Area Information
Central Illinois is filled with a multitude of attractions: from adventures in nature and a casual afternoon, to a historical tour of the sights and a night on the town. With so many possibilities, it can be difficult to choose!
Listed below are some of the great ways to explore Bloomington/Normal and the surrounding cities. Check for current events and festivals happening throughout the year. Having trouble deciding? Make a list of your favorites, and Vrooman Mansion will await your return to continue the adventure!
- Restaurants
- Fine Arts
- Shopping
- Adventure
Restaurants
Upscale Restaurants
If you’re looking for fine dining, here are a few of our favorites. Each of the following restaurants is within 15 minutes of Vrooman Mansion:
- Epiphany Farms Restaurant – Bloomington: Bloomington/Normal’s only farm-to-fork restaurant, located in the historic fire station built in 1902. The architecture of the building has been largely maintained: engine stalls are now the main dining room, the horses used to be kept in what is now the kitchen, and the firemen’s quarters were remodeled into banquet rooms. Epiphany Farms’ ‘chefarmers’ grow the organic ingredients for the restaurants at their farm 10 miles outside town, and create seasonal dishes unlike any other. Open Tuesday through Saturday.
Casual Restaurants
Great food, casual attitude, and all within 15 minutes of Vrooman Mansion:
- Lucca Grill: Established in 1936, Lucca’s was started by the Baldini brothers. They offered the first crisp thin crust pizza in Central Illinois. The first floor still has the original antique mahogany bar, ornate tin ceiling, and many interesting newspaper articles from the past. The A La Baldini pizza is our favorite!
Local Wine Bars and Micro Breweries
Here are a few fun wine bars and breweries:
- Destihl Brewery and Beer Hall: Located on North Veterans close to Interstate 55 is Destihl’s Brewery home and Beer Hall. With outdoor seating on the patio, you can enjoy their unique pub fare food, as well as 30 beverages on tap. From Destihl’s brewed beers, to beer-based cocktails and on-site craft sodas, there’s something for everyone! Tours of the brewery are also available; please contact them directly for more information.
Local Bar/Pub Eateries
If you love bars and pubs, check these out:
- Schooners: Looking for some true bar food? This local bar is only two blocks from our location. Open since 1983, this is a local Bloomington favorite where you can enjoy their beer garden during the summer season. They are famous for their King Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and Buffalo wings.
- Pub II: Established in 1974, Pub II is located in uptown. If you want to watch a sporting event, this is one place you should consider. Pub II is a large bar with 19 TVs and a beer garden. The menu consists of classic burgers and sandwiches at very reasonable prices.
Local Coffee, Ice Cream & Desserts
If you’re looking for sweets, treats, and coffee, check out these favorites:
- Gene’s Dairy Delight: A locally owned business within one mile of our location, Gene’s offers wonderful soft-serve custard. Enjoy a dipped cone, a specialty item like the Wonder Bar, one of their unique flavors such as the Lemon, or go for the gusto with a banana split!
Tea Rooms
Here are our favorite tea rooms within driving distance of Bloomington-Normal:
- Kickapoo Tearoom: Located inside a 114 year old church near the Kickapoo Creek, this charming tea room is sure to delight you and your guests. Denise and Lisa take so much pride in what they do. You can feel it the moment you walk in. After you enjoy a traditional, and delicious three tiered lunch, stop by their boutique located downstairs. The gift shop is filled with treasures, gifts and goodies. The Kickapoo Tearoom is located just 15 minutes away, in the quaint town of Downs.