Bloomington Offers More Than a College Town Experience
Bloomington is not just a college town—it’s a vibrant hub of culture, creativity, and community. From its thriving culinary scene to its rich history and outdoor recreation opportunities, the city has something for everyone. During our recent visit, we had the chance to explore some of the most unique spots in Bloomington, including the interactive WonderLab science museum, the historic Buskirk-Chumlee Theater, and the energetic music scene. We also caught up with IU Athletics as they prepare for an exciting football season and learned about the growing popularity of the Bloomington Bicycle Club.
Mike McAfee, executive director of Visit Bloomington, emphasized that the city is much more than just a place where Indiana University students live. He pointed out that Bloomington’s culinary scene features over 380 restaurants, making it a food lover’s paradise. The city also offers abundant outdoor recreation in the surrounding Hoosier National Forest, along with a rich limestone history and a thriving arts and music community. With improved access via I-69 and beautiful fall foliage, Bloomington is becoming an even more appealing destination for visitors throughout the year.
Taste of Bloomington Showcases City's Culinary Scene
Jordan Smith, leisure marketing manager for Visit Bloomington, gave us a preview of the return of the Taste of Bloomington, which will take place on Kirkwood Avenue. This free event will feature more than 50 local restaurants, food trucks, breweries, wineries, and a distillery offering bites for $5 or less. Smith highlighted the variety of dining options available in the city, from Uptown Cafe’s Cajun-style fare to nationally recognized pizza spots and diverse international cuisine along 4th Street. The event promises to be a celebration of Bloomington’s dynamic food scene.
Book Corner: A Bloomington Staple Since 1964
Reporter Marley Thomas visited the Book Corner, a beloved family-owned bookstore in downtown Bloomington that has been in business since 1964. Employee Mike, who has worked there since 2009, shared the shop’s history and how it has evolved from selling newspapers and magazines to offering a wide selection of books, puzzles, and cards. The store remains a community fixture, open seven days a week on the downtown square.
Uptown Cafe Nears 50 Years as a Bloomington Landmark
Colin Baillie visited the Uptown Cafe on Kirkwood Avenue, a Bloomington institution founded in 1976 by the father of current owner Colin Bailey. Known for its Cajun-Creole-inspired American bistro fare, the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and craft cocktails, including a popular old-fashioned. Bailey reflected on growing up in the family business, the community's loyal support, and Uptown's place in Bloomington's diverse food scene as it approaches its 50th anniversary.
WonderLab Brings Hands-On Science to Downtown Bloomington
Ella and Sam from WonderLab Science Museum shared some of the interactive experiences visitors can enjoy, including meeting unique animals like blue death-feigning beetles, a corn snake, and a 300-gallon coral reef aquarium. The museum offers exhibits and programs for all ages, from a towering grapevine climber to STEM Saturdays for families. Located just blocks from Bloomington's downtown square, WonderLab combines science education with fun, approachable, hands-on learning year-round.
Historic Buskirk-Chumlee Theatre Continues to Shine in Bloomington
Executive Director Steve Versaw shared the 103-year history of the Buskirk-Chumlee Theatre, which began as a silent movie house before evolving into a nonprofit performing arts venue. The 600-seat theater hosts concerts, comedy, dance, theater, films, and special events, including performances by jazz great Joshua Redman, indie folk group Bonnie Light Horseman, and Indiana author John Green. Surviving a 1933 fire, the theater remains a downtown landmark, offering an intimate setting and diverse programming for locals, students, and visitors alike.
IU Athletics Riding High After Historic Football Season
Indiana University Associate Athletic Director Jeremy Gray reflected on what he called one of the greatest football seasons in IU's 126-year history, with the Hoosiers starting 11-0 and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff. Gray said the program's success has energized the entire athletic department and the Bloomington community, with football season tickets now in high demand. He also previewed the upcoming basketball season under new head coach Darren DeVries, encouraged students to embrace the city's culture and hidden gems, and highlighted IU's Olympic sports as must-see events.
Loyal WISH-TV Viewer Says Hello
Sue, a longtime WISH-TV viewer first met the team during our "WISH You Were Here" broadcast in Franklin. Originally from New Jersey, Sue and her husband met in Atlanta before moving through Michigan and Mooresville, eventually settling in Bloomington to be closer to their daughter, an ER nurse. Sue says she loves Bloomington's walkability, cultural mix, and welcoming atmosphere. A devoted IU fan and frequent viewer, she gave a shout-out to her favorite WISH personalities - Randy and Dave - while reminiscing about the friendly spirit of her adopted hometown.
Bloomington Brothers Bussman's Holiday Headline Taste of Bloomington
Bloomington's own Bussman's Holiday—brothers Addison and Lewis—have been making music together for more than 20 years, blending singer-songwriter roots with R&B influences. Known for their genuine, genre-bending performances, the duo has toured nationally while proudly representing their hometown. Their latest self-released album, Table Talk, captures their current sound with live-to-tape recordings featuring horn players and a full band. This weekend, they'll bring that energy to the Grant Street Stage as headliners for the Taste of Bloomington.
Bloomington Bicycle Club Welcomes Riders of All Levels
The Bloomington Bicycle Club, with 250+ members, offers rides year-round for all skill levels. From weekday evening rides on county roads to weekend gravel and mountain trails, safety and camaraderie are key, with a no-drop policy to keep everyone together. New riders can try a trial membership and find ride info at BloomingtonBicycleClub.org. Whether casual or competitive, this club makes biking Bloomington—and beyond—easy and fun.
Bloomington Ready for Taste of Bloomington
Desiree Demolina, communications director for the city, says Bloomington is gearing up for Taste of Bloomington this weekend, showcasing much more than just the Indiana University campus. The city boasts a walkable downtown full of art, culture, and diverse dining, all set against the backdrop of southern Indiana's rolling hills.
Bagpipes Bring Irish Spirit to Bloomington Streets
The Southern Indiana Pipes and Drums marched up and down Kirkwood, filling the air with traditional bagpipe tunes. This talented group performs at everything from parades and festivals to IU football tailgates and memorials, showcasing a rich heritage and adding a lively soundtrack to Bloomington's vibrant community.
Bloomington Roots Foundation Keeps the City's Music Scene Thriving
Bloomington's vibrant music scene is alive and well thanks to the work of the Bloomington Roots Foundation. The nonprofit focuses on bringing Americana and Roots acts to the city through partnerships with local venues like the Buskirk-Chumlee, The Bluebird, The Bishop, and The Blockhouse. Bloomington's music community offers strong support for musicians at every level, making it a welcoming home for artists and music lovers alike.
