Bloomington

A small city that’s so exciting you’ll never want to leave

Step off the brick plaza by IU Bloomington’s Sample Gates and you’re on Kirkwood Avenue, the center of student life in Bloomington.

As you walk past the inviting restaurants and cool shops on this tree-lined street, you’ll experience what makes this city of 86,000 great: the combination of a small-city feel, the vitality and culture of a larger city, and a sense of community that will keep you coming back long after you graduate.

#2best college town in America, USA Today, 2019

Among the 50most beautiful college campuses, Condé Nast Traveler, 2022

#6best college town to live in forever, College Ranker, 2023

This is Bloomington

When you choose a college, remember that you’re choosing a college town as well. Make the most of your four years. Spend them in Bloomington.

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Emma: Four years

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Emma: One thousand four hundred sixty days

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Emma: Thirty five thousand forty hours

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Emma: Hours spent discovering the traditions of a tight-knit community

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Emma: Hours spent getting lost in your thoughts

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Emma: Or just being a face in the crowd

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Emma: You have four years

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Emma: Spend them in Bloomington

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Where is Bloomington, anyway?

We’re in south central Indiana, just hours from major cities like Indianapolis, Chicago, and Cincinnati, and within a day’s drive of more than half of the U.S. population. Most of our students are far enough from home to have their independence, but close enough that family can get here easily.

Map of Indiana and surrounding states and cities

Come for IU. Stay for Bloomington.

The best way to follow up a visit to IU? Explore the ideal college town for an extra day or two.

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