32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Bloomington, IN
Looking for entertaining things to do in Bloomington, Indiana? This guide offers 32 exciting and recommended things to do in this dynamic city, whether you’re a visitor or a local.
Because of its breathtaking scenery and natural beauty, Bloomington, which is ideally located in the center of Southern Indiana, about 50 miles southwest of Indianapolis, is referred to as the “Gateway to Scenic Southern Indiana.”
This vibrant city, which is home to Indiana University, provides a wealth of cultural, recreational, and educational possibilities. There is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant college town, from strolling along the verdant paths of Griffy Lake Nature Preserve to soaking in the vibrant artistic community at the Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District (BEAD).
32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Bloomington, IN (2024)
1. Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District (BEAD)
Discover the thriving Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District (BEAD), which was created to honor entertainment, culture, and the arts among other distinctive Bloomington, Indiana things to do.
BEAD is a citywide cultural center that was founded in 2005 and stands out for its eclectic combination of theaters, galleries, music venues, and public art works. Throughout the year, the neighborhood hosts a large number of festivals, events, and performances.
Immerse yourself in the community’s artistic culture by visiting amazing galleries, taking in live performances at legendary locations like the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, and participating in artistic workshops.
Address: Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.
2. Griffy Lake Nature Preserve
Adventurers seeking a natural escape will find a 109-acre lake surrounded by sweeping trees at Griffy Lake Nature Preserve in Bloomington, IN.
The 1,200-acre park offers hiking trails, a boat dock for renting non-motorized watercraft, and exciting fishing excursions to enhance your visit.
Seize the opportunity to spend time in the great outdoors, go fishing, or go hiking in peace.
Address: 3400 N Headley Road, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.
3. BBQ Train
Make a stop at BBQ Train, a smoker setup that gained popularity for its delicious barbecue, on your list of inexpensive activities to do in Bloomington, IN, with your loved ones.
Located outside the Short Shop Food Mart, this attraction serves regular sides and lunch specials along with dry-rubbed, Carolina-style smoked meats such pulled pork, ribs, and brisket.
Savor authentic, smokey barbecue at a reasonable price, particularly on Thursdays when business is at its busiest.
Address: 905 N Smith Road, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States
4. Monroe County History Center
One of the free things to do in Bloomington, IN this week is to take a tour of the Monroe County History Center, a free museum and research library dedicated to preserving and disseminating the history of Monroe County.
The center features a museum store, a historical research library, and both rotating and permanent displays showing local and regional history.
Discovering your family history and learning about the past of the area can be accomplished by exploring the Monroe County History Center’s resources, exhibitions, and artifacts.
Address: 202 E 6th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.
5. Downtown Bloomington
Among the entertaining, educational, and fascinating things to do in Bloomington, IN, for people of all ages, should be a visit to Downtown Bloomington, a bustling area that combines modern energy with historic elegance.
The town takes pleasure in having a pedestrian-friendly area with independent stores, eateries, pubs, entertainment venues, and a nationally recognized Farmers’ Market.
Discover the rich history of the area, indulge in delicious cuisine, take in a performance at one of the entertainment facilities, and enjoy the exciting nightlife.
Address: Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.
6. Picture Gallery
Art enthusiasts can peruse Picture Gallery, which is connected to the Arts Alliance of Greater Bloomington (AAGB) and contains a wealth of works by regional and local artists.
In order to provide enjoyable activities for all visitors to Bloomington, IN, the gallery features a variety of paintings, photos, sculptures, jewelry, and handcrafted goods created by talented artists.
Visiting Picture Gallery offers the opportunity to become immersed in the Bloomington art scene, find unique pieces for purchase, and support local artists.
Address: 202 S Rogers Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.
7. Bloomington Rail Trail
One of the best free activities in Bloomington, Indiana, is to take a stroll along the two miles of ground gravel route known as the Bloomington Rail Trail. This pathway is perfect for bicyclists, joggers, and walkers.
There are seats, a sporadic drinking fountain with a dog bowl, and beautiful scenery throughout the trail, which connects to the B-Line Trail at Country Club Drive and the clear Creek Trail at Church Lane.
Enjoy a peaceful natural retreat surrounded by trees and a brook, and make connections with nearby paths for a longer journey.
Address: Bloomington, IN 47403, United States.
8. Switchyard Park
A former railyard, Switchyard Park is a bustling general park that offers entertainment, social areas, and fun activities for people of all ages in Bloomington, IN.
