Experience Downtown
Whether you’re young or young at heart, whether your taste is sophisticated or casual, Downtown Bloomington is the place to shop, dine, and play. In a vibrant atmosphere full of world-class and unique shops, eateries, and entertainment venues, you’ll want to return again and again to discover its treasures.
- Explore
- Taste
- Shop
- Sleep
- Learn
Shop + Relax
Downtown Bloomington offers a vibrant mix of galleries, antique stores, and boutique shops—each brimming with creativity and individuality. Whether you’re searching for upscale clothing, unique home décor, or a handmade piece of jewelry, you’ll find that perfect gift or personal treasure here. With around a hundred specialty shops, there’s something for every style and budget. Want to explore them all? Visit Our Members to see the full list of downtown businesses.
While you’re exploring, treat yourself to a bit of indulgence—schedule a spa day, refresh at a salon, or enjoy a leisurely coffee at a cozy café. Savor a delicious meal or dessert at one of our many restaurants and bakeries. Pause on a park bench, stroll the Indiana University campus, or wander the scenic B-Line Trail. Whether you’re shopping, relaxing, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Downtown Bloomington offers countless ways to enjoy the day.
Dine + Drink
Whatever your appetite or occasion, Downtown Bloomington offers everything from simple pub fare to upscale dining, from traditional American to international cuisine. Like a culinary United Nations, Downtown Bloomington is home to tasty delights that include Thai, Indian, Greek, Italian, Mexican, Korean, Japanese, Irish, French, and Turkish. And be sure to check our events calendar for perennial food festivals like the Taste of Bloomington or the Wine & Food Festival.
Gather at one of our breweries, bars, or pubs and savor locally crafted brews or fine ales on tap. Immerse yourself in the casual, welcoming atmosphere as you enjoy your drink. Grab a bite to eat, catch a game on TV, chat with friends, and maybe even make a few new ones.
Arts + Entertainment
Stroll through our art galleries, immerse yourself in a play, see a film, dance at a nightclub, sing karaoke, listen to live music, or enjoy one of our comedy clubs. Downtown is home to iconic festivals, parades, and events such as:
- Bloomington Farmers’ Market
- Affair of the Arts
- Limestone Comedy Festival
- Cosmic Songwriters Festival
- Bloomington Handmade Market
- Granfalloon
- Peoples Park Summer Concert Series
- 4th of July Parade
- Downtown Trick or Treat
- Canopy of Lights Holiday Events
Places to Stay
If you’re planning to attend an event at the Convention Center, staying downtown makes everything easier. You’ll be just steps away from dining, shopping, entertainment, and the venue itself. Below are seven hotels all within walking distance of the Convention Center—perfect for a convenient and connected stay in the heart of Bloomington.
- Courtyard by Marriott
- The Graduate Hotel
- Grant Street Inn
- Hilton Garden Inn
- Hyatt Place
- Posh on Kirkwood
- SpringHill Suites
Downtown Parking
Finding parking downtown is simple, and we’ve made it even easier with a printable map you can keep on hand or email to yourself.
Rates & Hours:
- On-street parking & surface lots: $1 per hour (Monday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–9:00 PM)
- Covered garages: $0.50 per hour
Covered Garages
- 4th & Walnut Garage
- 7th & Morton Garage
- 7th & Walnut Garage
Indiana University Parking Lots
Free: Weekdays after 5:00 PM and all day on weekends
- Indiana Avenue Lot
- 4th & Dunn Lot
- 6th & Dunn Lot
