15 Interesting & Fun Things to Do in Bloomington, IL
The Prairie Aviation Museum is one of the many fun things to do in Bloomington, IL.
Looking for fun things to do in Bloomington, IL? Nestled among the corn and bean fields where I-55 and I-74 intersect are some surprisingly delightful attractions for people of all ages.
And if you need overnight accommodations, the fun continues! Book a stay at Houes of Arcade, located near historic Downtown Bloomington, and enjoy an arcade room along with dozens of other games and activities on site. The fun things to do in Bloomington, IL never end, rain or shine!
Related: 12 Interesting and Fun Things to Do in Normal, IL
1. Stroll Around Downtown Bloomington
If you're staying near historic downtown Bloomington, IL, there are a variety of local businesses and attractions to explore. Stop into Red Raccoon Games for a bit of fun with board games, card games, and more. Grab sustainably sourced gifts and goodies from Crossroads Fair Trade Goods and Gifts or Common Grounds Grocery.
2. Visit the McLean County Museum of History
Housed in the former McLean County Courthouse, this museum is a gem right in the middle of downtown. There are over 20,000 pieces on display that cover a wide variety of local historical topics. You may or may not know that Bloomington used to be a regular stop on Abraham Lincoln's circuit! Admission is free on Tuesdays, and just $5 on other days.
Another fun thing to do in Bloomington IL's historical downtown building is the Route 66 Visitor Center.
3. Walk or Bike the Constitution Trail
While you might be having a great time gaming at Arcade House, you can get out and stretch your legs on over 45 miles of trail that winds through Bloomington, Normal, and the surrounding area. The trail is paved and well-traveled by walkers, runners, bikers, and skaters.
4. Eat and Drink at Favorite Local Establishments
If you ask the locals about fun things to do in Bloomington, IL, they will most certainly tell you about places to eat! If a restaurant can make it in Bloomington, it can make it anywhere.
Enjoy farm-to-fork dining from Epiphany Farms Hospitality Group, which runs several local places with different themes. Or grab a pastry and a coffee at downtown's Ivy Lane Bakery, Sugar Mama Bakery, or Crafted Coffee Brews. And if you're into breweries, you don't want to miss stopping in at Lil Beaver Brewery or Keg Grove Brewing Company.
5. Check Out Miller Park Zoo
Take a walk on the wild side at the Miller Park Zoo—a perfect place to stop in with the kids. It houses several big cats and a variety of tropical animals, along with exhibits featuring local wildlife. Be sure to ask about the many programs that the zoo has to offer at different times of year.
6. Visit the City Parks
There are many fun things to do in Bloomington, IL parks throughout the city! Miller Park features a splash pad, playground, mini golf, and paddle boats, while Rollingbrook features a playground designed for kids with special needs. There's something for everyone!
And if you're a golfer, be sure to check out one of several area courses, including The Links at Ireland Grove, The Den at Fox Creek, Highland Park or Prairie Vista.
7. Tour Ewing Manor and Grounds
This 6.5-acre estate is a site to behold and a popular place for weddings and photo ops. The beautifully landscaped gardens are breathtaking throughout the growing season, and the mansion, built in 1929, incorporates French-inspired detailing and English functionalism into the residence. You can visit the grounds or book a tour.
And if you're visiting in summer, you don't want to miss the Illinois Shakespeare Festival, which is showcased in this site's open-air theatre.
8. Visit David Davis Mansion
Speaking of historical homes, the David Davis Mansion takes you back to the days of Abraham Lincoln. Davis was Lincoln's associate, who served as a U.S. Senator and Supreme Court Justice during his lifetime. His family home and gardens have been preserved in the mid-19th century style and are open as a museum.
9. See a Show or Concert
Some of the fun things to do in Bloomington, IL include concerts and shows at a variety of venues. Check out the classic Castle Theatre or local bars like Nightshop for live music shows for smaller crowds, or see what headliners are visiting Grossinger Motors Arena for larger shows. Enjoy music and theatre at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts. If you visit in the summer, you may also catch some live music during the Summer Concert Series.
10. Visit the Prairie Aviation Museum
This museum is great for aircraft enthusiasts because it showcases a wide range of air and space history, including eight aircraft and three helicopters. During events like “Open Cockpit Days,” you can tour restored military vehicles, which sometimes include an attack helicopter, a twin-engine Cessna, and jet fighters.
11. Get Some Indoor Exercise for the Whole Family
Whether you need to cool off in summer or warm up in winter, there are a variety of fun things to do in Bloomington, IL for the whole family at indoor facilities. Check out Bloomington Ice Center or Skate 'N' Place if you enjoy skating (rentals are available). Jump at Altitude Trampoline Park or try out Iron Coyote Challenge Park if you want to climb like a ninja. Upper Limits climbing gym is the spot for climbing, and Pheasant Lanes is another family favorite with bowling and an arcade—and volleyball pits in good weather.
12. Tour Illinois Wesleyan University
Founded in 1850, this private liberal arts university features a beautiful campus with historical buildings. Known for its academic excellence its small class sizes, it also has a strong athletic program. It's worth a visit!
13. Walk Through Evergreen Memorial Cemetery
Evergreen Memorial Cemetery is not only one of the richest historical resources in Bloomington, but it is also one of the most fascinating places. People from all walks of life are buried in this over-190-year-old cemetery. Rich, poor, famous, infamous, or forgotten alike, all are buried here. If you're a history buff, be sure to sign up for the annual Cemetery Walk in the fall.
14. Watch for Seasonal Events and Festivals
This list of fun things to do in Bloomington, IL wouldn't be complete without the many seasonal events and festivals that take place throughout the year. From the BN Nuts Festival in fall to the Festival of Trees to the McLean County Fair, there's something interesting to do year-round. Check out the events calendar!
15. Kick Back at House of Games, Bloomington IL
And of course, don't forget that you can have fun with your friends or family at House of Games! Whether you're visiting town or hosting an event, this vacation rental guarantees fun around the clock. Book now and enjoy all the fun things to do in Bloomington, IL—it'll be a time you'll never forget.
