Welcome to the Bloomington campus of Indiana University

In praising the campus as one of the five most beautiful college campuses in the United States, Thomas Gaines wrote in his book, “The Campus as a Work of Art,” “Indiana University is exciting. You never know what is coming up next.”

Those of us who live and work here agree. We are delighted that you have come to experience the excitement generated by our campus and community.

In this publication you’ll learn a bit about the history of our campus, the vibrant
arts scene at IU and in the Bloomington community, opportunities for recreation and entertainment and some of the culture and traditions of this flagship campus.

Walk through Dunn’s Woods, the historic eight-acre woodlot, which is at the center of our old campus crescent. Shake hands or pose for a photo with the bronze likeness of Herman B Wells, our legendary former president and chancellor, near the Rose Well House. On the northeast side of the IU Auditorium, along Jordan Avenue, you’ll ?? nd a bronze likeness of IU alumnus Hoagy Carmichael.

Stroll along the banks of the Jordan River. Enjoy our beautiful arboretum near the Wells Library. The arboretum is the former site of the 10th Street Stadium, where Little 500 was run and the race was reenacted for the ?? lm “Breaking Away.”

Sample the abundance of musical and theatrical performances at places like the IU Auditorium, the Musical Arts Center, the Lee Norvelle Theatre and Drama Center and
the Buskirk-Chumley Theater. You’ll certainly want to make a point of visiting the
newly opened Indiana University Cinema, which exhibits contemporary films from
around the world as well as newly restored classics.

Attend one of the many lectures by members of our outstanding faculty or the distinguished visitors from around the world who come to Bloomington to share their expertise.

You’ll find many surprises among the architectural details of the campus’ famed limestone buildings. Our IU Art Museum, housed in a building designed by celebrated architect I. M. Pei, is home to art treasures from around the globe. Our Lilly
Library is widely regarded as one of the finest repositories of rare books and
manuscripts in the world.

Just off the campus on Kirkwood Avenue, on Fourth Street and on the courthouse square, you’ll find unique shops, as well as restaurants that feature a wide variety of world cuisines.

Our Visitor Information Center, located in the Carmichael Center on the corner of Kirkwood and Indiana avenues, can offer additional information about IU-Bloomington and answer any questions.

Enjoy your visit to Bloomington and Indiana University. We hope to see you here often.

Sincerely,

Karen Hanson, provost and executive vice president