Road Trips from Bloomington, IN
Bloomington is a great launchpad for exploring Indiana's varied landscapes. You've got options for quick half-day drives, like heading southwest to Broad Ripple, or longer excursions that stretch over three hours. Many routes offer a mix of highway and surface roads, with a mostly flat terrain generally dominating. While most trips are day trips, there's one option that takes you into Illinois with nearby historical parks.
Total Routes
15
Shortest
2.7h
With Parks Nearby
15
Full-day getaway
7 total in this range
East Chicago, IN
3h 59m206.4 mi one way
Carmi, IL
2h 44m144 mi one way
For an out-of-state option, Carmi, Illinois is 2.7 hours and 144 miles away. This route is mostly highway and features nearby historical parks like George Rogers Clark National Historical Park. It's the only pick that crosses state lines and offers park access.
Kouts, IN
3h 41m189 mi one way
Bolivar, IN
3h 11m145.6 mi one way
Munster, IN
3h 58m206.6 mi one way
Weekend trip
8 total in this range
Simonton Lake, IN
4h 30m217 mi one way
Bristol, IN
4h 31m219.8 mi one way
Osceola, IN
4h 15m205.5 mi one way
New Carlisle, IN
4h 23m210.7 mi one way
Lagrange, IN
4h 22m220 mi one way
Browse by Mood
Simonton Lake, IN
4h 30m217 mi one way
Bristol, IN
4h 31m219.8 mi one way
Osceola, IN
4h 15m205.5 mi one way
New Carlisle, IN
4h 23m210.7 mi one way
When to Go
Spring
Spring weather makes the mostly flat terrain ideal for all drives, especially those with mixed highway and surface roads. Consider shorter trips like Broad Ripple or Indianapolis.
Summer
With mostly flat terrain and a mix of road types, summer is perfect for any of the day trips. The longer drives to Kokomo or Plymouth are feasible without park concerns.
Fall
The mixed highway and surface routes are pleasant in fall. Consider the drive to Carmi, IL, to experience autumn colors near the historical parks.
Winter
Winter conditions on mostly flat terrain are manageable for most routes. The shortest drives, such as to Indianapolis or Avon, are practical for limited daylight and weather.
Starting Somewhere Else?
Other nearby cities with their own escape planners.
Ready to plan?
Pick any destination above for full turn-by-turn directions, fuel cost, rest stops, and weather. Or visit the Bloomington, IN city hub for all incoming and outgoing routes.