In the heart of this movement, Chicago skate school programs are helping new skaters build skills and confidence from the ground up. These schools offer structured lessons for beginners while also serving as creative hubs for more experienced riders looking to sharpen their tricks. As demand grows, skateboarding is transforming from a casual pastime into a well-supported sport across Illinois.

A Cultural Shift Rolling In

Skateboarding isn’t just a coastal trend anymore. While California may have birthed the sport, Illinois has embraced it with open arms. Over the last decade, the state’s skateboarding scene has evolved from a niche subculture to a growing movement supported by public officials, local businesses, and enthusiastic communities.

Part of this boom stems from the increased visibility of skateboarding in pop culture and the Olympics. The sport made its debut at the 2020 Tokyo Games, sparking interest across age groups. In Illinois, this visibility has translated into new skateparks, local competitions, and an influx of youth picking up boards instead of video game controllers.

Rise of Skateparks Across the State

Ten years ago, it was tough to find a decent skatepark outside Chicago. Now, cities and small towns alike are investing in skate-friendly spaces. Public funding and grassroots campaigns have led to the construction and renovation of dozens of skateparks throughout Illinois.

Skateparks in places like Springfield, Urbana, and Peoria are drawing crowds from neighboring towns. These modern parks often include bowls, rails, quarter pipes, and even beginner-friendly areas, welcoming skaters of all skill levels. In some places, skating has been formally integrated into city recreation programs, offering lessons and camps for kids and teens during school breaks.

Small Towns, Big Passion

It’s not just the bigger cities pushing skateboarding forward. In smaller towns surrounded by cornfields and silos, young skaters are building their own ramps, DIY skate spots, and forming tight-knit crews. With limited recreational options, skateboarding has become more than a hobby—it’s a lifeline for creativity, expression, and connection.

In towns like Effingham and Carbondale, skaters gather after school in parking lots or abandoned basketball courts. Local businesses have even started sponsoring events, giving out gear or prizes to top performers in impromptu contests. The sense of community is strong, and the growth is organic.

Schools and Parents Are Getting On Board

One of the surprising elements of this boom is the support from schools and families. Where skateboarding was once viewed with skepticism, it’s now seen as a legitimate and positive activity. Teachers and parents are recognizing its benefits—physical exercise, discipline, confidence, and creativity.

Some Illinois schools have even incorporated skateboarding into their PE programs or after-school clubs. To meet the growing interest, Illinois skateboard lessons are now widely available through private instructors in both urban and suburban areas, giving kids a structured way to learn the basics while staying active outdoors.

Diversity in the Scene

Another exciting element of Illinois’ skateboarding boom is its diversity. More girls, young women, and nonbinary individuals are participating, thanks to inclusive skate events and communities. Groups are organizing “skate meetups” that encourage newcomers to try out the sport in a supportive environment.

Chicago, in particular, has become a hub for inclusive skate culture. Events like “Skate Like a Girl” and other women-led sessions are drawing attention and building momentum for a broader, more welcoming skate scene. Skateboarding is becoming a place where everyone feels they belong, regardless of gender, race, or background.

Local Businesses Are Thriving

The rise in skateboarding has also boosted local economies. Skate shops are opening or expanding, and brands are partnering with skaters for merchandise drops and events. In cities like Champaign and Bloomington, local skate shops do more than sell gear—they host community nights, sponsor amateur skaters, and advocate for better skate infrastructure.

Some Illinois-based skate brands are gaining traction on social media, showcasing Midwest street skating and homegrown talent. This digital exposure helps Illinois skaters connect with national and international communities, proving that you don’t have to live in LA or NYC to make a name for yourself on four wheels.

The Future of Skateboarding in Illinois

Looking ahead, the skateboarding boom in Illinois shows no signs of slowing. With continued investment in skateparks, increasing diversity among skaters, and supportive communities, Illinois is becoming a major player in the national skateboarding scene.

There’s also growing interest in competitive skating. Local contests and amateur circuits are stepping stones for young skaters with Olympic dreams. Parents are enrolling their kids in skateboard schools that teach not only tricks but also safety and sportsmanship.

