Free Summer Activities in Bloomington, Indiana

Looking for entertainment on a budget this summer? If so, look no further than Bloomington, Indiana, home of the beautiful Indiana University campus. Located in southern Indiana, this town is alive with cultural and outdoor activities that are exciting and, even more appealing, free. Following are a few that I've found to be worthwhile.

Stay active this summer by hitting the trails for some outdoor exercise--Clear Creek Trail that is. Maintained by the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department, this railway-turned-walking trail begins at Tapp Road on the south side of town and spans 2.5 miles to Church Lane. The trail is paved, so walk, run, or even roller blade through the beautiful landscapes of Bloomington. Be sure to take a look at Warren Truss, a historical 150 foot iron bridge located along the trail. For some variety, take a detour down the Bloomington Rail Trail that connects to the Clear Creek Trail. This trail begins at Country Club Drive, also on Bloomington's south side and continues 1.8 miles to Church Lane. While both trails are great for the whole family, the Bloomington Rail Trail is gravel. If you have a stroller, you may want to stick to the Clear Creek Trail. For more information on either trail, contact the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department at (812) 349-3700.

If astronomy fascinates you, do some star-gazing at the Kirkwood Observatory at the corner of Kirkwood and Indiana Avenue on Bloomington's IU campus. The observatory hosts all the equipment you need in order to view the night sky, including a 12-inch refractor telescope. An expert is on hand to answer any questions and help with the equipment. The public may visit free of charge every clear Wednesday evening from 9pm-11pm throughout the summer. For weather updates and closings, call (812) 855-7736.

Reconnect with nature when you visit the Cedar Bluff Nature Preserve, located off Ketchum Road on the south side of Bloomington. Owned by the Nature Conservancy, the preserve hosts a variety of amazing landscapes. It offers beautiful limestone bluffs, canyons, and cliffs and is home to many species of animals and an abundance of wildflowers. You can visit anytime from dawn to dusk or call (317) 923-7547 for more information.

These are only a few of the many free activities that Bloomington, Indiana has to offer. Individuals and families alike can always find something worthwhile to do in this bustling town. Contact the Visitor's Bureau for even more exciting ways to spend your summer without breaking the bank.