Parents' guide to Bloomington and IU

Your student is all settled into his or her dorm, and you’re driving home in an unloaded minivan. All you can think about is when you’ll get to see your new college student again.

Don’t worry. It’s not too early to start planning your next visit.

Here are some suggestions to get you started.

Where to Stay

Biddle Hotel and Conference Center
Want to be in the center of all the IU action? The Biddle Hotel and Conference Center is located on-campus inside the Indiana Memorial Union. The 189 guest accommodations are an easy walk to the IU Auditorium, Kirkwood Avenue and more.
900 E. Seventh St.
800-209-8145      

Holiday Inn Bloomington
Less than a five minute drive from Memorial Stadium and Assembly Hall (without game-day traffic), this is a great place to stay when you’re in Bloomington for the big game. It offers guests an outdoor pool, an exercise facility, a full service restaurant and more.
1710 N. Kinser Pike
812-334-3252
 
Grant Street Inn
A welcoming bed and breakfast in close proximity to all that Bloomington has to offer, Grant Street Inn is just a 10-minute walk to the Fourth Street restaurants or the IU campus. All rooms come with a private bath and wireless Internet, and breakfast is included.
310 N. Grant St.
812-334-2353      

Where to Eat

Mother Bear’s Pizza
If you have to choose one pizza place, make it Mother Bear’s. Named “One of America’s Top Nine Pizzerias” by People Magazine, diners can choose from 15 gourmet pizzas or create one of their own. Salads, wings, pasta and subs are also available.
1428 E. Third St.
812-332-4495      

Fourth Street
Feeling adventurous? If international cuisine is your thing, Fourth Street is your go-to location, with restaurants ranging from Ethiopian to Vietnamese to Turkish. We suggest Anyetsang’s Little Tibet, a colorful little eatery that specializes in Tibetan, Thai and Indian cuisines. Not sure what to try? Go for one of the mo-mo dishes.
415 E. Fourth St.
812-331-0122      

Nick’s English Hut
With its distinct cottage-like exterior, this pub and eatery has been a Bloomington tradition since 1927. Nick’s offers a wide selection of burgers, salads, pizza, stromboli and more, and it is sure to be packed after home games.
423 E. Kirkwood Ave.
812-332-4040         

Runcible Spoon Café and Restaurant
The warm and inviting Runcible Spoon is just a stone’s throw away from Kirkwood and has been a Bloomington favorite for more than 30 years. Vegan dishes are available, as is all-day breakfast and coffee roasted on-site.
412 E. Sixth St.
812-334-3997      

Hartzell’s
Those with a sweet tooth won’t be able to resist this locally-owned ice cream joint. With many different flavors of homemade soft-serve, there is plenty to choose from.
107 N. Dunn St.
812-332-3502

For more suggestions on dining in Bloomington, visit www.idsnews.com/dining.

What to Do

Oliver Winery
Even if your child is not of legal drinking age, this Bloomington attraction is fun for anyone interested in the history and process of wine-making. Opened by IU law professor William Oliver in 1972, the winery is Indiana’s oldest and largest winery. Go behind-the-scenes on a free tour of the establishment, and then, if the weather permits, buy some cheese and crackers to enjoy on the beautiful patio or lawn.
8024 Indiana 37
812-876-5800

IU Athletics
If your student is going to a Big Ten school, checking out the athletics is a must. If you can’t score tickets to a men’s basketball or football game, take advantage of the many other free sporting events year-round. Check out the IU Athletics website for schedules and more information.
www.iuhoosiers.com/

The Comedy Attic
The Comedy Attic sees a host of stand-up comedians throughout the year. Past performers include Doug Benson, Ben Bailey and the Sklar Brothers, as well as local performers. The venue also has a free open mic night every Wednesday.
123 S. Walnut St.
812-336-LAFF  

Griffy Lake Nature Preserve
Whether your family is full of outdoor enthusiasts or is new to hiking, Griffy Lake Nature Preserve is perfect for anyone who wants to take advantage of the beautiful southern Indiana landscape. With hiking trails, fishing, boating and even picnicking, Griffy Lake has stunning scenery to enjoy any outdoor activity, and is located just minutes from downtown.
3500 N. Hinkle Rd
812-349-3700

For more suggestions on what to do in town, visit www.idsnews.com/news/Directories/happenings/.