Things to do
For more and exciting information about Bloomington, visit www.visitbloomington.com.
Oliver Winery
Founded in 1959, Oliver Winery is a must visit while in Bloomington. Free wine tasting is offered 7 days a week and it is a delightful experience. Tours of the cellar are offered over weekends for you to learn the process of making wine. Various assortments of picnic foods are also available. Buy a bottle of wine, take a picnic lunch and relax by the small pond amidst luxurious greenery!
Hours: Monday – Saturday 10am to 6pm; Sunday – 12 to 6pm
Location: 8024 N. State Road 37, Bloomington, IN 47404
For more information: visit their Web site or call (812) 876-5800 or (800) 25-TASTE
Caving
Indiana has many caves and it can be a safe adventure activity for those who have not had many opportunities to explore caves. Below are listed a few caves that one can visit –
Marengo Cave Park
400 E. State Rd. 64 – Marengo, IN 47140
(812) 365-2705
www.marengocave.com
Bluespring Caverns (Cave with an underground river)
1459 Bluespring Caverns Road, Bedford, IN 47421
(812) 279-9471
www.bluespringcaverns.com
Lotus World Music & Arts Festival
Watch live performances by artistes from around the world, free music and arts events, processions, and more. Experience unique arts from around the world!
When: October 2-5, 2008
Where: Bloomington, Indiana
For more details: www.lotusfest.org
Events at the IU Auditorium
Attend operas, dramas, dances, and other events by world famous performers at the IU Auditorium at affordable student prices. Check the various events listed at www.iuauditorium.com.
Location: 1211 East Seventh Street, Bloomington, IN 47404
For more information call (812) 855-1103
Attend an IU game
Indiana University hosts football and basketball games which need to be seen at least once. With strong teams for both the games, the energy and enthusiasm of the crowds provide a great experience.
Search for schedules on iuhoosiers.cstv.com
Kinsey Institute
The Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction is a nonprofit corporation affiliated with Indiana University. With a mission of promoting research and scholarship, the Institute hosts art shows and provides educational information to scholars and the general public. This world famous Institute was founded by Dr. Alfred C. Kinsey, and you can rent the movie Kinsey (2004) from the library to learn more about the life of Dr.Kinsey.
Gallery hours: Monday – Friday 2 – 4pm
Location: Morrison Hall 302, 1165 E. Third St., Bloomington, IN 47405
Phone: (812) 855-7686
Website: www.kinseyinstitute.org
Visit state parks
Feel refreshed amidst lush greenery and nature by visiting the state parks located close to Bloomington.
Brown County State Park
It is the largest state park in Indiana, and well known for its hiking trails and fall leaf-viewing! Contact: 812-988-6406.
(While visiting the state park, also plan on visiting Nashville located just a few minutes away, and explore the art in the scenic downtown!)
McCormick’s Creek State Park
Visit for scenic waterfalls, hiking trails, two nature preserves, and unique limestone formations. Contact: 812-829-2235.
Taste of Bloomington
This event brings together the best of Bloomington’s restaurants and wineries. At just $6, enjoy various foods and tease your palette while listening to live music!
Where: Showers Common, near Bloomington City Hall
When: June 2009- details to be listed in Spring of 2009
Note: Bloomington has many ethnic restaurants. Make it a point to visit all the restaurants and taste foods from different parts of the world.
Chocolate Festival
Two divisions compete for the title of the best chocolate dessert and the public is invited to judge. Attend and relish on chocolate mousse, ice creams, truffles, and many more chocolate treats!
When: February of every year
Where: Bloomington Convention Center, 302 S. College Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47401
For more information, call: 812-332-9615
Little 500 Race
Attend the Little 500 Bicycle Race which features some of IU’s best cyclists! This race has also been the theme for the 1970s movie Breaking Away.
When: Mid-April of every year
Where: Armstrong Stadium, Bloomington, IN