, IL, at the summer at 3rd Sunday Market, which is only an 11-minute drive from Normal and is full of secret gems, special finds, and collections for simple 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.

Address: 1106 Interstate Drive, Bloomington, IL 61705, United States.

22. Ironwood Golf Course

This weekend, one of the fun things to do in Normal, IL, should be to book a tee time at Ironwood Golf Course, an 18-hole championship course built by Roger Packard.

There are many tee boxes, a driving range, a putting green, a practice bunker, and a golf school at this par-72 course that is between 5,400 and 7,100 yards long.

Golfers of all types can play a challenging round at Ironwood Golf Course, which has facilities to meet their needs.

Address: 1901 N Towanda Avenue, Normal, IL 61761, United States

23. Lil Beaver Brewery

Little Beaver Brewery is in Bloomington, which is only a 12-minute drive from Normal. If you’re looking for the best things to do today near Normal, IL, you should definitely check it out.

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.

24. Tipton Park

Tipton Park is a big, beautiful place to enjoy the outdoors that’s only 10 minutes from Bloomington and close to Normal, IL. It’s a great place to go on a trip with family or friends.

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.

25. David Davis Mansion

Nestled in Bloomington, about a 7-minute car drive from Normal, pay a visit to the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts (BCPA), a cutting-edge venue for performances, events, and educational programs.

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 modern sound and lighting equipment that gives artists and audiences new experiences. This makes it possible for people in the Normal, IL, area to have fun at night.

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.

27. 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 leisure opportunities and other romantic things for couples to do in Normal, 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.

28. McLean County Museum Of History

The McClean Couty Museum of History is a storehouse of local history that is only a 7-minute drive from Normal to Bloomington. It has a lot of interesting things for everyone to do near Normal, IL.

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.

29. Sprague’s Super Service Station

Sprague’s Super Service Station has been around for a long time and has a unique Tudor Revival style building. It also has some fun things for people in Normal, IL to do.

The station has been around since 1931 and is now a visitor center and gift shop. It also has exhibits about Route 66’s history and information about the historical value of the area.

Address: 305 Pine Street, Normal, IL 61761, United States

30. Prairie Aviation Museum

Explore Prairie Aviation Museum, a storehouse of aviation history making a list of the best things to do near Normal, Illinois, just a 19-minute drive from Normal to Bloomington, IL.

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.

31. Evergreen Memorial Cemetary

Today, one of the strangest things to do near Normal, IL, is to visit Evergreen Memorial Cemetary, which has been a unique place to bury people and a beautiful park-like setting 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.

It only takes 9 minutes to drive from Normal to Bloomington to get to the cemetery. There are also memorials for veterans who died in wars and other important 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.