Hotels in Bloomington

Bloomington Unbound: Where Nature Meets Innovation in a Cultural Mosaic

Bloomington, Illinois, is an inviting blend of vibrant culture and Midwestern charm. Home to Illinois State University, the downtown area buzzes with art galleries, cozy cafes, and lively events. Explore the beautiful parks and trails or visit the McLean County Museum of History to delve into local heritage. Don’t miss the stunning landscapes of the nearby Constitution Trail, perfect for biking and hiking. With a rich tapestry of attractions and a friendly atmosphere, Bloomington promises a delightful escape for culture seekers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the heart of America.

Discover great hotels in Bloomington

Bloomington, Illinois offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from comfortable budget options to upscale suites. Many hotels provide spacious guest rooms and convenient amenities, making it easy to find a suitable place for your stay. Whether you're looking for modern facilities or cozy atmospheres, Bloomington has you covered. Here are some of the best hotels in Bloomington that our travelers love:

1. Hyatt Place Bloomington/NormalOpens in a new window: Hyatt Place Bloomington/Normal is a stylish 3.5-star hotel located in the heart of the city, making it an ideal choice for leisure travelers seeking a vibrant urban experience. This hotel features comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The property highlights include a charming lounge area and express check-in services, ensuring a seamless start to your stay. Travelers appreciate the hotel's central location and the ease of access to local attractions, which enhances their journey and allows for a more immersive city-themed vacation experience.
2. Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel & Conference CenterOpens in a new window: Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel & Conference Center stands out as a 3.5-star haven for adventure seekers and LGBTQIA travelers. With a focus on exhilarating outdoor experiences, this hotel offers a range of adventure sports and recreation activities nearby, such as mountain biking, rock climbing, and hiking. The vibrant atmosphere and welcoming environment contribute to a memorable stay. The accommodation features modern amenities designed to cater to energetic guests looking to explore their surroundings. The positive reviews emphasize the unique opportunities for adventure and the supportive community ambiance, making it an excellent choice for those wanting an active getaway.
3. Hampton Inn & Suites Bloomington - NormalOpens in a new window: Hampton Inn & Suites Bloomington - Normal is a cozy 2.5-star hotel that warmly welcomes LGBTQIA travelers and their pets. This property allows pets onsite, enhancing the travel experience for those who wish to bring their furry companions along. Guests can expect comfortable accommodations with thoughtful pet amenities, creating a friendly and inclusive environment. The hotel's location offers easy access to local parks and pet-friendly areas, perfect for leisurely strolls. Review sentiments highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the convenience of having pet-friendly options, making it a delightful choice for travelers looking for a comfortable stay with their pets.

Top locations to stay in Bloomington

Some great areas to stay in Bloomington, Illinois, are Normal, Hudson, and Heyworth. Normal boasts a vibrant university atmosphere and lively downtown. Hudson offers charming small-town vibes with local parks and shops. Heyworth features a friendly community with outdoor activities. For first-time visitors, Normal is best suited due to its accessibility and attractions.

1. NormalOpens in a new window: Normal is a vibrant place to stay, especially if you appreciate a lively atmosphere. This area is known for its cultural attractions, offering a range of events and performances throughout the year. You can explore beautiful parks and engaging community events, making it a great spot for those who enjoy outdoor activities alongside local culture. With its diverse dining options and shops, Normal provides plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local scene while enjoying a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
2. HudsonOpens in a new window: Hudson is a charming small town that’s perfect for travelers looking for a quieter experience while still being close to bustling areas. This picturesque locale offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and local parks, ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics. The community is friendly and inviting, making it a wonderful base for exploring nearby attractions, with a focus on enjoying nature and local events that highlight the town’s unique character.
3. HeyworthOpens in a new window: Heyworth is a cozy and peaceful spot, perfect for a restful getaway. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate small-town charm and want to experience a slower pace of life. Here, you can enjoy local parks and friendly community gatherings, providing a taste of authentic Midwestern hospitality. While smaller than its neighbors, Heyworth offers a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life in a close-knit community.

Things to do in Bloomington

Bloomington boasts a vibrant mix of lush parks and tranquil lakes, perfect for hiking, picnicking, or enjoying a scenic boat ride. The lively local scene offers eclectic shops, energetic live music, and captivating theater performances, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and cultural experiences.

• Paul Bunyan StatueOpens in a new window – Snap a photo with this iconic monument that celebrates the legendary lumberjack, Paul Bunyan. Standing tall, this statue is a fun spot to stretch your legs and take in a piece of local folklore.
• David Davis MansionOpens in a new window – Step into history at this beautifully preserved historic house. Explore the elegant architecture and learn about the life of David Davis, a close associate of Abraham Lincoln. The guided tours provide fascinating insights into the era.
• McLean County Museum of HistoryOpens in a new window – Discover the rich history of McLean County through engaging exhibits and artifacts. This museum offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing everything from local heritage to significant events that shaped the region.
• Prairie Aviation MuseumOpens in a new window – Aviation enthusiasts will appreciate this museum, which features a collection of aircraft and exhibits highlighting the history of aviation in Central Illinois. Get up close to vintage planes and learn about their fascinating stories.
• Grady's Family Fun ParkOpens in a new window – Bring the whole family for a day of excitement at this amusement park! With a variety of activities, including mini-golf and go-kart racing, everyone can find something to enjoy. Perfect for creating lasting memories together.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Bloomington

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Bloomington for those on a budget is in January, November, and December, when hotel prices are lower. For a great value for money experience, consider staying for at least 2 to 3 days to fully explore the city's key historical and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can enjoy landmarks such as the university, indulge in shopping, experience family-friendly entertainment, savor live music, dine at various restaurants, attend theater performances, appreciate local art, and even take part in dancing events. This affordable getaway allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Bloomington.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals on hotels in Bloomington, explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Signing up for email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save more. Additionally, Smart Shopping is a useful comparison tool within the app that allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see the best hotel deals. This way, if prices drop or rooms become available, you’ll be the first to know for that spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay in a Bloomington hotel. If you're searching for something unique, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and could offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is higher, we may suggest more budget-friendly dates to help you find a great deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be pricier, but with Bloomington's fantastic public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that still has good connections. For those interested in exploring alternative, less populated neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there’s often great value to be found. Opting for these alternative locations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Bloomington

Bloomington experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 25.5°F (-3.6°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.6°F (23.1°C). May tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Bloomington are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.