Oh, the places you’ll go … while Indiana University students are out of town.
In many ways, IU students are the lifeblood of downtown Bloomington, and there’s more than a few downtown institutions known for being “student spots.” From bars to restaurants, these places love and value their student clientele — but during the summer, they may feel the pinch.
Summer is the perfect time to visit these places. Whether grabbing a drink at the Upstairs Pub or stopping in for brunch at Runcible Spoon, you can support local business during their slump time while also enjoying shorter wait times and a more diverse, townie-friendly clientele.
Grab a drink (or two) at the Upstairs Pub
The Upstairs Pub, often shortened to “Upstairs,” is among the most iconic IU college bars — but that doesn’t mean it’s just for college students. The East Kirkwood Avenue rooftop bar is known for affordable drinks, tasty in-house food options (think nachos and loaded fries) and wide floor plan, ideal for sports watch parties and larger gatherings. Not to mention, it’s just steps away from townie summer spots like Hartzell’s Ice Cream and Rita’s Italian Ice — both open late.
Why to visit this summer: If Upstairs is one thing, it’s busy. Summer is the perfect time for townies to visit; the lines are shorter, the crowd is tamer, and the clientele transforms into a healthy mix of townies and students who stay in town. Plus, the summer months are the ideal time to enjoy the semi-outdoor setting, which still offers shade and fans for those who are easily sun tired.
Play bowling and billiards at the Indiana Memorial Union
Bowling alleys were once standard fare at university student unions, and Indiana University is one of the few campuses that’s kept theirs intact. What’s better, the Indiana Memorial Union’s 12-lane bowling alley and pool hall stay open during the summer, available to students and townies alike from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.
Bowling starts at just $20 an hour per lane (pricing varies based on day of the week), and cheaper rates are available for CrimsonCard-holding IU students, faculty and staff. Bowling shoes can be rented for $4.50 — $4 for those with a CrimsonCard. Billiards can be rented for $9 an hour per table ($8 for those with a CrimsonCard).
Why to visit this summer: Bowling and billiards are ideal activities to enjoy with friends on summer days when it’s raining or too hot to be outside. The IMU’s bowling alley and pool hall combine the fun of the sport with historic Midwestern architecture that’ll make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.
Enjoy a classic dive bar experience at “The Vid”
One of Bloomington’s oldest bars, the Video Saloon — popularly known as “The Vid” — is an upstairs dive offering affordable drinks, darts, pool tables and more. Due to its proximity to campus, and to Taco Bell, the Vid has become more associated with IU students over time, but the space is still perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a classic dive experience.
Why to visit this summer: On any given night during the IU school year, the Vid can not only get busy; it can get hot. The summer is the perfect time to experience the Vid when it’s “chill,” in both senses.
Taste award-winning chicken wings at BuffaLouie’s
This classic wing and burger restaurant — named one of the top 10 wing joints in the country by USA Today in 2011 — is considered quintessential Bloomington. From its historic charm, being housed in one of the city’s oldest buildings, to its cream-and-crimson facade and walls of IU memorabilia, BuffaLouie’s offers great atmosphere and food — a perfect spot to take those out-of-towners visiting for the first time.
Why to visit this summer: Two words: parking lots. Downtown Bloomington can be a nightmare for those who have to find parking, but in the summer, IU’s lots along Indiana Avenue ease up a bit. Any time past 5 p.m. on weekdays and all-day on Saturday and Sunday, non-reserved spots in the parking lot directly behind BuffaLouie’s are open and free to use.
Get lunch and stay a while at Runcible Spoon
It’s certainly not a student-only spot, but Runcible Spoon’s proximity to campus all but guarantees long wait times for Saturday and Sunday brunch during the school year. This summer, stop into this cozy, historic cafe that’s been a Bloomington staple since 1976. Though it’s best known for its brunch, Runcible Spoon is open well into the evening every day, making it an ideal lunch, brunch or late-night hangout spot.
Why to visit this summer: Wait times for a table are just about the best they’ll ever be. Plus, the IU parking garage right across the street has free parking on weekends.
Reach Brian Rosenzweig at brian@heraldt.com. Follow him on X/Twitter at @brianwritesnews.
This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: 5 places to visit before Indiana University students are back in Bloomington
Reporting by Brian Rosenzweig, The Herald-Times / The Herald-Times
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
