Visiting Bloomington

Fall in love with Bloomington

There’s a reason Bloomington—B-town—is constantly ranked one of the nation’s best college towns. The beauty of all seasons. Countless things to do and see. Welcoming to all (Hoosier hospitality is legit!). Once you’re here, you won’t want to leave. See for yourself.

Fall

When the leaves turn brilliant shades of amber and auburn, embrace the crisp air around the fire pit at Indiana Memorial Union. Celebrate IU’s Homecoming, a weekend filled with spirit so loud you’ll be singing the Hoosier Fight Song for weeks. Get your groove on and witness world-class performances during the Lotus World Music & Arts Festival downtown Bloomington, minutes from campus.

Student walking on sidewalk passed limestone school building and trees with red leaves.
Enjoy these five fall highlights

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Cheer on IU Men's Soccer

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Line of people walking through woods.
Hike Bloomington's best trails

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Winter

Bundle up, head outside, and take in Bloomington's dreamy snow-filled days. Check out Freezefest, which brings competitive ice sculptors from all over to battle it out and create interactive works of art. Test your ice skating skills with friends in Bloomington’s indoor Frank Southern Ice Arena. And if you’re not keen on the cold, Bloomington has you covered with dozens of quaint independent coffee shops perfect for cozying up. 

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See an off-broadway musical

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Two female basketball players during game in packed arena.
Watch IU Women's basketball

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Visit IU's art museum

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Spring

You won’t want to miss the biggest spectacle in collegiate bicycle racing during Little 500, which inspired the film Breaking Away and attracts alumni from all over the country. Soak in the sun and calm waters of Griffy Lake, where you can rent a paddle board, kayak, or canoe. Stroll campus when hundreds of cream and crimson tulips are in bloom.

IU baseball player running to a based during a game.
Catch an IU baseball game

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Group of cyclists racing on track.
Attend the Little 500

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Close up image of pink spring flowers.
See B-town in bloom

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Summer

Summers here are made for taking it easy. Grab a group of friends and rent a party boat on Lake Monroe, Indiana’s largest manmade body of water. Savor your way through Bloomington’s delectable dining scene at the Taste of Bloomington. Walk, run, ride your bike, or rollerblade the B-Line Trail, situated in the heart of downtown.

Celebratory woman dancing in a crowd of people.
Celebrate Pridefest

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Group of girls sitting outside having a picnic.
Plan a picnic

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Ski boats on the lake on a clear summer day with trees in the background.
Hit the water

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Take in all B-town has to offer

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Grab a bite

Go on a culinary adventure sure to satisfy every craving.

Find restaurants

Aerial view of downtown Bloomington, Indiana at sunset.
Stay a while

From boutique hotels to rustic cabins, we've got you.

Find lodging

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Play a little

There's always something fun happening.

Find things to do

IU student and parents pose for photo in IU shirts.

Don't miss Family Weekend

For one special weekend in September, we give your parents and families the cream and crimson treatment. You'll get the chance to show off your campus, cheer on the Hoosiers during an IU football game tailgate party, tour new spaces, and more. 

Learn about Family Weekend