Top reasons to visit Bloomington
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Bloomington offers a range of activities suitable for families, including children's museums and outdoor recreation.
- Cultural Experiences: The city features historic colleges, local entertainment, and various exhibits that enrich visitors' experiences.
- Charming Downtown: Explore the lovely downtown area, perfect for shopping, dining, and enjoying local events.
- Outdoor Adventures: Venture into nearby neighborhoods for scenic vistas and outdoor activities.
- Diverse Accommodations: Bloomington provides a variety of lodging options, including pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-friendly hotels.
Find great hotels in Bloomington
Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Bloomington, Illinois, catering to both business and leisure travelers. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly options or welcoming environments for LGBTQIA visitors, Bloomington has something for everyone. From well-known chains like Hyatt Place to cozy motels, you'll find the perfect place to relax during your stay. Discover the best hotels that suit your needs and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.
- The Chateau Hotel and Conference Center: Embracing a charming and elegant theme, The Chateau Hotel and Conference Center is perfect for travelers seeking a pet-friendly environment. This 3-star hotel features a welcoming atmosphere with a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Enjoy spacious rooms designed for relaxation, and take advantage of the property's pet-friendly policies, making it an ideal choice for those traveling with furry companions. Guests have appreciated the hotel's picturesque surroundings and attentive service, making it a delightful retreat in Bloomington.
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Bloomington-Normal Airport, IL: With a focus on family and business travelers, Country Inn & Suites offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that caters to diverse needs. This hotel is LGBTQIA welcoming and provides thoughtful amenities for families, including child safety features and complimentary cribs. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and easy access to local attractions. The hotel's affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides emphasizes its commitment to inclusivity, making it a welcoming choice for all travelers.
- Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham Bloomington: Offering a home-like experience, Hawthorn Extended Stay by Wyndham Bloomington is tailored for business travelers seeking convenience and comfort. This 3-star hotel features spacious rooms equipped with kitchenettes, allowing guests to prepare their meals during their stay. The property provides essential amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi and laundry facilities, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With its focus on extended stays, this hotel is an excellent choice for professionals looking to balance work and leisure while in Bloomington.
Where to stay near Bloomington
Bloomington, Illinois, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly attractions and rich cultural experiences. Explore the charming downtown area, perfect for a weekend getaway, or venture into nearby neighborhoods for outdoor adventures and scenic vistas. Whether you seek historical sites or vibrant city life, Bloomington's ideal location in Illinois metro areas makes it a fantastic destination for travelers looking to create unforgettable memories with loved ones.
- Normal: Located a mere 3.2km from Bloomington, Normal is a vibrant city that attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel occurring in April, July, and September. Known for its cultural and family-themed experiences, Normal offers an array of attractions including an education-focused atmosphere, an entertainment arena, and a bustling shopping mall. Visitors can explore the local landmarks such as the historic college university and modern stadium, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of educational and recreational activities.
- Merna: Situated 14.5km away from Bloomington, Merna is a charming city ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for eco-friendly experiences. The best time to visit is during the summer months from June to August. Merna boasts a variety of attractions, including educational venues, a delightful dog park, and a local theater. Nature lovers will appreciate the urban park and serene lake nearby, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
- Carlock: Just 16.1km from Bloomington, Carlock is a city that caters to adventure seekers and families alike. With peak visitor numbers in the summer months, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and a vibrant shopping scene. Carlock features an array of accessible venues including shopping centers and educational facilities. Local attractions such as a historic college university, a national state park, and a beautiful lake offer unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Things to do in and around Bloomington
Bloomington, Illinois, is perfect for families and culture enthusiasts seeking outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping at local boutiques, exploring area attractions, and experiencing arena entertainment. A day itinerary might include educational visits, outdoor recreation, and dining options, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.
Shopping
For shopping in Bloomington, you can visit The Shoppes at College Hills, just 4.8km away, offering a variety of stores. If you're up for a drive, check out Eastland Mall and Bloomington-Normal Factory Stores for more options, both featuring a mix of entertainment and shopping experiences.
Recreation
Experience the scenic Ironwood Golf Course, perfect for outdoor sports enthusiasts, just 6.4km from Bloomington. Enjoy luxury amenities at Woodlawn Country Club, located 40.2km away, offering a serene escape. The Den at Fox Creek Golf Course, only 4.8km away, provides another great option for golf lovers.
Adventure
Explore the North Fork Trailhead, a scenic hiking trail located 35.4km from Bloomington, perfect for outdoor adventurers seeking natural beauty. For thrill-seekers, Lincoln Speedway, 49.9km away, offers exhilarating motor racing experiences. In town, the Bloomington Tennis Center provides a vibrant atmosphere for tennis enthusiasts.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts, where you can enjoy captivating performances in a romantic atmosphere filled with culture and entertainment. After the show, explore local bars for craft cocktails and live music, adding to your unforgettable evening in Bloomington.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bloomington
Bloomington offers several ways to save on your visit, including free attractions like Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University. For transportation, consider using the bus system, which is often more economical than car rentals. The best times to visit for lower prices are from November to January, with Mondays being the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and consider package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for added savings. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals to maximize your budget.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Bloomington are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and 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 Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Bloomington is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Bloomington with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions near Bloomington
Bloomington, Illinois, is an ideal destination for family-friendly, culture-themed, and outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore historic colleges and universities, enjoy entertainment at local arenas, and engage with exhibits at children's museums. The city's attractions cater to travelers seeking enriching experiences. Don't miss a visit to the Bloomington Center for additional activities and events. Whether you're looking for culture or outdoor fun, Bloomington has something for everyone.
- Illinois State University: A historic institution, Illinois State University offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural richness. Stroll through its beautiful campus, take in the vibrant atmosphere, and enjoy various art exhibits and performances that reflect the local culture.
- Redbird Arena: This lively arena is the heart of entertainment in Bloomington. Whether you're catching a thrilling basketball game or a family-friendly event, Redbird Arena provides a fun and energetic environment perfect for all ages.
- Children's Discovery Museum: A delightful place for families, this museum features interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and creativity in children. With a focus on learning through play, it’s a fantastic destination for families looking to explore and have fun together.
Best time to go to Bloomington
The best time to visit Bloomington can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Bloomington falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Bloomington falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Bloomington
Traveling to Bloomington, Illinois, offers convenient access through three major airports. Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) is located 6.4km from Bloomington, with nearby hotels like the 4-star DoubleTree by Hilton and 3.5-star Hyatt Place Bloomington/Normal, both offering free shuttle services. Greater Peoria Regional Airport (PIA) is 62.8km away, with good options such as Embassy Suites and Courtyard Peoria Downtown, which provide shuttle services for a fee. Lastly, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Willard Airport (CMI) is 78.9km from Bloomington, with hotels like the I Hotel And Illinois Conference Center providing accessibility to the airport. Each airport ensures easy transportation to the city’s accommodations.