25 Fun & Best Things To Do In Bloomington, IL
As a resident or tourist searching for fun activities in Bloomington, Illinois, here comes the climax of your searches. Join us as we explore a complete list of the top 25 fun and best things to do in Bloomington, IL, making sure you make the most of your time in this vibrant location.
Nestled in McLean County, Illinois, Bloomington is popularly regarded as a thriving hub of history, culture, and recreation. The city boasts a rich heritage, with notable landmarks such as the David Davis Mansion and the McLean County Museum of History.
Bloomington is a charming city with multiple fun, educational, and entertaining outdoor and indoor appeals that excite your visit. From Miller Park to the Constitution Trail, multiple attractions and opportunities are waiting to be discovered during your visit.
25 Fun and Best Things To Do In Bloomington, IL (2024)
1. Miller Park
Begin your Bloomington trip with a visit to Miller Park, a historic and public park with a variety of recreational activities, leisure opportunities, and other fun things to do in Bloomington, IL, for all ages.
The public park has a scenic lake with paddleboats for rent, a zoo with animal displays, softball fields, children’s playgrounds, and a pavilion for events.
The park also features memorials commemorating veterans, sand volleyball courts, a minigolf course, and a conserved steam locomotive.
Guests to Miller Park can unwind outdoors, visit the zoo to learn more about animals, take a paddleboat ride on the lake, play sports, or have a picnic with loved ones, ensuring memories are created.
Address: 1020 S Morris Avenue, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
2. McLean County Museum of History
The McLean Couty Museum of History, a repository of local history that preserves and displays stories of the people who shaped Bloomington and Illinois, offers an array of educational things to do in Bloomington, IL, for everyone.
The museum boasts a large collection of artifacts on the lives of Abraham Lincoln’s peers, the evolution of agriculture and industry, a research library, and an archive for profound inquiry.
On your visit to the McLean Couty Museum of History, you can get a deeper knowledge of Bloomington’s heritage, connect with the past, and unravel the captivating stories of people who existed before them.
Address: 200 N Main Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
3. 3rd Sunday Market
One of the unique things to do in Bloomington, IL, in the summer is to explore the 3rd Sunday Market, a trove providing hidden gems, special discoveries, and collections for simple shoppers.
The commercial hub consists of over 450 vendors representing 17 states, different selections of antiques, collectibles, crafts, and garden items, including furniture, Americana, folk art, keepsakes, and more.
3rd Sunday Market offers a chance to discover one-of-a-kind pieces, engage in treasure hunts, and meet friendly and welcoming vendors in a bustling environment.
Address: 1106 Interstate Drive, Bloomington, IL 61705, United States.
4. Pleasant Lanes Family Fun Center & Kegler’s Pub
Unearth a plethora of family-friendly things to do in Bloomington, IL, this weekend at Pleasant Lanes Family Fun Center & Kegler’s Pub, a one-stop family destination for family entertainment.
The attraction features 32 bowling lanes, an 18-hole golf course, two sand volleyball courts, and a relaxation spot at Kegler’s Pub with draft beers, a full bar, big-screen TVs, Video games, and a beer garden.
Experience a day filled with fun activities, challenge friends to a bowling or mini-golf competition, grab a bite and drinks at the pub and unwind as you create lasting memories in the friendly ambiance.
Address: 804 N Hershey Road, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.
5. Epiphany Farms Restaurant
Discover some romantic things to do in Bloomington, IL, for couples at Epiphany Farms Restaurant, a farm-to-table location that celebrates fresh farm produce.
The restaurant offers a seasonal menu displaying meals prepared with locally grown ingredients on their 20-acre farm and gotten from local small farms in an inviting atmosphere.
You can enjoy tasty and creative delicacies made with the newest ingredients, experience the nexus between farm and table, and enjoy a captivating dining experience in a friendly setting.
Address: 220 E Front Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
6. Altitude Trampoline Park
Release your inner jumper at Altitude Trampoline Park, a haven for active fun presenting a world of bouncing and other exciting things to do in Bloomington, IL, for all ages.
The trampoline attraction encompasses wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, a devoted area for toddlers, slam dunk lanes, a trapeze swing, climbing walls, extreme dodgeball, and ninja warrior paths.
