Bloomington-Normal Area Convention & Visitors BureauBN Life
A Unique Shopping Experience in Bloomington-Normal
Whether you shop in Downtown Bloomington or Uptown Normal, we can guarantee you won’t leave empty handed after visiting the many one-of-a-kind shops! Shop for the newest trends in clothing and accessories, unique gifts for the home, locally made goods, a new book for the trip home, or a perfect little souvenir to remind you of your enjoyable trip to the Bloomington-Normal area. Find all this and so much more on your shopping extravaganza in our communities!
With its blend of historic architecture and contemporary energy, Downtown Bloomington is truly one-of-a-kind. A short walk in any direction will lead you to a point of discovery – the Cruisin’ with Lincoln on 66 Visitors Center, a quaint book store, a shop that’s filled with any board game you could imagine, an antique store, a coffee shop with the best cup of coffee, or a bakery with delicious treats that you will want to take home to your family and friends.
After shopping, a day downtown should also include lunch or dinner at one of the 20 local eateries and a visit to one of the art galleries to view amazing local artwork. End your trip to Downtown with a nightcap at one of the 10 spots for nightlife that often have live music. Discover all that Downtown Bloomington has to offer by shopping, dining, and playing in this great historical district!
Despite the name, Uptown Normal is far from normal. It’s easy to spend an entire day wandering through the unique shops that fill Uptown. The recent urban updates give the shopping area a vibrant and trendy atmosphere that is unlike anything else. If you’re a fashionista, you can find the cutest and newest clothes at one of the many boutiques. Just looking to shop around with no specific item in mind? From jewelry and handbags to cookbooks and kids’ toys, there are a handful of stores that sell just a little bit of everything!
In addition to the shopping, Uptown Normal is home to the three-story Children’s Discovery Museum, popular local restaurants, and more. With wide sidewalks, bike racks, and access to the Constitution Trail, the area is just as easily accessible by foot or bicycle as it is by car. No matter your age, you’ll be amazed at what you’ll find in Uptown Normal!
