McLean County Courthouse and Square

The McLean County Courthouse is a neoclassical courthouse in Bloomington featuring balanced entrances on all sides and limestone exterior walls throughout. Corinthian columns and decorative elements define its architectural character and design.

The current building was completed in 1903 and stands as the fourth courthouse structure on this site. The first courthouse was established in 1831, with three earlier buildings preceding the present one.

The McLean County Museum of History fills all four floors of the courthouse, showing exhibits about local life and heritage. Visitors walk through displays that tell the story of how this community developed over time.

Visitors can explore the building during standard weekday hours when the museum displays are open to the public. It is helpful to confirm access in advance, as hours may change for special court events or maintenance.

The bell in the courthouse tower remained silent for roughly fifty years after the mid-1950s. It rang again on Christmas Eve in 2004 following restoration work on the dome.

Location: Illinois

Architectural style: neoclassicism

GPS coordinates: 40.47750,-88.98361

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:21