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IU Retreat! Spacious Luxury Stay, Steps from Campus - Pool Table, Firepit & More
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Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
5 bedrooms 3 bathrooms Sleeps 14 2900 sq ft
Popular amenities
Explore the area
Bloomington, IN
- Indiana University Bloomington5 min walk
- Indiana University Auditorium9 min walk
- Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall3 min drive
Rooms & beds
5 bedrooms (sleeps 14)
Blue Bird Basement Lounge
1 Double Bed
Dunn Woods Bunk Room - Main Floor
1 Queen Bunk Bed
Rose Well House King - Upstairs
1 King Bed
Sample Gates King - Upstairs
1 King Bed
Showalter Fountain Double Full - Upstairs
2 Double Beds
3 bathrooms
Basement Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Main Floor Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Upstairs Bathroom
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Jetted bathtub · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area
About this property
IU Retreat! Spacious Luxury Stay, Steps from Campus - Pool Table, Firepit & More
🆕 Brand New Listing
Welcome to Linden House—a timeless, spacious retreat just steps from Indiana University’s campus. Designed for alumni reunions, visiting families, and group getaways, this home blends modern comfort with nostalgic Hoosier charm. From football weekends and graduation celebrations to relaxed family visits, Linden House puts you right in the heart of Bloomington’s most iconic experiences.
Inside, every detail pays tribute to IU’s rich traditions and local landmarks, with vintage-inspired décor and framed prints of beloved spots like the Sample Gates, Showalter Fountain, and the Bluebird. With room for large groups, a fully loaded game room, and a beautifully designed backyard perfect for evenings under the stars, Linden House invites you to relive memories—and make new ones—just a short walk from it all.
🏡 PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS
🌟 Luxury & Comfort – Thoughtfully designed interiors with high-end furnishings and stylish decor that pay homage to iconic IU and Bloomington landmarks. Enjoy luxury linens, spa-quality towels, and plush bedding, ensuring a stay that is both sophisticated and indulgently comfortable while remaining deeply connected to the local charm.
🌟Spacious & Family-Friendly – Multiple bedrooms and ample living space, perfect for families, groups, or IU visitors.
🌟Dedicated Game Room – Enjoy retro arcade with over 3000 games, pool, air hockey, foosball, boardgames and a TV—perfect for game nights or Hoosier game days!
🌟Private Outdoor Space – Relax on the concrete patio, fire up the grill, and gather around the firepit for s’mores and late-night conversations under the stars
🌟Hassle-Free Parking – Free on-site parking, a rare find near campus.
📍 PRIME LOCATION – Walk to These Popular Spots!
🌟Indiana University Campus (3 min) – Steps from the heart of IU, perfect for campus events.
🌟Kirkwood Avenue (10 min) – Bloomington’s vibrant strip with top restaurants, bars, and shops.
🌟Memorial Stadium & Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall (20 min) – Catch Hoosier football and basketball action.
🌟Local Coffee & Dining (5 min) – Enjoy favorites like Crumble Coffee and Bakery, Soma Coffeehouse, Inkwell Coffee, Mother Bear's Pizza, and Restaurant Ami—all just a short walk away!
🚘 SCENIC DRIVES FROM LINDEN HOUSE
🚤 Lake Monroe (20 min) – Indiana’s largest lake, perfect for boating, fishing, hiking, and lakeside relaxation.
🍁 Downtown Nashville, IN & Brown County (25 min) – A charming artist town with boutique shops, local restaurants, and stunning hiking trails in Brown County State Park.
