Bloomington, Indiana, nestled in the heart of southern Indiana, transforms into an easygoing summer destination while maintaining a fun college-town atmosphere. The community and surrounding forests burst with vivid scenery, beckoning visitors with outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

Embrace the Great Outdoors

Bloomington boasts a surprising amount of natural beauty, and summer is the perfect time to soak it all in. Spend a day at scenic Monroe Lake, Indiana’s largest reservoir. Rent a pontoon boat and cruise the crystal-clear waters, or cast a line and try your luck at reeling in a trophy bass. For the more adventurous, kayak or paddleboard along the lake’s serene shoreline.

Hike the scenic trails at Beanblossom Bottoms Nature Preserve or Leonard Springs Nature Park, both a short drive from Bloomington. Climb any of the four fire towers in the area, including the nearby popular McCormick’s Creek State Park to capture that perfect photograph. Check out Karst Farm Park’s free splash pad – a favorite among families with young children.

Summer Fun in the City

Bloomington’s downtown core, The Courthouse Square, and the Bloomington Entertainment & Arts District, offer all kinds of fun activities in the summer months. Stroll through the historic courthouse square, stopping to enjoy live music from local performers or browse the stalls of the Bloomington Farmers’ Market, overflowing with fresh, seasonal produce. Kirkwood Avenue, Bloomington’s most well-known street, also boasts a variety of restaurants with outdoor patios, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal and soaking up the summer atmosphere.

A Feast for the Senses

Bloomington’s culinary scene is a revelation year-round, but summer brings with it a bounty of fresh, local flavors. Dine at one of the 150 downtown restaurants offering cuisine from across the globe. Indulge in craft beers at one of Bloomington’s local breweries, or sip on a glass of award-winning Indiana wine at Oliver or Butler Winery.

Unforgettable Events

Bloomington’s summer calendar is packed with events and festivals that cater to all interests. Enjoy some laughs at the Limestone Comedy Festival. Experience the vibrant energy of Granfalloon, a celebration of art, music, and scholarship, or savor all the incredible flavors of the local culinary scene during Taste of Bloomington.

Explore Indiana University

No visit to Bloomington is complete without a visit to Indiana University. Explore the beautiful campus and visit the Eskenazi Museum of Art, home to a diverse collection of art from around the world. Bibliophiles will delight in the Lilly Library, a rare book and manuscript library with over 8.5 million manuscripts, 450,000 books, 60,000 comic books, and 150,000 sheets of music.

Beyond the Beaten Path

Bloomington offers unique experiences that set it apart from other destinations. Immerse yourself in peace and tranquility at the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center, an inspiring center for spiritual exploration. Explore the unique shops, cafes, and public art along the B-Line Trail, a former rail line turned multi-use pathway.

Bloomington in Summer: A Perfect Escape

Bloomington, Indiana, is the perfect summer getaway for those seeking a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and college-town charm. So come experience Hoosier hospitality at its finest, and create lasting memories under the Bloomington summer sun.

For more information, please visit the Visit Bloomington website at visitbloomington.com.