As Illinois continues to embrace skateboarding, it’s clear that the state’s image is shifting. Sure, there are still cornfields stretching for miles—but now, not too far away, you’ll also find smooth concrete, colorful graffiti, and the unmistakable sound of kickflips echoing through the air.

From cornfields to kickflips, Illinois is riding a new wave—one defined by creativity, community, and wheels on pavement. The skateboarding boom is more than just a trend; it’s a transformation of identity, showing that even in the heart of the Midwest, freedom and style can be found one push at a time.

This is a great restaurant with an Americana hometown feel.

About FARMbloomington

They are opened Tuesday – Sunday offering a seasonal menu, both in both food and drinks.

On Saturday and Sunday the restaurant offer brunch as well as their regular menu.

Everything on their menu is sourced as much as possible from the local farms and let me tell you it all looked good and I could have easily ordered one of everything, but I was good and only order the one dish that they are known for the Sweet Seasons French Toast.

Now, I am usually not one for French toast as it is too sweet for me, but this was a delicious burst of flavor in every bite.

Fresh homemade bread soaked with an egg and season mixture called Sweet Season Spice Blend created by chef and owner Daniel Orr, which gave it the right mixture of sweet and savory.

It was topped with a spiced caramel sauce, orange creme fraiche, and fresh fruit.

Oh my gosh, it was a melding of flavors that is just amazing.

In addition to the wonderful food they have to offer, there is a large list of signature cocktails, bourbons, bottled & draft beers.

FARMbloomington Cocktails

Many of their signature cocktails go wonderfully any time of the day, but from 3-5 they offer several options of snacks so that you can relax with friends and enjoy a cocktail.

In addition to the restaurant on the main floor, they also have the Root Cellar Lounge where you can finish off the night.

It is listed as one of Bloomington’s best-kept secrets. Offering a variety of music from local bands, DJ’s and karaoke.

A great place to unwind from a rough week or just to meet a friend for drinks.

If you looking for a place with fabulous food and an amazing atmosphere FARMbloomington is the place to go.

Pin Where To Eat in Bloomington, IN

I was thrilled to receive an email from a community member (Big thanks to Jason!) sharing all the cool things there are to do in Bloomfield. Everyone always wants to go to the big cities, but these small communities are so worth a visit. 

If you’re already in Indianapolis or the immediate surrounding area I encourage you to consider taking the short drive to Bloomfield to spend the day or longer.

10 Things To See and Do in Bloomfield, Indiana

America’s Longest Railroad Trestle (aka the Tulip Trestle)

This is an amazing structure that now has an observation area with lots of great views. The trestle is 2,307 feet long and 157 feet tall steel-girded railroad trestle and is one the longest of this type of bridge in the world still in use today by the Indiana Railroad Company. Located near the Tulip Community.

World’s Largest Jack

This was a gift to the Bloomfield Jack Factory from their supplier in Europe. The cast iron replica jack is 20 ft. tall and weighs in at 2,980-pounds. Located at West Spring St. in Bloomfield outside the factory.

Gnome Village

A local artist creates sculptures from junk and has a full gnome village to see. Located at 2740 N Harshman Rd Bloomfield IN 47424

Outdoor Metal Sculpture Museum

Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum is located deep in the woods amongst the rolling hills of Solsberry, Indiana. Founded in 2002, it displays over 166 large-scale sculptures by artists from around the world along a 3-mile trail. This might be the best thing, in my opinion.

The Goose pond

Goose Pond Fish & Wildlife Area in Greene County is the perfect place for my wildlife and birder friends. The “pond” is a huge expanse of wetlands that includes over 30 miles of earthen dikes, 1,400 acres of prairie, and nearly 4,000 acres of shallow water.  

The area is becoming a significant destination for Midwestern birders and hunters; and home to many migrating bird species, attested by the impressive Sandhill Crane fly-in each spring, as well as many endangered species such as the Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, Short-Eared Owl, Wilson’s Phalarope, King Rail, Sedge Wren, Henslow’s Sparrow, Whooping Crane, and American and Least Bitterns. Located Southwest of Linton.

