BN Life

Explore Bloomington-Normal from the Constitution Trail

Bloomington-Normal and cycling are intertwined. From annual bike races to the everyday recreational riders, cycling contributes to the Twin Cities’ energy and excitement. This is in large part to the Constitution Trail, a 45+ mile, multi-use trail that runs through both Bloomington and Normal. The Constitution Trail has been a Bloomington-Normal staple since 1989. Much of the trail follows the old Illinois Central Gulf Railroad right-of-way through the community. It was dedicated and named in celebration of the 200^th birthday of the United States. In 2000, the trail was designated a Millennium Trail by the White House Millennium Council.

You can discover so much of the Bloomington-Normal communities by traveling the Constitution Trail! Whether you bike, walk, or jog, the trail is adventure, discovery, and fun all in one. No matter what branch you take, you will find unique history, parks, vibrant communities, and a place to rest.

Wondering what to expect along the different trail routes? Let us help! Here’s what you can enjoy while strolling the Constitution Trail:

Illinois Central Trail Branch

The Illinois Central branch runs north and south through the middle of Bloomington-Normal. Along this trail, discover Hidden Creek Natural Wayside. This hidden 5.5-acre sanctuary is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature, wildlife, and bird watching. Continue down the Trail to enter the lively Uptown Normal. Take a well-deserved break and treat yourself to a sweet treat at Sugar Mama Bakery, enjoy lunch at Medici, or shop for unique items at Uptown Gifts, the Garlic Press, and a variety of other shops. Further down the Illinois Central, you will come across Camelback Bridge, a restored historic wooden bridge that is on the U.S National Register of Historic Places.

Route 66 Trail Branch

Get your kicks on the Route 66 Constitution Trail Branch! This trail creates a safe environment for bikers and pedestrians wanting to follow the original Route 66 highway. Starting in Towanda, you can enjoy the rich history of Route 66 as you roam the trail that leads to Shirley, IL. Along the trail in Towanda is a Route 66 Geographical Journey, a series of eight artistic displays about each of the states where the Mother Road travels through. Once the trail reaches Bloomington, take a break at the famous David Davis Mansion. Davis, a mentor and close friend to Abraham Lincoln, was a prominent figure in the Bloomington-Normal community. Tour through the family’s mansion and see what life was like for the wealthy during the Victorian-era. End your Route 66 Constitution Trail adventure with a Route 66 souvenir! The trail will bring you to the McLean County Museum of History and the Cruisin’ with Lincoln on 66 Visitors Center and Gift Shop. While the gift shop is currently closed, you can place an order for Route 66 memorabilia on their website and pick it up curbside!

For more information on the Constitution Trail, check out www.constitutiontrail.org.

 

 

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