Bloomington News Daily
IU culture, local breweries, and college town favorites. Weekly updates on what's happening in Indiana's vibrant university city.
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Indy's Own Stays Home: 5-Star WR Monshun Sales Commits to Indiana Football
Five-star Lawrence North receiver Monshun Sales picked Indiana over Ohio State, Notre Dame and Alabama, a turning point that keeps elite Indianapolis talent home.
The Roster Revolution for IU, Purdue, and Butler Basketball
Inside how Indiana, Purdue and Butler reshaped their men's basketball rosters for the 2026–27 season through the transfer portal, retention and a new Butler era.
The Zoom Flume: Bloomington's Hidden Waterslide Relic
The Zoom Flume near Bloomington, Indiana is an abandoned 1970s waterslide turned graffiti-covered hidden gem, now drawing photographers and urban explorers.
O'Bannon Woods State Park: Face Your Fears in Southern Indiana
With 23,000 acres, Wyandotte Caves, and a 25-mile Adventure Trail, O'Bannon Woods is one of Indiana's most underrated state parks. Here's the full guide.
Things to Do Near Bloomington
More nearby ideasThese carry a day: the IU campus and art museum, the B-Line Trail, and Lake Monroe when you want to be on the water.
The Zoom Flume: Bloomington's Hidden Waterslide Relic
The Zoom Flume near Bloomington, Indiana is an abandoned 1970s waterslide turned graffiti-covered hidden gem, now drawing photographers and urban explorers.
O'Bannon Woods State Park: Face Your Fears in Southern Indiana
With 23,000 acres, Wyandotte Caves, and a 25-mile Adventure Trail, O'Bannon Woods is one of Indiana's most underrated state parks. Here's the full guide.
Patoka Lake: Come for the Water, Stay for the Trails
Patoka Lake: Come for the Water, Stay for the Trails Use this for the article image: Cover Art link Listen to “Patoka Lake: Come for the Water, Stay for…
Hardy Lake: Where the Raptor Center Soars
Hardy Lake near Scottsburg is home to nine birds of prey at its raptor center, plus water recreation and great trails. Allison has the full guide.
Where to Eat in Bloomington
More food nearbyKirkwood Avenue and the square pack a lot of range into a few blocks. Use the food picks when you want a meal within walking distance of everything.
The Farmhouse Café & Tea Room: A Hidden Gem in Nineveh, Indiana
The Farmhouse Café and Tea Room in Nineveh sits inside a restored 1800s brick farmhouse with homemade lunches and a garden center to explore after.
9 Wineries to Visit for Chocolate Lover's Weekend
Sip and savor your way through Southern Indiana during Chocolate Lover's Weekend. Six wineries, two weekends, endless wine and chocolate pairings.
The Best Wineries in Indiana: A Guide to Sipping and Scenic Views
Discover the best wineries in Indiana, from Oliver Winery in Bloomington to Two-EE’s in Huntington. Explore vineyard views, wine tastings, brunch experiences, and hidden gems across the Hoosier State.
A Hidden Gem in Bloomington: Smokin' Jack's Rib Shack
Bloomington’s BBQ go-to since 2001. Smokin’ Jack’s serves up ribs, brisket, mac & cheese, and Southern desserts with a side of hometown hospitality.
Hidden Gems Near Bloomington
More hidden gemsSmaller finds, like the limestone quarries around town, the Hilly Hundred backroads, and quiet trailheads in the surrounding state forest.
The Zoom Flume: Bloomington's Hidden Waterslide Relic
The Zoom Flume near Bloomington, Indiana is an abandoned 1970s waterslide turned graffiti-covered hidden gem, now drawing photographers and urban explorers.
The Farmhouse Café & Tea Room: A Hidden Gem in Nineveh, Indiana
The Farmhouse Café and Tea Room in Nineveh sits inside a restored 1800s brick farmhouse with homemade lunches and a garden center to explore after.
Discover WonderLab: Bloomington’s Hands-On Science Adventure
WonderLab Museum in downtown Bloomington is one of southern Indiana's best family destinations with interactive science exhibits, live animals, and BubbleFest.
Indiana Maple Syrup Season: Where to See Sugaring
Maple syrup season runs late February through March in Indiana. Here's where to see sugaring demos, taste fresh syrup, and find local maple farms.
Events Near Bloomington
More events nearbyLive music, IU sports, gallery walks, and the Lotus World Music festival fill the calendar. Football and graduation weekends book up early.
New Season Underway at Salem Speedway
Salem Speedway has hosted legends like A.J. Foyt, Jeff Gordon, and Tony Stewart since 1947. The new season is underway at this iconic Indiana track.
Big Ten Women's Basketball Tournament Hits Indy This Week
The Big Ten Women's Basketball Tournament tips off March 4 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Here's your guide to the bracket, schedule, and Hoosier matchups.
9 Wineries to Visit for Chocolate Lover's Weekend
Sip and savor your way through Southern Indiana during Chocolate Lover's Weekend. Six wineries, two weekends, endless wine and chocolate pairings.
Local Guide
Start downtown, then let the hills pull you out of town.
Bloomington runs on its downtown square and the energy of Indiana University. Eat your way around Kirkwood Avenue, catch live music, then point the car toward Lake Monroe or Brown County when you want trees and trails. It is a college town that rewards staying past dinner.
Choose the kind of trip first
Day trips need a simple anchor and one or two easy add-ons. Weekend trips can handle a hotel, dinner, a town square, a trail, and a slower morning.
Pair the stop with food
A park trip is better with a diner nearby. A town visit is better with coffee, lunch, or a bakery case. A museum day needs somewhere to sit after.
Check the season
Indiana changes fast by season. Spring is gardens, trails, markets, and muddy shoes. Summer is lakes, patios, concerts, and long evenings. Fall is drives, orchards, festivals, and football. Winter needs lights, museums, food, and indoor backup plans.
Build in a few stops
If the drive is longer than the stop, add something else nearby. A second town. A scenic road. A trail. A food stop. A shop that gives you an excuse to wander.