Shawnee Summer Theatre

Indiana’s longest, continuously-running summer stock theatre. Since opening its doors in 1960, it has become a favorite Indiana summer tradition. This is closed for the season but is a good reason to come back. Located south of town in Bloomfield

Greene-Sullivan State Forest (not in Bloomfield, but worth the visit)

Fish, camp, or just rest and relaxation at Greene-Sullivan State Forest. This is one of the most beautiful and serene places to visit in the area.  Nearly 9,000 acres of wooded rolling hills dotted with more than 120 easily accessible lakes, making It one of the most unique areas in Southern Indiana.  

Many of the lakes are stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill and red-ear sunfish offering some of the finest fishing in the State.  With over 100 family campsites available between Narrow Lake, Wampler Lake, and Reservoir #26 and an additional 20 sites in the Horseman’s Campground near Ladder Lake, there is something for everyone including picnicking, mushroom hunting, horseback riding, photography, and wildlife viewing.

Redbird Off-Road State Recreation Area

This 1400-acre property contains approximately 50 miles of “marked” Off-Road Vehicle Trails.  From gentle slopes to technically difficult trails, “Redbird” (as it is known locally) delivers trails for all skill levels as they twist through the spoil piles left by early-era mining in the region.

Redbird has something for every off-road enthusiast, whether pick-up truck, dirt bike, SUV, ATV, UTV, or dune buggy. Located in Dugger this is a fun way to spend the day.

Richland-Plummer Creek Covered Bridge

This is a historic Burr Arch Truss wooden covered bridge located in Greene County, it was built in 1883 measuring 102’ long, 14’ wide, and 16’ tall. Located 2 1/2 miles south of downtown.

Largest Sycamore Tree (not quite Bloomfield, but nearby)

If you’re a fan of odd roadside attractions like us than make the 15-minute drive north to the town of Worthington to see the Largest Sycamore Tree. 

This is a monument containing one of the surviving remnants of this tree, the western limb (23 ft. 2 in. in circumference) and smaller of the two, was moved to this location in 1925 after it succumbed to a storm.

Estimated at 500 years old, the Oxford Journal of Heredity reported in September 1915 that the tree was the largest “Broad-Leaf Tree in the United States” measuring 42 feet 3 inches in circumference. In its heyday, the shady tree was a popular place young lovers because the tree was so hollow one could have picnics inside the trunk and so large that a horse and buggy could easily be hidden behind it.

Where To Shop in Bloomfield, Indiana

Persimmon Tree Foods and Gifts

A great place in Bloomfield to get unique items and foods. It’s a fun store to visit and the perfect place to find your next treasure. The store is located on Bloomfield’s Southside.

Second Times the Charm

An amazing thrift store that sells clothing, furniture and everything in between, not to mention their outreach programs that help the community. Second Times the Charm is located on Bloomfield’s Southside.

Season’s Greetings

This toy store is super cute and has high quality toys for every child that will last for generations. The store is located just off the square in Bloomfield.

Blue Barn Hill Farm

This small family farm has produce, plants, handcrafted items and homemade foods, they are online and have a self-serve roadside stand located 3 miles East of Bloomfield.

Where to Eat and Drink in Bloomfield, Indiana

Feed Store Beer Co

This watering hole brews beer and often has a food truck to serve dinner parked outside. They do trivia nights and other events. Located on the West side of Bloomfield.

Yoho’s General Store 

This is a wonderful little store and gas station that has a long history in the county. They have ice cream and pork tenderloins and other lunch foods. IYKYK, but in the South gas station eats are suprisingly delicious. I’m think the same can be said for Yoho’s. Located in Solsberry.

Belly & Kecky’s Pizzeria

Sit down, carryout or delivery. More than just pizza this family owned and operated restaurant is delightful. Find them on the Eastside of Bloomfield.

Mill Street Pizza

Carrying on a pizza tradition that has lasted over 40 years in the same location! The Home of the Square Pizza, located on South Seminary St. in Bloomfield.

Small-town festivals and Community Events

May – Bloomfield Town Wide Yard Sales

May – Barbecue, Blues, & Brews

July – 4th of July Celebration at Bloomfield Town Park & Fireworks Show

July – Bloomfield Downtown Revitalization Street Fest

October – Bloomfield Apple Festival – The perfect fall season activity 

December – Hometown Christmas

April 8th, 2024 – Bloomfield Indiana will be a prime view location for the solar eclipse!

