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Wish You Were Here: Exploring Flavor and Fun Ahead of Taste of Bloomington
We visited Bloomington to preview Taste of Bloomington for our broadcast. This city offers so much more than just college town charm - vibrant local flavors, rich culture, and community spirit come together to make it a year-round destination.
We explored the city's unique spots, including the hands-on Wonder Lab science museum, the historic Buskirk-Chumlee Theater, and the lively Bloomington music scene. We also caught up with IU Athletics as they prepare for an exciting football season and learned about the thriving Bloomington Bicycle Club.
Taste of Bloomington promises a weekend filled with great food, music, and fun for the whole family. Here's a look at the highlights from our day in this dynamic city.
Bloomington Offers More Than a College Town Experience
“Bloomington’s vibrant culinary scene with more than 380 restaurants, abundant outdoor recreation in the surrounding Hoosier National Forest, rich limestone history, and thriving arts and music community make it a year-round destination beyond Indiana University,” said Mike McAfee, executive director of Visit Bloomington. He pointed to the return of students each fall bringing new energy, while improved access via I-69 and the area’s fall foliage making it an appealing getaway.
Bagpipes Bring Irish Spirit to Bloomington Streets
The Southern Indiana Pipes and Drums marched up and down Kirkwood, filling the air with traditional bagpipe tunes. This talented group performs at everything from parades and festivals to IU football tailgates and memorials, showcasing a rich heritage and adding a lively soundtrack to Bloomington’s vibrant community.
Bloomington Roots Foundation Keeps the City's Music Scene Thriving
Bloomington’s vibrant music scene is alive and well thanks to the work of the Bloomington Roots Foundation. The nonprofit focuses on bringing Americana and Roots acts to the city through partnerships with local venues like the Buskirk-Chumlee, The Bluebird, The Bishop, and The Blockhouse. Bloomington’s music community offers strong support for musicians at every level, making it a welcoming home for artists and music lovers alike.