Top reasons to visit Bloomington
- Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Bloomington is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring nature reserves, urban parks, and golf courses for all skill levels.
- Cultural Richness: Experience the vibrant local culture through attractions like the annual Lotus Festival and science museums.
- Charming Downtown: Stroll through the lively downtown area, filled with quaint shops and delightful eateries for a romantic experience.
- Sports Excitement: Attend thrilling basketball games at Bloomington Memorial Stadium, adding to the city's lively atmosphere.
- Diverse Accommodation: A wide range of lodging options, from charming B&Bs to modern hotels, caters to all travellers.
Find great hotels in Bloomington
Bloomington, Indiana offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels tailored for business travellers. Whether you seek a boutique hotel or a pet-friendly option near Indiana University, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your stay. The Biddle Hotel and other welcoming establishments cater to all, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone, including LGBTQIA guests.
- Hyatt Place Bloomington: Nestled in the heart of Bloomington, the Hyatt Place Bloomington offers a modern and stylish environment, ideal for both business and leisure travellers. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this 3-star hotel is pet-friendly, ensuring that your four-legged companions can join you on your travels. The hotel features spacious rooms with contemporary decor, a fitness centre for those looking to maintain their routine, and a complimentary breakfast to start your day off right. The welcoming atmosphere and professional staff create a comfortable space for relaxation or work.
- Super 8 by Wyndham Bloomington University Area: If you seek a budget-friendly option without compromising on comfort, Super 8 by Wyndham Bloomington University Area is an excellent choice. This hotel caters to families and business travellers alike, with amenities designed for guests of all ages, including complimentary cribs for little ones and first aid kits for peace of mind. Conveniently located in Bloomington, the hotel provides easy access to local attractions, making it a practical base for exploring the area. Guests appreciate the value and accessibility that this establishment offers.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Bloomington: With a notable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Bloomington stands out as a welcoming and budget-friendly option for visitors. This hotel is also pet-friendly, allowing pets with certain restrictions, ensuring a comfortable stay for animal lovers. The property features well-appointed rooms and a range of amenities, including a fitness centre and complimentary breakfast. Situated conveniently in Bloomington, it strikes a balance between comfort and accessibility, making it an appealing choice for both business and leisure travellers.
Where to stay in Bloomington
Bloomington, Indiana, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. The vibrant downtown area is the heart of the city, featuring charming shops and eateries, perfect for romantic strolls. Nearby attractions showcase the area's eco-friendly ethos and rich heritage. As a lively college town, Bloomington is ideal for those seeking both relaxation and excitement, making it a perfect getaway for every kind of traveller.
- Elm Heights: Nestled in the scenic landscape of Bloomington, Elm Heights is a charming neighbourhood that captures the essence of cultural and outdoor experiences. Visitors flock here primarily from August to October, drawn by its rich educational opportunities and recreational spaces. The area boasts a picturesque lake and the historic college university, providing a perfect backdrop for leisurely walks and exploration. Golf enthusiasts can also enjoy the local courses, making it a well-rounded destination for those seeking a blend of nature and culture.
- Downtown Bloomington: The heart of Bloomington, Downtown offers a vibrant mix of culture, outdoor activities, and scenic views. This bustling neighbourhood sees peak visitor numbers between August and October, thanks to its array of educational venues and arena entertainment facilities. Strolling through Downtown, you'll encounter the historic college university and a lively sports facility stadium, perfect for experiencing local events. With its diverse dining options and lively atmosphere, Downtown Bloomington is a must-visit for anyone looking to soak in the local culture.
- Old Northeast Downtown: A delightful blend of history and family-friendly activities, Old Northeast Downtown is an inviting neighbourhood in Bloomington. Like its counterparts, it attracts tourists most from August to October, offering educational and recreational venues that cater to all ages. Visitors can enjoy close proximity to a historic college university, scenic lakes, and a stadium, making it an excellent spot for families and culture enthusiasts alike. The area's charm and community spirit make Old Northeast Downtown a memorable part of your Bloomington adventure.
Things to do in Bloomington
Shopping
In Bloomington, explore the College Mall, featuring a selection of stores for gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the Eastland Mall, located 24km away, offers a larger variety of shops and dining options to enhance your shopping experience.
Recreation
The Lotus Garden Spa offers a tranquil atmosphere with a range of holistic treatments, including massages and aromatherapy. For outdoor relaxation, explore the serene trails at Brown County State Park, where you can enjoy hiking amidst stunning landscapes and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Adventure
Bloomington Speedway offers an exhilarating motor racing experience surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch thrilling races unfold on the track, with the roar of engines and the excitement of competition creating an unforgettable adventure in Bloomington.
Nightlife
In Bloomington, The Bluebird is renowned for its vibrant live music scene, while The Laughing Planet offers a laid-back atmosphere with quirky décor. For a lively pub experience, head to The Irish Lion, where you can enjoy a hearty meal and a selection of local brews.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bloomington
To save money on your trip to Bloomington, consider visiting in July or between December and January when accommodation prices are lower. Aim to book your stay on a Wednesday, the least expensive day. Use Expedia to compare hotel rates, filter for eco-friendly options, and look for special promotions. Additionally, consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for further savings. Exploring the city on foot is a great way to enjoy free activities while keeping transport costs down.
- 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you will be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Bloomington with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Bloomington
Bloomington, Indiana, is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking a picturesque getaway. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including nature reserves, urban parks, and science museums, all offering a family-friendly and eco-conscious experience. A noteworthy site is the Bloomington Memorial Stadium, which adds to the local charm and activities available for tourists.
- Cascades Park: Nestled in the heart of Bloomington, Cascades Park offers a serene escape with its lush greenery, picturesque trails, and tranquil water features. Ideal for families, it boasts picnic areas, playgrounds, and scenic spots perfect for a leisurely stroll or an outdoor gathering.
- Eskenazi Museum of Art: This cultural gem showcases an impressive collection of art from various periods and regions, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in creativity and history. The museum's architecture is striking, adding to the overall aesthetic experience of the local art scene.
- Wonderlab Science Museum: A delight for families, Wonderlab encourages hands-on exploration of science and technology. Interactive exhibits spark curiosity and foster learning, making it a captivating destination for both children and adults.
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
Reaching Bloomington, INDiana, is convenient with major airports located nearby. Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is situated 64km away, with notable hotels such as the five-star Conrad Indianapolis and the four-star Omni Severin Hotel, both approximately 13km from the airport. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is 163km away, featuring excellent accommodations like the 21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati, 13km from the airport. Additionally, Louisville International Airport (SDF) is 129km from Bloomington, with top hotels like the Omni Louisville Hotel just 8km away. All these airports offer accessible transportation options to their respective hotels.