12 Interesting & Fun Things to Do in Normal, IL

Sep 17

*The Normal Theater is an iconic destination and one of the many fun things to do in Normal, IL.*

If you're looking for a few fun things to do in Normal, IL, you may be surprised to learn that this town is beyond normal! There is much to do and see for people with various interests, including family-friendly attractions.

And if you need overnight accommodations, the fun continues when you stay at House of Games. It's located just down the road in Bloomington. Book now.

1. Watch ISU Athletic Events

This is a college town! When it comes to fun things to do in Normal, IL, you can't beat attending an Illinois State University Redbird game! Whether it's football at Hancock Stadium, basketball at Redbird Arena, or one of the many other men's and women's athletic events, you can't beat that college town atmosphere.

2. Visit the Corn Crib for a Game or Concert

If you happen to be in Normal during the summer months, a CornBelters minor league baseball game out at the Corn Crib is a surefire way to make everyone in the family smile. Watch the game, grab some tasty concessions, or have your kids jump in the bouncy house or get their faces painted. There are many different theme nights throughout the season.

Speaking of the Corn Crib, it's also a great place to catch an outdoor concert.

3. Watch a Movie at the Historic Normal Theater

Nothing beats the smell of popcorn and an old-fashioned cinematic experience. The Normal Theater has a diverse lineup of classic and modern films year-round.

4. Visit the Children's Discovery Museum

If you have kids, one of their favorite fun things to do in Normal, IL will be the Children's Discovery Museum, no question. With three floors of interactive exhibits, they'll have a blast exploring everything including a play store and pizza restaurant, art studio, a theatrical stage, and life-size farm equipment they can climb in.

5. Stroll Through Uptown Normal

It's not downtown, it's Uptown—and it's one of the best places you can find delicious food, unique shopping, and many other fun things to do in Normal, IL. Grab a pint at Maggie Miley's Irish Pub, dine at Medici, or enjoy homemade ice cream at Theo's. Visit dozens of local shops with collectibles, art, apparel, and tons of unique gifts.

6. Walk the Constitution Trail

Popular with ISU students, the Constitution Trail offers a great way to get some exercise. The paved trail is one of the most treasured and utilized recreational amenities within the Town of Normal. Numerous trailhead parking areas and trail connections make for easy access for all to enjoy.

7. Check Out the Beautiful Parks and Aquatic Centers

Normal Parks and Recreation maintains a variety of parks, including two aquatic centers with pools and water slides in the summer months. Dog parks, playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails are open to the public.

8. Watch the Seasonal Event Calendar

There are fun things to do in Normal, IL year-round, especially around Uptown Circle. The Sugar Creek Arts Festival, Day of Play, Oktoberfest, Treat Feast, Santa's Station, Sweet Corn Circus, and Make Music Normal are a few of the popular events and festivals. Follow the events calendar to see what’s coming up.

9. Visit a Local Farm

You haven't really seen Central Illinois until you visit a farm in Normal! Grab some cheese curds at the Ropp Jersey Cheese Farm and then head down the road to pick your own pumpkins and play outside at Rader Family Farms—a local family favorite destination in the fall.

10. Hit the Links at Ironwood Golf Course or ISU

If you're a golfer, naturally the fun thing to do in Normal, IL is hit the links! Ironwood Golf Course hosts 18 holes that meander through the Ironwood residential subdivision, while Weibring Golf Club at ISU accommodates approximately 28,000 rounds per year and hosts more than 100 tournaments and outings.

11. See the ISU Planetarium

This is a fun local gem that kids and adults will enjoy. The ISU Planetarium hosts a variety of educational and entertaining shows in a star theater with a 30-foot diameter dome that seats 61 guests. Experience a spectacular lighting system and state-of-the-art video and sound.

12. Stay at the House of Games

The fun things to do in Normal, IL never stop when you stay in the House of Games just down the road in Bloomington. The basement arcade has over ten systems set to play for free, while the rec room has games like air hockey, ping pong, and foosball. There's also a digital board game table and a classic game console room. Book now!

Ryan Curtis