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Shedd Aquarium
Sunset at local restaurant at Bloomington-Normal.

Fun in Bloomington-Normal

From Local Experts

3 Days 42 Miles

Highlights

Bloomington-Normal, McLean, Shirley

from the local experts at Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

Beyond the bustling breweries and cozy coffee shops, Bloomington-Normal is an experience that will suit the tastes of every visitor.

Our charming communities are both historic and modern, celebrated by numerous Abraham Lincoln sites, Route 66 nostalgia, trendy eateries, and family-friendly activities. Visitors love our central location, outstanding range of venues, and Midwestern hospitality.

 

Day 1:

Bloomington-Normal, McLean, Shirley

  • Exterior of Epiphany Farms Restaurant.

We're proud to be home to a variety of Illinois Made businesses! Get a first hand look at these local family-owned businesses that make McLean County one-of-a-kind. Visitors to the Ropp Jersey Cheese processing facility can see how fine quality cheeses are made. Schedule a trip out to Epiphany Farms Estate where you can see how food goes from the farm to your table. Every item on the menu at Epiphany Farms Restaurant is naturally raised from Chef Ken Myszka’s working farm or sourced from local farmers. Tapping maple sirup has become a family dynasty at Funks Grove Pure Maple Sirup. While there currently aren't tours available, visitors to this popular Route 66 stop can shop their store for unique finds and sweet treats. Just down the road is Sugar Grove Nature Center, a forest and prairie that spreads over 1,000 acres perfect for hiking and exploring nature.

Lodging:

Day 2:

Bloomington-Normal

  • Statue of Carl from Carl's Ice Cream.

A Bloomington-Normal PLAYcation awaits! Explore, play, and eat in BN with a variety of family-friendly activities and eateries. From the zoo and mini golfing, to go karts and ice cream, there's so much fun for the entire family. Outside of the Zoo, Miller Park offers mini golfing, a splash park, and paddle boats for you to enjoy. Grady's Family Fun Park has batting cages, a deluxe miniature golf course, go karts, and more! 

Other nearby attractions:

Day 3:

Bloomington-Normal

  • Photo of different colours of beers.

Our local breweries are making their mark on Bloomington-Normal, one pint at a time. It’s more than just a good beer. It’s a big city experience with small-town charm. With four local, unique breweries, there's something for every craft beer enthusiast. Spend a day in BN on a beer tour and see for yourself just how fun our craft-brewery scene is!

Breweries:

Lodging:

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