33 Best & Fun Things To Do In Bloomington, IN

Are you searching for fun activities in Bloomington, Indiana? Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this guide features 33 best and fun things to do to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

Nestled in the heart of Southern Indiana, about 50 miles southwest of Indianapolis, Bloomington is affectionately known as the “Gateway to Scenic Southern Indiana” due to its stunning landscapes and natural beauty.

As the home of Indiana University, this dynamic city offers an array of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities. From exploring the lush trails of Griffy Lake Nature Preserve to immersing yourself in the rich artistic community at the Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District (BEAD), there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling college town.

33 Best & Fun Things To Do In Bloomington, IN (2024)

1. WonderLab Science Museum

Kick off your Bloomington trip with a visit to WonderLab Science Museum, an interactive science museum built to ignite interest, motivate exploration, and provide educational things to do in Bloomington, IN, for all ages.

The museum features hands-on exhibitions, real animal meetings, a two-story climbing maze, and a particular area for young children.

Visiting WonderLab Science Museum provides a fun and immersive way of learning about science, health, and technology by playing and experimenting.

Address: 308 W 4th Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.

2. Lower Cascades Park

Experience fun things to do in Bloomington, IN, for families at Lower Cascades Park, a beehive and green space with a natural getaway downtown.

The park has a big, fully accessible playground, reservable picnic shelters with facilities like grills and fireplaces, a paved trail for walking or biking, and a picturesque creek with a small waterfall.

Visitors get a chance to relish recreation in nature, with the choice of picnicking, playing on the playground, surveying the trail, or enjoying the tranquil creek and waterfall.

Address: 2851 Old State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.

3. Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall

Catching a glimpse of basketball games at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall, an iconic basketball arena made popular by its vibrant Hoosier fanbase, is one of the most exciting things to do in Bloomington, IN, this weekend.

Nestled within the Indiana University Bloomington campus, the hall features 17,222 seats, making it a lively destination for Indiana Hoosiers men’s & women’s basketball games.

Employ the guided tours option for sights behind the scenes and share in the electrifying ambiance of Hoosiers basketball when you stop by Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall.

Address: 1001 E 17th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.

4. Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington also known as IU Bloomington, is a vast, general research university offering a host of educational things to do in Bloomington, IN, for everyone.

The university prides itself on a bustling college town ambiance, state-of-the-art academic programs in different disciplines, and a stunning campus with cultural appeals, including museums and libraries.

Paying a visit to Indiana University Bloomington unlocks the opportunity to experience a passionate college town, browse different scholarly options, and get soaked in a rich campus way of life

Address: 107 S Indiana Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.

5. Buskirk-Chumley Theater

Seeing the best of classic and latest movies at Buskirk-Chumley Theater, a notable destination should make your checklist of entertaining things to do in Bloomington, IN, at night

Otherwise known as the “Indiana Theater” by the locals, the 1922-built theater offers silent films and vaudeville acts and organizes a plethora of shows to jazz up your Bloomington visit.

Get the chance to participate in live performances in a stunning and notable location displaying everything, ranging from music and films to plays and community events.

Address: 114 E Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States

6. Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market

Exploring Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market, a special summer Bloomington practice and a lively destination crawling with local sellers and fresh produce sales is one of the best things to do in Bloomington, IN, this weekend.

The market houses an abundance of locally-grown fruits and vegetables, dairy products, eggs, meats, craft goods, flowers, and plants.

A stop by Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market provides an ambiance to meet local farmers, and appreciate and purchase the freshest seasonal produce in a pleasant downtown location.

Address: 401 N Morton Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.

7. Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center

Visit the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center, a special center established to facilitate Tibetan and Mongolian cultures, Buddhist traditions, and other unique things to do in Bloomington, IN, today.

Established in 1979, the center is characterized by a stunning Kumbum Chamtse Ling Temple, which shelters the only Tibetan Chortens in the country and provides workshops, retreats, and teachings.

Get soaked in the Tibetan and Mongolian cultures, catch a glimpse of stunning Buddhist art shapes like butter sculptures and sand mandalas, and engage in educational workshops.

Address: 3655 S Snoddy Road, Bloomington, IN 47401, United States.

8. B-Line Trail

Taking a long walk on the B-Line Trail, a multi-functional trail linking downtown Bloomington to other trails is one of the most relaxing things to do in Bloomington, IN, this evening.

The 3.1-mile-sprawling trail is excellent for walking, running, biking, and hiking with features like benches, drinking fountains, public art facilities, fitness stations, and restrooms situated along the way.