Regardless of your interests or skill level, from the desire for unending jumping fun and friendly competition to aspiring athletes, Altitude Trampoline Park provides fun for everyone.
Address: 1702 General Electric Road, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.
7. The Castle Theater
Catching the best of entertainment at The Castle Theater, a lively live music destination with fascinating experiences, is one of the unique things to do in Bloomington, IL, for music enthusiasts.
The vaudeville-and-sleep-movie-house-turn-theater attraction features a variety of music genres, picturesque structural designs, and flexible seating layouts catering to over 700 people in a cool ambiance.
Guests to The Castle Theater can encounter and enjoy live music in a different dimension by finding new artists from different music genres, exploring the children’s shows, or renting the destination for events.
Address: 209 E Washington Street STE 1, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
8. Prairie Aviation Museum
As an art enthusiast, an exploration of Prairie Aviation Museum, a storehouse of aviation history with a glimpse into the development of flight, should make your bucket list of the best things to do in Bloomington, IL, today.
The museum displays a vast collection of preserved aircraft, including airplanes, engines, and helicopters, legendary models like the F-14 Tomcat, A-4 Skyhawk, and Bell Huey helicopter.
A visit to the Prairie Aviation Museum allows you to explore the history of aviation from the early frontmen to the modern wonders, giving a close-up view of exhibits.
Address: 2929 E Empire Street, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.
Exploring other attractions near Bloomington, Illinois? Why not check out some fun things to do in Collinsville, IL, and fun things to do in Woodstock, IL?
9. David Davis Mansion
An adventure to David Davis Mansion, a majestic specimen of Golden Age structure and a fascinating piece of American history is one of the adventurous things to do in Bloomington, IL, for visitors.
The mansion is made up of 36 rooms carefully rehabilitated to depict the luxury and style of the mid-Victorian epoch, grand parlors, bedrooms, a library, a formal dining area, an 1872 wood house, a ban, a stable, outbuildings, and a flower garden.
Get a glimpse of 19th-century life by embarking on tours that unravel more about the life and legacy of David Davis, a Supreme Court Justice, and Abraham Lincoln’s confidante.
Address: 1000 Monroe Drive, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
10. Herb Eaton Studio Gallery
A visit to Herb Eaton Studio Gallery is a refuge for appreciating artworks, connecting with the creative works of Herb Eaton, and other unique things to do in Bloomington, IL, for art enthusiasts.
The gallery exhibits a collection of Herb Eaton’s artworks, including his style of impressionistic terrains, the picturesque nature of the Midwest, and still lifes. Exhibitions from other local and regional artists are also showcased.
Herb Eaton Studio Gallery allows you to get gripped in the world of Eaton’s art, express gratitude for his special viewpoint on the natural world, and unearth new artistic styles.
Address: 411 N Center Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
11. Grady’s Family Fun Park
Discover many family-friendly things to do in Bloomington, IL, this weekend with an adventure to Grady’s Family Fun Park, a famous beehive catering to family fun and entertainment for all ages.
The popular destination houses an 18-hole miniature golf course, battling cages, bumper boats, an arcade with various video games, and a restaurant.
Escape the hustles and bustles of the day with a visit to Grady’s Family Fun Park and enjoy a day filled with laughter, friendly competition, and lifelong memories.
Address: 1501 Morrissey Drive, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
12. Bloomington Ice Center
Bloomington Ice Center is a multifunctional facility with opportunities for public skating, ice hockey, figure skating, and other fun and entertaining things to do in Bloomington, IL, for everyone.
The ice center has an ample ice rink, bleacher seating, skate rentals, public skate sessions, hockey competitions, and devoted time for figure skating practice and lessons.
Unleash your skating potential at Bloomington Ice Center by enjoying an outing on the ice, practicing their skating skills, seeing a hockey game, or cheering on local figure skaters.
Address: 201 S Roosevelt Avenue, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States
13. Iron Coyote Challenge Park
Are you searching for an action-packed destination with a compelling mix of physical challenges and fun for all ages? Search no further than Iron Coyote Challenge Park, a beehive with diverse adventurous things to do in Bloomington, IL, today.