A performance stage, a multipurpose pavilion, community gardens, a dog park, sports courts, a splash pad, and a skate park are just a few of the amenities the park offers.
Visit Switchyard Park for chances to experience nature on the B-line Trail, unwind in the fresh air, and take part in community events.
Address: 1601 S Rogers Street, Bloomington, IN 47403, United States.
9. Bub’s Burger & Ice Cream
For those looking for enjoyable and leisurely activities in Bloomington, IN, visiting Bub’s Burger & Ice Cream is a must-do. This well-known eatery offers large, inventive burgers and classic dishes in a straightforward, family-friendly atmosphere.
Top-notch ingredients including freshly prepared beef patties, locally baked buns, milkshakes, unique burger alternatives, vegetarian selections, and classic ice cream flavors are what make this attraction so well-known.
Enjoy a mouthwatering burger and a refreshing frozen milkshake in a lively, welcoming setting as you sample their famous “Big Ugly” burger.
Address: 480 N Morton Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States
10. Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
Visiting the prestigious music arboretum at The Indiana University Jacobs School of Music in Bloomington, IN, is one of the educational activities that everyone should do.
The school, which was founded in 1921, takes great pleasure in its exceptional talent, unique facilities, and abundance of costumes representing many musical genres.
Engage in a vibrant musical community, meet accomplished musicians, and hone your skills through collaboration and concerts.
Address: 205 S Jordan Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.
11. Leonard Springs Nature Park
One of the exciting things to do in Bloomington, IN this weekend is to visit Leonard Springs Nature Park, a natural preserve featuring springs, caves, and a swamp area.
The 1.1-mile hiking track in the 95.5-acre nature park offers beautiful views and opportunities to identify plant and animal species.
Take advantage of the opportunity to stroll through a vast area featuring striking geological formations and a diverse range of wildlife.
Address: 4685 S Leonard Springs Road, Bloomington, IN 47403, United States.
12. Bloomington Antique Mall
One of the most interesting things to do in Bloomington, IN right now is to shop at the big antique mall located inside the famous Tom Taylor building, which is called Bloomington Antique Mall.
Over 120 booths featuring a variety of vintages, collectibles, artisan crafts, and unique finds from dealers spread across three levels are available at the mall.
Come peruse unique gifts and home décor items at this gem finders’ paradise, or just stroll around to discover priceless finds.
Address: 311 W 7th Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.
13. Indiana University
Seeing the newest and greatest films at Indiana University Cinema, a cutting-edge art theater, is one of the most exciting things to do in Bloomington, Indiana, at night.
The cinema, which dates back to the 1930s and is housed within the University Theatre building, offers a variety of films, including independent, foreign, classic, and unique productions.
Savor a quaint environment, take in a well-chosen selection of films, and converse with scholars, industry experts, and filmmakers.
Address: 1213 E 7th Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.
14. Eskenazi Museum of Art
Located on the campus of Indiana University Bloomington, the Eskenazi Museum of Art offers visitors to Bloomington, IN engaging activities and art collections spanning several centuries.
More than 40,000 items are housed in the museum, including jewels from throughout the world, modern artwork, European paintings by masters like Monet and Picasso, and antique antiques.
Taking a tour of the Eskenazi Museum of Art allows you to see artwork from several historical periods and geographical locations, all the while taking in the stunning architecture of the building.
Address: Eskenazi Museum of Art, 1133 E 7th Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.
15. Hoosier Escape House
Explore exciting activities in Bloomington, IN for all ages at Hoosier Escape House, the city’s newest escape room experience featuring fun activities for groups.
The escape room attraction features a variety of escape room genres, each with difficult puzzles and assignments that must be solved in the allotted 60 minutes in order to exit the chamber.
Test your ability to work as a team and solve problems in an engaging environment like the one at Hoosier Escape House.
Address: 933 N Walnut Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States
16. Jump-n-Joey’s
Take your kids to Jump-n-Joey’s, an indoor family entertainment center including activities for all ages, to experience indoor activities in Bloomington, IN.
Huge inflatable slides, obstacle courses, bounce houses, a toddler area, and a concession stand serving pizza and other snacks are all features of the entertainment hub.
Families with children will find it perfect for a family outing as they can let their kids run around and burn off some energy while enjoying jumping activities and arcade games.
