Explore the Timeless Beauty of Sample Gates
Discover Sample Gates, a historic landmark at Indiana University, where beauty and history converge in the heart of Bloomington, Indiana.
Sample Gates is a stunning historical landmark located in Bloomington, Indiana, serving as the iconic entrance to Indiana University. This picturesque archway, adorned with intricate stonework and lush greenery, is a must-visit for tourists seeking to capture the essence of the area. Not only is it a striking visual, but it also embodies the rich history and culture of Bloomington. Ideal for leisurely strolls, photography, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Sample Gates is a perfect stop for those exploring the local university and surrounding attractions.
A brief summary to Sample Gates
- E Kirkwood Ave & S Indiana Ave, Bloomington, IN, 47405, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the golden hour for stunning photography with beautiful lighting.
- Explore nearby campus attractions like the Indiana University Art Museum and the Arboretum.
- Check out local events at the university, as Sample Gates often serves as a gathering point.
- Enjoy a leisurely walk around the university grounds to fully appreciate the architecture and scenic views.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving from any location in Southeast Indiana, make your way to Bloomington. Use State Road 37 (I-69) and take the exit toward IN-45/46 W. Continue on IN-45/46 W for approximately 8 miles. When you reach the city of Bloomington, follow the signs to downtown. Once you're in downtown, head towards E Kirkwood Ave. Sample Gates is located at the intersection of E Kirkwood Ave and S Indiana Ave, right at the entrance of Indiana University. Parking is available on nearby streets, but be sure to check for any parking meters or time limits.
-
Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a bus from various locations in Southeast Indiana to Bloomington. Check the local transit authority for routes heading to Bloomington. Once you arrive at the Bloomington Transit Center, you can either walk to Sample Gates, which is about a 10-minute walk (0.5 miles), or catch a local bus. To walk, head north on S Walnut St, turn left onto E Kirkwood Ave, and continue until you reach the intersection with S Indiana Ave. Sample Gates will be on your right. Be aware that bus fares may apply, so check local schedules and pricing.
-
Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, biking to Sample Gates is a great option! Many roads in Bloomington have bike lanes. Depending on your starting point, you can use the B-Line Trail, a multi-use path that runs through the city. Make your way towards E Kirkwood Ave, and once you reach the downtown area, follow the trail signs leading to Sample Gates at E Kirkwood Ave and S Indiana Ave. Always wear a helmet and follow local bike laws for safety.
Discover more about Sample Gates
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dunn's Woods
0.2 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Dunn's Woods, a serene park in Bloomington, Indiana, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking relaxation.
Dunn Meadow
0.2 km
Discover the tranquility of Dunn Meadow, Bloomington's serene park perfect for relaxation, picnics, and community events throughout the year.
Rose Well House
0.2 km
Discover the historical charm of Rose Well House in Bloomington, Indiana, a monument that celebrates the rich heritage and culture of the region.
Herman B Wells Statue
0.2 km
Explore the Herman B Wells Statue in Bloomington, Indiana, a celebrated historical landmark honoring the legacy of a transformative university leader.
Indiana University Bloomington
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant blend of history, culture, and education at Indiana University Bloomington, a premier destination for arts and outdoor exploration.
Biddle Hotel & Conference Center
0.4 km
Experience the historic charm of Biddle Hotel & Conference Center, perfectly situated in Bloomington, Indiana, and immersed in university culture.
Beck Chapel
0.4 km
Discover the tranquility of Beck Chapel in Bloomington, Indiana - a serene venue for reflection, weddings, and local history.
Graduate Bloomington
0.4 km
Discover Graduate Bloomington - where modern comfort meets local charm in the vibrant heart of Indiana, perfect for your next getaway.
IUB Red Clock
0.5 km
Discover the IUB Red Clock, a historic landmark in Bloomington, Indiana, where time stands still amidst charming university surroundings.
Fountain Square Bloomington
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant Fountain Square Bloomington, where culture, shopping, and dining come together in a lively community atmosphere.
The Lilly Library
0.7 km
Discover the rich literary treasures at The Lilly Library in Bloomington, Indiana—home to rare books, manuscripts, and a serene atmosphere for learning.
Showalter Fountain
0.7 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Showalter Fountain, a serene landmark at Indiana University, perfect for relaxation and a taste of campus life.
Downtown Bloomington
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Bloomington, where history, culture, and culinary delights come together in a lively downtown experience.
Mckinney Fountain
0.9 km
Discover the beauty and history of Mckinney Fountain, a serene landmark in Bloomington, Indiana, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
Upland Brewing Co.
1.2 km
Experience the best of Bloomington's craft beer scene at Upland Brewing Co., featuring an inviting beer garden and a diverse selection of handcrafted brews.
Unmissable attractions to see
Monroe County History Center
0.5 km
Delve into Monroe County's rich past at the Monroe County History Center, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
Wylie House Museum
0.7 km
Discover the Wylie House Museum in Bloomington, Indiana, a beautiful historical site showcasing 19th-century life and local heritage.
Eskenazi Museum of Art
0.7 km
Explore the Eskenazi Museum of Art in Bloomington, Indiana, where a rich collection of artworks invites you to experience creativity across the ages.
Bloomington Arboretum
0.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Bloomington Arboretum, a botanical paradise with diverse plant collections and tranquil landscapes in Indiana.
5 Friends Memorial
0.8 km
Explore the 5 Friends Memorial in Bloomington, Indiana, a touching tribute to friendship that inspires reflection and honors lasting connections.
Captain Janeway Statue
0.8 km
Explore the Captain Janeway Statue in Bloomington, Indiana - a tribute to leadership and inspiration from the beloved Star Trek series.
WonderLab Science Museum
0.9 km
Explore, learn, and play at WonderLab Science Museum, Bloomington's premier destination for interactive science experiences.
The Farmer House Museum
0.9 km
Explore the Farmer House Museum in Bloomington, Indiana, a historical gem showcasing the rich agricultural heritage and cultural stories of the region.
Lower Cascades Park
3.6 km
Explore Lower Cascades Park: A natural paradise in Bloomington, IN, featuring scenic trails, waterfalls, and family-friendly picnic areas.
Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center
6.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Tibetan culture at the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center, a unique spiritual haven in Indiana.
Leonard Springs Nature Park
7.7 km
Explore Leonard Springs Nature Park in Bloomington, IN—your gateway to stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and peaceful outdoor experiences.
Dan Willard Woods
8.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Dan Willard Woods, a nature preserve in Bloomington, Indiana, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and tranquility seekers.
Stillwater Marsh Water Fowl Resting Area
11.3 km
Explore the serene Stillwater Marsh Water Fowl Resting Area in Indiana, a sanctuary for migratory birds and nature lovers, perfect for peaceful retreats.
Paynetown State Recreation Area
12.0 km
Discover the natural beauty of Paynetown State Recreation Area, a premier destination for outdoor activities on the shores of Lake Monroe.
North Fork State Wildlife Refuge
12.8 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of North Fork State Wildlife Refuge, a haven for nature lovers and a perfect spot for outdoor adventures in Bloomington, Indiana.
Essential places to dine
Lennie's Brewpub
0.1 km
Discover Lennie's Brewpub in Bloomington - where craft beer meets delicious food in a lively setting.
Nick's English Hut
0.2 km
Discover Nick's English Hut: A Culinary Gem in Bloomington Offering Classic Dishes and Local Brews.
Siam House
0.2 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Siam House in Bloomington—where every dish tells a story.
Osteria Rago
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Osteria Rago in Bloomington - where every dish tells a story.
Little Tibet Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor authentic Tibetan flavors at Little Tibet Restaurant - a culinary gem in Bloomington offering unique dishes and warm hospitality.
Runcible Spoon
0.2 km
Discover Runcible Spoon: A unique dining experience in Bloomington offering delicious meals and expertly brewed coffee made from local ingredients.
Kimu Asian Restaurant - Bloomington
0.2 km
Discover the rich flavors of Burmese and Asian cuisine at Kimu Asian Restaurant in Bloomington - where every dish tells a story.
Rush Hour Station
0.3 km
Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Rush Hour Station in Bloomington - a must-visit for food lovers seeking affordable deliciousness.
Korea Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover authentic Korean cuisine at Korea Restaurant in Bloomington - where every dish tells a story.
Big Woods Bloomington
0.3 km
Experience the best of Indiana's craft beer culture at Big Woods Bloomington – where delicious food meets exceptional brews.
Dats
0.3 km
Discover authentic Cajun and Creole flavors at Dats in Bloomington—where every dish tells a story.
Do Asian Fusion Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of traditional Korean cuisine with modern flavors at Do Asian Fusion Restaurant in Bloomington.
Marco and Polo Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover the authentic taste of Uyghur cuisine at Marco and Polo Restaurant in Bloomington - a culinary journey through Central Asia.
The Tudor Room
0.3 km
Experience delightful brunches at The Tudor Room in Bloomington – where local flavors meet culinary creativity in a warm atmosphere.
BRU Burger Bar Bloomington
0.3 km
Experience gourmet burgers crafted with local ingredients at BRU Burger Bar Bloomington—where flavor meets creativity.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Urban Outfitters
0.1 km
Explore Urban Outfitters in Bloomington for a unique blend of fashion, beauty, and home goods that captures the spirit of trendy shopping.
Greetings
0.2 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Bloomington offering unique gifts, IU apparel, and local treasures that capture the essence of Indiana.
The Indiana Shop - Kirkwood Ave
0.2 km
Explore The Indiana Shop, Bloomington's premier destination for unique gifts, sports memorabilia, and stylish clothing for all ages.
Pitaya
0.2 km
Discover stylish women's fashion at Pitaya, a trendy clothing store in Bloomington, Indiana, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Moon Stones
0.3 km
Explore Moon Stones for unique gifts, stunning jewelry, and a variety of natural rocks and minerals in the heart of Bloomington, Indiana.
Alumni Hall
0.5 km
Discover the spirit of Indiana at Alumni Hall, your premier destination for Hoosiers apparel and local merchandise in Bloomington.
Vintage Phoenix
0.5 km
Explore Vintage Phoenix, a unique book and toy store in Bloomington, Indiana, offering a nostalgic shopping experience for all ages.
Office Clothier
0.6 km
Explore Bloomington's Office Clothier for an unforgettable vintage shopping experience, featuring unique clothing and accessories that tell a story.
Gather
0.6 km
Discover unique handmade gifts from local artists at Gather, the heart of Bloomington's creative shopping scene, and take home a piece of Indiana's artistry.
SLCT Stock
0.6 km
Explore SLCT Stock, Bloomington's go-to vintage clothing store for unique finds and timeless styles that celebrate the past.
Mainstream Boutique Bloomington
0.6 km
Explore Mainstream Boutique Bloomington for trendy women's clothing and personalized shopping in a vibrant atmosphere.
Lola Rue & Co
0.6 km
Explore Lola Rue & Co, a delightful boutique in Bloomington, Indiana, featuring unique fashion, home decor, and local artisan treasures.
Ellie Mae's Boutique
0.6 km
Explore the charm of Ellie Mae's Boutique in Bloomington, Indiana, for unique gifts, stylish handbags, and exquisite jewelry that capture local flair.
O'Child Children's Boutique
0.7 km
Explore O'Child Children's Boutique in Bloomington for exquisite children's clothing and accessories that combine style, comfort, and quality.
skullznbunniez
0.7 km
Discover unique fashion at Skullz N Bunniez in Bloomington, IN, where creativity meets style in a vibrant clothing store.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kilroy's on Kirkwood
0.1 km
Discover Kilroy's on Kirkwood in Bloomington, Indiana—where lively atmosphere meets delicious grill favorites and refreshing drinks.
The Upstairs Pub
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Upstairs Pub in Bloomington, where great food, craft beer, and live music create an unforgettable experience.
Root Cellar
0.6 km
Experience Bloomington's vibrant nightlife at Root Cellar, where handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
The Bishop Bar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Bishop Bar in Bloomington, where craft drinks and engaging events create an unforgettable experience.
Video Saloon
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bloomington at Video Saloon, where fun, games, and great drinks come together in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Brothers Bar & Grill
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled delights at Brothers Bar & Grill in Bloomington, Indiana.
Kilroy's Sports Bar
0.7 km
Experience the pulse of Bloomington's nightlife at Kilroy's Sports Bar, where sports, drinks, and community come together.
Serendipity Martini Bar
0.7 km
Discover the charm of Serendipity Martini Bar in Bloomington, Indiana, where creative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere meet.
Blockhouse Bar
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music at Blockhouse Bar in Bloomington, Indiana, your ultimate destination for great drinks and entertainment.
Atlas Ballroom
0.7 km
Experience the lively nightlife at Atlas Ballroom in Bloomington, Indiana, where great drinks and entertainment come together.
The Tap
0.7 km
Discover The Tap in Bloomington, where craft beer meets delicious American cuisine in a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
The Orbit Room
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bloomington at The Orbit Room, where live music and delicious food come together in a unique bar atmosphere.
Alley Bar
0.8 km
Discover the lively Alley Bar in Bloomington, where great drinks and friendly vibes come together for an unforgettable night out.
The Fiesta Bar
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Fiesta Bar in Bloomington, Indiana—your go-to destination for drinks, music, and memorable nights out.
Sleeper's Bar
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bloomington at Sleeper's Bar, where craft drinks and live music create unforgettable moments.