Experience a panoramic and comfortable way to explore Bloomington, participate in some exercise, and find public art and green spaces.

Address: Bloomington, IN 47401, United States.

9. Sample Gates

Checking out Sample Gates, a magnificent getaway to the famous “Old Crescent” of Indiana Univerity’s Bloomington campus is one of the adventurous things to do in Bloomington, IN, for all ages.

Built in 1987, the gates are made from Indiana limestone and serve as the entryway to the university’s ancient infrastructure.

With a trip to Sample Gates, visitors are guaranteed the sight of a figurative entrance to Indiana University’s rich history and a chance to take memorable shots at a popular landmark.

Address: E Kirkwood Avenue & S Indiana Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.

10. Monroe Lake

Monroe Lake is the most extensive lake  within the borders of Indiana surrounded by protected forests, giving room for many exciting and fun things to do in Bloomington, IN, this weekend

Boasting over 10,750 acres of water surface area, the lake provides different amusing activities like boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping with areas devoted to swimming and no wake limitations for motorboats.

A trip to Monroe Lake presents options to engage in water activities, explore nature trails, or casually unwind on the shores of the picturesque lake.

Address: Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.

Exploring other attractions near Bloomington, Indiana? Why not check out some fun things to do in Rockville, IN, and fun things to do in McCordsville, IN?

11. Butler Winery and Vineyards

As a wine lover, sampling assorted wines made from Indiana grapes at Butler Winery and Vineyards, a family-operated winery should make your bucket list of unique things to do in Bloomington, IN, this evening.

The winery started in 1983 and provides room for wine sampling, vineyard excursions, and a shop with bottled wines, gourmet foods, and wine production supplies.

Exploring Butler Winery and Vineyard permits you to test Indiana wines in a scenic vineyard destination, enjoy the outdoors, and learn about the local wine production process.

Address: 6200 E Robinson Road, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.

12. Indiana University Memorial Stadium

Watching live events at the Indiana University Memorial Stadium, an extensive stadium acting as the home field for the Indiana Hoosier football team is one of the most entertaining things to do in Bloomington, IN, this weekend.

Since its inception in 1960, the stadium has featured a 52,000-seating accommodation and modern facilities such as a north-end zone complex with training installations and a student support hub.

Visiting the stadium provides the excitement of sharing in a college football game in the notable attraction encircled by cheering Hoosier supporters.

Address: 701 E 17th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.

13. Cardinal Spirits

Cardinal Spirits is Bloomington’s foremost craft distillery with an on-site restaurant, cocktail bar, and distillery tours to promote fun and exciting things to do in Bloomington, IN, for adults.

The distillery offers homemade spirits, innovative cocktails, and a periodic, accessible food list, with tours showing their distilling techniques.

Experience a blend of tasty food and refreshing drinks made with local ingredients with the opportunity to learn about and test spirits.

Address: 922 S Morton Street, Bloomington, IN 47403, United States.

14. The Comedy Altic

Get your ribs cracked at The Comedy Attic, Bloomington’s first and only full-time comedy club providing family-friendly things to do in Bloomington, IN, at night.

This destination presents experienced stand-up comedy performances featuring expert and upcoming comedians, with open mic nights, and a complete food and drinks menu.

An evening at the Comedy Attic guarantees a night of laughter with high-quality stand-up shows, savory meals and drinks, and an option to find a new favorite comedian.

Address: 123 S Walnut Street, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.

15. Graduate Bloomington

Graduate Bloomington is a 4-star hotel close to Indiana University’s Iconic Sample Gates to provide relaxing things to do in Bloomington, IN, for travelers, visitors, and residents.

The hotel features an Indiana University-fashioned decor, a cafe on the spot, a fitness center, fast Wi-Fi, and loaner bikes,

Staying at Graduate Bloomington offers a relaxed and trendy ground for exploring Indiana University’s campus, Bloomington’s downtown area, and other attractions due to its proximity.

Address: 210 E Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.

16. Runcible Spoon

Checking out Runcible Spoon, an establishment known for its mixed ambiance and mouth-watering food options should make your checklist of romantic things to do in Bloomington, IN, for couples.

The cafe and restaurant pride itself on gourmet coffee, a whole food list served all day, and a decorated area with a fascinating open-air balcony.

At Runcible Spoon, couples are promised a delightful encounter with savory food, great coffee preferences, and a perfect and intimate environment.

