Bloomington Illinois Accommodations

When to Visit Bloomington, IL

Early fall and late spring are beautiful in Bloomington. The average weather is sunny with mild temperatures and low humidity so you can fully enjoy all the outdoor activities this city has to offer. Whether you hit the greens at The Den at Fox Creek Golf Course or spend the afternoon wandering through Miller Park Zoo with your family, you won't need more than a light jacket most days.

Spring and fall are also when most prospective college students and their families tour Illinois Wesleyan University and Illinois State University, so the most affordable rooms can book up quickly, and the rates usually rise with the increased demand. If you'd like to visit Bloomington during these times, make your hotel reservations early to get the best prices.

Summer in Bloomington is hot and humid, especially in August, but that doesn't stop tourists from descending on the city as the annual Illinois Shakespeare Festival gets under way. Between shows, guests can soak up even more culture at one of the many local art galleries or take a break from more intellectual pursuits at the nearby Arcadia: America's Playable Arcade Museum. With so much to do and see, this is still peak season for Bloomington area hotels, so plan accordingly with early reservations to avoid higher rates.

Due to the colder, more unpredictable weather, winter is the most affordable and least crowded time to visit Bloomington. Snow is always a possibility, so bring your cold-weather gear or plan to spend most of your time inside. Use the money you save on the lower room rates to buy a family heirloom from Cydney's Antiques or by upgrading your stay to a luxury hotel with all the amenities.

Best Discounts in Bloomington, IL

If you belong to a qualifying group, you could receive a substantial discount when booking a room at a Bloomington hotel. Quality Inn & Suites, located near US Cellular Coliseum, gives a 10 percent discount on selected rooms to AAA and AARP members, while active members of the military and government employees receive a 7 percent discount. Standard room features include comfortable beds, refrigerators, microwaves, and flat-screen TVs, and guests can help themselves to complimentary coffee, tea, and newspapers in the lobby. Quality Inn & Suites also has an indoor pool and hot tub, limited room service, and plenty of parking.

The Hampton Inn Bloomington West also gives AAA members a 10 percent discount. Located near the Miller Park Zoo, the Bloomington-Normal Factory Stores, and Illinois Wesleyan University, this hotel puts you within minutes of most major attractions. Don't let this hotel's spacious rooms, large indoor pool, and fitness center tempt you to stay in so long you don't get a chance to see all the local sights. A free hot and cold breakfast buffet is available for early risers with to-go bags for guests who are in a rush. Late risers will appreciate the black-out curtains that come standard in every room.

Best Value Options in Bloomington, IL

If you're looking for a mid-range hotel that will give you the most for your money, Bloomington has plenty to choose from. Located near the Redbird Arena, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott features a sleek, modern look. Individual rooms are spacious, but when you book a full suite, you'll have a separate living area, office space, and bedroom to stretch out in. After you're finished exploring Bloomington for the day, curl up on the pillow-top mattress for a restful night's sleep. In the morning, piping hot coffee and a full breakfast bar will be waiting, compliments of the Fairfield Inn staff.

Country Inn & Suites by Carlson is another good choice for value-minded visitors to Bloomington. Located close to the Children's Discovery Museum and the Weibring Golf Club, this hotel features an extra-large indoor pool as well as a fully-equipped fitness center. The well-appointed rooms include free wired and wireless Internet connections, soaking tubs, and premium toiletries, but guests can upgrade to include an in-room whirlpool tub if they like. A free children's club is available for busy families, as well as roomy parking that can handle everything from a large recreational vehicle to a big rig.

Best Places to Eat in Bloomington, IL

Once you've settled into your hotel room, it might be hard to leave, but most Bloomington visitors will want to dine out at least once during their stay. This area has something to satisfy every appetite, whether you prefer local cuisine, ethnic food, or the consistent familiarity of chain restaurants.

At Meatheads on Veterans Parkway, the Original Meathead Burger is a delicious creation made from 100 percent Black Angus beef with generous toppings, but the Cajun fries with extra cheese sauce are truly special. Reality Bites on Main Street is a trendy, small-plate eatery that mixes exceptional cocktails and pairs them with the perfect selection of tapas for a lunch, dinner, or late-night snack that you'll remember fondly long after leaving Bloomington.

Whether you're staying in downtown Bloomington in a boutique hotel or spending your time in more affordable accommodations closer to the airport or train station, you'll enjoy your time in this Illinois city. There's plenty for you and your entire family to see and do while you're here.