Visiting Indiana University: A Parent’s Guide to Bloomington, IN
If you’re visiting Indiana University to drop off your student, attend graduation, come for family weekend, or just check in, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Bloomington — including fun things to do together besides just eating out.
When Do Parents Usually Visit Indiana University?
- Move-in / back-to-school week
- Family weekends
- Graduation
- Parents’ weekends
- Random “check-in” visits during the year
And almost every parent ends up asking the same question:
“Okay… what should we do while we’re in town?”
Beyond Lunch: Fun Things To Do With Your College Student
Most families already plan:
- Meals on Kirkwood
- Walking around campus
- Maybe some shopping
But a lot of parents also want:
- Something interactive
- Something indoors (especially in summer or winter)
- Something that feels like an “experience”
- Something their student actually wants to do
Escape Rooms: A Perfect Parent + Student Activity
Get Out Bloomington is located right in downtown Bloomington inside Fountain Square Mall, just minutes from campus.
It offers:
- Multiple indoor escape rooms
- A unique outdoor escape adventure through downtown
- Experiences that work for families, not just kids
- Air-conditioned indoor options (great in August and May)
Why Parents Love This Kind of Activity
- You do it together — not just sit and talk
- No awkward “what do you want to do?”
- It creates a shared memory
- It works for different ages
- Your student won’t roll their eyes at it
Indoor vs. Outdoor Options
Indoor escape rooms
- 60-minute experience
- Great for hot, cold, or rainy days
- Perfect during move-in week or graduation crowds
Outdoor escape adventure
- Takes you through downtown Bloomington
- Great way to explore the Square
- Perfect for nice spring and fall weather
Where Is Get Out Bloomington Located?
Get Out Bloomington is located at 101 W Kirkwood Ave #113, Bloomington, IN 47404, inside Fountain Square Mall — right in downtown Bloomington near the courthouse square and close to Indiana University.
Other Popular Parent Activities in Bloomington
- Walking campus
- Eating on Kirkwood
- Exploring downtown Bloomington
- Shopping around the Square
But if you want something that actually feels like an activity you did together, an escape room is one of the best options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this good for families with multiple kids?
Yes. Escape rooms are great for families and groups.
Do we need to book in advance?
Yes — especially during move-in week, graduation, and family weekends.
How long does it take?
Indoor rooms take about 60 minutes. Outdoor adventures take about 1–2 hours.
So, What Should Parents Do When Visiting Indiana University?
If you want to do something fun, interactive, and genuinely memorable with your student, Get Out Bloomington is one of the best experiences for parents visiting Indiana University.
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