Bloomington Classics
Sample Gates
An entryway for students and visitors into the Indiana University, Samples Gates is one of the most well-known locations on the campus. The Gates also look out to the iconic Kirkwood Avenue that is frequented by students and locals alike. Take your picture next to the limestone pillars and venue down Kirkwood Avenue and The Square.
Fine Arts Plaza
Located at the center of campus, the Fine Arts Plaza is home to many important IU spots. Showalter Fountain, the Lilly Library, the IU Auditorium surround the Plaza. Don't forget to stop by the First Thursdays Festival September through May to enjoy the performances, food trucks, creative activities, and more!
Courthouse Square
Bloomington boasts one of the most intact historic squares in Indiana, with the limestone courthouse and illustrious fish weather vane that dates back to the 1820s. The Square is home to over 30 locally-owned businesses. With a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment offerings, it is a can't miss in Bloomington.
Nick's English Hut
Nick's English Hut is one of Bloomington's most iconic restaurants. The interior is covered with IU memorabilia from wall to ceiling. The tavern has a legendary game called Sink the Biz and has a variety of live sports on the many televisions.
Rose Hill Cemetery
Rose Hill Cemetery is the final resting place of many prominent Bloomington citizens and offers several beautiful examples of the use of locally quarried Indiana limestone. Jazz aficionados often visit the gravesite of Hoagy Carmichael and leave pennies stuck into the grooves on top of the headstone. Two other famous people who have been laid to rest in the cemetery are Dr. Alfred Kinsey, an American sexologist known for his pioneering research on human sexual behavior, and IU mathematics professional Daniel Kirkwood, whom Kirkwood Avenue is named after.
While you are in the area, the Cemetery is within walking distance from both Hinkle's Hamburgers and Cresent Donut. Both classics and local favorites, grab a juicy burger at Hinkle's or a tasty donut from Cresent on your way to your next stop.
Unique Attractions
Hot Air Balloon Rides
If you're looking to experience something you will never forget, consider booking a hot air balloon ride in Bloomington. TJV Balloons and Balloons Over Bloomington both offer morning, evening, and private flights. The flight time is about one hour. The view from the sky in open air will be unlike any you've ever experienced.
Fire Tower
Want to see Bloomington from above, but don't want to spend? Climb a fire tower! The area has four fire towers with great views. Climb the Lilly Lookout at Brown County State Park, Hickory Ridge at the Hoosier National Forest (pictured), McCormick's Creek Tower at McCormick's Creek State Park, and Mason Ridge at Morgan-Monroe State Forest.
See our blog Go Climb a Fire Tower for more information on Bloomington's many fire towers.
Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center
The Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center (TMBCC) is the only center of its kind in North America and is frequently visited by the Dalai Lama. It's mission is to foster, preserve, and share the Tibetan & Mongolian cultures and is arguably the most unique cultural attraction in Bloomington. The 90-acre cultural center offers a relaxing and peaceful setting for meditation and reflection.
Monroe Lake
There's nothing better than a Bloomington lake day. Offering Camping, swimming, fishing, hiking, and boating, there is something to keep everyone occupied and having fun. Monroe Lake is Indiana's largest land-bound body of water and spans nearly 11,000 surface acres.
Bloomington and Monroe County is home to three lakes. For more on the lakes, click here.
Scenic View Restaurant
A restaurant overlooking Monroe Lake and the Hoosier National Forest, Scenic View Restaurant offers food, a bar, an outdoor patio, live music, and lodging. Their menu includes upscale American cuisine with craft beer, wine, and specialty cocktails. If you are looking for a restaurant to enjoy the views of Monroe Lake, there is no better place than Scenic View.
For more restaurants in Bloomington, click here.
Bloomington Speedway
Opened in 1923, the Bloomington Speedway is the Midwest's fastest quarter-mile dirt oval track. Local food trucks frequent the races and RVs can even camp on the speedway grounds. In the past, Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart, and Kasey Kahne have all graced the Speedway.
