The College Town of Bloomington

By Kathy Barnett Managing Editor

Whether you’re a student, a family, or a seasoned traveler seeking new adventures, Bloomington promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. This enchanting town is home to the prestigious Indiana University, setting the stage for an exceptional blend of academia and excitement.

The first stop on your Bloomington journey is Indiana University! The sprawling campus is a true architectural gem, boasting an impressive mix of classic and modern structures. Take a leisurely stroll through the iconic Sample Gates, where a wave of students flows in and out, creating an infectious buzz of enthusiasm. Don’t miss a visit to the enchanting Old Crescent, a collection of stunning limestone buildings that harken back to the university’s rich history. The pristine Dunn’s Woods, right on the campus, offers a serene escape for nature lovers and a perfect spot for a picnic.

I checked in to the historic hotel on campus, the Biddle Hotel. It has been maintained quite well and once inside, I felt at home in the luxurious updated surroundings. The Welcome Center is located right inside the lobby and there is a huge 3D model of the campus. It helped me mentally since I was to tour on foot instead of depending on my GPS.

The Biddle Hotel offers comfortable and spacious rooms, each designed to provide a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure. Sink into plush beds with luxurious linens and take advantage of the modern amenities that cater to your every need. Whether you choose a room overlooking the scenic campus or prefer a more intimate space, the hotel ensures that your stay is as comfortable as it is memorable.

My room welcomed me with an unusual view. It overlooked the cemetery, where Indiana University’s founders rest in eternal slumber, and the historic chapel, a popular venue for intimeate wedding ceremonies. Witness the serene beauty of the chapel’s architecture, adorned with timeless charm and beautiful garden flowers. The hotel’s location provides a great central checkpoint when venturing out to explore the Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art, Biology Building Greenhouse, or the Kirkwood Observatory all on campus.

A once-in-a-lifetime experience for me was to view the “corpse flower” blooming for the third time in its history. The name of this Amorphophallus titanum comes from its odor of rotting flesh which attracts flies and carrion-eating beetles for pollination of the other plants. It bloomed during Covid in 2020, so the public was unable to view. The last time in bloomed visible to the public was in 2016.

After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at the hotel’s restaurant. The dining options boast a menu featuring both classic dishes and innovative culinary creations. Relish a delectable meal in the warm and inviting ambiance, surrounded by the nostalgia of years gone by. The restaurant’s friendly staff ensures that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional.

Bloomington does not roll up the sidewalks or shut off lights early in the evening. There are plenty of choices for live entertainment from music, to comedy, to shows. The Bishop is a live music venue and bar, located two blocks south of The Square and the best part is there is no cover charge. Depending on the season, the nearby historic Buskirk-Chumley Theatre provides all types from musical concerts, to film screenings, dances and theatre productions.

Then, the food scene is more than abundant. You simply can’t try all in one visit as there are more than 150 in the downtown district alone. I had the pleasure of visiting Nick’s English Hut decorated with Indiana University collectibles. The lively atmosphere and menu blended right in with the decor.

For breakfast the next day, we had the choice of dining outside on the patio or inside the Runcible Spoon. Eggs, bacon, and biscuits did not disapoint. Yes, I must return... again and again, if for nothing more than the food!

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