Location: Bloomington
Top Things to do in Bloomington
5 Things to do Good for Couples in Bloomington That You Shouldn't Miss
Surrounded on all sides by rolling green farmland, Bloomington is a hub of activity offering attractions and events for all seasons. Take the kids to Grady's Family Fun Park for games, rides or a round of mini golf. Lace up your skates and glide across the rink at Pepsi Ice Center, or take to the Constitution Trail for jogging and cycling in the summer or cross-country skiing in the winter. You'll have no trouble teeing off in the Bloomington-Normal area, home to five golf courses.
Restaurants in Bloomington
1. Illinois Shakespeare Festival
2. David Davis Mansion State Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 181 reviews
Reviewed By JoeBlackOld - Wilmington, United States
During Abe Lincoln era, two other famous politicians from Illinois are Steve Douglas (a.k.a. Little Giant) and David Davis. I never knew who David Davis was until it popped up as tripadvisor #1 things-to-do. Stumbled into Bloomington as our Peoria sightseeing trip ended by mid day. I never knew who David Davis was until it popped up as tripadvisor #1 things-to-do . The top rated attraction is definitely worthwhile, similar to our recent visit to Dana Thomas House in Springfield. Tour guide Adam is a history buff & very knowledgeable of Illinois politics back in the 1840-1870 era. Things I heard & learned: - DD was an U.S. senator, U.S. supreme court judge and U.S. vice president - The mansion was once part of 1200-acre estate, now shrunk to <5 acres. - DD purchased a bunch of farmland (in excess of 10,000 acres) and often paid only 3-5 cents per acre. - although an wealthy figure in Bloomington, DD's worth is nothing compared to Pullman of Chicago - the Victorian structure is magnificent; highly square-ish and symmetrical, with walkout basement, 14.5' ceiling, big broiler in the basement to heat up the house, and advanced gas lighting & intercom system - beautiful painted wall & ceiling at the formal living room - nice Steinway piano from 1860's - famous Lincoln quote on quilt in the dining room reads "With malice toward none, with charity for all" - two maid servants were Irish immigrants; Mr. Davis is Welsh; Mr. Davis is probably German. - the flower garden is also a local attraction, with special events held in late June. Sometimes with tour given by the master gardener. Suggested admission donation is $4 per adult, or $10 per family. The guided tour lasts about an hour. Currently the mansion only opens Wed-Sat.
3. McLean County Museum of History
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 88 reviews
The McLean County Museum of History traces its roots back to 1892, the year the McLean County Historical Society was founded. It is a nationally accredited award winning museum with five permanent exhibit galleries and two rotating galleries. The Museum is located in the historic 1903 McLean County Courthouse that includes an architectural tour throughout the building. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for senior citizens, and FREE for children and students with I.D. This educational institution is dedicated to telling the rich story of McLean County through programs which serve people of all ages. The Museum preserves 19,000 objects, makes available more than 11,500 rare and hard to find reference books, manages 1,700 feet of historical papers and images in its archives. It also houses the new Cruisin' with Lincoln on 66 Visitors Center and the McLean County Genealogical Society. Tuesdays are FREE days.
Reviewed By rdrckr1 - Bloomington, United States
Beautiful old courthouse. Floors are marble, great detail inside with wide stairs and ceiling. Lots of exhibits on each floor. If you are local or know family local the library is a treasure trove of historical information. ( people there to help you ) If you visit on a Saturday during summer farmers market, its free. ( air-conditioned) My grandson, aged 7, enjoyed the visit as well. Route 66, changing exhibits.
4. Constitution Trail
5. Ovation Carmike Theater
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 25 reviews
Reviewed By 63brittanyj - Camp Grove, United States
Very affordable, comfortable seats and loved be able to get an appetizer during our movie. Will def come again
