Beyond The Sample Gates

Whether you want to stay downtown near restaurants and shopping, relax by the lake in a private cabin, or crash after a long day on IU’s campus, there’s a spot for you.

1. What if I need to cancel?

Please make sure to check all cancellation policies BEFORE you make reservations. Many places have strict cancellation policies.

2. When should I book my stay for graduation?

We recommend starting to look for accommodations the year before you plan on graduating. Many hotels start waitlists about a year in advance.

3. When should I book my stay for big events, like football games or Family Weekend?

You should start booking your accommodations as soon as you decide to visit. People often start booking accommodations 4-6 months in advance.

4. What accommodations are close to campus?

Many of our hotels and accommodations are within a 10-15 minute drive from the IU campus. The Biddle Hotel (located inside of the IMU) is the only on-campus property. Please click here for a list of hotels located close to campus.

5. What if I have trouble finding accommodations?

Make sure to always call the hotels or accommodations directly if possible. Many places may show online that they're sold out. Call the Bloomington Visitors Center at 800-800-0037. We can help recommend accommodations that may still be available.

Bloomington boasts a diverse and dynamic restaurant scene, including more than 75 international dining options, that span a range of price points and cater to all dietary needs.

1. When should I make special event and graduation reservations?

Make sure to call your favorite local restaurant to check when they start taking reservations for your visit. Some restaurants use online reservation systems, but some will only take reservations over the phone.

2. Are the restaurant menus the same for special events and graduation?

Please be aware that some restaurants may only have limited or set menus for special events. Call your favorite restaurant to see what they plan to do during your visit.

3. What if I need to cancel?

Please make sure to ask the restaurant what their cancellation policies are. Some places may take a deposit for big event weekends.

4. What if my favorite place is full?

There are over three hundred restaurants located around the Bloomington area. Click here for a list.

5. What restaurants are walkable from campus?

Here is a list of over a hundred restaurants that are walkable from campus. Make sure to check out all the amazing international restaurants on 4th Street.

Bloomington offers ample downtown parking, though it can be limited during peak times, so arriving early is recommended. Seasonally, Kirkwood Avenue is closed to traffic for outdoor dining, pedestrian activity, and local events.

1. What parking options are available downtown?

There are many parking options downtown, including street parking (meters) and parking garages. Click here for more info.

2. Where can I rent a scooter?

Bloomington has Bird scooters and bikes that are available to rent through their app.

3. Are there shuttles to the Indianapolis airport?

Go Express Travel offers airport shuttles from multiple locations in Bloomington to the Indianapolis International Airport. Students who are from the Chicagoland area can book a ride to and from campus with Catch A Ride.

4. What are my public transportation options?

IU students have access to the campus bus systems as well as the Bloomington city bus. Show your valid student ID to ride for free! You can find the routes and times for Bloomington Transit here, or downtown their app.

Bloomington and Monroe County is lucky enough to be home to three lakes and the Hoosier National Forest, making the area one of the premier outdoor recreation destinations in the Midwest.

1. What is the closest lake to IU?

Griffy Lake is only a ten minute drive from the heart of campus. While swimming is not permitted, you can rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and rowboats from the Griffy Lake Boathouse. 

2. What is the largest city park?

Switchyard Park is the largest developed city park in Bloomington, spanning 65 acres. It hosts an array of events, including Food Truck Fridays, local festivals, and outdoor concerts. You will also find a skate park, a fitness station, dog park, and basketball, pickleball, and bocce ball courts.

3. Where can I rent recreational equipment?

From guided birding excursions and paddle sports lessons to pontoon, bicycle, and kayak rentals, Bloomington offers several tour opportunities and places to rent gear from.

4. What trails are close to campus?

There are over 200 miles of trails throughout Bloomington. Urban trails, like the B-Line, are perfect for walking, running, biking, and rollerblading. Griffy Lake is surrounded by a 1,200 acre nature preserves and offers ten hiking trails ranging from 0.2 and 1.7 miles.

5. Are there any outdoor activities that are accessibility-friendly?

Click here for parks and lakes with accessible places.

Whether you’re searching for IU memorabilia, home décor, outdoor gear, vintage finds, or dorm essentials, Bloomington offers a wide variety of unique shopping experiences.

1. Where can I shop for my dorm room or apartment?

Downtown and the College Mall have great local places to shop for your dorm or apartment. Click here for some of our suggestions.

2. Where can I find vintage shops?

There are several vintage shops scattered around town.

3. What shops can I find downtown?

Kirkwood Avenue and the Square have many locally owned boutiques, book stores, and home good shops.

4. Does Bloomington have a mall?

Yes, the College Mall is on the east side of town and accessible via several bus routes. While you are there, explore the other unique shops and eateries around the area.

5. Where to find gifts for family and friends?

Check out our shopping page to find gifts for everyone in your life.

Bloomington hosts exceptional annual events throughout the year, featuring world-class live music, local food and beverage experiences, festive holiday celebrations, and much more.

1. What are some annual events that happen throughout the school year?

Don't miss Taste of Bloomington, featuring 50+ food and drink vendors, or Pridefest in August. In the fall, enjoy the Monroe County Fall Festival in Ellettsville and the Lotus World Music & Arts Festival. Winter brings Freezefest with ice sculptures, a chili cook-off, and an epic ice battle. Spring offers live music and comedy with the Cosmic Songwriter Festival and Bloomington Music Expo. Check out our Events Calendar for a list of events happening throughout the year.