Where To Stay In The Bloomfield Area

Hotels

Sleep Inn Newberry – Crane

Mainstay Suites Newberry – Crane

BnB Style Accommodations

Pleasant Grove Farm

Goose Pond Lodge and Retreat

Camping

Greene – Sullivan State Forest – Located about 30 minutes wests of Bloomfield. Primitive campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis PLUS 15 RENT-A-CAMP CABINS available for rent year round. Each cabin has a front porch with a swing. Inside there are two small rooms.

The front room offers a small table with bench seats, a corner shelf, a chair, a rocking chair, and a loft. The backroom offers a bunk bed (single) and a double bed (NO LINENS or MATTRESS PROVIDED). Air or cushioned mattress recommended. The cabins feature ceiling fans with light, a heating/cooling unit, and electrical outlets. While there isn’t a national park this is a good place for a great time outdoors. 

2024 TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE IN BLOOMFIELD, INDIANA

Bloomfield will be centered on the path of the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse. The eclipse, as seen from Bloomfield, will have a duration of 4 minutes and 4 seconds. During a total solar eclipse, the moon blocks the sun’s bright face called the photosphere, briefly revealing our sun’s outer atmosphere.

You’ll definitely want to book your stay now. I did a little research already and as of the date of publication, these accommodations still have very limited availability for April 7-9, 2024:

Sleep Inn Newberry – Crane

Mainstay Suites Newberry – Crane 

Greene-Sullivan State Forest. For my hard-core camping friends. There are 100+ PRIMITIVE camping sites BUT the sites are first come, first serve. Honestly, I’d arrive on Friday to try for a spot and make an entire long weekend of it. In our opinion this is always a fantastic way to spend a weekend.

More Information on Bloomfield & Surrounding Area

Bloomfield is located in Greene County, Indiana. You can find more information about visiting here.

How To Make The Most of Your Visit to French Lick, Indiana 1 hour southeast

Things To Do In Southern Indiana – Corydon 2 hours southeast

10 Reasons You Need To Visit Buffalo Trace Park In Southern Indiana 1.5 hours southeast

The Charm of Bloomington Indiana 45 minutes northeast

Reasons To Visit Santa Claus, Indiana This Holiday 1.5 hours south 

Outdoor Adventures in Hendricks County, Indiana You Don’t Want To Miss 1.5 hours north

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This lovely Bloomington hotel is neatly tucked on a side street just a short walk from the hustle and bustle of downtown and the campus of Indiana University.

Grant Street Inn is a 40-room bed and breakfast that provides luxuriously decorated rooms, a full, delicious breakfast, and personalized service.

Coffee is available all day and in the evening cookies are provided.

The Inn has two buildings; the main building where you check-in, have breakfast and also houses some of the rooms and a newly remodeled building across the street that has more rooms.

The landscaping around this Bloomington hotel is so pretty.

I loved all the flowers in bloom and the lush green grass. Each building has beautiful porches with white rocking chairs that provide a peaceful place to enjoy your morning coffee.

My room was in the building across the street on the second floor. It is one of the larger hotel rooms I’ve stayed in.

The huge king size bed was adorned with lush bedding that was so comfortable I wanted to pack it in my suitcase and bring it home.

The photo doesn’t really provide a good view, but there were also quite a few pillows on the bed.

Oh, how I love a bed with lots and lots of pillows.

I love the placement of the love seat in the room. It provided a great place to stretch out and plan the day.

The room had all the amenities that I’ve come to love at hotels: a large bathroom, comfortable seating and bed, and room to move around.

Activities To Do In And Near Bloomington IN

The Charm of Bloomington Indiana

Top 10 Places To Visit in Indiana & Where To Eat

Why You Should Go To The Bloomington Farmers Market

Things to do in Southern Indiana – Corydon(about 1:50 minutes away)

How To Make The Most of Your Visit to French Lick, Indiana(about 1:15 minutes away)

10 Reasons You Need To Visit Buffalo Trace Park In Southern Indiana(about 1:30 minutes away)

Pin Grant Street Inn Bloomington Indiana to Pinterest

And that’s what I’m here for: to help you know just where to look.

