Bloomington Normal Playground Checklist
If you’re anything like me, you know that getting outside with your kids is essential for everyone’s sanity. Whether you’re a toddler-chasing mom, a playground-hopping dad or just someone looking for a peaceful walk with a stroller and a coffee, our twin cities are packed with parks just waiting to be explored.
With so many different parks scattered throughout Bloomington and Normal, it’s easy to forget where you’ve been—and where you still want to go. That’s why I created a Blono Playground checklist for anyone looking to explore all the parks Bloomington/Normal has to offer! You can grab the printable at the end of the post.
BloNo Playground Checklist
This is your one-stop checklist to help you track all your park visits, discover hidden gems, and maybe even turn it into a summer challenge with the kids. The checklist ONLY includes parks that have playgrounds. You can visit the Town of Normals’ page for a full list of all parks (including ones without playgrounds) You can also visit the City of Bloomington’s parks page which lists additional parks (I didnt include grade schools on my lists but they do!)
So pack up the sunscreen, grab some snacks (allergy-friendly if you’re like us!), fill those water bottles, and let’s hit the playgrounds, and splash pads that make BLONO such a family-friendly gem.
Must-Visit Parks in Bloomington-Normal
Here’s just a taste of what’s on the checklist (don’t worry—you can grab the full printable version at the bottom!):
Bloomington Highlights
- Miller Park (zoo, lake, playground, old train to explore, splash pad)
- Tipton Park (paved paths, playgrounds, splash pad)
- Rollingbrook Park (shade, gated in, and a great play structure that is all inclusive)
- White Oak Park (great for walks, ponds, and feeding the ducks and fun playground)
Normal Highlights
- Anderson Park (classic large playground, large picnic shelter, permanent bathroom)
- Fairview Park (pools, playgrounds, and tennis courts)
- Maxwell Park ( a big playground)
- Underwood Park (tons of trees and a fun little playground)
- Ironwood Park (great walking path and peaceful setting)
Parks With Permanent Bathrooms
When my kids were little they did not enjoy port-a-potties so here are a few parks that have permanent bathroom structures.
- Miller Park
- Anderson Park
- Underwood Park
- Maxwell Park
- McGraw Park
- Shepard Park
- Tipton Park
Splash Pads in Bloomington/Normal
- Miller Park Splash Pad
- Anderson Park Splash Pad
- McGraw Park Splash Pad
- Tipton Park Splash Pad
Great for Stroller Walks in BloNo
The following parks are mostly not included on the playground guide, but these are great places if you want to go go for a long stroller walk in BloNo.
- Constitution Trail
- Blackstone walking path
- Ewing Park Trails
- Fransen Nature Trail
- White Oak Park Loop
- Tipton Park Walking Path
- Hidden Creek Nature Sanctuary
Make It a Family Adventure
Use this Playrgound checklist to:
- Keep track of the parks you’ve already visited
- Let your kids pick the next park to explore
- Add it to your summmr bucket list
- Add notes like “best swings ever!”
- Make memories as you check each one off
Download Your Printable BLONO Playground Checklist
I have a few different playground check lists! The first one is all of the parks in Bloomington + Normal in alphabetical order that have playgrounds. The second document called Bloomington + Normal Parks breaks them out by town.
Let me know which park your family loves the most—or if we missed any hidden gems! I’ll keep this list updated, and who knows? Maybe we’ll bump into each other at the park someitime. Tag me on instagram @normallifemom
Here’s to a season full of sunshine, snacks, and swing sets!