Address: 108 N Curry Pike, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.
17. The Cade
The Cade is Bloomington, Indiana’s top arcade bar, offering a welcoming atmosphere, classic and contemporary games, and other exciting adult activities.
This 2017-opened attraction offers a variety of specialty beers, mixed drinks, and classic arcade games along with board and console games to spice up a fun-filled evening.
Play games with your inner kid, enjoy beverages with pals, and mingle in Bloomington’s unique bar environments.
Address: 217 N Walnut Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.
18. Runcible Spoon
Adding a visit to Runcible Spoon to your list of romantic things to do in Bloomington, IN for couples should be high on the list because of its delicious culinary options and eclectic atmosphere.
The restaurant and café take great satisfaction in their gourmet coffee, extensive menu items that are available all day, and tastefully designed interiors with an intriguing outdoor balcony.
Couples can expect a wonderful experience at Runcible Spoon with delicious meals, excellent coffee selections, and a nice, cozy setting.
Address: 412 E 6th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.
19. Graduate Bloomington
Located near Indiana University’s iconic Sample Gates, Graduate Bloomington is a 4-star hotel that offers leisurely activities for tourists, locals, and travelers in Bloomington, IN.
The hotel has fast Wi-Fi, an on-site cafe, a fitness center, Indiana University-style design, and loaner bikes.
Because of its proximity to Indiana University, Bloomington’s downtown, and other attractions, staying at Graduate Bloomington provides a laid-back and stylish base from which to explore them all.
Address: 210 E Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.
20. The Comedy Altic
The Comedy Attic is the only full-time comedy club in Bloomington, IN, and offers family-friendly nighttime activities. Get your ribs cracked there.
This place offers seasoned stand-up comedy shows with well-known and up-and-coming comics, along with open mic nights and a full bar and meal.
A night at the Comedy Attic is sure to make you laugh, featuring excellent stand-up performances, delicious food and beverages, and the chance to meet a new favorite comedian.
Address: 123 S Walnut Street, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.
21. Cardinal Spirits
The best artisan distillery in Bloomington, IN, Cardinal Spirits, offers adult-only fun and exciting things to do in Bloomington, IN, including a restaurant, cocktail bar, and distillery tours.
In addition to providing inventive cocktails, housemade spirits, and a sometimes available menu, the distillery also gives tours that showcase their distilling processes.
Savor a delicious meal and cool beverages produced with regional ingredients while having the chance to taste and learn about spirits.
Address: 922 S Morton Street, Bloomington, IN 47403, United States.
22. Indiana University Memorial Stadium
One of the most entertaining things to do in Bloomington, IN this weekend is to watch live events at the Indiana University Memorial Stadium, a large stadium that serves as the home field for the Indiana Hoosier football team.
The stadium has had 52,000 seats since it opened in 1960 and contains contemporary amenities like a student assistance center and a north-end zone complex with training equipment.
Entering the stadium offers the thrill of seeing a collegiate football game in the famous venue surrounded by yelling Hoosier fans.
Address: 701 E 17th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.
23. Butler Winery and Vineyards
If you enjoy wine, visiting Butler vineyard and Vineyards, a family-run vineyard, should be at the top of your list of unusual things to do in Bloomington, IN this evening. The winery offers a variety of wines created from Indiana grapes.
Founded in 1983, the winery offers spaces for wine tastings, tours of the vineyard, and a store selling gourmet foods, bottled wines, and equipment for making wine.
Discovering Butler Winery & Vineyard gives you the chance to taste Indiana wines in a picturesque vineyard setting, take in the scenery, and discover how the region produces wine.
Address: 6200 E Robinson Road, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.
24. Monroe Lake
With its expansive surface and surrounding protected woodlands, Monroe Lake is the largest lake inside the limits of Indiana. This weekend, there are plenty of fascinating and enjoyable things to do in Bloomington, IN.
With more than 10,750 acres of surface area, the lake offers a variety of entertaining activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. There are places designated for swimming, and motorboat wakes are not restricted.
There are opportunities to go on nature hikes, participate in water sports, or simply relax on the lake’s scenic shoreline when visiting Monroe Lake.
Address: Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.
25. Sample Gates
Discovering Sample Gates, an amazing escape to the renowned “Old Crescent” of Indiana University’s Bloomington campus, is among the thrilling activities in Bloomington, IN, suitable for all age groups.
