Hidden Gems

Some hidden gems aren’t so hidden. They’re right in front of us, but we miss them behind the bulk and familiarity of national chains. In the end, we’re the ones missing out. And in this case, we’re missing out on The Book Corner.

Located on the downtown square, The Book Corner is a must-visit for book-loving Bloomingtonians. Whether you’re looking for a textbook or a light read, try out The Book Corner. This charming, independent book shop offers a wide variety of books and comics and a particularly great selection of magazines. It won’t disappoint.

Operating for more than 60 years, The Book Corner is a veritable Bloomington establishment. Chances are you’ve already walked by — you’ve just never stepped inside. Go local and visit The Book Corner.

By Bridget Ameche

Vintage Phoenix Comic Books has been the friendly neighborhood comic book store for more than 20 years. It might also be Indiana’s best comic book store.

Located just off the corner of Sixth and Walnut streets downtown, Vintage Phoenix is a promised land for fans of every sort, offering collector’s issues and bargain back copies. Vintage mint-condition issues are available at a premium, but casual fans can find used comic books for as little as 25 cents.

Vintage Phoenix cherishes the art-deco comic culture. Between their signature red sign and extremely organized racks, it’s difficult to leave without finding a new treasure.

The store dedicates entire sections to DC and Marvel staples as well as new-age graphic novels and art books. Toy enthusiasts will find a plethora of figurines, too.

Even those who are new to comic books should drop by the store, because every passionate nerd used to be “normal” at some point.

By Jeff LaFave

If you love movies, you love Plan Nine Video.

Next door to the Vintage Phoenix on Sixth Street, Plan Nine has the best collection of new releases, classics, cult and genre flicks in Bloomington. You’ll find Blu-Ray, DVD and VHS releases in a selection that is always expanding.

The store is well-organized, with different sections arranged by director, genre and studio. The horror section in particular is deliciously specific, with subgenres as niche as “Non-satanic Malevolent Children.” If you’re in the mood for some post-Halloween terror, Plan Nine has one of the most complete horror collections around, including a wide array of exploitation and gross-out flicks.

It’s easy to get lost in the rows and rows of great selections, but the friendly and seriously geeky staff is ready to offer suggestions. Plan Nine has movie screenings and IU Cinema ticket giveaways.

If you’re bored with Netflix’s limited selection and want picks from actual film buffs, Plan Nine is the place to go.

By Patrick Beane

Bloomington’s “other” mall feels more like Narnia than it does a shopping center. Where else are you going to find a glass elevator and indoor waterfall?

Located across Kirkwood Avenue from the courthouse, the Fountain Square Mall is a cozy, charming retreat in the middle of downtown.

About 20 businesses and shops call Fountain Square Mall home, all hidden gems in their own right. Several cats are usually lounging in Howard’s Bookstore. Stefano’s Ice Cafe is tucked away in the basement and offers great sandwiches and coffee at low prices. You can find a hole-in-the-wall bar, smoke shop, tabletop gaming store and more.

The mall is hardly bustling, but that’s the point. Stop by Fountain Square Mall on a crisp autumn day for a feeling you won’t find anywhere else downtown.

By Patrick Beane

Buried deep in the south central corner of Bloomington at the corner of Woodlawn Avenue and East Maxwell Lane is Bryan Park, a 33-acre land plot with a draw for everyone.

The park, which derives its name from a former IU president, was bought for $1 in 1951 and opened to the public six years later. Then, it featured a bridge and a picnic area. Today, it boasts everything from a pool to basketball and tennis courts.

When the weather is nice, you can take a dip in the pool, which features two water slides and a diving board, take a stroll down one of the two trails or get in touch with your active side on the courts. When you want to entertain inner kid, you’ve got two playgrounds.

While the walk might be a bit of hike, especially for those living on the northern side of campus, the park not only offers entertainment but also a charming environment this time of year with the crisp autumn temperatures and falling leaves.

By Amanda Arnold

The Alley Bar is for those who know what they want.

Located just west of Kirkwood and College avenues, Alley Bar is easy to miss for those who are prone to blinking or sneezing. The self-described “cozy” Alley Bar is sandwiched between the Irish Lion and The Tap, an upcoming craft beer bar.

Its Facebook page claims Alley Bar opened on Aug. 1, 1977, but pictures of the bar date the establishment back to the 1930s. A notice informing the bar of its prohibition violation still hangs on the wall.

It’s a humble watering hole known for domestic beer and peanuts galore. Patrons relax after a long day or night at work, cracking shells and sipping a pint. The solo bartender welcomes you to the aged bar, and the hum of one large television provides much of the conversation.

Every Friday, the bar introduces a new craft beer to the lineup. There’s no dance floor or T-shirt giveaways to attract passersby, but Alley Bar is the sort of place where everybody knows your name. Or will soon, anyway.

By Jeff LaFave