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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: 68°F | Low: 40°F
Looks like Mother Nature is giving us a bit of a mixed bag today in our lovely Bloomington! 🌦️🌻 Showers are on the horizon, with a chance of a thunderstorm popping up after 4 pm. So, if you're planning a stroll along the charming B-Line Trail or catching a show at the historic Buskirk-Chumley Theater later, you might want to keep that trusty umbrella handy.
Before the rain dances in, we might see some patchy fog this morning. So, if you're out and about early—perhaps grabbing a warm cup of chai from the cozy Little Tibet spot—take it easy on the roads and enjoy the misty morning views. 🚲☕
Temperatures are playing peek-a-boo today, with a high near 68. And tonight, as the sun dips behind the scenic Rose Well House, we could have more showers and thunderstorms before midnight. So, if you're planning a romantic evening walk through The Arboretum, a rain check might be in order. 💋🌳
By the time the clock strikes midnight, we may still have a few isolated showers lingering around, so don't be surprised if you hear a pitter-patter on your windowpane as you drift off to sleep. 🌙💤
As we roll into the new day, expect things to clear up gradually, with the sun peeking out from behind the clouds. So, by mid-morning, you might want to grab a light jacket before heading out to enjoy our beautiful city. With a steady temperature around 43 degrees, it feels like a perfect day to take a leisurely stroll through our serene and colorful Arboretum. 🌼🦋
Winds are going to be playful today, dancing around us like a whimsical breeze, so hold onto your hat if you're out and about. The west wind might give us a little nudge at 15 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. But hey, that just adds to the excitement of our ever-changing Bloomington weather, doesn't it? 🌬️🌳
So, my dear neighbors, keep an eye on the sky, dress comfortably, and embrace whatever weather quirks come our way today. And as always, stay safe, stay cozy, and enjoy every moment in our wonderful Bloomington! 🌈🏡
Last updated: February 19, 2026 5:07 am
📅 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.

