Entire home
Cottage on Kirkwood | Charming, Walk to IU, Downtown | King Bed · 2BR · Sleeps 6
Holiday home with kitchen, near Indiana University Bloomington
Photo gallery for Cottage on Kirkwood | Charming, Walk to IU, Downtown | King Bed · 2BR · Sleeps 6





Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 61132 sq ft
Popular amenities
Explore the area
Bloomington, IN
- Place, Wonderlab Science Museum6 min walk
- Place, Monroe Convention Center10 min walk
- Place, Indiana University Bloomington4 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)
Bedroom 1
1 King Bed
Bedroom 2
1 Queen Bed
1 bathroom
Bathroom 1
Bathtub or shower · Toilet
Spaces
Kitchen
Separate dining area
About this property
Cottage on Kirkwood | Charming, Walk to IU, Downtown | King Bed · 2BR · Sleeps 6
IU FOOTBALL SPECIAL! Celebrate the Hoosiers with early check-in, late check-out, and an assortment of local craft beers chilled and ready. This weekend only.
Built in 1900, Cottage on Kirkwood is a character-filled home on one of Bloomington’s most iconic streets, just blocks from the Square and a pleasant walk to IU’s Sample Gates. The house sleeps six with a king bedroom, queen bedroom, and sofa bed, and offers a warm town-and-country feel with natural light, farmhouse details, and a surprisingly spacious 1,132 sq ft layout.
Enjoy a large backyard with patio seating and grill, off-street driveway parking for two cars, and easy access to restaurants, shops, breweries, the B-Line Trail, and campus. A well-lit reading and work alcove at the back of the home provides a quiet spot to focus after a day exploring.
Welcome to Cottage on Kirkwood, a charming historic home on one of Bloomington’s most iconic streets — walkable, welcoming, and full of character.
Just blocks from downtown and a scenic walk to IU’s Sample Gates, this light-filled cottage blends farmhouse warmth with modern comforts in a location that puts Bloomington’s best right outside your door.
— Highlights —
• Sleeps 6 — ideal for couples, families, or small groups
• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom
• King bed • Queen bed • Sofa bed
• Walk to Downtown Bloomington & IU Campus
• Iconic Kirkwood Avenue location
• Off-street driveway parking for 2 vehicles
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Fast WiFi • Dedicated work/reading alcove
• Washer & dryer
• Two patios • Front porch with swing
• Large backyard • Gas grill
• Well-mannered dogs considered with prior approval
— The Details —
Built in 1900, Cottage on Kirkwood is a character-filled historic home with a classic “this old house” personality — charming, imperfect, and full of warmth — paired with thoughtful modern updates. Natural light pours into the space, highlighting farmhouse details, original features, and a surprisingly spacious 1,132 sq ft layout.
The home includes two comfortable bedrooms: one with a king bed and one with a queen bed, both dressed with quality linens. A sofa bed in the living area provides flexible sleeping for additional guests. The single full bathroom features a vintage clawfoot tub, adding to the home’s historic charm.
At the back of the house, a well-lit reading and office alcove offers a quiet place to work or unwind after a day exploring campus and downtown. This space is especially appreciated by remote workers and longer-stay guests.
Outdoor living is a highlight here. Enjoy two patios, a front porch with swing, and a large backyard with patio seating and a gas grill — perfect for morning coffee, casual dinners, or relaxing evenings at home.
The kitchen is fully equipped for everyday cooking, and a washer and dryer are provided for guest use. Off-street driveway parking for two cars makes coming and going easy.
Please note: the garage is not available for guest use.
Location
• Blocks from downtown restaurants, cafés, shops, and breweries
• Pleasant walk to IU’s Sample Gates
• Corner bus stop steps away
• Easy access to the B-Line Trail
• Located on Kirkwood Avenue in Bloomington’s historic Prospect Hill neighborhood
You’ll be close to everything — right in the heart of Bloomington’s energy — while still enjoying a cozy place to retreat at the end of the day.
