Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Bloomington, IN
Bloomington is Indiana University's city with access to Monroe Lake, the Hoosier National Forest, and the Oliver Winery.
Monroe Lake and the Oliver Winery offer nature and wine in the hills of south central Indiana.
Browse by Drive Time
Popular Interests
or browse all12 destinations near Bloomington
Hippo Cove
Cincinnati, OH 45229
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 25 min from Bloomington · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park
Indianapolis, IN 46228
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 6 min from Bloomington · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Twin Caves
Mitchell, IN 47446
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 54 min from Bloomington · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Squire Boone Caverns
Mauckport, IN 47142
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.2k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 7 min from Bloomington · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Marengo Cave U.S. National Landmark
Marengo, IN 47140
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 28 min from Bloomington · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Jasper Parklands
Jasper, IN 47546
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 24 min from Bloomington · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Malibu Jack's Lafayette
Lafayette, IN 47905
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.7 by 3.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 46 min from Bloomington · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Indiana Caverns
Corydon, IN 47112
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 2.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 54 min from Bloomington · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cataract Falls State Recreation Area
Spencer, IN 47460
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 2.6k+ visitors) · 46 min from Bloomington · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
White River State Park
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 5.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr 1 min from Bloomington · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Eagle Creek Park
Indianapolis, IN 46254
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 6.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 2 min from Bloomington · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Donaldson Cave
3333 IN-60, Mitchell
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 52 min from Bloomington · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Bloomington, IN?
The best day trips from Bloomington include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Bloomington?
Most great day trips from Bloomington are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Bloomington?
Many of the best day trips near Bloomington are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Bloomington?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Bloomington, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Bloomington?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Bloomington make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
Plan Your Stay
We may earn a commission when you book through these links.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me