Local Information



The Muslims and Arabs in Western Politics conference will be held in the Indiana Memorial Union (IMU) on the campus of Indiana University located close to downtown Bloomington. All meetings and many activities will take place in the IMU (campus map).

The Indiana University-Bloomington campus is a careful blend of traditional and modern architecture within a park-like environment. Made of locally quarried limestone, the University buildings add beauty and local charm to the scenic campus. September is by far the most pleasant time of the year. Temperatures generally remain in the 70's until late in the month, and this part of the country is renowned for its beautiful autumn colors. A sweater or light jacket is suggested for evenings. Please visit the Weather Channel at www.weather.com for current weather conditions.

Bloomington offers the sophistication of a cultural capital with international-caliber performances in opera, theater, music and dance within a small town setting. Local restaurants include an impressive array of ethnic cuisines, many within a comfortable walking distance of the Indiana Memorial Union. A list of downtown restaurants, shops and activities can be found at www.downtownbloomington.com

Bloomington does not currently observe daylight savings time. At the time of the conference we will be on the same time as Chicago, and an hour earlier than New York City.

Dining

Downtown Bloomington offers a variety of dining options. Many of the most interesting restaurants in Bloomington are located just west of campus on 4th Street, Kirkwood, and the Square.

4th Street runs one block north of Kirkwood and features Thai, Indian, Italian, Moroccan, Tibetan, Turkish and Burmese restaurants, several of which feature lunch buffets and outdoor seating. Kirkwood runs west of the University from the Sample Gates and is the location of restaurants which cater to the college student palate as well as options for those whose tastes are a bit more refined. Nick's English Pub is a Bloomington traditional pub fare. In addition to Nicks you can find Middle-Eastern, Mexican, Indian, Thai, and pizza. The downtown square is five blocks west of campus and offers restaurants featuring Greek, Italian, and Irish food, as well as restaurants/delis serving sandwiches and burgers.

See the following links for information on the downtown area and descriptions of several restaurants.

Downtown Bloomington
Entertainment in Bloomington

Arts, Culture, Entertainment and Recreation

Information about performances associated with IU's renowned Music School can be found at the following address. Many performances are free, and there are performances scheduled most evenings during the semester.

Arts and Entertainment Events

Information on community events as well as IU events.

IDS Weekend
Bloomingtownie

The following link provides information on Bloomington's Parks and Recreation Opportunities

http://www.bloomington.in.gov/parks/