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Kirkwood Avenue

4.6
·491k reviews·Bloomington, United States

The energetic hub of Indiana University Bloomington, Kirkwood Avenue buzzes with student life, iconic bars, and diverse dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Kirkwood Avenue - A car driving down a street next to trees

Kirkwood Avenue

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The energetic hub of Indiana University Bloomington, Kirkwood Avenue buzzes with student life, iconic bars, and diverse dining.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"It's the hunger games literally... so much power right now."

Vertical photo
TIP

Avoid Biking on Kirkwood

Stick to 4th or 6th streets for biking downtown to avoid traffic hassles. :athletic_shoe:

Kilroy's is a Must-Do

It's a rite of passage for 21+ students. Expect a lively, packed scene! :beer:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kilroy's on Kirkwood

Kilroy's on Kirkwood

Downtown Bloomington

The iconic college bar, a rite of passage for IU students. Known for its lively atmosphere and drinks.

Indiana University Campus

Indiana University Campus

Adjacent to Kirkwood Avenue

Explore the beautiful IU campus, with its iconic buildings and green spaces, just steps from Kirkwood.

Downtown Bloomington Shops & Restaurants

Downtown Bloomington Shops & Restaurants

Along Kirkwood Avenue

Discover a variety of local boutiques, eateries, and cafes offering diverse culinary and shopping experiences.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Kirkwood Avenue

Kirkwood Avenue is the vibrant heart of Indiana University Bloomington's campus and downtown. Expect it to be bustling, especially during academic year evenings and weekends. Plan for crowds and potential street closures for events.

Best Times for a Visit

To experience Kirkwood's lively atmosphere without overwhelming crowds, consider visiting on weekday evenings after classes or during the day for a more relaxed vibe. Weekends can get very busy, particularly during events.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Good for exploring shops
Crowd
High
When
During Little 500 week
Why
Unforgettable college energy
Crowd
Very High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Flooding at #indianauniversitybloomington Kilroys on Kirkwood
@indyvidsllc
31.8K likes • 880.5K views

Avoid Biking on Kirkwood

Stick to 4th or 6th streets for biking downtown to avoid traffic hassles. :athletic_shoe:

Kilroy's is a Must-Do

It's a rite of passage for 21+ students. Expect a lively, packed scene! :beer:

It’s the hunger games literally #iu #kirkwood #nightout #college #indianauniversity #bloomington
@masonzhangirl
16.1K likes • 202.4K views
What a great term for Kirkwood Avenue Hall 🤩 excited for what’s next! 💜
unilodgecanterbury
79 likes • 3.6K views

Check for Street Closures

Kirkwood can close for events or outdoor dining seasons. Plan accordingly! :construction:

Embrace the College Vibe

Kirkwood is all about the college experience, especially during game days and Little 500. :party_popper:

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49 likes • 2.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Avoid Biking on Kirkwood

Stick to 4th or 6th streets for biking downtown to avoid traffic hassles. :athletic_shoe:

Kilroy's is a Must-Do

It's a rite of passage for 21+ students. Expect a lively, packed scene! :beer:

Check for Street Closures

Kirkwood can close for events or outdoor dining seasons. Plan accordingly! :construction:

Embrace the College Vibe

Kirkwood is all about the college experience, especially during game days and Little 500. :party_popper:

Explore Beyond Kilroy's

Discover other great bars and restaurants along Kirkwood for diverse experiences. :forkandknife:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kirkwood Avenue is celebrated as the vibrant heart of Indiana University Bloomington, offering an energetic college town experience. Visitors rave about the lively atmosphere, especially at iconic spots like Kilroy's, and the diverse dining and shopping options. Some find the crowds overwhelming, particularly on weekends, and note that many establishments are 21+.

What People Like

Lively college atmosphere
Iconic bars like Kilroy's
Diverse food options

What People Dislike

Crowded on weekends
Mostly 21+ venues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kirkwood Avenue is centrally located in downtown Bloomington, adjacent to the Indiana University campus. If driving, parking can be found in nearby garages or street parking, though it can be competitive. Public transportation options are also available through Bloomington Transit. Many students and visitors walk or bike to Kirkwood, but be mindful of traffic and designated bike lanes. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options near Kirkwood Avenue. The College Mall parking garage and the Morton Street garage are popular choices. Street parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak hours. TikTok

While you can bike to Kirkwood, it's generally advised to use alternative routes like 4th and 6th streets for a smoother and safer experience. Biking directly on Kirkwood can be challenging due to traffic. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Kirkwood Avenue itself is a public street and does not require tickets for access. However, individual establishments like bars and restaurants along the avenue may have their own entry requirements, such as age restrictions (21+ for bars) or cover charges for specific events. TikTok

Kirkwood Avenue is accessible 24/7 as it's a public street. However, the operating hours of the businesses located on Kirkwood Avenue vary. Bars like Kilroy's are typically open late into the night, while shops and restaurants have more standard business hours. TikTok

