Whether you are looking for a new date night spot or somewhere to catch up with old friends, Bloomington has so many great wineries and breweries to check out. Wineries and breweries have become increasingly popular over the last few years, here are some in the area that will keep you coming back for more.
Everyone Loves Wine
Located in Central Illinois, and only 20 minutes from Vrooman Mansion is Sunset Lake Vineyards and Winery. This beautiful and relaxing winery is located on 12 acres overlooking a pond and farm land. Sunset Lake is home to many award-winning wines such as: Seyval Blanc, Frontenac, Foch, Traminette, Cayuga White, Steuben, Chardonel, St. Croix, Marquette, Kay Gray and Johannisberg Riesling. Their tasting room is open 7 days a week with varying hours, so be sure to check their website to find a good time to visit.
Another option for wine lovers is to visit a wine bar. Wine bars provide a relaxed atmosphere and give patrons the opportunity to taste wine from all over the region. Bloomington has two wine bars located near each other in the heart of the city. Satio, which is considered a wine and whiskey boutique, is open from 4:00 – 10:00 pm Tuesday through Saturday. Satio is located on 306 N. Center Street in Bloomington, less than 5 minutes from Vrooman Mansion.
Stave Wine Bar and Market specializes in high end wine and beer is also located a few short miles from the center of the city. Here you can taste handpicked wines, sample tasty food all at affordable prices. Stave is located at 111 W. North Street in Normal, IL and is open 6 days a week but closed on Sundays.
If Beer is Your Thing
Lil’ Beaver Brewery is open Thursday through Sunday is serves up some amazing combinations of craft beer. This time of year you need to taste their Pumpkin Pi made with real pumpkin pie filling! Their beers mix in everything from habaneros to watermelon to create some tasty flavor combinations! If you aren’t sure what kind you want to try, you can get a flight for only $8. Lil’ Beaver Brewery is located a few miles south of Bloomington at 16 Currency Drive.
If you are looking for a brewery where you can enjoy dinner as well, Destihl Brewery is your best bet. Located at 1200 Greenbriar Drive in Normal, IL, Destihl Brewery’s Beer Hall boasts award winning craft beer in addition to their American Pub Inspired fare. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even try their beer-based cocktails or cider. Destihl Resturant and Brew Works is a smaller brew pub with the same great tasting craft beer. Their location is at 318 Towanda Avenue in Normal, IL.
One thing is for sure, with all these wineries and breweries to visit, you will need somewhere to stay. Vrooman Mansion is a historic and centrally located bed and breakfast. It is convenient to major highways and gives you the hospitality and warmth of a home away from home. Weekends book quickly, so be sure to give us a call at (309) 828-8816 or visit our website to book your stay with us today!