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.