Explore an array of things to do in Bloomington and Normal

Within a few miles of the Country Inn & Suites in Bloomington, you can find a lot of exciting things to do, including football games and concerts at Grossinger Motors Arena. Our hotel rooms are a great home base if you’re visiting the campus of Illinois State University or Illinois Wesleyan University. Aviation buffs don’t want to miss taking a simulated flight over the city at the Prairie Aviation Museum at Central Illinois Regional Airport at Bloomington-Normal. You can step back in time with a visit to the David Davis Mansion, a mid-19th-century Victorian house filled with decorative arts. Be sure to stop by the Beer Nuts manufacturing facility for a tour and to pick up snacks for the journey home.

Select what to see in a map

  • Culture
  • Family
  • Food & Drinks
  • Shopping

Children’s Discovery Museum

2.9 mi / 4.67 km from the hotel
It’s easy to spend hours at this family-focused attraction with three stories of hands-on educational exhibits relating to science, art, and engineering.

David Davis Mansion

2.35 mi / 3.78 km from the hotel
Originally the home of Abraham Lincoln’s campaign manager, Judge David Davis, this gorgeous 19th-century mansion boasts 36 rooms that reflect a warm, Victorian charm.

Ewing Cultural Center

1.58 mi / 2.55 km from the hotel
Take a tour of Ewing Manor or see a play at this center located on the Sunset Hill estate in Bloomington. During your visit, take a peaceful stroll through the lush gardens.

Grossinger Motors Arena

3.23 mi / 5.19 km from the hotel
Sports fans can have their fill of athletic excitement at this multipurpose venue, which is home to the Midway Marauders football team. The arena also hosts concerts and shows throughout the year.

Illinois State University

3.38 mi / 5.44 km from the hotel
With an enrollment of more than 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students from around the globe, ISU enhances the Bloomington area with a wide range of academic offerings and cultural experiences. Go for a campus visit or attend an athletic event.

Illinois Wesleyan University

2.87 mi / 4.62 km from the hotel
Stroll the campus of this beautiful university, which has been an educational fixture in the Bloomington-Normal community since 1850.

Miller Park

3.85 mi / 6.19 km from the hotel
This family-friendly attraction is home to the Miller Park Zoo as well as the Miller Park Pavilion, which features a swimming beach, boat docks, tennis courts, and a mini golf course.

The Corn Crib

4.6 mi / 7.4 km from the hotel
Home field of the Normal CornBelters, The Corn Crib can hold 7,000 fans and offers high-end amenities that include hospitality suites. In addition to rousing baseball action, the stadium hosts softball games, soccer matches, and concerts.

Eastland Mall

1.02 mi / 1.65 km from the hotel
With more than 90 specialty stores, Eastland Mall is certain to have exactly what you’re looking for, whether that’s purses, shoes, or jewelry. When it’s time to take a break, order a bite from locally owned Binge House Pizza.

Illinois State University Planetarium

3.21 mi / 5.17 km from the hotel
For an enjoyable family activity, visit the planetarium at ISU, where you can see a show, observe the skyline, and pick out a souvenir at the gift shop.

Prairie Aviation Museum

0.52 mi / 0.83 km from the hotel
Air travel and space exploration come to life through interactive displays at this museum located at Central Illinois Regional Airport at Bloomington-Normal. The collection of aircraft includes an F-4N Phantom, a T-38A Talon, an F-14D Tomcat, and a UH-IH Huey.

Beer Nuts, Inc.

2.48 mi / 4 km from the hotel
First created in Bloomington in 1937, Beer Nuts are still being made at this 10,000-square-foot factory. Purchase samples of your favorite flavors or pick out a souvenir T-shirt at the company store.