Be sure to use the map below to book a stay for your visit to Indiana.

Top 10 Places To Visit in Indiana

Grabill

First on the list of musts is to visit Grabill Indiana! Did you know that Indiana has the third highest Amish population in the nation?

Grabill is one of those quaint Amish towns that will leave you appreciating the simpler things in life while wowing you with the skills of the Amish.

Spend the day shopping the incredible craftsmanship as well as fresh and delicious food.

French Lick

Soak up some Indiana history with a visit to French Lick.

Enjoy a luxurious stay at the French Lick West Baden Resort, then spend time at the French Lick West Baden Museum where you’ll feast your eyes on the largest circus diorama in the world.

For animal lovers, Wilstem Ranch is a must. Be sure to grab a bite at one of the cute cafes in French Lick.

Story Inn

A stay at the Story Inn is not for the convenience. In fact, its locale is anything but.

Why is it a must visit? Because it’s one of the most haunted places in Indiana!

That’s more than enough for me, but the Story also has a great history and is certainly a fascinating place to stay.

Wolf Park

Located in Lafayette, Indiana, Wolf Park is the place to visit on a summer weekend.

Learn from the experts about wolves and their behaviors while admiring these amazing creatures.

You’ll even have the opportunity to join in a wolf howl chorus!

Bloomington

Home to Indiana University, Bloomington is full of places to see, things to do, and food to eat!

Kayak Lake Monroe, cozy up at the Starlite Drive-in Theater, shop the weekend farmer’s market, visit the exhibits at the Lilly Library, or walk the beautiful IU campus.

Corydon

Coined “Indiana’s Hometown,” Corydon in Southern Indiana is proud of its historical heritage as well as its system of caves and caverns.

You can visit these caves or learn about them above ground at the Harrison County Discovery Center.

Shop local crafts and sip and relax at local wineries.

Grant County

Grant County is loaded with unique experience opportunities. Hop on the Garfield Trail (yes, the cat!) where you’ll spot 11 statues of the snarky orange cat.

Admire the quilts of the Quilters Hall of Fame.

And, of course, grab some of the best ice cream from Ivanhoe’s where you’ll choose from a menu topping 200 options!

Santa Claus

Are you the kind that would love to celebrate Christmas year-round? Santa Claus, Indiana is just the place!

Of course, the best time to visit is in December when the celebration turns way up.

Enjoy a plethora of events like dinner with Santa, craft shows, a fruitcake eating competition, and lots of lights!

Indianapolis

The capital city of Indiana is brimming with things to do for the whole family.

Take a walk through history at Connor Prairie or visit the animals of the Indianapolis zoo.

You know that I’m going to recommend the Historic Indiana Ghost tours.

There are museums all over the place as well as all the best kind of eats.

World’s Largest Ball of Paint

Alexandria, Indiana is the home of the world’s largest ball of paint. Really! Contact the owners to see if you can add yet another layer to this massive ball.

Where to Eat in Indiana — All the Best Places

Where to Eat in South Bend

Home of Notre Dame, South Bend has some fantastic places to dine whether it be high end at Tippecanoe Place. Be sure to grab some mouth-watering chocolate at the South Bend Chocolate Company in downtown.

Where to Eat in Peru

Grab a cup of joe and a muffin at Aroma Coffee in this tiny but surprising town of Peru, Indiana. You’ll also love East End Double Dip is the cutest little ice cream shop, too.

Where to Eat in Hendricks County

Just south of Indy is Hendricks County where you’ll find, in my opinion, the best fried pickles around at Oasis Diner in Plainfield. The Bread Basket Cafe & Bakery in Danville is a sweet, family-run cafe that’s perfect for breakfast or lunch.

Where to Eat in Hamilton County

On the north side of Indy, you’ll find Hamilton County, the home of Eggshell Bistro. It’s a European style bistro that offers international flavors to delight your palette. An egg is included with every menu item.