— Why We’re Different —
• One of Bloomington’s classic historic cottages on iconic Kirkwood Ave
• Walk-to-everything convenience for campus, dining, and nightlife
• Warm farmhouse style with natural light and original character
• Dedicated office/reading alcove — rare in a 2BR historic home
• Multiple outdoor spaces for relaxing and entertaining
• Room-darkening curtains (Queen bedroom), ear plugs, and white noise machines for restful sleep
Family-Friendly Features
• Flexible sleeping layout for families or mixed groups
• Tub — helpful for bathing young children
• Quiet backyard for outdoor play and downtime
Pet-Friendly Perks
• Well-behaved dogs considered with prior host approval
• Easy access to walkable streets and nearby green spaces
Sustainability — Lower Your Travel Footprint
• Local coffee with reusable filters
• Recycling provided
• Refillable dispensers with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
• Eco-friendly cleaning products + “free & clear” detergent
• WiFi-enabled thermostat
House Rules
Quiet hours: 11pm–8am (residential neighborhood)
No parties or unauthorized events
Only registered guests permitted overnight
No smoking or vaping indoors or on the front porch
Garage not available for guest use
Please avoid tracking mud inside after games or hikes
Check-out: simple list provided in home
Dogs allowed with prior approval
— Other Things to Note —
Neighborhood & sound: Kirkwood Avenue is a lively, well-loved street. Guests should expect normal urban activity, including street noise, pedestrians, and the occasional dog. Ear plugs and white noise machines are provided for comfort.
Historic home note: As a 1900 cottage, this home has a classic historic personality — charming, imperfect, and full of character — balanced with modern comforts.
Bathroom access: The bathroom features a vintage clawfoot tub without a grab bar. Due to the raised base, it may be difficult for guests with mobility limitations. A step stool is provided.
Built in 1900, Cottage on Kirkwood is a character-filled home on one of Bloomington’s most iconic streets, just blocks from the Square and a pleasant walk to IU’s Sample Gates. The house sleeps six with a king bedroom, queen bedroom, and sofa bed, and offers a warm town-and-country feel with natural light, farmhouse details, and a surprisingly spacious 1,132 sq ft layout.
Enjoy a large backyard with patio seating and grill, off-street driveway parking for two cars, and easy access to restaurants, shops, breweries, the B-Line Trail, and campus. A well-lit reading and work alcove at the back of the home provides a quiet spot to focus after a day exploring.
Welcome to Cottage on Kirkwood, a charming historic home on one of Bloomington’s most iconic streets — walkable, welcoming, and full of character.
Just blocks from downtown and a scenic walk to IU’s Sample Gates, this light-filled cottage blends farmhouse warmth with modern comforts in a location that puts Bloomington’s best right outside your door.
— Highlights —
• Sleeps 6 — ideal for couples, families, or small groups
• 2 bedrooms • 1 bathroom
• King bed • Queen bed • Sofa bed
• Walk to Downtown Bloomington & IU Campus
• Iconic Kirkwood Avenue location
• Off-street driveway parking for 2 vehicles
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Fast WiFi • Dedicated work/reading alcove
• Washer & dryer
• Two patios • Front porch with swing
• Large backyard • Gas grill
• Well-mannered dogs considered with prior approval
— The Details —
Built in 1900, Cottage on Kirkwood is a character-filled historic home with a classic “this old house” personality — charming, imperfect, and full of warmth — paired with thoughtful modern updates. Natural light pours into the space, highlighting farmhouse details, original features, and a surprisingly spacious 1,132 sq ft layout.
The home includes two comfortable bedrooms: one with a king bed and one with a queen bed, both dressed with quality linens. A sofa bed in the living area provides flexible sleeping for additional guests. The single full bathroom features a vintage clawfoot tub, adding to the home’s historic charm.
At the back of the house, a well-lit reading and office alcove offers a quiet place to work or unwind after a day exploring campus and downtown. This space is especially appreciated by remote workers and longer-stay guests.
Outdoor living is a highlight here. Enjoy two patios, a front porch with swing, and a large backyard with patio seating and a gas grill — perfect for morning coffee, casual dinners, or relaxing evenings at home.
The kitchen is fully equipped for everyday cooking, and a washer and dryer are provided for guest use. Off-street driveway parking for two cars makes coming and going easy.
Please note: the garage is not available for guest use.
Location
• Blocks from downtown restaurants, cafés, shops, and breweries
• Pleasant walk to IU’s Sample Gates
• Corner bus stop steps away
• Easy access to the B-Line Trail
• Located on Kirkwood Avenue in Bloomington’s historic Prospect Hill neighborhood
You’ll be close to everything — right in the heart of Bloomington’s energy — while still enjoying a cozy place to retreat at the end of the day.
