Eight places in Bloomington, with access in mind
Bloomington sits on the south side of the Twin Cities, between the Minnesota River and Interstate 494. These pages describe eight real places in the city that host events, exhibitions, programmes or simply good walks, with notes on what to consider when visiting with a walking aid, a wheelchair or someone you care for. AHDnet has no connection with any of them; always check the venue's own information before you go.
Each page covers the same five things: what the place is, the kind of events or programmes it hosts, a short history, what to consider when visiting with mobility equipment, and a few practical notes. They are written for people planning an outing with an older relative, after an injury, or with a walker, rollator or wheelchair, but the questions apply to any visit.
Before you go, it is always worth contacting the venue directly about step-free entrances, accessible toilets, seating, parking or drop-off points and anything else that matters to you. Arrangements change, and a two-minute call can save a wasted trip.
A climate-controlled destination that draws visitors from far beyond Minnesota, with long indoor walking routes and frequent public events.
East Bloomington, near I-494 and Highway 77 · Shopping and entertainment complex, indoor events
The city's arts centre, sharing a campus with City Hall and home to community theatre, exhibitions and classes.
Civic Plaza, West Old Shakopee Road · Theatre, galleries and art classes
A popular lakeside park with a paved path, open lawns and an outdoor bandshell used for concerts and community celebrations.
West Bloomington · Lakeside park, outdoor concerts and community events
A national wildlife refuge stretching along the Minnesota River, with its Bloomington visitor center close to the airport and Mall of America.
East Bloomington, American Boulevard · Wildlife refuge, visitor center, trails and nature programmes
A regional park nature center in west Bloomington, known for its trails, wildlife viewing and education programmes.
West Bloomington, East Bush Lake Road · Nature center, trails and environmental education
A tranquil garden of ponds, bridges and stone paths on a college campus, open to the public and popular with photographers.
Normandale Community College, France Avenue South · Public garden, walking paths, photography
A city-operated arena with multiple sheets of ice, central to Bloomington's hockey and skating community.
Central Bloomington, West 98th Street · Public ice arena: hockey, figure skating, public skating
A city park preserving one of the oldest houses in the area and the history of the mission and Dakota community that preceded it.
South-east Bloomington, East 104th Street · Historic site and park: Gideon Pond House