🎯 PERFECT FOR:
✔️ IU Parents & Alumni Reunions
✔️ Hoosier Game Days & Graduation Celebrations
✔️ Couples & Family Getaways
ACCOMMODATIONS
5 Bedrooms
Linden House offers five thoughtfully designed bedrooms, each inspired by iconic IU and Bloomington landmarks. Luxurious bedding, modern furnishings, and unique decor ensure a restful and memorable stay for up to 14 guests:
🌟 Rose Well House King: 1 King, Workstation, Alarm Clock/Sound Machine/Charger (2nd Floor)
🌟 Sample Gates King: 1 King, Vanity/Desk, Alarm Clock/Sound Machine/Charger (2nd Floor)
🌟 Showalter Fountain Double: 2 Full Beds, Alarm Clock/Sound Machine/Charger (2nd Floor)
🌟 Dunn Woods Bunk: Queen-over-Queen Custom Bunk Bed, Alarm Clock/Sound Machine/Charger (Main Floor)
🌟 Bluebird Lounge: 1 Full Bed + 1 Floor Bed, Alarm Clock/Sound Machine/Charger (Basement)
3 Full Bathrooms
Experience offer comfort and convenience, stocked with organic luxury shampoo, conditioner, body wash, plush towels, and a hair dryer. Every detail is designed for a refreshing and effortless stay.
🌟 Main Floor: Full Bath with Shower
🌟 Second Floor: Full Bath with Jetted Tub/Shower Combo
🌟 Basement: Full Bath with Shower
Kitchen
The fully equipped kitchen blends vintage charm with modern efficiency, perfect for everything from tailgate wings to gourmet meals:
🌟 Stainless steel gas range with griddle and air fryer oven
🌟 Keurig Duo for K-cups or ground coffee
🌟 Appliances: Toaster, Blender, Crockpot, Rice Cooker, Kettle
Dining Room
Enjoy restaurant-style elegance in the dining room, featuring plush banquette seating for 12, ambient lighting, and chic decor—ideal for intimate meals or lively gatherings.
ENTERTAINMENT & AMENITIES
Game Room
The game room is your entertainment hub, featuring:
🌟 2-in-1 Pool Table & Air Hockey
🌟 Retro Arcade with 3,000+ games
🌟 Foosball Coffee Table, Dartboard, Giant Wall Connect Four, Board Games, Cards, Dice
🌟 50” Smart TV
Living Room
Relax in the inviting living room with:
🌟 Spacious seating and cozy conversation zones
🌟 Chess table for games or wine nights
🌟 55” Samsung Frame TV with soundbar
Basement
The music-themed Blue Bird Lounge is perfect for unwinding:
🌟 Vintage record player with vinyl collection
🌟 Cozy velvet seating and popcorn machine
🌟 50” Smart TV for movie nights
Backyard
Step outside to two thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces:
🌟 Fire pit table with comfortable seating and 36" Blackstone griddle in the side yard
🌟 Fenced backyard with dining area, large firepit, outdoor heater and bistro lights
🌟 Outdoor games like corn hole for family fun
Kids’ Corner
We’ve got the little ones covered with:
🌟 Crib, high chair, sound machine (please provide crib sheets)
🌟 Kid-friendly dishes and toys for ages 6 months to 6 years
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Parking
🌟 On-site parking for 2–3 cars (via alley)
🌟 Free street parking available weekends (Friday 5 PM–Monday 7 AM)
Guest Policies
➡️ Quiet hours: 10 PM–7 AM to respect our wonderful neighbors
➡️ Ring cameras at front/back doors and alley collect both audio and video and are in place to ensure guest safety
Make Linden House your home base for creating lasting memories in Bloomington. Whether you’re exploring IU, enjoying downtown, or simply relaxing with loved ones, this charming retreat is ready to welcome you.
GUEST ACCESS
Guests can enjoy the entire property with the exception of the garage.
OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:
All streaming services require users to log in with their own accounts to access content and maintain personalized viewing experiences.
Built in 1924, Linden House retains many of its original features, all of which are functional but may operate differently from modern constructions. The original double-hung windows, complete with their counterbalance system requires a delicate touch and some windows will not have screens. Doors, handles and hardware throughout the home reflect the craftsmanship of the time, but may stick or need a little finesse. The original hardwood floors are in great shape, but show signs of 100 years of use. Although modern updates have been made these historic elements remain and add to the home's charm.
Welcome to Linden House—a timeless, spacious retreat just steps from Indiana University’s campus. Designed for alumni reunions, visiting families, and group getaways, this home blends modern comfort with nostalgic Hoosier charm. From football weekends and graduation celebrations to relaxed family visits, Linden House puts you right in the heart of Bloomington’s most iconic experiences.
