Spring (fingers crossed) is here to stay. I’m continuing my staycation plans for Spring Break this week. If you missed the first part of the Bloomington Staycation, read it here. So away we go!
Outdoors: I always explore the natural landscape wherever I travel. Staying at home is no different. I’ll be doing a little hiking over at the Griffy Lake Nature Preserve, McCormick’s Creek State Park, Morgan-Monroe State Forest, and Yellowwood State Forest. And if it’s warm enough, a picnic at Lake Monroe will definitely be on the itinerary. My dog Lucy loves going to the park and for walks on the B-Line.
Food Scene: One of the best parts of traveling is trying local food. I’ve heard great reviews of Turkuaz which draws me closer to my goal of trying all of Bloomington’s international restaurants. I researched a bit to find Indiana is known for a few delicacies in particular: sugar cream pie, tenderloin, chili, corn dogs, persimmon pudding. So I’m on a mission to find the best Bloomington has to offer. I’m thinking I’ll start with The Cabin after time at Lake Monroe, Bobby’s Colorado Steakhouse, Bub’s Burgers, Hinkle’s, or Opie Taylor’s. And don’t forget our love of craft beer: Quaff On!, The Tap, Function, and Bloomington Brewing Company. The Woodshop at Upland will be the main focus since I haven’t been there yet. And I just heard about Oddball Fermentables, and with a name like that, I’ll be going. If I’m lucky, I’ll add in a special upscale dinner at Farm, Malibu Grill, No Coast Reserve, or Uptown Cafe.
History: I want to take a little time to get to know the history of Bloomington and Monroe County. I’ll start with the Monroe County History Center. I pass the Farmer House Museum every day; it’s about time I went. Hinkle-Garton Farmstead Community Historic Site sounds pretty interesting too. And who knows where the day may take me.
Night Out: And what vacation would be complete without a night out? I may not be sipping on a Mai Tai on the beach, but I can definitely have a Bloody Mary on (near to be exact) the B-Line at Cardinal Spirits. I still haven’t made it to C3 or Serendipity and there is no time like the present.
Gather 