Summer is Bloomington-Normal’s time to shine with plenty of events, restaurants, arts & culture, shopping, and lodging to keep your schedule full and your kids happy! If you are looking for something to do in Bloomington-Normal this summer, look no further than VisitBN! We have everything you’ll need to plan a trip to BN!
What’s Coming This Summer
Mark your calendars as there’s no shortage of exciting events happening in BN this summer!
Here are some of our big events:
- 3rd Sunday Market (Aug 17, Sept 21): One of the Midwest’s largest antiques and collectibles markets, this event is perfect for treasure hunters.
- Saturdays on the Square (June 7, 21, 28): Free live music in downtown Bloomington. All you need to bring is a lawn chair!
- Champagne British Car Festival (June 1): Admire beautiful British motorcars and enjoy family fun at David Davis Mansion State Historic Site.
- Brews at the Zoo (June 7): Sip craft brews among the animals at Miller Park Zoo.
- Tailgate N’ Tallboys (June 12–15): This major country music festival returns with big-name acts and a full festival experience.
- Baby Animal Days (June 14 & 21): Petting zoos and hands-on learning make this family-friendly event at Rader Family Farms a must-do.
- Illinois Shakespeare Festival (June 25–July 31): Catch classic Shakespeare performed under the stars in the lush surroundings of Ewing Cultural Center.
For even more events, check out our full Events Calendar.
Local Places to Visit Route 66 Style
Did you know you can explore iconic Route 66 right here in McLean County? Take a summer day to cruise this historic highway and discover quirky stops and unique attractions like:
- Memory Lane and Crazy Presidential Elephant Sculpture (Lexington): A one-mile stretch of restored Route 66, complete with vintage signs and photo ops.
- “A Geographical Journey” Parkway (Towanda): Learn and explore with interactive kiosks and Burma Shave signs along a walkable section of the Mother Road.
- Dead Man’s Curve (Towanda): A sharp, thrilling turn on historic Route 66 known for its dangerous past.
- Carl’s Ice Cream (Normal): A local institution with homemade ice cream and a 14-foot-tall Muffler Man.
- Casey’s Garden Shop (Bloomington): An Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame inductee and a beautiful spot to shop for local plants.
- Funk’s Grove Pure Maple Sirup (Shirley): A sweet stop since 1824, where you can learn all about maple sirup and buy some to take home.
- Cruisin’ with Lincoln on 66 Visitors Center: Dive into Route 66 and Lincoln history with immersive exhibits.
- Miller Park Zoo: See exotic animals and enjoy one of the oldest zoos along Route 66.
- Ryburn Place at Sprague’s Super Service: A restored 1931 Tudor-style gas station filled with charm and history.
- McLean Depot Train Shop & Home on the Road Scenic Byway: Learn about America’s train and road culture.
- Dixie Truck Stop: Open since 1928 and serving up diner classics—an authentic Route 66 experience.
Learn more about discovering Route 66 here!
Plan Your Summer Trip
No matter if you are a resident planning an epic summer staycation or you are visiting from out of town, you will find everything you need to make this summer special right here in BN! Our area offers delicious eats, fun attractions, clean places to stay, and family-friendly events all just minutes away!
Food: For whatever you are craving, our dining scene won’t disappoint. Explore BN’s Food and Drink here!
Shopping: Check out the cute, local shops in Downtown Bloomington and Uptown Normal. Click here for a full list of shops in our area.
Attractions: Not only do we have Route 66 to explore as mentioned above, but we also have the Constitution Trail, Children’s Discovery Museum, David Davis Mansion, and more!
Accommodations: Browse our accommodations listings to find the perfect home base for your summer adventure.
Fun Fact About Bloomington-Normal
Bloomington-Normal is home to Illinois State University, the state’s oldest public university, founded in 1857.
Start Planning at VisitBN
This summer, discover the charm and community we have here in Bloomington-Normal and start planning today at VisitBN.org!