Inside, every detail pays tribute to IU’s rich traditions and local landmarks, with vintage-inspired décor and framed prints of beloved spots like the Sample Gates, Showalter Fountain, and the Bluebird. With room for large groups, a fully loaded game room, and a beautifully designed backyard perfect for evenings under the stars, Linden House invites you to relive memories—and make new ones—just a short walk from it all.
🏡 PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS
🌟 Luxury & Comfort – Thoughtfully designed interiors with high-end furnishings and stylish decor that pay homage to iconic IU and Bloomington landmarks. Enjoy luxury linens, spa-quality towels, and plush bedding, ensuring a stay that is both sophisticated and indulgently comfortable while remaining deeply connected to the local charm.
🌟Spacious & Family-Friendly – Multiple bedrooms and ample living space, perfect for families, groups, or IU visitors.
🌟Dedicated Game Room – Enjoy retro arcade with over 3000 games, pool, air hockey, foosball, boardgames and a TV—perfect for game nights or Hoosier game days!
🌟Private Outdoor Space – Relax on the concrete patio, fire up the grill, and gather around the firepit for s’mores and late-night conversations under the stars
🌟Hassle-Free Parking – Free on-site parking, a rare find near campus.
📍 PRIME LOCATION – Walk to These Popular Spots!
🌟Indiana University Campus (3 min) – Steps from the heart of IU, perfect for campus events.
🌟Kirkwood Avenue (10 min) – Bloomington’s vibrant strip with top restaurants, bars, and shops.
🌟Memorial Stadium & Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall (20 min) – Catch Hoosier football and basketball action.
🌟Local Coffee & Dining (5 min) – Enjoy favorites like Crumble Coffee and Bakery, Soma Coffeehouse, Inkwell Coffee, Mother Bear's Pizza, and Restaurant Ami—all just a short walk away!
🚘 SCENIC DRIVES FROM LINDEN HOUSE
🚤 Lake Monroe (20 min) – Indiana’s largest lake, perfect for boating, fishing, hiking, and lakeside relaxation.
🍁 Downtown Nashville, IN & Brown County (25 min) – A charming artist town with boutique shops, local restaurants, and stunning hiking trails in Brown County State Park.
🎯 PERFECT FOR:
✔️ IU Parents & Alumni Reunions
✔️ Hoosier Game Days & Graduation Celebrations
✔️ Couples & Family Getaways
ACCOMMODATIONS
5 Bedrooms
Linden House offers five thoughtfully designed bedrooms, each inspired by iconic IU and Bloomington landmarks. Luxurious bedding, modern furnishings, and unique decor ensure a restful and memorable stay for up to 14 guests:
🌟 Rose Well House King: 1 King, Workstation, Alarm Clock/Sound Machine/Charger (2nd Floor)
🌟 Sample Gates King: 1 King, Vanity/Desk, Alarm Clock/Sound Machine/Charger (2nd Floor)
🌟 Showalter Fountain Double: 2 Full Beds, Alarm Clock/Sound Machine/Charger (2nd Floor)
🌟 Dunn Woods Bunk: Queen-over-Queen Custom Bunk Bed, Alarm Clock/Sound Machine/Charger (Main Floor)
🌟 Bluebird Lounge: 1 Full Bed + 1 Floor Bed, Alarm Clock/Sound Machine/Charger (Basement)
3 Full Bathrooms
Experience offer comfort and convenience, stocked with organic luxury shampoo, conditioner, body wash, plush towels, and a hair dryer. Every detail is designed for a refreshing and effortless stay.
🌟 Main Floor: Full Bath with Shower
🌟 Second Floor: Full Bath with Jetted Tub/Shower Combo
🌟 Basement: Full Bath with Shower
Kitchen
The fully equipped kitchen blends vintage charm with modern efficiency, perfect for everything from tailgate wings to gourmet meals:
🌟 Stainless steel gas range with griddle and air fryer oven
🌟 Keurig Duo for K-cups or ground coffee
🌟 Appliances: Toaster, Blender, Crockpot, Rice Cooker, Kettle
Dining Room
Enjoy restaurant-style elegance in the dining room, featuring plush banquette seating for 12, ambient lighting, and chic decor—ideal for intimate meals or lively gatherings.
ENTERTAINMENT & AMENITIES
Game Room
The game room is your entertainment hub, featuring:
🌟 2-in-1 Pool Table & Air Hockey
🌟 Retro Arcade with 3,000+ games
🌟 Foosball Coffee Table, Dartboard, Giant Wall Connect Four, Board Games, Cards, Dice
🌟 50” Smart TV
Living Room
Relax in the inviting living room with:
🌟 Spacious seating and cozy conversation zones
🌟 Chess table for games or wine nights
🌟 55” Samsung Frame TV with soundbar
Basement
The music-themed Blue Bird Lounge is perfect for unwinding:
🌟 Vintage record player with vinyl collection
🌟 Cozy velvet seating and popcorn machine
🌟 50” Smart TV for movie nights
Backyard
Step outside to two thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces:
🌟 Fire pit table with comfortable seating and 36" Blackstone griddle in the side yard
🌟 Fenced backyard with dining area, large firepit, outdoor heater and bistro lights
🌟 Outdoor games like corn hole for family fun
Kids’ Corner
We’ve got the little ones covered with:
🌟 Crib, high chair, sound machine (please provide crib sheets)
🌟 Kid-friendly dishes and toys for ages 6 months to 6 years
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
Parking
🌟 On-site parking for 2–3 cars (via alley)
🌟 Free street parking available weekends (Friday 5 PM–Monday 7 AM)
Guest Policies
➡️ Quiet hours: 10 PM–7 AM to respect our wonderful neighbors
➡️ Ring cameras at front/back doors and alley collect both audio and video and are in place to ensure guest safety
Make Linden House your home base for creating lasting memories in Bloomington. Whether you’re exploring IU, enjoying downtown, or simply relaxing with loved ones, this charming retreat is ready to welcome you.
GUEST ACCESS
Guests can enjoy the entire property with the exception of the garage.
OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:
All streaming services require users to log in with their own accounts to access content and maintain personalized viewing experiences.
Built in 1924, Linden House retains many of its original features, all of which are functional but may operate differently from modern constructions. The original double-hung windows, complete with their counterbalance system requires a delicate touch and some windows will not have screens. Doors, handles and hardware throughout the home reflect the craftsmanship of the time, but may stick or need a little finesse. The original hardwood floors are in great shape, but show signs of 100 years of use. Although modern updates have been made these historic elements remain and add to the home's charm.
Property manager
Nicole and Brad
Premier Host
Languages
English
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Amenities
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
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House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
No events allowed
Pets
No pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
About the area
Bloomington
Elm Heights, a neighbourhood in Bloomington, is home to this holiday home. IU Opera and Ballet Theater and Indiana University Auditorium are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at IU - Student Recreational Sports Center and Wonderlab Science Museum. Travelling with kids? Consider Jump-N-Joey's and Monroe County Fair Grounds. Take some time off to enjoy the winery tours and health/beauty spas in the area, or get some fresh air with adventures like cycling nearby.
Bloomington, IN
What's nearby
- Indiana University Bloomington - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
- Indiana University Auditorium - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
- Wonderlab Science Museum - 19 min walk - 1.7 km
- Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall - 3 min drive - 2.1 km
- Memorial Stadium - 3 min drive - 2.4 km
Restaurants
- Upstairs Pub - 13 min walk
- Mother Bear's Pizza Campus - 6 min walk
- Chipotle Mexican Grill - 14 min walk
- The Restaurants at Woodland - 10 min walk
- Nick's English Hut - 13 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
1 Apr 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lyle E.
6 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lyle E.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Claire W.
3 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic Historic House
Claire W.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Peggy C.
23 Feb 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Best VRBO ever!
Peggy C.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jackie S.
16 Jun 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Jackie S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Brittany D.
31 Dec 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Gorgeous Historical Home in Bloomington
Brittany D.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
About the host
Hosted by Nicole and Brad

Hello! We're Nicole and Brad, a family with deep ties to Bloomington and a passion for hospitality. Brad, an IU alumnus and Indiana native, grew up immersed in Hoosier traditions and knows all the local favorites - from Nick's English Hut to the Bluebird. While Nicole, originally from California, fell in love with Bloomington's charm - the liveliness of Kirkwood Ave., the serene beauty of Dunn Woods and the campus' remarkable architecture that combines history and character.
