1. Constitution Trail
This is my happy place. Whether I’m walking the dogs, biking with my family, or just soaking in the seasons, the Trail winds through some of the most beautiful parts of town. It’s peaceful, scenic, and makes me fall in love with B-N all over again.
2. Uptown Normal’s Redesign & Community Vibe
Uptown has truly become the heartbeat of Normal. Between the Sweet Corn Festival (YES, it’s as delicious as it sounds), the Sugar Creek Arts Festival, and the charming shops and cafes, it feels like a postcard come to life. I love that there’s always something going on.
3. Downtown Bloomington’s Character & Culture
Historic, quirky, and full of charm. Saturday mornings at the Downtown Farmers’ Market are my kind of weekend ritual. First Fridays bring out artists, food, music, and such a great community vibe. Bonus points for Fox & Hounds Salon (best pampering in town) and The Mystic Kitchen (their cocktails are magical—literally).
4. Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts (BCPA)
Live theater, concerts, comedy—you name it. BCPA brings national talent to our doorstep. There’s something really special about seeing a Broadway-quality show just a few minutes from home.
5. Our Colleges = Big Heart, Big Impact
Illinois State, Illinois Wesleyan, and Heartland Community College bring so much energy, culture, and diversity to our area. I love how our town supports the students and vice versa—it keeps us young at heart!
6. All the Parks, Dog Parks & Splash Pads
We are seriously spoiled. From family picnics and playgrounds to dog zoomies and summer splash pad fun, our parks are a 10/10. Shout out to the ones with shade and coffee nearby—my kind of multitasking.
7. Miller Park Zoo
Small but mighty! This zoo is such a gem—perfect for an afternoon with kids or visitors. Plus, the flamingos always bring the drama, and I respect that.
8. CornBelters Baseball at the Corn Crib
Minor league baseball with a major dose of fun. Fireworks, goofy mascots, and affordable family nights out—I love everything about it.
9. Central Illinois Regional Airport (CIRA)
Small airport. Big convenience. You can get from your car to the gate in about 10 minutes flat. It’s like air travel without the stress. Bonus: I once flew to Vegas with 12 minutes to spare.
10. Location, Location, Location
Being smack dab in the middle of Illinois is a huge perk. Weekend getaway? Easy. Chicago, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Galena—they’re all just a quick road trip away.
11. And MOST importantly... the PEOPLE
This is the real magic of Bloomington-Normal. The kindness, the sense of community, the way neighbors become friends and friends become family. Midwest hospitality is real—and it’s alive and well here. There’s just nothing like Midwest people. Period.