Where to Eat in Northeast Indiana

Finally, if you’re in Northeast Indiana, you won’t want to miss out on Homestretch Steakhouse in Anderson. Bet on a pony and watch the race all while sinking your teeth into delectable steak.

Winchester, Indiana is the home of Mrs. Wick’s Pie Shop which is a full-service restaurant that isn’t complete without a delicious slice of pie! Find so much more in Northeast Indiana.

PIN PLACES TO VISIT AND WHERE TO EAT IN INDIANA

University towns are, generally, some of my favorite places to visit.

It is almost guaranteed that you will find worthy attractions, great food, and a fun, energetic vibe.

In the center of town, you’ll find the town square complete with a Beaux-Art architecture courthouse that rests on a small rise and is framed by manicured green grass and lovely flowers.

Just beyond the courthouse square lies Indiana University.

During the school year, Bloomington’s population swells as students from around the world arrive at IU.

This is good news since it allows full-time residents to enjoy a global culture without having to board a plane.

WHAT TO DO IN BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA

Lilly Library

Besides having a highly recognized research library the Lilly library also features special exhibits, and, if you are lucky, Oscar will be on display (as in “the academy award goes to” Oscar).

I was there with a group of writers and we had a special presentation that showcased some of the library’s most treasured books.

I was able to touch original work by Shakespeare, gaze lovingly at old world maps and even hold Oscar.

Walking Tour Indiana University

Pass through the gates to the University and take a self-guided tour to enjoy the architecture and building details as you wander around.

The landscaping is pretty outstanding as well. This is a great way to spend an afternoon.

Festivals and special events

Every weekend you’ll find a plethora of activities in Bloomington including a weekly farmer’s market, Arts Fair on the Square and more.

Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center

Located a short drive out of town you’ll find this cultural gem. Guided tours of the buildings and grounds are regularly available.

A number of cultural classes and workshops are available at the center.

This is the only place in the U.S. with two Tibetan Chortens. You’ll find some nice hiking trails here as well.

Starlite Drive-In Theater

When’s the last time you went to a drive-in theater?

This is an iconic Americana and definitely worth a visit. Two feature films for one low price.

Be sure to pack lawn chairs and bug spray and get ready to enjoy movies in the great outdoors.

Lake Monroe

If you want to spend some time on the water head over to Lake Monroe, Indiana’s largest lake.

Rent a boat or a kayak and float away an afternoon.

Oh, I don’t want to forget to tell you. If you love independent bookstores (swoon) you have to stop at the Book Corner.

WHERE TO EAT IN BLOOMINGTON

There are 100+ restaurants in the area.

Seriously, so many great choices AND a lot of ethnic choices. Asian foods have a heavy influence in the area: Chinese, Tibetan, Thai, etc.

You really won’t go hungry in Bloomington, but if you need help narrowing down your options these are some of my favorites.

Scholar’s Inn Gourmet Cafe

It is the place to go for an elegant meal while in town.

Located on the main street just a couple blocks from town square the Scholar’s Inn serves up gourmet food in a warm, friendly atmosphere.

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining, as well as a full-service bar.

The menus, located inside classical and popular books, have a nice selection of entrees that should whet most appetites.

FARMBloomington

A delicious farm to table establishment (have I mentioned my love of farm to table restaurants…). You can read the review here.

The Irish Lion

Two words: Blarney Puffballs. If you order nothing else, order those and enjoy them for me.

So very, very good.

The Irish Lion has a great pub feel. We sat in the balcony area and loved looking down at the activity below.

Food and service both get two great big thumbs up.

The Chocolate Moose

This famous ice cream establishment had people standing in the rain waiting for ice cream.

As soon as I saw the line during a rainstorm I knew it must be good so I looped back around and made an ice cream stop.

Yep, it’s worth a wait in a rainstorm.

Malibu Grill

Great ambiance, casual, yet a bit classy. Artichoke dip is delicious.

Definitely, another place I would visit again.

WHERE TO DRINK IN BLOOMINGTON

Bloomington also offers some delightful wine and beer options.

For the wine lovers, you’ll want to make tracks to Oliver Winery and Butler Winery. They both have downtown locations but try to make it out to their vineyards. I promise it’s worth the extra effort.

