Bloomington-Normal Travel Guide

From hiking/biking routes and cultural attractions to where to stay and what to eat, our Bloomington-Normal travel guide covers it all. Discover this vibrant city in Central Illinois with our informative and helpful guide.


Introduction to Bloomington-Normal

Located in Central Illinois, Bloomington-Normal is a bustling city that offers a myriad of cultural and outdoor activities. It is the home of Illinois State University and boasts a diverse community, making it a great place to visit for people of all ages and interests. In this guide, we will delve into the must-see places, activities, and local culture of Bloomington-Normal, as well as providing practical information on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Bloomington-Normal

There is no shortage of exciting places to visit in Bloomington-Normal. Here are some of our top picks:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • McLean County Museum of History: A great spot for history buffs, this museum features exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the city and its people.
  • David Davis Mansion: A beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion that belonged to Supreme Court Justice David Davis.
  • Miller Park Zoo: A lovely zoo with a wide variety of animals, including otters, red pandas, and primates.

Natural Attractions of Bloomington-Normal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Constitution Trail: This scenic 24-mile trail connects several parks and neighborhoods and is perfect for hiking, biking, or jogging.
  • Evergreen Memorial Cemetery: A tranquil and peaceful cemetery full of trees, flowers, and birds, making it a great spot for a peaceful walk or picnic.
  • The Labyrinth at Ewing Cultural Center: This stunning labyrinth is made of meandering paths and beautiful flowers. It’s an excellent spot for some quiet contemplation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bloomington-Normal

Bloomington-Normal has a range of hiking and biking trails that offer scenic views and fresh air. Here are some of the best:

  • The Constitution Trail: A 24-mile trail that connects three parks and four different neighborhoods.
  • Lake Bloomington Trail: A 4.2-mile paved trail that circles the lake, offering great views of the lake, woods, and wildlife.
  • Funks Grove Nature Preserve: A peaceful and scenic trail that runs through a forest full of flowers and wildlife, suitable for hiking or strolling.

Best Things to Do in Bloomington-Normal: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to explore Bloomington-Normal:

  • Beer Nuts factory tour: See how this iconic snack is made and sample some local beers.
  • Discover Downtown Bloomington Tour: A guided tour that takes you through the historic buildings and landmarks of Downtown Bloomington.
  • Miller Park Zoo Night Safari: A unique opportunity to see the zoo’s nocturnal animals and feed them in the dark.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bloomington-Normal

Here is a suggested itinerary for a one-week stay in Bloomington-Normal:

Day Activity
1 Visit McLean County Museum of History; eat lunch at the Epiphany Farms Restaurant, explore Downtown Bloomington, and shop at the Bloomington Farmer’s Market.
2 Go hiking or biking on the Constitution Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch at Tipton Trails Park.
3 Discover the David Davis Mansion and take the guided tour, then grab lunch at the Coffee Hound. Afterward, visit the Bloomington Center for Performing Arts.
4 Take a day trip to Normal Theater and explore the Cultural Arts Center, then eat dinner at Medici.
5 Spend a day at Lake Bloomington, rent a boat, swim, have a picnic, and watch the sunset.
6 Go shopping at the Eastland Mall, then explore the Miller Park Zoo.
7 Take a guided night safari at the Miller Park Zoo, have dinner at Anju Above, and end the night at Fat Jack’s Bar.

Food and Drink Scene of Bloomington-Normal

There are plenty of great places to eat and drink in Bloomington-Normal. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Juicy Lucy from the Lucca Grill: A juicy, cheese-filled burger that is a Bloomington-Normal classic.
  • Pork Belly Tacos from Anju Above: A delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors, these tacos are a local favorite.
  • Brewhaus Mac and Cheese from Destihl Brewery: This creamy mac and cheese has a crispy breadcrumb topping and bits of bacon.

Local Beverages

  • Beer Nuts: A sweet and salty snack that is a local favorite, and pairs perfectly with a cold beer from one of the city’s many breweries.
  • Coffee Hound: The Coffee Hound is a local coffee shop that makes excellent coffee from organic, fair-trade beans.
  • Local wines: There are several wineries in the area that produce delicious locally grown wines. Try the Cabernet Franc from Mackinaw Valley Vineyard or White Rhino from Castle Finn Winery.

Where to Stay in Bloomington-Normal

Bloomington-Normal offers an array of accommodation options from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Hyatt Place Bloomington/Normal: A modern hotel with an indoor pool, fitness center, and daily breakfast.
  • Vrooman Mansion: A restored historic mansion that offers elegant rooms and suites with modern amenities.
  • Hometown Inn and Suites: A budget-friendly option that offers clean, comfortable rooms with cable TV and free Wi-Fi access.

