Bloomington

Tourist places in Bloomington, Bloomington Travel Info

Bloomington City Overview

Bloomington is the county seat of Monroe County, Indiana. It is home to the flagship campus of Indiana University. The city is known for its limestone architecture, vibrant arts scene, and college town atmosphere.

Location and Climate

Bloomington is located in southern Indiana, nestled in the rolling hills. It has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid; winters are cold.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is in the fall for the foliage and football, or spring for the "Little 500" bicycle race. Summer is quieter but pleasant.

Best Ways to Get Around

Bloomington is very bike-friendly and walkable, especially near campus. Bloomington Transit offers bus service. A car is useful for exploring the surrounding nature.

Top 5 Things to Do

  1. Explore Indiana University Campus: Walk through the beautiful campus, known for its limestone buildings and the Sample Gates.
  2. Visit Monroe Lake: Enjoy boating, fishing, and camping at the largest man-made body of water in Indiana, located nearby.
  3. Shop and Dine on Kirkwood Avenue: Experience the heart of the college town with its iconic restaurants, bars, and shops.
  4. See the Eskenazi Museum of Art: Visit this world-class art museum located on the IU campus (designed by I.M. Pei).
  5. Hike in Brown County State Park: Take a short drive to this nearby park, famous for its stunning fall colors and rugged hills.