Beer connoisseurs need to stop by Upland Brewery and Bloomington Brewery.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that Bloomington is home to Indiana’s first craft distillery, Cardinal Spirits.

Offering tours, tastings, and cocktails. This is where you’ll find me when I’m in town.

NEARBY TOWNS WORTH A VISIT

COLUMBUS, IN

This small town is a mecca of modern architecture.

Everything from business buildings to homes you’ll find modern influences interspersed with old buildings making it a fascinating look at then and now.

Guided tours are available or you can take a self-guided tour.

For a special treat stop in a Zaharako’s, an old fashioned soda fountain shop.

This delightful establishment is not just a soda shop though, it’s also a museum showcasing the history of soda fountains and mechanical music.

NASHVILLE, IN

Nashville is a small, bitty town not too far from Bloomington, but it is packed with an exceptional amount of artisans and crafters.

Stroll the streets and step into numerous galleries and shops, talk to the artist and start checking items off your holiday shopping list.

If you’d like more information contact Visit Bloomington.

Pin the Charm of Bloomington to Pinterest

Many authors, including everyone’s favorite John Green, call the Hoosier state their home.

Most of them may not boast their own museum, but those from Indiana are still proud to claim them.

Literary Finds Beyond Indianapolis

A trip to the state capital, Indianapolis, will give you the most rewarding literary experience. But on your way, stop by a few cities and towns where some of your favorites spent much of their growing up years.

You may recognize some of these Indiana Literary names

• James Alexander Thom is from Gosport, Indiana, and graduated from Butler University in Indianapolis. He’s known for his historical fiction and nonfiction works including Long Knife, Panther In The Sky, and Follow The River.
• Meg Cabot is from Bloomington, Indiana and attended Indiana University. She’s best known for The Princess Diaries, Boy Meets Girl, Heather Wells, and several others.
• Bill Peet was from Grandview, Indiana. He was a children’s book author, best known for his work with Disney Studios. He was involved in the creation of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Pinocchio, Fantasia, Dumbo, Cinderella, and many more. He also wrote Kermit the Hermit and The Caboose Who Got Loose.
• Marilyn Durham was from Evansville, Indiana. She authored only three novels: The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing, Dutch Uncle, and Flambard’s Confession. You can find a collection of her papers at the University of Southern Indiana library.

Further Reading: The Charm of Bloomington, IN

In Indianapolis, celebrate the life of Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.

Kurt Vonnegut Jr. is best known for his works, such as Breakfast of Champions and Cat’s Cradle, that was not only written in but based on, the city of Indianapolis. Another claim to fame is the fact that his father and grandfather were both Indy architects. He was a Hoosier to the core.

Beyond his satirical literature, Vonnegut has also received all sorts of praise for his artwork – which also had a tendency to be satirical.

Don’t just take my word for it. Head down to Indy and get to know the late cantankerous Kurt Vonnegut Jr.

The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library holds a myriad of mementos shared by Vonnegut’s family. You’ll find his Purple Heart, typewriter, reading glasses, drawings and doodles, and even a pack of his favorite Pall Mall cigarettes. Browse a collection of his first edition works, films, magazines, short stories, and more.

You can even read through his stack of rejection letters if you can stand to. Enjoy free admission, ask the library curator for a tour, type away at a replica of Vonnegut’s typewriter, and grab a souvenir. Be sure to check out the occasional event featuring writers, musicians, and artists.

Find a 38-foot-tall Vonnegut in the form of a mural on the side of the Massala Building on Massachusetts Ave. The artist, Pamela Bliss, calls it My Affair with Kurt Vonnegut.

Bernard Vonnegut, Kurt’s grandfather, and his partner Arthur Bohn designed the L.S. Ayres department store, including the eight-foot-tall clock that hangs 29 feet above the sidewalk. The clock allows for you to check the time from every street. It was built in 1936, weighing in at 10,000 pounds.

Grab a bite to eat at the Bluebeard located on Virginia Ave. It’s named after one of Vonnegut’s novels. The whole place has a library feel to it, even serving your bill in an old library book.

When you’re ready for a drink, stop into Red Key Tavern where Vonnegut was known to frequent.