The Indiana limestone gates, which were constructed in 1987, act as the entrance to the university’s historic facilities.
A visit to Sample Gates ensures that guests will see a symbolic entryway into Indiana University’s rich past in addition to having the opportunity to snap noteworthy photos at a well-known location.
Address: E Kirkwood Avenue & S Indiana Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.
26. B-Line Trail
One of the most soothing things to do in Bloomington, Indiana this evening is to take a leisurely stroll along the B-Line Trail, a multipurpose path that connects neighboring trails to downtown.
The 3.1-mile meandering trail has seats, water fountains, exercise stations, public art installations, and restrooms scattered throughout, making it a great place for bicycling, strolling, running, and hiking.
Discover Bloomington in an all-encompassing and cozy manner, get some exercise, and locate green areas and public artwork.
Address: Bloomington, IN 47401, United States.
27. Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center
See the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center, a unique facility designed to promote Buddhist customs, Tibetan and Mongolian cultures, and other interesting things to do in Bloomington, Indiana, right now.
The center was founded in 1979 and is distinguished by the magnificent Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, which offers lessons, workshops, and retreats in addition to housing the nation’s sole Tibetan Chortens.
Immerse yourself in the cultures of Tibet and Mongolia, see beautiful examples of Buddhist art, such as sand mandalas and butter sculptures, and participate in informative seminars.
Address: 3655 S Snoddy Road, Bloomington, IN 47401, United States.
28. Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market
One of the finest things to do in Bloomington, IN this weekend is to explore the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market, a unique summertime fixture in the city that is a bustling venue buzzing with local sellers and fresh product sales.
A plethora of locally grown fruits and vegetables, dairy products, eggs, meats, crafts, flowers, and plants are available at the market.
Visits to the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market offer a nice downtown setting where you may mingle with local farmers and enjoy the freshest seasonal vegetables.
Address: 401 N Morton Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.
29. Buskirk-Chumley Theater
Seeing the greatest of recent and vintage films at the renowned Buskirk-Chumley Theater should be high on your list of things to do when visiting Bloomington, IN at night.
Known to the locals as the “Indiana Theater,” this 1922 theater hosts a variety of events to liven up your Bloomington stay, including silent films and vaudeville acts.
Experience the opportunity to take part in live performances in an amazing and noteworthy setting that features anything from plays and community activities to music and movies.
Address: 114 E Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States
30. Indiana University Bloomington
IU Bloomington, often known as Indiana University Bloomington, is a sizable general research university that provides a wide range of educational opportunities for visitors to Bloomington, IN.
The institution takes great pleasure in its vibrant college town atmosphere, cutting edge academic offerings across a range of subject areas, and gorgeous campus with attractions such as museums and libraries.
Visiting Indiana University Bloomington gives you the chance to explore a scholarly program, experience a vibrant college town, and immerse yourself in the vibrant campus culture.
Address: 107 S Indiana Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.
31. Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall
One of the most thrilling activities in Bloomington, IN, this weekend is to get a peek of basketball games at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, a legendary basketball arena made famous by its fervent Hoosier crowd.
With 17,222 seats, Indiana University Bloomington’s Memorial Hall is a popular venue for Indiana Hoosiers men’s and women’s basketball games.
When you visit Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, take advantage of the guided tours option to see the wonders behind the scenes and experience the thrilling atmosphere of Hoosiers basketball.
Address: 1001 E 17th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.
32. Lower Cascades Park
Explore family-friendly activities in Lower Cascades Park, a green area and beehive that offers a natural escape in the heart of Bloomington, IN.
The park features a large, completely accessible playground, picnic shelters that may be reserved in advance and come equipped with grills and fires, a paved walking/biking track, and a charming creek with a tiny waterfall.
Enjoying leisure in the great outdoors is possible for visitors, who can choose to picnic, explore the trail, play on the playground, or just relax by the peaceful creek and waterfall.
Address: 2851 Old State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.
33. WonderLab Science Museum
Start your journey to Bloomington with a visit to the interactive WonderLab Science Museum, which offers educational activities for all ages in Bloomington, IN, while also igniting curiosity and encouraging exploration.
The museum has interactive displays, live animal encounters, a two-story climbing maze, and a dedicated space for little children.
Playing and exploring at the WonderLab Science Museum is an enjoyable and engaging way to learn about science, health, and technology.
Address: 308 W 4th Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.