IU's campus is vast and beautiful, especially at dusk. Walk the well-lit forrest paths and meet some squirrels (Warning: they will climb on your hands for food. It's crucial you wash your hands if you touch them!!!!!). If you are willing to venture a bit farther than the Biddle Hotel/IMU, you'll run into Kirkwood, a strip of popular restaurants, bars, and shops. The roads are usually closed during the summer, so everyone can enjoy being outdoors! Note: During the summer, students are away, and the bars are less busy. Some of our townie friends will be around, so you should join them for a good time!
The Biddle Hotel is part of the IMU (Indiana Memorial Union). Within the IMU, you'll find many restaurants, shops, and little things to do. Our parents (IU Alum) would always take us to play pool and to bowl. In fact, we got engaged within the IMU!
Soma Coffeehouse is a Bloomington Institution. If you are staying at the Biddle Hotel (IMU), then don't drive! Take a nice ~10 minute morning walk through the heart of IU's campus toward downtown Bloomington. Pause at Sample Gates, or shake Herman Wells hand on your way there!
Lindsey and I have some recommendations:
* Hot Mocha (Definitely with Whip! Preferably not to-go).
* Strawberry Fields (A strawberry-banna-apple juice smoothie)
* White-Chocolate Mocha
Bloomington is a college town, so it is (in)famous for its night life. Many of the local watering holes often feature an odd, hippy-vibe; this is classic Bloomington.
* The Vid : Features tons of pool tables and dart boards. If you like sweet drinks, try a "Sweet-Tart".
* The Tap : Has a great Wednesday night Trivia (if you make it in early). Only serves beer and wine.
* Upstairs Pub : This is one of the most famous bars in town. It is the first bar you'll see if you walk toward Kirkwood from IU campus.
* The Orbit Room : Often showcases musicians and artists. Check their website for information on dates/times. If you are lucky, you'll see a jazz performance from some top tier professional musicians, trying to enjoy their evening.
* The Bluebird : This is a *very* popular bar among locals and college-folk. It regularly features rock bands and hosts karaoke nights.
This is Tyler's favorite park, located near his neighborhood. The park's natural Indiana beauty can be lost on visitors, but they don't stick around for the real show. Arrive before dusk and stay til dark. If you walk around the field displayed in the picture, you'll notice thousands of fireflies lighting up the entire park.
LaserLite is the place for Laser Tag in Bloomington. It is a bit of a drive, but super fun for all ages. Always a time!