What to Buy in Bloomington-Normal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bloomington-Normal offers a variety of unique souvenirs and locally made products. Here are a few options worth checking out:

  • Beer Nuts: These sweet and salty nuts are sold in souvenir tins and are perfect for snacking or gifting.
  • David Davis Mansion Honey: This honey is made from the bees on the estate and sold at the mansion gift shop.
  • Artisanal Soaps from Little Bluebird Soap Company: These handmade soaps are made from all-natural ingredients and come in a variety of scents, making them a perfect gift item.

Local Culture and Customs of Bloomington-Normal

Bloomington-Normal has a vibrant community with rich local customs and culture. Here are some tips for respecting and enjoying the local culture:

  • Keep an eye out at the Farmer’s Market: The Bloomington Farmer’s Market is a bustling hub of local produce, art, and live music. It can get a little crowded, so be respectful and patient.
  • Respect the environment: Bloomington-Normal takes care of its parks and natural areas, so make sure you leave them as you found them.
  • Be friendly: The people in Bloomington-Normal are friendly and welcoming. Strike up a conversation, and you might make a new friend.

Best Time to Visit Bloomington-Normal

The best time to visit Bloomington-Normal is from May to October when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. June is an excellent time to plan your visit, as the city hosts the acclaimed Sugar Creek Arts Festival, where over 100 artists showcase their work.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bloomington-Normal

Here are some things to do and not to do while exploring Bloomington-Normal:

Do:

  • Take advantage of the food scene: From farm-to-table restaurants to ethnic eateries, Bloomington-Normal is a foodie’s paradise.
  • Respect the environment: As mentioned earlier, Bloomington-Normal takes pride in its clean public spaces, so please do your part to keep them clean as well.
  • Explore the local shops: Downtown Bloomington is full of boutiques and specialty shops that offer unique finds.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute: It goes without saying, but please dispose of your trash properly and limit your use of single-use plastics.
  • Get too loud or rowdy: Bloomington-Normal is a friendly place, but please be respectful of others in public spaces.
  • Forget to tip: It is customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants in Bloomington-Normal.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bloomington-Normal

Bloomington-Normal is a relatively safe city, with a low crime rate. However, like any city, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Some general tips include:

  • Stay in well-lit areas at night
  • Always lock your car doors
  • Avoid walking alone at night
  • Be aware of any potential hazards on the hiking or biking trail and follow trail etiquette.

Health in Bloomington-Normal

Visitors to Bloomington-Normal should be aware of the potential environmental hazards in the area. In particular, be cautious of mosquito-borne illnesses, such as West Nile Virus, and tick-borne illnesses, such as Lyme disease. It is recommended to wear appropriate clothing and use mosquito and tick repellent when spending time outdoors.

Getting to Bloomington-Normal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bloomington-Normal is easily accessible by car and public transportation. Here are some of the best transportation options:

Airports Near Bloomington-Normal

  • Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI): Located just 5 miles from Bloomington-Normal, this airport has several airlines that offer flights to and from Chicago, Dallas, and other major cities.

Bus Stations Near Bloomington-Normal

  • Greyhound: This bus service has a station in Bloomington-Normal, with trips to and from major destinations throughout the country.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The nearest Amtrak station is located in Normal, just a few miles away from Bloomington-Normal.
  • Car rental agencies: Several car rental agencies operate in Bloomington-Normal, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise.

How to Get Around in Bloomington-Normal

Bloomington-Normal has several transportation options for getting around town:

  • Local buses: Bloomington-Normal Transit System (B-North) provides bus service throughout the city, with affordable rates and easy-to-follow routes.
  • Taxis and Ride-sharing: Several taxi companies operate in Bloomington-Normal, including Haughey Funeral Home, Yellow Cab Company, and Deluxe Cab. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.
  • Bike rental: Many bike rental shops are scattered throughout the city, making it easy to rent a bike to explore the city.
  • Walking: Bloomington-Normal is a walkable city, with several pedestrian-friendly routes and sidewalks.

Where to Go Next from Bloomington-Normal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve exhausted all the options in Bloomington-Normal, there are several nearby destinations worth exploring:

  • Springfield, IL: Just a 45-minute drive from Bloomington-Normal, Springfield is home to many Abraham Lincoln sites, the Dana-Thomas House, and the Cozy Drive-In.
  • Champaign-Urbana, IL: A college town located an hour east of Bloomington-Normal, Champaign-Urbana has a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums.
  • Chicago, IL: While not exactly nearby, Chicago is just about two and half hours north of Bloomington-Normal, making it an easy weekend trip.

Conclusion

Bloomington-Normal is a vibrant and exciting city, full of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, delicious eats, and welcoming people. Whether you are taking a stroll through the park or trying a local brew, you will not be disappointed in this Central Illinois gem. We hope this comprehensive guide helps plan your trip to Bloomington-Normal and make the most of your stay.