Bloomington IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bloomington, Indiana.
1. Oliver Winery
SCENIC WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE
Oliver Winery offers visitors a chance to savor a variety of wines amid beautiful scenic grounds with space for picnics. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil ambiance and picturesque pond while sampling diverse wine flavors, including cider and mead. The winery is consistently rated as one of the top attractions in Bloomington, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
2. Indiana University Bloomington
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL CAMPUS
Indiana University Bloomington serves as the center of many activities in the city, including arts, music, sports, and events. The historic campus features beautiful limestone architecture, lush gardens, and numerous cultural venues worth exploring. Visitors can take campus tours, attend performances, or simply stroll through the picturesque grounds that have been educating students since 1820.
3. Monroe Lake
INDIANA'S LARGEST LAKE
Monroe Lake is part of the Indiana State Parks system, covering 23,952 acres including a 10,750-acre lake that holds the title of Indiana's largest. The lake is well-known for bass fishing and offers both open and no-wake areas for various water activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, and hiking around the scenic shoreline that provides a peaceful retreat from urban life.
4. WonderLab Museum
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE EXPERIENCE
The WonderLab Museum of Science, Health & Technology is an award-winning science museum and popular destination for family fun in Bloomington. The museum offers two floors of exciting hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages to explore scientific concepts through play and experimentation. Children and adults alike can engage with interactive exhibits that make learning about science, health, and technology both entertaining and educational.
5. Bloomington Community Farmers Market
LOCAL FOOD AND CRAFTS
The Bloomington Community Farmers Market brings together local farmers, artisans, and food vendors in a vibrant community gathering space. Visitors can browse through fresh produce, handmade crafts, and prepared foods while enjoying the lively atmosphere and occasional live music. The market represents the heart of Bloomington's local food culture and sustainable community values.
6. Hoosier National Forest
PRISTINE OUTDOOR WILDERNESS
Hoosier National Forest offers over 200,000 acres of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities near Bloomington. Hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts can explore miles of scenic trails, hidden lakes, and diverse ecosystems throughout this expansive woodland. The forest provides a perfect escape for those seeking solitude, wildlife viewing, or adventurous outdoor activities in all four seasons.
7. Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center
SPIRITUAL CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
The Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center provides visitors with a serene environment to learn about Tibetan and Mongolian Buddhist traditions. The center features beautiful stupas, prayer wheels, and traditional architecture set on peaceful grounds just outside Bloomington. Visitors can participate in meditation sessions, cultural events, or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life.
8. The Pfau Course
CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF EXPERIENCE
The Pfau Course at Indiana University is recognized as one of the continent's top-rated golf courses, offering a premier golfing experience in Bloomington. The championship course features challenging holes, beautiful landscaping, and state-of-the-art facilities for both serious golfers and casual players. Visitors can test their skills on this meticulously designed course while enjoying the rolling terrain and scenic views of the Indiana countryside.
9. Buskirk-Chumley Theater
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The Buskirk-Chumley Theater stands as an architectural gem in downtown Bloomington, combining historical significance with vibrant performing arts. This beautifully restored 1922 theater hosts a diverse range of performances including concerts, films, lectures, and community events throughout the year. Visitors can appreciate both the elegant historical details of this landmark building and the contemporary cultural experiences it continues to provide.
10. Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall
LEGENDARY BASKETBALL ARENA
Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall is the iconic home of Indiana University's basketball program and one of college basketball's most storied venues. The arena's steep seating design creates an intimate and intensely loud atmosphere that has intimidated opposing teams for decades. Basketball fans and sports enthusiasts can tour the facility, learn about the program's rich history, or experience the electric atmosphere during a Hoosiers game.
11. Eskenazi Museum of Art
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
The Eskenazi Museum of Art at Indiana University houses an impressive collection of global art spanning ancient to contemporary works. The museum's distinctive I.M. Pei-designed building contains over 45,000 objects representing nearly every art-producing culture throughout history. Visitors can explore diverse exhibitions, participate in educational programs, and appreciate the thoughtfully curated collections that make this one of the finest university art museums in the country.
12. Lilly Library
RARE BOOKS AND MANUSCRIPTS
The Lilly Library at Indiana University is home to an extraordinary collection of rare books, manuscripts, and special collections that attract scholars and visitors from around the world. Among its treasures are a Gutenberg Bible, the first printed edition of The Canterbury Tales, and original manuscripts from authors like Kurt Vonnegut and Sylvia Plath. Visitors can view rotating exhibitions that showcase these remarkable literary and historical artifacts in an elegant setting.
13. Indiana Memorial Stadium
HISTORIC FOOTBALL VENUE
Indiana Memorial Stadium serves as the impressive home field for the Indiana Hoosiers football team in Bloomington. The stadium combines traditional collegiate architecture with modern amenities, creating an exciting gameday atmosphere for fans. Visitors can experience the pageantry of Big Ten football, tour the facilities, or participate in the traditions that have been part of Indiana University athletics for generations.
14. Fairfax State Recreation Area
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Fairfax State Recreation Area offers prime access to Monroe Lake with extensive facilities for water recreation and outdoor enjoyment. Visitors can make use of boat ramps, swimming beaches, picnic areas, and camping facilities in this scenic lakeside setting. The recreation area provides everything needed for a perfect day by the water or an extended outdoor vacation in the rolling hills surrounding Bloomington.
15. Upland Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Upland Brewing Company stands as one of Bloomington's most beloved craft breweries, offering award-winning beers in a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can tour the brewing facilities, sample a wide range of traditional and experimental brews, and enjoy excellent food with vegetarian and vegan options. The brewery represents Bloomington's thriving craft beer scene and commitment to quality local production with a sustainable approach.