Welcome to Bloomington, Illinois! Located in the heart of Central Illinois, Bloomington is an incredibly vibrant and diverse city with an array of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Home to the famous State Farm Insurance headquarters, Bloomington is a major economic hub and a great place to visit.
When it comes to attractions, Bloomington has something for everyone. There are several historic sites and museums to explore, such as the McLean County Museum of History, the David Davis Mansion, and the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts. The city also boasts a thriving arts scene with several galleries and art centers, including the Bloomington Art Center and the Illinois Wesleyan University Galleries.
Outdoors, there are plenty of activities to do. The city is home to the Miller Park Zoo, which is home to a variety of animals, and the Miller Park Nature Center, which provides a great place for bird watching. Additionally, the Miller Park Aquatic Center offers swimming and diving activities. For sports fans, the city is home to the Illinois State Redbirds, a Division I NCAA program, and the Bloomington Edge, an indoor football team.
Finally, Bloomington has several unique shopping and dining opportunities. From the iconic Downtown Bloomington Storefronts to the upscale Shoppes at College Hills, there is something for everyone. The city also has a great variety of restaurants, offering everything from classic Americana to exotic international cuisines.
No matter what you’re looking for, Bloomington has something for you. Come visit and explore all the city has to offer!
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown Bloomington: Downtown Bloomington offers a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment options in a vibrant and walkable setting. It is located close to attractions such as the Miller Park Zoo and the McLean County Museum of History.
2. Uptown Normal: Uptown Normal features a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options as well as the Illinois State University campus. It is home to a variety of attractions including the Children's Discovery Museum and the Beer Nuts Factory.
3. Bloomington-Normal: This area is home to a variety of cultural attractions, parks, and historical sites. It is also close to the Illinois State University campus and offers easy access to a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
4. East Bloomington: East Bloomington is a residential area located close to the downtown area and Illinois State University. It is home to a variety of attractions including the Illinois State Museum and the Miller Park Zoo.
5. Country Club Estates: Country Club Estates is an affluent residential area located close to downtown Bloomington. It offers easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as a variety of parks and outdoor activities.
1. Miller Park Zoo: Miller Park Zoo is a 12-acre zoo located in Bloomington, IL. It houses over 300 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and monkeys.
2. McLean County Museum of History: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of McLean County. It contains artifacts, documents, photographs, and more.
3. Illinois State University: Illinois State University is a public research university located in Bloomington. It is the second oldest university in the state and is known for its academic excellence.
4. The Bloomington Center for Performing Arts: The Bloomington Center for Performing Arts is a 1,400-seat venue that hosts a variety of performances from music, dance, theater, and more.
5. Constitution Trail: Constitution Trail is a 30-mile long walking and biking trail that connects several parks and trails in Bloomington. It is a great way to explore the city and its surrounding nature.
1. Bloomington Burger: This classic burger joint serves up juicy, flavorful burgers made from freshly ground beef and cooked to perfection. Topped with all the fixings, these burgers are sure to satisfy any appetite.
2. Fish Fry: This local staple is a must-try when in Bloomington. Enjoy lightly breaded, fried fish served with a variety of sides like coleslaw, hushpuppies, and fries.
3. Fried Chicken: Another popular dish in Bloomington, fried chicken is a local favorite. Enjoy a plate of crunchy, golden fried chicken with sides like macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, and more.
4. Deep Dish Pizza: Bloomington is home to some of the best deep dish pizza in the Midwest. Enjoy a large slice of this cheesy, savory pizza that's sure to fill you up.
5. Barbecue: Finish off your meal with some of Bloomington's famous barbecue. Enjoy pulled pork, ribs, and other slow cooked meats smothered in flavorful sauces.