Bloomington, Illinois is a mid-sized city located in the heart of Illinois. It is home to a thriving business community and two major universities – Illinois State University (ISU) and Illinois Wesleyan University. The campus of ISU is a beautiful place to explore, with many places to eat, study, and relax, and the surrounding community offers plenty of options for entertainment and exploration. So, let’s plan a day in Bloomington and see what it has to offer.
Morning: Exploring the Illinois State University Campus
The Illinois State University campus is a beautiful and expansive place to explore, with many buildings and landmarks to see. Start your day with a cup of coffee from Java Joint, located in the Watterson Towers Residential Complex. From there, you could take a walk around the quad, which is home to many of the University’s academic buildings.
The Stevenson Hall
One of the most beautiful buildings on the Illinois State campus is Stevenson Hall, which was built in 1899. It is home to the College of Fine Arts and is located on Fell Street, southeast of the quad.
Redbird Arena
If you are a sports enthusiast, don’t miss the chance to visit Redbird Arena, which is home to ISU’s basketball and volleyball teams. You can check the schedule, and if there is a game that day, catch a game and experience the excitement.
Milner Library
The Milner Library is the largest academic library on the campus of ISU and has an extensive collection of books, journals, and other resources. You could spend hours exploring its stacks and exhibits.
Afternoon: Exploring the Community
After a morning of exploring the campus, it is time to venture out into the surrounding community and see what Bloomington has to offer.
David Davis Mansion
Head over to the David Davis Mansion, which was once home to the Illinois Supreme Court Justice David Davis. The mansion is a great example of 19th-century architecture and is now open to the public as a museum.
The Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts
The Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts is a great place to catch a show. It is home to many local and regional performances, ranging from theater to music, and is located in the heart of downtown Bloomington.
Miller Park Zoo
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, check out the Miller Park Zoo. It is home to over 200 animals, including giraffes, zebras, and red pandas. Visitors can also take part in behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters.
Downtown Bloomington
Finally, make sure to check out the downtown Bloomington area, with its many shops, restaurants, and galleries. You can grab a bite to eat at one of the many locally-owned restaurants or browse the galleries and boutiques of local artists and designers.
Evening: Nightlife
After a day full of exploring, it’s time to kick back and enjoy some of Bloomington’s nightlife options.
Fat Jack’s Bar & Grill
For a casual night out, head to Fat Jack’s Bar & Grill, which is a popular spot for students and locals alike. They have a great selection of beers, burgers, and other pub fare.
Rosie’s Pub
If you’re looking for a more upscale option, check out Rosie’s Pub, which is located in the heart of downtown Bloomington. They have a great selection of cocktails and appetizers, and the atmosphere is cozy and intimate.
The Castle Theatre
Finally, end your night at the Castle Theatre, which is one of the premier music venues in the area. They have a great lineup of local and national acts and provide an excellent way to experience Bloomington’s music scene.
Final Thoughts
Overall, a day in Bloomington is a great way to experience the beauty and charm of central Illinois. With its beautiful campus, thriving community, and exciting nightlife options, it has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your walking shoes, and head over to Bloomington to explore this exciting city.