— Why We’re Different —
• One of Bloomington’s classic historic cottages on iconic Kirkwood Ave
• Walk-to-everything convenience for campus, dining, and nightlife
• Warm farmhouse style with natural light and original character
• Dedicated office/reading alcove — rare in a 2BR historic home
• Multiple outdoor spaces for relaxing and entertaining
• Room-darkening curtains (Queen bedroom), ear plugs, and white noise machines for restful sleep
Family-Friendly Features
• Flexible sleeping layout for families or mixed groups
• Tub — helpful for bathing young children
• Quiet backyard for outdoor play and downtime
Pet-Friendly Perks
• Well-behaved dogs considered with prior host approval
• Easy access to walkable streets and nearby green spaces
Sustainability — Lower Your Travel Footprint
• Local coffee with reusable filters
• Recycling provided
• Refillable dispensers with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
• Eco-friendly cleaning products + “free & clear” detergent
• WiFi-enabled thermostat
House Rules
Quiet hours: 11pm–8am (residential neighborhood)
No parties or unauthorized events
Only registered guests permitted overnight
No smoking or vaping indoors or on the front porch
Garage not available for guest use
Please avoid tracking mud inside after games or hikes
Check-out: simple list provided in home
Dogs allowed with prior approval
— Other Things to Note —
Neighborhood & sound: Kirkwood Avenue is a lively, well-loved street. Guests should expect normal urban activity, including street noise, pedestrians, and the occasional dog. Ear plugs and white noise machines are provided for comfort.
Historic home note: As a 1900 cottage, this home has a classic historic personality — charming, imperfect, and full of character — balanced with modern comforts.
Bathroom access: The bathroom features a vintage clawfoot tub without a grab bar. Due to the raised base, it may be difficult for guests with mobility limitations. A step stool is provided.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
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10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (11 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 22
Check out before 11:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
No events allowed
Pets
Pets allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
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
About the area
Bloomington
Located in Bloomington, this holiday home is in the city centre. Wonderlab Science Museum and Butler Winery & Vineyard are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Monroe and Griffy Lake Nature Preserve. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Memorial Stadium or Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall. Fishing offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking/biking trails and cycling nearby.
Bloomington, IN
What's nearby
- Wonderlab Science Museum - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
- Monroe County Courthouse - 10 min walk - 0.8 km
- Monroe Convention Center - 10 min walk - 0.8 km
- IU Health Bloomington Hospital - 12 min walk - 1.1 km
- Indiana University Bloomington - 4 min drive - 2.1 km
Restaurants
- Circle K - 4 min walk
- Video Saloon - 12 min walk
- The Back Door - 10 min walk
- The Pourhouse Cafe - 7 min walk
- Crazy Horse - 8 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
9.8/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
26 Oct, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Wendy K.
11 Jun, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wendy K.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Amanda M.
20 Jan, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amanda M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
10/10 Excellent
Kourtney L.
2 Feb, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute for a small group
Kourtney L.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
10/10 Excellent
stacy H.
5 Aug, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect space!
stacy H.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Shawna M.
19 Oct, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy




Shawna M.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
10/10 Excellent
Bedford P.
17 Mar, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice!
Bedford P.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
stacy H.
21 Apr, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Easter 2025
stacy H.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Kelli B.
18 May, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect girls’ weekend property
Kelli B.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
10/10 Excellent
Gwen I.
25 Mar, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect for College Visit!
Gwen I.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
William "Cory" M.
5 Nov, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A night off campus
William "Cory" M.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveller
21 Sept, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Verified traveller
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Garrett S.
18 Oct, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Garrett S.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
About the host
Hosted by Cyndi Johnson
I am originally from Austin, Indiana but now reside in Bloomington with my husband, a professor at Indiana University in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, and daughters. I was a public school teacher for many years.
I first got into hosting during the pandemic when I lost my job working with The Arc of Indiana and decided to become my own boss. I needed a great deal of flexibility to provide educational support to my 3 children (at the time--an 8th grader with learning disabilities, a 6th grader with Down syndrome, and a precocious 3rd grader), so it was essential that I be able to take my kids to work with me and set my own hours.
We took out equity in our home to buy this charming 1900s cottage on iconic Kirkwood Ave near IU. It went so well that we sold it as an investment property and I continued to host it.
Now I host a small portfolio of properties in 2 of the most historic cities in Indiana: Bloomington and Madison. I still own 2 properties and host for others. Madison Manor is our dream home. We hope to retire there in one townhouse and rent the other.
I first got into hosting during the pandemic when I lost my job working with The Arc of Indiana and decided to become my own boss. I needed a great deal of flexibility to provide educational support to my 3 children (at the time--an 8th grader with learning disabilities, a 6th grader with Down syndrome, and a precocious 3rd grader), so it was essential that I be able to take my kids to work with me and set my own hours.
We took out equity in our home to buy this charming 1900s cottage on iconic Kirkwood Ave near IU. It went so well that we sold it as an investment property and I continued to host it.
Now I host a small portfolio of properties in 2 of the most historic cities in Indiana: Bloomington and Madison. I still own 2 properties and host for others. Madison Manor is our dream home. We hope to retire there in one townhouse and rent the other.
Why they chose this property
I love downtown Bloomington!
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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