The best things to do in Bloomington

“Nine holes with lakeside views, a relaxed Lounge and 19th Hole bar, and a summer pool scene make Lakeside Country Club an easy yes this week. Between bourbon tastings, game nights, and event-ready spaces, it’s the spot to golf a little, hang a lot.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Grossinger Motors Arena keeps the calendar stacked with everything from nostalgia-fueled rock to quirky one-offs, and this week it’s Men At Work & Toad the Wet Sprocket with Shonen Knife taking the stage. Grab a friend, snag seats, and remember why a night out in Bloomington always hits right.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, September 12, 2026

“If your feed needs fresh backdrops or your brain needs a quick reset, 410 Sculpture Park delivers with whimsical, thought-provoking installations from local artists scattered across the park. Expect everything from abstract forms to a towering whale shark... the kind of weird that charms.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, September 7, 2026

“If you’ve been craving a tighter short game and a little members-only camaraderie, Crestwicke Country Club brings tradition and excellence to a challenging local course with junior programs and an active events calendar. Consider this your nudge to finally join and lock in your go-to tee times.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, September 19, 2026

“When the humidity spikes or the kids need a plan, Anderson Aquatic Center delivers with swim lessons, aqua fitness, birthday party rentals, and a laid-back concession stand. Grab a pool pass or book a class, then let the Town of Normal crew handle the fun.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, September 1, 2026

“If your group chat keeps punting on a shower, milestone celebration, or team retreat, Vrooman Mansion gives you a gorgeous 1869 Romanesque backdrop that instantly upgrades the vibe.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing a quick nine after work or want a weekly routine, The Links At Ireland Grove keeps it fun with 2-person, ladies, and senior leagues, a kids league and youth tournaments, night golf, and a legit short-game practice area that actually helps.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, September 11, 2026

“House of Games turns a Bloomington weekend into full-on playtime, with a basement arcade set to free play, Skee-Ball, ping pong, air hockey, foosball and a digital board game table. Rally the crew this week for birthdays, reunions or a just-because escape and call dibs on the Pac-Man room.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Since 1896, Bloomington Country Club pairs a storied course that has hosted the Illinois State Men's Amateur nine times with tennis, pickleball and a lively clubhouse that fuels family traditions. Club-curious? This week’s a solid time to explore membership and dial in that swing.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, August 24, 2026

“High-energy trampoline park featuring wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts and basketball hoops.”

“When cabin fever hits, Pheasant Lanes Family Fun Center & Kegler's Pub delivers 32 lanes of bowling, a professionally designed 18-hole mini golf course, sand volleyball, an arcade, and an all-season beer garden. Rally your crew this week for low-stakes bragging rights and high-quality goofing off.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, August 28, 2026

“When the week needs a reset, Grady's Family Fun Park delivers INDY-style and NASCAR-themed go-karts, splashy bumper boats with water blaster cannons, laser-tag-style bumper cars, mini golf, and a slice of sweet-sauce Grady's Pizza... because sometimes Bloomington just needs pure, uncomplicated fun.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Whether you’ve got little ones who love the splash pad or teens hunting bigger thrills, Kent Karraker Aquatic Center hits the sweet spot with zero-entry fun, three slides, and water from 3 to 8 feet deep. Family-friendly, lesson-ready, and an easy summer fix when the humidity wins.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, September 3, 2026