Further Reading: 6 Reasons You Should Visit Grant County, IN Soon

More famous Indianapolis novelist

Dan Wakefield not only grabbed the occasional drink at the Red Key Tavern, the novel-turned-movie he is best known for, Going All the Way, had several scenes shot right inside the hole-in-the-wall bar. It’s clearly the ideal watering hole for the literary fan. Just look for the glowing sign in the South Broad Ripple neighborhood.

For the poetry buff, be sure to visit the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home in the historic Lockerbie Square. It is the only late-Victorian preservation open to the public in all of Indiana. It was here that James Whitcomb Riley spent the last 23 years of his life.

For $4 you’ll take a tour of this early 20th century American home where “the Hoosier Poet” penned many of his famous verses.

John Green fans will love strolling through The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. Along the way, you’ll find the basketball court and the Funky Bones Sculpture mentioned in his book, The Fault in Our Stars.

If you’re not following John Green on TikTok or IG you are missing out. Highly recommending hitting that follow button on his social pages.

And finally, there’s something for Washington Irving fans.

The far-eastside Irvington neighborhood celebrates their namesake with the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival every year. It’s been called the oldest and largest Halloween street festival in the country.

See, Indiana can boast some pretty incredible humans.

Go ahead and binge read some books and then hit the road for some literary fun.

Further Reading: Day Trip To The Amish Community of Grabill, IN

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They aim to show you that life doesn’t have to be crazy, Instead, it’s meant to be lived to the fullest through travel, great food, and making epic memories.

We would love to partner with you to promote your destination or brand.

We can work with you on brand campaigns, destination campaigns, and content for your digital or print material and more.

Please drop us an email at justshortofcrazy @ gmail dot com

PUBLISHED ARTICLES + BOOKS

100 Things To Do In Cleveland Before You Die, 2nd Ed.

Secret Cleveland: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and Obscure

Twist Travel Magazine – page 36: Islands – Where To Next?

Experience Michigan: Hidden Side of Mackinac Island, These Michigan Chicken Dinners are Winners and soon to be published Itchi Kiti Ipi.

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING

“Coastal Mississippi very much enjoyed hosting Deb – from the initial itinerary planning, she was inquisitive and enthusiastic to experience all the unique offerings on The Secret Coast, and that enthusiasm continued throughout her visit. Deb stayed in touch with us during her stay and kept us informed of the fun adventures she was having, and, ever since her visit, she has been a true ambassador for our destination. Deb’s writing always tells a beautiful and compelling story, recounting her own personal experiences in her own voice and truly showcasing our destination and the diverse experiences it has to offer. We look forward to seeing her again soon!” Anna Roy, Coastal Mississippi

“Deb  is one of the best bloggers I have ever worked with! She does her homework before she arrives, is easy to work with, doesn’t need hand holding, and in the end she exceeds expectations. The San Jacinto Valley’s experience with her could not have been any better ~ she is the type of blogger you dream of working with.”~~Leslie Saint McLellan, Destination Marketing Consultant ,Visit San Jacinto Valley

“One of the highest recommendations I can give her is to say that without hesitation, I would recommend Deb to any destination considering inviting her to participate in a press trip to their area. And, for the record, I would definitely welcome the opportunity to host her again at our destinations.”~~Marjorie Beenders, The Beenders-Walker Group

“I had the pleasure of meeting Deb at TBEX North America in Toronto in June 2013. Within three months, Deb had already visited our destination and had written an excellent feature story on Hampton, Virginia for www.justshortofcrazy.com. Deb is the ultimate professional.”~~Ryan Downey, Hampton CVB

“Not only was Deb professional, timely, and engaging, she sought to find a meaningful way to connect with the Bloomington, IN community during her trip here and put those interactions into a series of posts that really captured our local spirit.”~~Erin Erdmann, Visit Bloomington, IN

“Deb has been one of the top journalists who has traveled to the Alton region. She was attentive and asked many questions during her visit. And it showed in the rich, eloquent content she produced on our haunted sites and historic attractions. I hope to have her visit the area again in the near future!”~~Jong Cambron, Alton Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau