Visit A World-Class Arthouse Cinema In Bloomington

Bloomington, Indiana, is well known for many things: the prestigious Indiana University, college sports, Lake Monroe, and eclectic eateries. However, the city is also home to fantastic artistic attractions such as music venues, art museums, and historic theaters. This bustling Midwestern college town also happens to house an incredible arthouse university theater that showcases local and international arthouse films.

Located on the grounds of the historic Indiana University in downtown Bloomington, the Indiana University Cinema is the home to student, local, and national independent films and productions. Each semester, this bustling arthouse theater screens over 120 different films.

While this theater screens local and student productions, it’s actually a world-class arthouse cinema as well, helping to advance and further the art of filmmaking. A popular attraction on the IU campus, the theater draws visitors from all over Bloomington.

This historic building was originally constructed in the 1930s as the University Theatre. It remained a home for theater productions at the college until 2002. When IU added film studies to its register in 2007, the venue was repurposed as a home for film studies and restored to accommodate film screenings.

In addition to an assortment of films and productions screened at this arthouse theater, the cinema also offers a range of displays and galleries. Visitors will find specialty-curated film posters, artwork, manuscripts, and other remnants located within the lower lobby. Collections from the Kinsey Institute, Lilly Library, Black Film Center, and other museums and libraries are often displayed here.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.