Indiana University Auditorium Bloomington
A historic and architecturally stunning venue hosting diverse performances, from Broadway tours to student showcases.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better seats
Indiana University Auditorium Bloomington
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better seats
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic and architecturally stunning venue hosting diverse performances, from Broadway tours to student showcases.
"This is truly a world-class venue with exceptional quality and friendly staff."
🎯 No Bad Seats!
Most visitors agree there isn't a bad seat in the house, with great sightlines and acoustics from all levels.
⏰ Arrive Early for Shuttles
Parking can be distant; allow ample time for shuttle bus rides to and from the auditorium, especially on game days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Architecture
Main Auditorium Hall
Admire the stunning architectural details and acoustics of this historic venue, a true gem on the IU campus.
Diverse Performing Arts
Main Stage
Experience a wide range of performances, from Broadway tours and concerts to lectures and dance recitals.
Jacobs School of Music Performances
Main Stage
Witness talented students from the renowned Jacobs School of Music showcase their skills in music and dance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Factor in Parking & Shuttles
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 No Bad Seats!
Most visitors agree there isn't a bad seat in the house, with great sightlines and acoustics from all levels.
⏰ Arrive Early for Shuttles
Parking can be distant; allow ample time for shuttle bus rides to and from the auditorium, especially on game days.
🎶 Sound is Superb
Even those with hearing difficulties report perfect sound quality in the upper balcony.
📸 Capture the Moment
The auditorium itself is a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially before or after a performance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 No Bad Seats!
Most visitors agree there isn't a bad seat in the house, with great sightlines and acoustics from all levels.
⏰ Arrive Early for Shuttles
Parking can be distant; allow ample time for shuttle bus rides to and from the auditorium, especially on game days.
🎶 Sound is Superb
Even those with hearing difficulties report perfect sound quality in the upper balcony.
📸 Capture the Moment
The auditorium itself is a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially before or after a performance.
🎟️ Check Event Schedule
Visit the official IU Auditorium website for the latest event listings and to purchase tickets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Indiana University Auditorium is widely praised for its beautiful architecture, excellent acoustics, and consistently high-quality events, making it a world-class venue. However, parking and shuttle logistics, especially during peak times like football games, can be challenging and require significant advance planning, with some visitors experiencing long waits.
"Always a fantastic experience. I have been attending events at I.U. Auditorium for more than 25 years and every experience has been positively memorable. The facility is beautiful and well maintained, the staff are friendly and helpful, and the quality of the events is exceptional. Parking is convenient and well managed. In my experience, this is truly a world class venue."
James Mitchell
"I was excited to share a theater experience with my daughter who is home from college on spring break, and so when I learned that the 25th anniversary of Chicago the Musical was at IU Auditorium, it fit the bill. I had not been to a show at this venue before and willl not go back. The parking experience really overrides everything else. You have to park very far away, and especially if the weather is not good, it is not walkable. They do provide bus shuttles from the parking garages to the theater. Let’s talk about that. Getting from the parking to theater was not a direct route but included a few stops and so it took 15-20 minutes to go what should have taken 5. Plan to go well in advance of your start time. But the worst part was getting back to the parking garage after the show. We had to wait outside in freezing weather in a very long line of people for about a half hour while we waited for a bus. Any warm feelings I had from watching the show were completely gone by this point. So not worth it.
The show itself was good - Chicago is a classic after all. That is l, the part of it I was able to see. I paid for floor level Orchestra level seats - section A, row 14, seats 9 and 10. But I could not see the left half of the stage, where it seemed much of the action occurred.
Next time I want to see a production like this, it will not be here."
Sue Ream
"Listened to a speaker, sat in the upper balcony and the sound was perfect. I’m a little hard of hearing but had no problems understanding Pete."
Mike Berg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Indiana University Auditorium is located on the IU Bloomington campus. Driving is a common option, with parking available in nearby garages. Public transportation and campus shuttles are also available. +1
Parking is available in designated garages near the auditorium. During peak times, like home football games, shuttle services are provided from these garages to the auditorium entrance.