We're a family of six, with twin daughters eager to join IU in 2025, a curious and imaginative five-year-old daughter, and an energetic three-year-old son. Our two lovable dogs round out our busy household in Carmel, IN. Hosting gives us the joy of meeting new people, sharing our favorite parts of Bloomington and creating a memorable experience for every guest.
At Linden House, we've carefully designed a space that blends luxury and comfort, perfect for IU events, family getaways, or peaceful escapes. We look forward to making your stay special!
We're a family of six, with twin daughters eager to join IU in 2025, a curious and imaginative five-year-old daughter, and an energetic three-year-old son. Our two lovable dogs round out our busy household in Carmel, IN. Hosting gives us the joy of meeting new people, sharing our favorite parts of Bloomington and creating a memorable experience for every guest.
At Linden House, we've carefully designed a space that blends luxury and comfort, perfect for IU events, family getaways, or peaceful escapes. We look forward to making your stay special!
Why they chose this property
What we love most about Elm Heights is its perfect blend of history, community and accessibility. The tree-lines streets are not only visually stunning but also provide a peaceful retreat, just minutes from the hustle and bustle of campus. The neighborhood's rich architectural history, with a mix of charming vintage homes and modern updates, gives it a timeless appeal. Among the neighbors, you'll find IU professors, graduate students and members of the vibrant Greek community.
We also appreciate the walkability of Elm Heights. Being able to easily stroll to campus, Kirkwood Ave, and downtown Bloomington makes it incredibly convenient to visitors. Whether its grabbing a coffee at a local cafe, pizza at Mother Bear's, attending an IU event, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, Elm Heights offers the perfect location for all of it. There's something special about being so close to the heart of IU but still nestled in a neighborhood that feels like a quiet retreat.
We also appreciate the walkability of Elm Heights. Being able to easily stroll to campus, Kirkwood Ave, and downtown Bloomington makes it incredibly convenient to visitors. Whether its grabbing a coffee at a local cafe, pizza at Mother Bear's, attending an IU event, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area, Elm Heights offers the perfect location for all of it. There's something special about being so close to the heart of IU but still nestled in a neighborhood that feels like a quiet retreat.
What makes this property unique
Linden House stands out for its exceptional amenities, making it the perfect choice for large groups, families, and anyone looking for a fun and comfortable stay in Bloomington. This spacious home offers a game room that will keep everyone entertained – whether you’re into pool, air hockey, foosball, arcade games, or darts. There’s also a wide selection of cards, dice, and board games for some classic fun with friends and family.
Step outside to a large, fenced yard designed for relaxation and recreation. You’ll find a grill for cookouts, outdoor dining area, firepit to gather around on cool evenings and enjoy s'mores. The outdoor heater adds a cozy touch, ensuring you can enjoy the yard even as the temperatures drop.
For music lovers, the basement lounge is a must-see. Equipped with a record player, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy your favorite tunes in a relaxed, cozy setting.
Linden House is perfect for large groups, with ample space for everyone to spread out and relax. Each room is thoughtfully designed, with several rooms inspired by Indiana University, adding a personal touch for alumni, students, and fans alike. Whether you’re here to cheer on the Hoosiers or enjoy a family getaway, Linden House provides the perfect blend of comfort, entertainment, and convenience.
Step outside to a large, fenced yard designed for relaxation and recreation. You’ll find a grill for cookouts, outdoor dining area, firepit to gather around on cool evenings and enjoy s'mores. The outdoor heater adds a cozy touch, ensuring you can enjoy the yard even as the temperatures drop.
For music lovers, the basement lounge is a must-see. Equipped with a record player, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy your favorite tunes in a relaxed, cozy setting.
Linden House is perfect for large groups, with ample space for everyone to spread out and relax. Each room is thoughtfully designed, with several rooms inspired by Indiana University, adding a personal touch for alumni, students, and fans alike. Whether you’re here to cheer on the Hoosiers or enjoy a family getaway, Linden House provides the perfect blend of comfort, entertainment, and convenience.
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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