Top reasons to visit Bloomington
- Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Bloomington offers stunning nature reserves and urban parks, ideal for hiking and romantic strolls.
- Vibrant Cultural Scene: Experience the youthful energy of this college town, featuring lively cafés, unique shops, and cultural festivals.
- Exciting Sports Events: Catch thrilling basketball games at the renowned Bloomington Memorial Stadium.
- Annual Lotus Festival: Join locals in celebrating diverse cultures and enjoy art, music, and food at this popular event.
- Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from chic boutique hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, and pet-friendly stays for a memorable visit.
Find great hotels in Bloomington
Discover a variety of hotel accommodations in Bloomington, Indiana, catering to diverse traveller needs. Whether you're seeking a chic boutique hotel, a pet-friendly haven, or a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQIA guests, you'll find options aplenty. With convenient access to Indiana University and essential business amenities, Bloomington offers a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all visitors. Choose from charming bed and breakfasts or well-appointed hotels to make your trip memorable.
- Hyatt Place Bloomington: This 3-star hotel stands out for its modern design and business-friendly amenities. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, Hyatt Place Bloomington is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a comfortable stay with a pet-friendly policy. The hotel offers spacious rooms, ideal for both relaxation and work, while amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi and a 24-hour fitness centre. Its location in Bloomington provides easy access to local attractions, making it suitable for both business and leisure travellers.
- Super 8 by Wyndham Bloomington University Area: A budget-friendly option, Super 8 by Wyndham Bloomington University Area is tailored for families and business travellers alike. With essential amenities, including free cribs for children and a dedicated first aid kit, the hotel ensures a convenient stay for families. Its welcoming atmosphere and practical services make it a sensible choice for those looking to explore Bloomington without breaking the bank.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Bloomington: Rated at an impressive 9.2 out of 10, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Bloomington is another budget-friendly choice, renowned for its pet-friendly policies. This hotel features modern rooms equipped with essential amenities for both business and leisure guests. Its strategic location allows easy access to local attractions, while the hotel’s thoughtful services, including restrictions on pets and a maximum weight policy, cater to animal lovers seeking a comfortable stay.
Where to stay in Bloomington
Bloomington, Indiana, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, captivating scenery, and vibrant culture. Explore the lively downtown area, where charming cafés and unique shops await. Don't miss the picturesque landscapes surrounding the city, perfect for romantic strolls or sports activities. As a notable college town, Bloomington boasts a youthful energy and a plethora of attractions, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable vacation experience.
- Elm Heights: Nestled within the vibrant city of Bloomington, Elm Heights is a charming neighbourhood known for its lush scenery and cultural richness. Visitors flock to this area primarily between August and October, drawn by the picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreational activities. Elm Heights features a historic college university nearby, alongside a serene lake and a bustling stadium, making it ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in both education and leisure pursuits.
- Downtown Bloomington: The heart of Bloomington, Downtown Bloomington is a lively neighbourhood that pulses with energy throughout the year. With a peak in visitors during the autumn months, this area offers a host of cultural attractions and outdoor experiences. From educational institutions to an arena entertainment facility, Downtown is a hub for activities that cater to various interests. Notable landmarks include a historic college university and a vibrant lake, along with a sports facility stadium, ensuring there's always something to see and do.
- Old Northeast Downtown: Rich in history and family-friendly activities, Old Northeast Downtown is another delightful neighbourhood in Bloomington. Travellers are attracted to this area for its welcoming atmosphere and cultural experiences throughout the year, particularly between August and October. Visitors can enjoy a range of recreational activities and educational venues while exploring the nearby historic college university, scenic lake, and a popular stadium, making it a fantastic destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike.
Things to do in Bloomington
Shopping
In Bloomington, you can explore local shops and markets like the Bloomington Community Farmers' Market for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the College Mall for a variety of brand-name stores and dining options, or head to the Eastland Plaza for more shopping choices.
Recreation
In Bloomington, the Bloomington Healing Arts Centre offers a tranquil environment for massage therapy and holistic treatments, helping you unwind and rejuvenate. The Sycamore Wellness Centre features yoga classes and fitness workshops, allowing you to engage in mindful practices while enjoying the serene surroundings of Indiana's natural beauty.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Bloomington Speedway, where the adrenaline rush of competitive racing meets the excitement of the crowd. Feel the energy as you witness high-speed action on the track, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for adventure enthusiasts.
Nightlife
Bloomington's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of bars and live music venues. Visit The Bluebird for local bands or unwind at Switchyard Brewing Co. for craft beers. For a lively atmosphere, check out The Back Door, a popular spot among students and locals alike.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bloomington
Bloomington, Indiana, offers several ways to save money during your visit. The cheapest months to stay are July and December to January, with Wednesday being the least expensive day. Use Expedia to filter accommodation based on your budget and consider eco-certified options for sustainable stays. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to significant savings. Additionally, explore free local attractions and utilise public transport to keep costs down while enjoying the city's offerings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Bloomington are July and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Bloomington is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Bloomington is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Bloomington with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Bloomington
Bloomington, Indiana, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic getaway. The area boasts a variety of attractions, including nature reserves, urban parks, and science museums, providing eco-friendly experiences for families and travellers alike. One notable site to visit is the Bloomington Memorial Stadium, which adds to the charm of this vibrant city. Explore the natural beauty and cultural offerings that make Bloomington a delightful vacation spot.
- Wonderlab Science Museum: Engage in interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and wonder. This family-friendly venue offers hands-on science experiences that delight visitors of all ages, making it an educational yet fun outing.
- Monroe County Courthouse: Admire the stunning architecture of this historic civic building, which reflects the rich local culture and history. Its grand façade and intricate details provide a glimpse into the past, making it a worthwhile visit for architecture enthusiasts.
- Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center: Discover a serene atmosphere at this temple, where you can learn about Tibetan culture and Buddhism. The peaceful gardens and spiritual artefacts create a contemplative experience for those seeking tranquillity.
Best time to go to Bloomington
The best time to visit Bloomington is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Bloomington
Accessing Bloomington, INDiana, is convenient via several major airports. Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is situated 64km away, with notable hotels nearby such as the 5-star Conrad Indianapolis and the 4.5-star Bottleworks Hotel, both approximately 8-14km from the airport. Cincinnati – Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is 163km away, with excellent accommodations like the 21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, also around 13km from the airport. Lastly, Louisville International Airport (SDF) is 129km from Bloomington, offering nearby options such as the Omni Louisville Hotel and 21c Museum Hotel Louisville, both about 8km from the airport. Each hotel provides easy access to its respective airport.