IU is known for its beautiful campus with iconic landmarks like Sample Gates, the Indiana Memorial Union and the Rose Well House. However, if you step off campus, you will see that the city of Bloomington has even more to explore.
Here are things to do on your next Bloomington outing.
Try a local food truck at Switchyard Park
With a dog park, pickleball courts, fitness stations and more, a sunny afternoon spent at Switchyard Park is a must. The 65-acre park at 1601 S. Rogers St. regularly hosts community events like the Bloomington Winter Farmers’ Market and drop-in fitness classes.
From April to October every Friday, Switchyard hosts Food Truck Friday with local food trucks, live music and entertainment such as balloon artists and body painters. Food trucks include cheesesteaks from Slop Shop, ice cream from The Chocolate Moose, tacos from Una Mas and more.
Sip coffee and study at Bloomington Farmstop Collective
The Bloomington Farmstop Collective is a farmers’ market and café owned by more than 60 local farms that is perfect for anyone wanting to eat clean and support local farms. The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meat and dairy products as well as sauces, nut butters and desserts. They even sell organic dog treats for your furry friends.
There is also a café with freshly made pastries, soups and beverages. After ordering a refreshing iced matcha or soothing herbal tea, there is plenty of seating available to knock out some work or catch up with friends.
The Bloomington Farmstop Collective is located at 902 W. Kirkwood Ave. and is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Catch a movie at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater
Built in 1922, the Buskirk-Chumley Theater at 114 E. Kirkwood Ave. is one of Bloomington’s many iconic locations. Not only does the theater play movies, it also hosts concerts, ballets, comedy shows and more.
The theater offers concession stands with popcorn and candy as well as alcoholic beverages from Upland Brewing Company and Cardinal Spirits.
Hike at Griffy Lake Nature Preserve
Griffy Lake Nature Preserve offers a 109-acre lake and 1,200-acre nature preserve, just minutes from IU’s campus. The expansive lake is ideal for fishing and boating. kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and rowboats can be rented from the Griffy Lake Boathouse. Swimming is not permitted at Griffy Lake.
If you’re not one for water, the nature preserve also has 10 hiking trails ranging from easy to rugged for more experienced hikers.
Dine at Amrit India
Bloomington is home to a wide variety of international cuisine. Amrit India on 124 N. Walnut St. is just one of the over 75 international restaurants in the city. The family-owned restaurant boasts an extensive menu of authentic Indian dishes, including biryani, chicken tikka masala and much more.
This story was originally published in the Indiana Daily Student's Source print publication March 3, 2025.