Address: 412 E 6th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.

17. The Cade

The Cade is Bloomington’s premier arcade bar blending standard and modern gaming with a warm ambiance and other fun things to do in Bloomington, IN, for adults.

Established in 2017, this attraction offers craft beer selection, cocktails, and standard arcade games with board and console games to jazz up a fun night out.

Engage your inner child with games, relish drinks with friends, and share in Bloomington’s special bar settings.

Address: 217 N Walnut Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.

18. Jump-n-Joey’s

Experience indoor things to do in Bloomington, IN, with kids at Jump-n-Joey’s, an indoor family entertainment center with activities for all ages.

The fun hub boasts massive inflatable slides, obstacle courses, jump houses, a toddler section, and a concession stand with pizza and other bites.

Families with kids can let them loose to burn energy, enjoy jumping activities, and play arcade games, making it an ideal choice for a family outing.

Address: 108 N Curry Pike, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.

19. Hoosier Escape House

Discover thrilling things to do in Bloomington, IN, for everyone at Hoosier Escape House, Bloomington’s latest escape room adventure with engaging experiences for teams.

The escape room attraction has many escape room styles, with challenging puzzles and missions to be cracked within a 60-minute time frame to escape the room.

Put your teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test in a fun and interactive atmosphere, such as provided in Hoosier Escape House.

Address: 933 N Walnut Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States

20. Eskenazi Museum of Art

The Eskenazi Museum of Art is an art museum on the Indiana University Bloomington campus with century-spanning art collections and exciting things to do in Bloomington, IN, for art lovers.

The museum shelters over 40,000 objects, including antique artifacts, European paintings by professionals like Monet and Picasso, modern works, and gems worldwide.

Browsing the Eskenazi Museum of Art offers a trip through time and cultures, permitting you to survey art from diverse epochs and regions while admiring the museum’s architecture.

Address: Eskenazi Museum of Art, 1133 E 7th Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.

Exploring other attractions near Bloomington, Indiana? Why not check out some fun things to do in Fishers, IN, and fun things to do in Martinsville, IN?

21. Indiana University

Feeding your sight with classic and latest movies at Indiana University Cinema, a state-of-the-art art house is among the most entertaining things to do in Bloomington, IN, at night.

Nestled within the University Theatre building and dating back to the 1930s, the cinema features an array of films, including independent, foreign, classic, and distinctive movies.

Relish a charming setting, enjoy a careful pick of films, and engage with filmmakers, scholars, and industry specialists.

Address: 1213 E 7th Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.

22. Bloomington Antique Mall

Shopping at Bloomington Antique Mall, a large antique mall, within the notable Tom Taylor building, should make your bucket list of unique things to do in Bloomington, IN, today.

The mall offers over 120 booths with an array of vintages, collectibles, artisan crafts, and special discoveries from sellers across three floors.

Visit this gem finders’ haven to browse special items for home decor, and gifts, or casually to find treasured pieces.

Address: 311 W 7th Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.

23. Leonard Springs Nature Park

Paying a visit to Leonard Springs Nature Park, a natural preserve with natural marvels like springs, caves, and a swamp area is among the adventurous things to do in Bloomington, IN, this weekend.

The 95.5-spanning nature park features a 1.1-mile hiking trail with picturesque sights and options to mark plant and animal life.

Enjoy a chance to hike through a panoramic landscape with impressive geological structures and a rich ecosystem.

Address: 4685 S Leonard Springs Road, Bloomington, IN 47403, United States.

24. Indiana University Jacobs School of Music

Among the educational things to do in Bloomington, IN, for everyone is to stop by The Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, an esteemed music arboretum.

Established in 1921, the school prides itself on outstanding capability, one-of-a-kind facilities, and a plethora of costumes across different music styles.

Get immersed in a rich musical community, gain exposure to high-class musicians, and sharpen your musical talents through performances and collaboration.

Address: 205 S Jordan Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.

25. Bub’s Burger & Ice Cream

Going to Bub’s Burger & Ice Cream, a famous restaurant with big, creative burgers and traditional fares in a simple, family-friendly ambiance, is a must-do for those seeking fun and relaxing things to do in Bloomington, IN.

The attraction is known for its top-tier ingredients like fresh beef patties, locally made buns, milkshakes, special burger options, vegetarian picks, and standard ice cream flavors.

Indulge in a delicious burger, and a frozen milkshake in a fun, inviting atmosphere while testing their signature “Big Ugly” burger.