The park features a high ropes course with over 35 obstacles, numerous ninja warrior courses, climbing walls, a 60-foot zipline, party rooms, a full-service cafe, and an observation mezzanine.
You can test your balance and agility on the ropes, climb the walls, soar through the air using the zip lines, and enjoy snacks and refreshing drinks while watching others have fun at Iron Coyote Challenge Park.
Address: 4113 Oakland Avenue, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.
14. Constitution Trails
Nestled between two cities of Bloomington and Normal, Constitution Trails, a 1989-established special must-use trail offers a variety of recreational chances and other romantic things to do in Bloomington, IL, for couples.
Also known as “Bloomington-Normal’s Best Park Amenity”, the trail encompasses over 35 miles of paved paths, parts of the old Illinois Central Golf Railroad, resting areas, picnic tables, and green spaces.
Constitution Trails gives room for a healthy exercise, exploring diverse parts of Bloomington-Normal, and appreciating the panoramic surroundings.
Address: 900 S. Linden Street. Underwood Park, Normal, IL, United States.
15. Evergreen Memorial Cemetary
One of the unusual things to do in Bloomington, IL, today is to stop by Evergreen Memorial Cemetary, a noteworthy resting place and a picturesque park-like ground for over 190 years.
Sprawling 47 acres, the cemetery presents meandering avenues, towering trees, a peaceful mausoleum, meticulous grounds, a Civil War burial area, historic monuments, and burial plots.
The cemetery also hosts veterans’ memorials to commemorate those who lost their lives during historic events.
An adventure to Evergreen Memorial Cemetery allows visitors to pay their respects to loved ones, stroll through the tranquil grounds, and learn about Bloomington’s history via the monuments and memorials.
Address: 302 E Miller Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
16. Upper Limits Climbing Gym
Unleash your inner monster at Upper Limits Climbing Gym, a haven presenting thrilling, challenging, and other unique things to do in Bloomington, IL, for climbers
The gym prides itself on over 20,000 square feet of climbing space with different routes to cater to various difficulty levels, a wave wall, a bi-level cave, an outdoor bouldering area, and a designed space for kids.
On your visit to the Upper Limits Climbing Gym, get a full-body workout, engage in friendly competition, challenge yourself mentally and physically, and experience the thrills of reaching new heights.
Address: 1304 W Washington Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
17. Illinois Shakespeare Festival
The Illinois Shakespeare Festival (ISF), an experienced theater company with lively performances, offers an array of entertaining things to do in Bloomington, IL, this summer.
The festival features three mainstage productions, ranging from classic Shakespearean tragedies and comedies and secondary-known works by contemporary playwrights to family-friendly shows and programs.
Spice up your summer by experiencing the magic of live theater. Get buried in the agelong works of Shakespeare or discover new plays and theatrical renditions when you visit the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.
Address: 48 Sunset Road, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
18. Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market 
Exploring Downtown Bloomington Farmers Market, a bustling and bright market with fresh locally-grown produce, is one of the best things to do in Bloomington, IL, this weekend.
Nestled around the well-known downtown square, the market features vendors selling seasonal fruits and vegetables, farm-raised meats and eggs, locally baked goods, and handmade artisan products.
Other unique items in this commercial hub are honey, flowers, plants, and locally roasted coffee beans, carefully preserved and displayed to get hold of passersby’s attention.
Visitors can stock up on fresh, high-quality ingredients, uncover special food products, and get the opportunity to have one-on-one encounters with local vendors in a vibrant ambiance.
Address: 200 N Main Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
Exploring other attractions near Bloomington, Illinois? Also check out some fun things to do in Tinley Park, IL.
19. Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts
Paying a visit to the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts (BCPA), a cutting-edge venue for performances, events, and educational programs, should make your bucket list of entertaining things to do in Bloomington, IL, at night.
Known as “The Crown Jewel of Bloomington”, this attraction boasts a 1,200-seat hall with flawless acoustics, a multifunctional ballroom, and well-facilitated meeting rooms.
Additionally, the entertainment center features modern lighting and sound technology, providing unique experiences for performers and audiences alike.
The Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts offers something for everyone’s interest, whether you’re seeking a night of live theater, a heart-racing dance, or a comedy show.
Address: 600 N East Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
20. Prairie Vista Golf Course
Scheduling a tee time at Prairie Vista Golf Course, a well-facilitated and standard golf course is among the fun things to do in Bloomington, IL, this weekend.
Established in 1991, the golf lodge offers a fair challenge for seasoned and beginner golfers. Enclosed in an extensive area, the public and municipal 18-hole course extends 6,745 from the back tees, featuring a 127 slope and playing to a par of 72.
Pinecrest Golf Course also offers scenic vistas of the setting for relaxing and unwinding while awaiting your play turn and classes for players of all ages.
Address: 502 W Hamilton Road, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.
21. Tipton Park
One of the numerous fun things to do in Bloomington, IL, with family and friends is to embark on an adventure to Tipton Park, an expansive and scenic escape for enjoying the open air.
Spanning 50 acres, the beehive is divided into two sections: the northern section features a nature area, a fishing lake, a kiddies’ playground, and a bann-fashioned shelter.
On the other hand, the southern section features athletic fields for soccer & softball, a splash pad, a paved 2-mile asphalt trail ideal for walking, running, or biking.
Address: 2201 Stone Mountain Blvd, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.
22. Illinois State University
Nestled in Normal, IL, about a 5-minute drive from Bloomington, visiting Illinois State University, the oldest public university in Illinois with a rich history in teacher education, is among the educational things to do near Bloomington, IL, for everyone.
Established in 1857, the school presents various undergraduate and graduate programs in different disciplines, from liberal arts and sciences to business, education, and fine arts.
Also, the picturesque square is situated in the heart of the campus, with a thrilling mix of historic and modern buildings, providing for a lively learning atmosphere.
Guests and students can enjoy a different and interesting college experience by indulging in diverse student activities and organizational programs hosted to explore the town’s charm.
Address: 100 N University Street, Normal, IL 61761, United States.
23. Walt Bittner Park
Walt Bittner Park is a public park offering room for leisure, sports, and other family-friendly things to do in Bloomington, IL, for everyone.
Sprawling 8.4 acres, The park features ample green space, walking trails, a children’s playground, and sporting facilities, including a basketball court, a baseball, and a softball diamond.
Regardless of your interests, Walt Bittner Park offers a dose of nature, recreation, and space to connect with the community and nature.
Address: 5 Finance Drive, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.
24. Lil Beaver Brewery
As a wine lover, exploring Lil Beaver Brewery, a well-known destination for expertly made beer and tasty bar treats in a welcoming ambiance should make your list of the best things to do in Bloomington, IL, today.
The brewery focuses on imperial stouts, presenting a vast choice of beers, from classic styles to seasonal offerings, to cater to your tastebuds. A tap room is also available to ensure a perfect taste of blended beer flavors.
The brewery also offers a full-meal menu with delicious shareable, burgers, pizzas, salads, wings, and desserts to complement their beers.
You can savor a refreshing pint after work, enjoy a satisfying meal, or catch a live sporting event on the TVs provided at Lil Beaver Brewery.
Address: 5 Finance Drive, Bloomington, IL 61704, United States.
25. Bloomington Public Library
The Bloomington Public Library is a foundation of the Bloomington community, presenting quality services, programs, resources, and other educational things to do in Bloomington, IL, for all ages.
Founded in 1857 by the Ladies’ Library Association, the library features a collection of books, audiobooks, ebooks, magazines, programs for all ages, public computers with internet access, and cozy spaces.
Bloomington Public Library allows you to explore a world of knowledge, lease materials, attend engaging programs, or casually relax in a friendly environment while reading a book.
Address: 205 E Olive Street, Bloomington, IL 61701, United States.
Plan Your Trip To Bloomington, IL
Bloomington, Illinois, is a special world of adventures, presenting a perfect blend of fun, entertainment, learning, and culture.
Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, each encounter invites you to go further into the essence of this scenic metropolis, revealing its rich tapestry of history, artistic expression, and communal camaraderie.
So, get your shoes laced up, embrace the cultural nuances, savor the flavors, and let Bloomington delight your senses in ways only this unique city can.
