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Bloomington is a city of about 78,000 people in central Illinois, the seat of McLean County and twin city to Normal. It grew as a railroad and farming center on the prairie and has deep ties to Abraham Lincoln, who practiced law here, and to his friend and campaign manager David Davis, whose grand mansion is now a state historic site.
The historic downtown centers on the old McLean County Courthouse, now the McLean County Museum of History, surrounded by restored buildings with restaurants, coffee shops and bars. Illinois Wesleyan University adds a college feel, and the 1872 David Davis Mansion is one of the best-preserved Victorian homes in the Midwest. Bloomington is also home to Beer Nuts, whose factory store sells the famous glazed peanuts.
Miller Park has a small zoo and a lake, the Constitution Trail runs for miles through both cities, and historic neighborhoods like the White Place district have handsome early 1900s homes. The surrounding prairie, Kickapoo Creek and nearby lakes offer quiet outdoor escapes.
Italianate mansion completed in 1872 for David Davis, Abraham Lincoln's friend and campaign manager who became a Supreme Court justice. It is a state historic site with original furnishings, gardens and guided tours. Tours are free with a suggested donation; check open days.
Historic 19th-century cemetery with tree-lined paths and the graves of Vice President Adlai Stevenson I, Governor Adlai Stevenson II, David Davis and baseball's Old Hoss Radbourn. It is peaceful for a walk. The local history museum sometimes runs costumed tours in fall.
Museum in the domed 1903 former courthouse on the downtown square, with exhibits on farming, Lincoln's local ties, immigration and county life. The building itself is a highlight. Allow one to two hours; there is a small admission fee and a research library upstairs.
Volunteer-run aviation museum at Central Illinois Regional Airport with military jets, helicopters, engines and exhibits on local flying history. Kids can sit in some cockpits. It is small and opens on limited days, so check the schedule before heading out.
Shop at the Bloomington plant that has made the famous glazed Beer Nuts peanuts since the 1930s. It sells the full range of nuts, gift tins and souvenirs, and has displays on the company's history. Free samples are often offered; it closes on weekends.
Historic center around the old courthouse square with restaurants, bars, coffee shops, local boutiques and summer events. Many buildings date from the rebuilding after the great fire of 1900. Walk the square and nearby streets in an hour; parking decks are close.
Residential neighborhood near Illinois Wesleyan University with fine early 1900s homes in Prairie, Tudor and Colonial Revival styles on curving tree-lined streets. It is listed on the National Register. Enjoy it as a quiet walking tour, keeping to the sidewalks.
Large Catholic church near downtown Bloomington, known for its Gothic-style stone exterior, tall tower and colorful stained glass. It is one of the city's most visible landmarks. Visitors are welcome outside service times; dress respectfully and keep noise low.
Small city zoo inside Miller Park with red pandas, Sumatran tigers, sun bears, a tropical house and a farm area, plus a lake, playground and pavilion in the surrounding park. It is well sized for families with young kids; plan two hours and bring a picnic.
Paved rail-trail network of more than 40 miles running through Bloomington and Normal along former railroad lines. It is used for walking, running and cycling and links parks, neighborhoods and the two downtowns. Pick a trailhead near downtown for an easy ride.
Restored 1921 Scottish Rite temple turned into a performing arts center downtown, hosting touring music, comedy, dance and theater. The ornate main theater is part of the attraction. Check the season calendar and arrive early to look around the building.
Summer festival run by Illinois State University, staging Shakespeare and other classics in an outdoor theater at Ewing Manor in Bloomington. Picnic on the lawn before evening shows. Performances run from late June to August; bring a light jacket for cooler nights.
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