Address: 480 N Morton Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States

26. Switchyard Park

Switchyard Park is a previous railyard converted into a lively general park presenting recreation, gathering spaces, and exciting things to do in Bloomington, IN, for all ages.

The park houses a variety of facilities like a splash pad, a skate park, sports courts, a dog park, community gardens, a performance stage, and a multi-use pavilion.

Opportunities for open-air fun, relaxation, community events, and enjoying nature on the B-line Trail await when you visit Switchyard Park.

Address: 1601 S Rogers Street, Bloomington, IN 47403, United States.

27. Bloomington Rail Trail

Taking a walk on the Bloomington Rail Trail, a two-mile, ground gravel pathway ideal for walking, running, and biking, is one of the best things to do in Bloomington, In, at leisure.

The trail links to the B-Line Trail at Country Club Drive and the clear Creek Trail at Church Lane and has benches, a periodic drinking fountain with a dog bowl, and picturesque sights.

Share in a tranquil escape in nature, encircled by trees and a creek, and connect to other trails for a more extended adventure.

Address: Bloomington, IN 47403, United States.

28. Picture Gallery

Art lovers can browse Picture Gallery, a treasure trove of artworks by local and regional artists, linked to the Arts Alliance of Greater Bloomington (AAGB)

To facilitate fun things to do in Bloomington, IN, for everyone, the gallery shows different paintings, photographs, sculptures, and jewelry made by skilled artists, alongside handcrafted gifts.

Popping into Picture Gallery presents the chance to support local artists, find special pieces for purchase, and get soaked in the Bloomington art scene.

Address: 202 S Rogers Street, Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.

29. Downtown Bloomington

An adventure to Downtown Bloomington, a lively with a blend of historic charm and modern-day energy should make your list of fun, educative, and exciting things to do in Bloomington, IN, for all ages.

The town prides itself on an easy-to-walk district filled with local shops, restaurants, bars, entertainment destinations, and a nationally acknowledged  Farmers’ Market.

Explore historic architecture, savor delectable food, catch a show at any of the entertainment venues, and appreciate this vibrant nightlife location.

Address: Bloomington, IN 47404, United States.

30. Monroe County History Center

Touring the Monroe County History Center, a free museum and research library devoted to preserving and transmitting the history of Monroe County is among the free things to do in Bloomington, IN, this week.

The center has permanent and rotating exhibits displaying local and regional history, a heritage research library, and a museum store.

Exploring the Monroe County History Center lets you learn about the region’s past through artifacts, exhibits, and resources, and encountering your family history.

Address: 202 E 6th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.

31. BBQ Train

Stopping by BBQ Train, a smoker set up made popular by its tasty barbecue should make your list of cheap things to do in Bloomington, IN, with loved ones.

Situated outside the Short Shop Food Mart, this attraction focuses on dry-rubbed, Carolina-fashion smoked meats like pulled pork, ribs, and brisket, with standard sides and lunch specials.

Enjoy a taste of original, smoky barbecue at an affordable price especially on Thursdays during their peak season.

Address: 905 N Smith Road, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States

32. Griffy Lake Nature Preserve

Griffy Lake Nature Preserve is an oasis with a 109-acre lake enclosed by panoramic forests and adventurous things to do in Bloomington, IN, for nature lovers.

Spanning 1,200 acres, the preserve features hiking trails, a boat launch for non-motorized watercraft rentals, and a fishing expedition to add excitement to your visit.

Harness the chance to get soaked in nature, enjoy calm hiking or paddling, and catch some fish.

Address: 3400 N Headley Road, Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.

33. Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District (BEAD)

Visit the Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District (BEAD), a vibrant district established to celebrate the arts, culture, and entertainment among other unique things to do in Bloomington, Indiana.

Established in 2005, BEAD is distinguished by its playful mix of galleries, theaters, music venues, and public art installations, making it a cultural hub for the city. The district provides numerous events, festivals, and performances throughout the year.

Get absorbed in the local arts scene, examine incredible art galleries, witness live performances at iconic venues like the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, and engage in creative workshops.

Address: Bloomington, IN 47408, United States.

Plan your visit to Bloomington, IN

Bloomington, Indiana, is teeming with adventures waiting to be dug. From its ageless significance and vibrant entertainment set to its spectacular waterfront vistas and friendly community, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in this charming town.

Plan your trip today and discover all the amazing attractions Bloomington has in store! Safe Travels.