Staff Picks
Our Local Favorites
Looking for a local recommendation? Each month, the VisitBN team shares a new collection of favorite places, hidden gems, seasonal experiences, and must-try activities from around Bloomington-Normal and McLean County. Check back regularly for fresh inspiration and discover the destination through the eyes and tastebuds of some of the people who know it best.
Jessica's Favorite cocktails
Asking anyone to choose their favorite cocktails in Bloomington-Normal is nearly impossible. With so many great spots mixing up creative, classic, and seasonal drinks, narrowing it down to just a handful was no easy task, so consider these personal favorites rather than a definitive ranking.
When she’s not at work, Jessica rarely turns down the chance to put a good drink to the test, whether it comes by the pitcher, poured from a can, or served up one cocktail at a time. In no particular order, here are a few of her favorite sips around Bloomington-Normal, all of which pair especially well with a sunny patio and good company.
house punch | anju above
The best thing about this cocktail? It's never the same. The House Punch rotates with the seasons, which means I can't tell you exactly what you're going to get…and that's part of the fun! Every variation has been delicious; I appreciate a cocktail that gets me a little outside of my flavor-pairing comfort zone.
the loving cup | mystic kitchen
Presentation is doing some of the heavy lifting here, but I'm not mad about it because I love a cocktail that knows how to make an entrance. It's sweet and feminine, matches my outfits, and everyone likes it, so it's easy to order a round for the table.
strawberry beer lemonade | destihl brewery and beer hall
Labeled a "beertail" on their menu, this is my olive branch to those of us (like me) who go to breweries but don't prefer beer. It's fruity and refreshing and doesn't look obnoxiously like I'm drinking a cocktail at a brewery. It pairs well with live music on the patio, which is convenient.
Margaritas | Hacienda Leon
It's basically impossible to make a bad margarita, but Hacienda Leon does more than that. For maximum effect, order a pitcher to share and drink these on their outdoor patio by Uptown Circle. Lime on the rocks is my preference, but if you want to try the frozen strawberry, go for it (and invite me)!
Any Well Cocktail | Digger's
Open-ended? Sure. But if you’ve made it to Diggers, you’re probably open to wherever the night takes you. Get whatever the “special” is, order something from the well, see where things go. The lack of plan is the plan.
Baylee's Favorite Burgers
Asking anyone to choose their favorite cheeseburger in Bloomington-Normal is nearly impossible. With so many great local spots, narrowing it down to just a handful was no easy task, so consider these personal favorites rather than a definitive ranking.
Need proof of our expertise? Any time our team heads out for lunch, we already know Baylee is ordering a burger "for research." In no particular order, here are five cheeseburgers she keeps talking about—and why they deserve a spot on your must-try list too.
Cadillac Jack’s | the single burger with cheese
- Affordability
- Unexpectedly delicious
- Fun vibes
Crawford's Corner Pub | The American
- Affordability
- Proximity to VisitBN office
- Pairs perfectly with their curly fries
- Discovered thanks to a former boss and has become one of Baylee's favorite BN spots
kicks bar & Grill | The American | 1/4 pound Cheeseburger
- Fun location along Route 66
- Friendly atmosphere
- Classic and satisfying
Run N' Erin's | The cheeseburger
- Good vibes
- Friendly service
- Perfectly done smash burger
- Consistently delicious
Western Tap | the Cheeseburger
- Chosen for affordability
- Perfectly done smash burger style (Baylee's favorite)
- Pairs perfectly with their sweet potato fries
- Laid-back, neighborhood bar vibes
