Fun Things to Do in Normal, Illinois
Explore the vibrant city of Normal, Illinois, where you can enjoy a variety of activities ranging from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Whether you're a family looking for fun, a college student seeking entertainment, or a visitor looking to explore, there's plenty to do in this college town.
Outdoor Activities
Start your visit with exploring the natural beauty of Normal. Hiking near Griffy Lake or boating/kayaking is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors. For a more leisurely afternoon, consider barbecuing by the waterside at Lake Monroe. Another unique experience is visiting the old Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower, where you can see the fall colors from the top.
Boating and Hiking
Hiking near Griffy Lake Boating or kayaking at Lake Monroe Visit Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower for fall colorsFor a bit of culture, visit McCormick Creek Park, which offers horse riding alongside other activities. Families with children might enjoy Wonder Lab on 4th street, which is both fun for kids and adults. If you're looking for winter fun, the Frank Southern Ice Arena offers ice skating. For a fun night out, there's also bowling at IMU.
Farm and Community Activities
Staying in the local flavor, don't miss the farmers market in the summer. For more permanent community events, the Brown County State Park and Abe Martin Lodge serve delicious food. Lastly, do not miss out on the various fun events hosted by the nearby university.
Entertainment and Cultural Activities
Normal's entertainment scene includes a variety of record stores for music lovers. Waiting Room, North Street Records, and Reverberation Vinyl are all excellent options to explore. For animal lovers, the Miller Park Zoo is a small but diverse family-friendly destination. Just a mile away, Ropp Dairy Farm offers an interactive farm experience where you can view and interact with farm animals, and taste some of the best cheese in town, especially cheese curds.
Bloomington/Normal is also known for its dining scene. Despite being a college town with its fair share of chain restaurants, there are also excellent individual eateries. Some of our favorites include Destihl, Biaggi’s, Epiphany Farms, Fort Jesse Cafe, Tony’s Tacos, The Rock, and Ephesus.
College Town Charm
Normal was once known as a teachers' college, Illinois State Normal University until 1963, and is still famous for its educational atmosphere. During my time in the 1970s, it was renowned for its parties. Today, the charm of a college town remains, with many events and activities catering to students and visitors alike.
With so much to offer, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, make sure to plan your visit to Normal, Illinois, for unforgettable fun and enjoyment.