Yes, parking can be challenging and require extra travel time due to home football games. Plan to arrive significantly earlier and utilize the shuttle services.
Depending on the garage location and weather, walking might be possible, but shuttle services are often recommended, especially if the weather is not ideal.
The shuttle service provides transportation from parking garages to the theater. Be aware that the route may include multiple stops and can take 15-20 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased through the official Indiana University Auditorium website or authorized ticket vendors like Ticketmaster.
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the event, performer, and seating location. Major touring shows and popular artists tend to be more expensive.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as popular shows can sell out. Availability on the day of the show is not guaranteed.
The IU Auditorium offers various seating sections, including orchestra and mezzanine. Many patrons report that there isn't a bad seat in the house due to good grading and sightlines.
While generally good, some reviewers have noted obstructed views in certain orchestra-level seats, particularly for productions where action occurs on the sides of the stage.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
The auditorium hosts a diverse range of events, including Broadway tours, concerts, comedy shows, lectures, and performances by the Jacobs School of Music. 
The sound quality is consistently praised as excellent, even from the upper balcony, making it easy to understand speakers and enjoy performances.
The auditorium generally provides accessible seating and facilities. It's advisable to contact the box office in advance to discuss specific needs.
The atmosphere is typically vibrant and engaging, with a mix of students, faculty, and community members enjoying a wide array of performances.
Yes, the auditorium has a rich history, with past events and even former establishments like Hooligans Drinkery being remembered by locals.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies vary by event. Generally, flash photography is prohibited, and for many performances, no photography is allowed to avoid disrupting the show. Always check the specific event's guidelines.
The grand architecture of the main hall and the exterior of the building offer excellent photo opportunities. Capturing the ambiance before or after a show can also yield great shots.
Tripods, professional camera equipment, and large lenses are often restricted, especially during ticketed performances. It's best to inquire with the venue if you plan to use such equipment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When attending with children, remember to factor in extra time for parking and shuttle services, as mentioned in the general tips. This is especially important if your child has a shorter attention span. Consider bringing a small, quiet activity for them to engage with during any waiting periods. For seating, while most spots offer good views, inquire about family-friendly seating options when booking if available. Overall, the auditorium provides a safe and engaging environment for a memorable family outing.
🎶 Music & Dance Enthusiasts
+1 The world-class acoustics of the auditorium are particularly beneficial for musical performances, allowing every note and nuance to be appreciated.Beyond student productions, the auditorium attracts a variety of professional musical acts and touring shows. Keep an eye on the event schedule for concerts by renowned artists or major musical theater productions. The intimate yet grand atmosphere of the auditorium enhances the experience, making it feel like a truly special occasion for any music or dance aficionado.
🎓 IU Students & Faculty
+1Take advantage of the convenient campus location and explore the diverse programming. Whether it's a comedy show like Jerry Seinfeld,
a touring Broadway production, the auditorium provides accessible entertainment right at your doorstep. Familiarize yourself with campus transportation options and any student-specific ticketing information to make the most of your visits. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Hub for Performing Arts
The Jacobs School of Music also frequently utilizes the auditorium for its students' performances, offering a glimpse into the future of classical music and dance.+1 This variety ensures there's something for every taste throughout the academic year.Beyond the main stage, the auditorium's impressive architecture is a draw in itself. Its grand design and excellent acoustics create an immersive experience for attendees. Many visitors remark on the quality of sound, noting that even those with hearing impairments can enjoy the performances without issue.
When planning your visit, it's crucial to consider the logistics of attending an event. Parking can be a significant factor, especially when concurrent events like IU football games are happening.
Navigating Your Visit: Parking and Shuttles
However, it's important to be prepared for potential delays. The shuttle route might not be direct, and wait times can occur, particularly after a performance concludes. One reviewer noted a significant wait in freezing weather for a shuttle back to the parking garage.
For those who prefer to avoid parking hassles, consider alternative transportation options. Bloomington has a public transit system, and ride-sharing services are also available. If you are a student or faculty member, campus transportation options might also be viable. Regardless of your chosen method, factor in extra time to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the IU Auditorium.
Social
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