While Kirkwood Avenue itself has no age restrictions, many of the popular establishments, particularly bars like Kilroy's, are strictly 21 and over. Always be prepared to show valid identification. TikTok

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Kilroy's on Kirkwood is a legendary college bar and a must-visit for many. Beyond that, explore the diverse range of shops, restaurants, and other bars that line the avenue, offering a true taste of Bloomington's student life. TikTok+1

Kirkwood Avenue has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, especially during the academic year. It's a hub for student life, with lively bars, bustling restaurants, and a general sense of college excitement. Expect it to be busy and loud, particularly on weekend nights. TikTok+1

Yes, Kirkwood Avenue often hosts events, especially during the academic year. This can include street closures for outdoor dining, celebrations during Little 500 week, and other campus-related festivities. It's worth checking local event listings. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Kirkwood Avenue is very walkable and is the primary way most people experience the area. It's lined with shops, eateries, and bars, making it perfect for a stroll to soak in the atmosphere. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Kirkwood Avenue offers a wide array of dining options, from casual pubs like Kilroy's Sports to various international cuisines and local favorites. Many TikTok and Instagram posts highlight the diverse food scene, making it a great place to explore for any palate. TikTok+1

While specific vegan/vegetarian restaurants might be limited directly on Kirkwood, the diverse culinary landscape of downtown Bloomington generally offers options. It's recommended to check menus of individual establishments or explore nearby streets for more dedicated plant-based choices. TikTok

Kirkwood Avenue is famous for its college bars, with Kilroy's on Kirkwood being the most well-known. You'll find a variety of pubs and bars catering to the student population, offering a lively nightlife scene. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant energy of Kirkwood Avenue by photographing the iconic Kilroy's sign, the bustling street scenes, and the beautiful architecture of the Indiana University campus nearby. The lively atmosphere during events like Little 500 week also makes for dynamic shots. TikTok+1

For capturing the lively atmosphere, evenings are best when the lights are on and the street is buzzing. For a more serene campus feel, consider early mornings or late afternoons when the crowds are thinner and the light is softer. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Kirkwood Avenue is primarily known for its college bars and student-centric atmosphere, families can still find enjoyable aspects. During daylight hours, exploring the nearby Indiana University campus offers beautiful architecture and green spaces. Instagram The downtown area surrounding Kirkwood also features various shops and casual eateries that can be family-friendly. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid the most crowded and adult-oriented scenes. TikTok

🎓 Students

Kirkwood Avenue is your playground! It's the epicenter of student life at Indiana University Bloomington. Kilroy's on Kirkwood is a must-visit for the full college experience. TikTok Explore the numerous bars and restaurants that cater specifically to students, and be sure to check out events happening during Little 500 week for an unforgettable time. TikTok Remember that most bars are 21+, so plan accordingly. TikTok

🍻 Nightlife Enthusiasts

For those seeking a lively nightlife, Kirkwood Avenue delivers. Kilroy's on Kirkwood is the main draw, offering a classic college bar experience with a high-energy crowd. TikTok+1 Beyond Kilroy's, the avenue and surrounding downtown area boast a variety of other bars and pubs, ensuring there's something for every taste. Expect a bustling scene, especially on weekends and during university events. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of IU: Kirkwood Avenue's Role

Kirkwood Avenue is more than just a street; it's the pulsating artery connecting Indiana University Bloomington's campus with the vibrant downtown area. It serves as a central gathering place for students, faculty, and locals, embodying the spirit of college town life. From academic buildings to popular student hangouts, Kirkwood is where much of the campus and community interaction happens. TikTok+1

During the academic year, the avenue is alive with activity. Students frequent its numerous bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a prime spot for socializing and unwinding. Events like Little 500 week transform Kirkwood into a spectacle of college revelry, showcasing the unique traditions and energy of IU. TikTok The street's proximity to campus landmarks also makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the university's beautiful grounds. Instagram

Beyond student life, Kirkwood Avenue plays a crucial role in the local economy and community. It hosts outdoor dining seasons and serves as a hub for local businesses, contributing to Bloomington's charm and appeal. The avenue's dynamic nature means it's constantly evolving, reflecting the energy of its student population and the broader community. Instagram

Iconic Establishments: Kilroy's on Kirkwood

No discussion of Kirkwood Avenue is complete without mentioning Kilroy's on Kirkwood. This legendary establishment is a quintessential part of the Indiana University experience, often described as a rite of passage for students turning 21. TikTok It's renowned for its energetic atmosphere, making it a popular spot for celebrations and casual nights out. TikTok+1

The venue is frequently featured in social media content, highlighting its lively crowds and the memorable experiences students have there. TikTok+1 Whether it's a busy Friday night or a special event, Kilroy's consistently draws a large and enthusiastic clientele. Its reputation as a go-to spot for college fun is well-earned, contributing significantly to Kirkwood Avenue's vibrant nightlife. TikTok

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