Latest Guide
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The Best Townie Bars in Bloomington, Indiana
Skip the college chaos. Discover where Bloomington locals actually drink — from dive bars with character to hidden gems serving craft cocktails. Your guide to the townie circuit.
Meet Bloomington
Every corner has a story — from longtime businesses on Kirkwood to newcomers building something special. We shine a light on places that make our town worth knowing.


🌟 Life in Bloomington
We’re more than just a college town. Bloomington is where limestone meets live music, where co-ops thrive alongside corner cafes. Whether you’re walking the B-Line Trail, catching a matinee at the Buskirk-Chumley, or grabbing tamales at the Farmers’ Market — this town has a rhythm of its own.
- 🎭 See what’s on stage or playing downtown
- 🍅 Explore local food & drink
- 📚 Find community resources & programs
Need a recommendation or want to share your own? Send us a tip or add a local favorite.
📢 Monroe County Alerts

Stay informed with emergency notifications and important local updates. Sign up for the Monroe County Alert System to get messages by text, email, or phone — tailored to your location.
🌞 Today’s Weather
High: 70°F | Low: 52°F
Hey there, Bloomington! 🌳☕ Looks like we've got a mixed bag of weather headed our way today. So, it might be a good idea to keep that umbrella handy after lunch, just in case those clouds decide to sprinkle a little surprise on us.
We're starting the day off with some sunshine, which is always a good sign, right? High near 70 sounds like a lovely invitation to take a stroll around Cedar Bluffs Nature Preserve or maybe grab a bite at The Owlery Restaurant for some fresh, local goodness. 🥗🪨
But hold onto your hats—literally, with that breeze picking up from the west-southwest around 11 mph. Gusts might give us a playful nudge at 21 mph, so make sure your favorite hat is securely fastened!
Now, as we head into the evening, those clouds are going to start gathering 'round and we might hear a rumble or two. 🌦️ If you're planning to swing by Assembly Hall for a game or just cozy up at home, keep an eye out for some showers and possible thunderstorms after 3 pm. Don't be surprised if you hear a little pitter-patter on your windowpane.
And hey, don't forget to take it easy on 3rd Street Traffic today—maybe a little rain dance will help those cars move a tad faster! 😉 Stay safe out there, Bloomington, and enjoy the rhythm of the day.
Last updated: February 18, 2026 4:30 pm
📅 What’s Happening This Week
From happy hour specials to live shows — stay in the loop with Bloomington’s best deals and events.
📰 Bloomington News
Fresh from the front page — local headlines, neighborhood voices, and timely stories from across Monroe County. Whether it’s city hall or the farmer’s market, this is where Bloomington stays in the loop.

- Monroe County election board OKs 28 Election Day polling sites, early voting hours, but state legislation could limit schedule
- Federal lawsuit challenging Indiana’s student ID voting ban seeks emergency court order ahead of primary
- Two Showers West tenants fight Bloomington’s bid to terminate leases; judge weighs city’s ‘inverse condemnation’ theory
- 10th Street & Madison Street
- Feb. 16, 2026: Voter registration move, bus service in limbo, failed inspection at Crawford

- UPDATE: I-69 chase that started just south of Bloomington ends in standoff; truck fire later went out
- Beech Grove officer Brian Elliott killed, another wounded; statewide Blue Alert issued for suspect
- Indiana defensive coordinator Bryant Haines wins Broyles Award as nation’s top assistant coach
- IU economics lecturer arrested on child solicitation charge after Florida undercover probe, police say
- Bloomington Convention Center skybridge takes shape over South College Avenue
Our News Sources
A curated roundup from trusted local voices:
- 🟥 B Square Bulletin – Independent reporting on city government & local policy
- 🟦 The Bloomingtonian – Photojournalism & breaking local news
- 🟨 Limestone Post – Longform features, arts, and community stories
- 🎙️ The Electron Pencil – Local commentary and civic opinion
- 📻 Earth Eats – Sustainable food and farming from WFIU/WTIU
- 🏛️ IU News – Highlights from Indiana University & campus life
🛍️ Support Local Businesses
From bookstores to bike shops, bakeries to barbers — our local businesses keep Bloomington buzzing.

