Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Bloomington
Bloomington strikes a perfect balance between natural beauty and urban life, with limestone buildings, tree-lined streets, and an open-minded spirit. Guests can attend a concert at the IU Auditorium, kayak on Lake Monroe, or sip local wine at a downtown bistro. The city buzzes with energy during the school year and slows down in summer for tranquil visits. It’s a welcoming place with character, culture, and charm.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Bloomington
Downtown Bloomington
Downtown Bloomington is the city's hub for dining, music, and nightlife, centered around Kirkwood Avenue and the courthouse square. Rentals in Bloomington include walkable lofts, modern apartments, and stylish Airbnbs steps from shops and bars. Visitors can attend live shows, shop local goods, and enjoy farmers markets year-round.
Indiana University Campus Area
The IU Campus Area includes quiet neighborhoods with large trees, historic homes, and easy access to university events and green spaces. Airbnbs range from student flats and charming studios to multi-room homes for visiting families. Guests enjoy proximity to museums, lectures, and Big Ten sports. The campus area is ideal for those wanting to experience university life up close.
Prospect Hill Neighborhood
One of Bloomington’s oldest districts, Prospect Hill features brick streets, cozy cottages, and a laid-back, residential vibe. Rentals in Prospect Hill include artsy apartments, garden guesthouses, and updated vintage homes. The area is peaceful yet walkable to downtown, making it a quiet retreat in the city.
Near West Side / B-Line Trail Area
The Near West Side is a walkable neighborhood that connects to the B-Line Trail, a greenway perfect for biking and jogging. Vacation rentals in the Near West Side include industrial-chic lofts, sustainable tiny homes, and townhomes with patio space. The trail links guests to downtown and parks within minutes.
Elm Heights and Bryan Park Area
Located south of campus, Elm Heights and Bryan Park are family-friendly neighborhoods with leafy streets, local cafés, and large green spaces. Guests can stay in mid-century homes, craftsman-style rentals, or pet-friendly Airbnbs with fenced yards. The area is great for morning walks, playground visits, and relaxed evenings.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Bloomington
Indiana University Bloomington
The IU Bloomington Campus is known for its limestone buildings, wooded pathways, and cultural institutions like the Lilly Library and IU Art Museum. Visitors can attend concerts, athletic events, or take scenic strolls through Dunn Woods. The campus is the soul of the city and full of year-round activity.
WonderLab Science Museum
Perfect for families, the WonderLab Museum offers hands-on science exhibits, outdoor learning spaces, and a focus on STEM education. Kids can explore physics, biology, and technology through interactive displays. The museum is centrally located and great for rainy days.
B-Line Trail
The B-Line Trail is a scenic 3.1-mile path that runs through the city, connecting neighborhoods, parks, and public art. Guests can jog, bike, or walk the trail to explore the city from a unique perspective. The trail adds a recreational and artistic element to your stay.
Monroe Lake
Just south of town, Monroe Lake is the largest lake in Indiana and a haven for boating, fishing, and camping. Visitors can rent kayaks, enjoy beach areas, or hike the nearby trails. The lake is a natural playground just a short drive from downtown.
Buskirk-Chumley Theater
This restored 1920s theater in downtown Bloomington, the Buskirk-Chumley, hosts concerts, indie films, and community performances. Guests can catch touring musicians, film festivals, or local storytelling events. The venue has vintage charm and strong local support.
Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center
Founded by the Dalai Lama’s brother, the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center offers meditation classes, cultural events, and beautiful grounds for reflection. Visitors can explore temples, walk the stupa paths, or attend mindfulness retreats.
Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market
Held downtown on Saturdays, the Bloomington Farmers’ Market features local produce, artisan goods, and live music in a festive outdoor setting. Guests can enjoy fresh baked goods, organic groceries, and food trucks. It’s a social and sensory highlight of the week. The market supports the town’s local and sustainable values.
Eskenazi Museum of Art
Located on the IU campus, the Eskenazi Museum of Art showcases global collections ranging from African masks to modern American paintings. The building itself is a striking architectural landmark designed by I.M. Pei. Admission is free, and the museum offers tours and student-curated exhibits.
Where to find a vacation rental near Bloomington
Indianapolis, Indiana
Just over an hour north, Indianapolis is featured in the document and brings together world-class museums, a bustling downtown, and pro sports venues. Staying in a vacation rental in Indianapolis puts you close to Mass Ave nightlife or historic neighborhoods like Fountain Square. The city adds big-city excitement to Bloomington’s relaxed campus feel.
Nashville, Indiana
Only 30 minutes east, Nashville is listed in the document and charms with its artisan shops, galleries, and nearby hiking in Brown County State Park. Visitors can enjoy a crisp autumn weekend in a cabin in Nashville tucked into the hills or right by the arts village. The town brings rustic charm and creativity to your trip.
French Lick, Indiana
About 90 minutes south, French Lick is in the document and known for its historic mineral resorts, championship golf, and casino action. A relaxing stay in a vacation home in French Lick offers easy access to spas, scenic trails, and vintage trolleys. The town delivers leisure, history, and a unique resort feel.
Columbus, Indiana
Roughly 45 minutes northeast, Columbus is featured in the document and offers bold modern architecture, design trails, and beautiful urban parks. Choosing an apartment in Columbus near Mill Race Park or downtown puts you in the heart of mid-century brilliance. Columbus balances Bloomington’s college-town rhythm with innovative, visual sophistication.
Bedford, Indiana
Just 30 minutes south, Bedford is not listed in the document but provides caves, quiet streets, and outdoor escapes near Hoosier National Forest. A house in Bedford makes a great base for forest hikes or exploring local limestone landmarks. It’s a peaceful and nature-centered break from Bloomington’s busier pace.
Explore diverse urban landscapes and delve into cultural heritage across North America
Bloomington serves as a fantastic gateway for urban adventures. Experience the creative and artistic vibes of the charming town, knowing that you can also explore more urban excitement in the surrounding areas. A short journey could take you to experience vacation rentals in Paducah, where the Lower Town Arts District offers an array of galleries and cultural events. Alternatively, consider airbnb Redlands, where you can relax in the Historic Downtown, renowned for its preserved Victorian architecture and citrus heritage. For those seeking more historical intrigue, find rental options in Newport News with its renowned Mariners' Museum and Park, celebrating maritime history and adventure.
The area is also a hub for cultural heritage, with rich histories blending into modern Americana experiences. Venture further into this theme by exploring the artistic flair of Montreal vacation homes, where the city's Old Port offers a glimpse into its European charm and cultural meld. Discover vacation rentals in Hamilton and enjoy its renowned art galleries and the majestic Royal Botanical Gardens. If you prefer a more island-centric experience, rentals in Honolulu offer a dive into Polynesian history beneath the watchful presence of Diamond Head. For a wide sweeping exploration, airbnb California encapsulates the blend of movie magic and diverse landscapes, from the streets of Los Angeles to the scenic vistas of Big Sur.