Head Backstage to be in the know. 

We want to take you behind the scenes, to give you insider information you won't find anywhere else. This is where we pull Bloomington's hip happenings together with recommendations from our team, first-hand accounts from project producers, and guest blogs by local gurus.  The Backstage Blog helps you stay in front of it all.

Thursday, February 1, 2024

February 1 marks the start of Black History Month honoring the African-American community. Stop by one of these amazing restaurants, food trucks, or sweet shops today to support a local, Black-owned business. Restaurants The Cabin The Cabin offers delicious breakfast foods, sandwiches,... Read More

Thursday, January 25, 2024

When you’re overdue for a break, a quick trip to Bloomington can be just what the doctor ordered. No kids, no obligations, and no plans necessary. Whether you’re looking to go it alone or to let loose with the girls, Bloomington has unexpected options to suit every whim. Rest & Relaxation It’s... Read More

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

While the warmer months may seem the best for a hiking excursion through Bloomington’s rolling hills and vast forests, there’s a certain magic in the crisp air of a wintertime hike. The soft blanket of snow covering the ground and the sparkle of ice-crusted trees create a unique beauty that's often... Read More

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

Indiana University hosts several annual events, and a few of them are such staples that event dates are provided for several years in the future. Use this as a reference for all of IU's biggest yearly events, and feel free to call the Visitors Center at (800) 800-0037 with any questions. That's what... Read More

Wednesday, January 10, 2024

While Bloomington doesn't have a dedicated seafood restaurant (and we're yearning for the day that we do), many of our restaurants do offer some amazingly tasty seafood dishes. Whether you're a connoisseur of all things from the sea, a shrimp savant, or a participant of Lent, there are plenty of... Read More

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

Secret waterfalls, sparkling geodes, lakeside views, rolling vistas, wildlife sightings — Bloomington's most unique hiking destinations offer it all and more. Discover what's in store at each destination, then grab your hiking boots and set-off on your trail of choice. Amy Weingartner Branigin... Read More

Monday, January 8, 2024

Coffee connoisseurs will be delighted with the selection of locally-roasted java and handcrafted espresso beverages in Bloomington. Whether you're craving an iced coffee on a hot day, a pumpkin spice latte during your fall visit, or a steaming cuppa Joe to keep you warm in the cooler months, these... Read More

Saturday, January 6, 2024

Living a healthy lifestyle and traveling aren't always the easiest to do simultaneously, but Bloomington visitors will be happy to know there are several local eateries that serve nutritious and delicious food. Next time you're in town, try a few — or all, if you're up to the challenge — of these... Read More

Friday, January 5, 2024

Eating out with dietary restrictions and food allergies can be difficult, but in Bloomington, it doesn't have to be. To help you in your search for places to eat while you're visiting town, we've rounded up every eatery with a solid variety of vegan, vegetarian, and/or gluten-free dishes that go... Read More