9 Best Bars in Bloomington, Indiana for a Night Out

Searching for the ideal spot to relax following a busy day or start an incredible night out? There is something for everyone in the dynamic and varied bar culture found in Bloomington, Indiana. Bloomington has plenty of interesting places to discover, whether your tastes are in vibrant college-town atmospheres, small bars, handmade cocktails, or live music venues.

From legendary favorites like Kilroy’s and Nick’s English Hut to underappreciated treasures like Orbit Room and Alchemy, this town knows how to keep the good times flowing. We’ll tour you through the nine top bars in Bloomington in this guide so you might sip, dance, and create lifelong memories. So be ready for an amazing night out in Bloomington’s vibrant nightlife scene, whether your visit is first-time or you are a native hoping to find new favorites!

1. Kilroy’s on Kirkwood

Among Indiana University students and alumni especially, Kilroy’s on Kirkwood is almost a Bloomington institution. Renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and large outside patio, Kilroy provides the ideal mix of traditional nightlife vitality with college-town excitement. Inside you can find more private lounging nooks for chats and big open spaces ideal for dancing.

Their well-known “$2 Tuesdays” and “Bucket Night” discounts have become a weekly ritual. From traditional beers and shots to creative drinks like their dangerously delicious “John Daly,” a supercharged Arnold Palmer, the drink menu is broad. If you’re hungry, Kilroy’s also has a good kitchen with wings, burgers, and loaded tots, so it’s a terrific place to start or finish your night out.

2. The Upstairs Pub

One of Bloomington’s most well-liked venues for both laid-back and exciting evenings out is The Upstairs Pub, right off Kirkwood Avenue. The pub, true to its name, is on the second story of a building and has a warm, somewhat hidden-away atmosphere. It’s well-known for its laid-back vibe, great drink menu, and inventive “upstream punch”—a sweet, fruity beverage presented in vibrantly colored buckets ideal for sharing.

Early in the evening, The Upstairs is also well-known for its laid-back ambiance that changes to become a more high-energy, dance-friendly scene as the evening goes on. They also provide a little outdoor balcony where you may sip your drink while taking in a different view of downtown Bloomington’s nightlife from above the street.

3. The Atlas Ballroom

The Atlas Ballroom presents a welcome variation of pace if you’re seeking something different from the standard student pub. Students and residents alike love this unique location, which blends arcade games, pool tables, and pinball machines with a full-service bar. For those who want a night of games and casual chat over noisy music and a packed dance floor, this is a laid-back and unique vibe.

To provide even more thrills, they occasionally stage themed parties and live music events. Reasonably priced craft beers, innovative house drinks, and a few old favorites abound on the drink list. The Atlas Ballroom offers an amazing mix of enjoyment and relaxation, whether your goal is to sip a craft IPA or beat your pals at Pac-Man.

4. Nick’s English Hut

Without including Nick’s English Hut, no compilation of Bloomington bars would be whole. Nick’s is a Bloomington monument and a favorite among IU graduates; it has been open since 1927. It is a tradition, not only a bar. The area is big, divided over several rooms, and loaded with IU mementos that evoke real and emotional memories.

For first-timers, Nick’s is well-known for their “Sink the Biz” game, in which players aim to sink a little cup floating in a bucket of beer. Easy to spend a full evening here is the meal selection, which consists of substantial American pub foods including cheeseburgers, wings, and nachos. Whether you want a taste of Bloomington history or are commemorating a big game victory, Nick’s offers a night full of friendship, beer, and good times.

5. The Bluebird

The Bluebird is hands-down the best spot in Bloomington for fans of live music to see a performance. Over the years, this iconic music venue has presented events including Blues Traveler, Dave Matthews Band, and John Mellencamp. Simple and understated, the inside emphasizes the stage and provides lots of space for dancing or standing near the action.

Though mostly known for concerts, The Bluebird also hosts karaoke and special evenings, including an 80’s Dance Party, to appeal to all kinds of people. Drinks here are reasonably priced; the bar presents a decent assortment of beers and well-made drinks. The Bluebird should be first on your list if you want a night out in Bloomington to be centered on fantastic live music and a vibrant atmosphere.

6. Orbit Room

One of Bloomington’s more recent bar ideas, Orbit Room has become a local favorite quite fast. Situated on the east side of the central square, Orbit Room presents a small but quite elegant setting with an emphasis on handmade drinks and first-rate cuisine. Starry paintings and a sophisticated but welcoming environment define the space-themed décor, which is not gimmicky.

Skilled and personable, their bartenders are ready to create imaginative house specials using fresh ingredients or traditional drinks like Manhattans and Old Fashioneds. Apart from their excellent alcohol selection, Orbit Room regularly hosts DJ evenings and little acoustic events, so offering a vibrant but personal nightlife choice. If you want a stylish but laid-back evening out with friends or a date, this is the ideal place.

7. Yogi’s Bar & Grill

From college students to long-time Bloomington residents, Yogi’s Bar & Grill provides a well-rounded experience appealing to a large audience. Yogi’s has maintained its devoted following after relocating on the south side of downtown thanks to its excellent cuisine, robust beverages, and friendly atmosphere. There are lots of large screens for viewing a game and enough seating for parties in the open and friendly interior.

Yogi’s is well-known for its mouthwatering nachos and customizable burgers as well as for its strong draft beer selection, including national and local favorites. Happy Hour offers are considerable, which makes pre-dinner beverages or a full night of bar-hopping reasonably priced. Yogi’s is a great choice if you want a laid-back, understated place where you might spend hours comfortably.

8. Alchemy

Alchemy is the place to visit for those who value a more sophisticated and cocktail-oriented experience. Alchemy is a speakeasy-style bar hidden on the north side of the downtown square that feels like a well-kept secret. The seating is luxurious, the lighting is low, and the cocktail selection is well chosen with unusual, handcrafted items. Often employing house-made syrups, fresh-squeezed juices, and small-batch spirits, drinks are created with exactness. Whether your order is a basic Negroni or one of their seasonal specials, every cocktail seems like an experience. Alchemy is perfect for a more subdued evening where fine beverages and discussion will be the major attractions. For a first date, a small get-together, or anyone wishing to explore Bloomington’s more elegant side of the bar scene, this is the ideal pick.

9. Crazy Horse

A mainstay of Bloomington’s bar culture, Crazy Horse is well-known for its large beer selection, wide range of whiskey choices, and laid-back atmosphere. Popular among residents as well as those who value a more subdued, traditional bar setting, Crazy Horse is located just off the downtown square. Dark wood details, low lighting, and lots of seating choices define the friendly and warm vibe here.

While the whiskey menu is among the most varied in town, their beer list comprises dozens of domestic, craft, and foreign choices. Along with a complete menu of American pub favorites ranging from sandwiches and salads to substantial entrees, Crazy Horse also offers a large selection of beverages and a laid-back atmosphere free of all the noise and commotion of more packed locations. For individuals who prefer to enjoy nice conversation, this is the perfect place.

Finally

Combining history, modernism, and a passion for great beverages and good company, Bloomington’s bar culture wonderfully embodies the vibrant attitude of the city. There is a bar here to fit your mood, whether your taste is for a laid-back evening with creative drinks, a vintage pub experience, or a night of live music. With so many amazing choices, you will certainly discover a few favorites that will keep you returning. The next time you’re organizing a night out, let this list of Bloomington’s top bars be your perfect road map for an evening to remember!

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