Come Discover
South Bend & Mishawaka, IN
We're excited to show you more about The Bend, a place where we encourage you to explore both the well-known and the roads less traveled. The University of Notre Dame and St. Joseph River are two of our defining features. But there is much more in our cities, towns and open spaces. No matter how you choose to explore, this is a place to embrace life’s simple pleasures. After all, Mondays can wait.
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Walkerton
Fishing, golf and other outdoor activities are among the things you can do in this small community in the southwest part of the county.
North Liberty is home to Potato Creek State Park, one of the most-visited parks in the state. Downtown is also brimming with activity. That's particularly true when the Strawberry Festival is going on. Learn More
Not far from Potato Creek State Park, Lakeville is a friendly community on the south side of the county. Learn More
Known for its charming downtown, New Carlisle is small town America at its best. Cute local shops, an engaging history museum, nearby parks and destination restaurants are some of the things that make New Carlisle worth a visit. Learn More
Granger
Situated just east of Mishawaka, Granger is home to great locally owned shops and several restaurants that locals love.
Mishawaka feels simultaneously like quaint small town and bustling city. Its parks, shopping and restaurants are among the best you'll find anywhere in the region. Learn More
The University of Notre Dame doesn't need much of an introduction. One of the world's best-known college campuses, its stunning beauty never ceases to amaze. Learn More
Mishawaka's retail district is a regional shopping destination. Dozens of known brands line Grape Road and Main Street with University Park Mall serving as a hub. Learn More
Whitewater rafting in downtown South Bend? You bet. The East Race Waterway is a summertime thrill ride that outdoor adventurers shouldn't miss. Learn More
Potato Creek State Park is an outdoor lover's dream. It has miles of trails, large camping areas, cabins, a 327-acre lake and is considered one of the state's best birding areas. Learn More
With the Mishawaka Riverwalk along the St. Joseph River as its centerpiece, downtown Mishawaka is a favorite place for locals and visitors to explore. Learn More
Potawatomi Zoo is one of The Bend's best spots for visitors of all ages. It's home to over 400 animals with tigers, snow leopards, red pandas and a rare Southern White Rhino among them. Learn More
Downtown South Bend
Downtown South Bend is a hub of activity with restaurants, nightlife, hotels, attractions, events and more. Visiting downtown puts you in the center of the action.
Flying South Bend International Airport puts travelers one connection from anywhere in the country. Four airlines — Allegiant, American Delta and United — offer nonstop flights to 13 destinations. Learn More
South Bend
Indiana's fourth largest city, South Bend is a vibrant Midwest destination with over 100,000 residents defined by the St. Joseph River, which flows through downtown.
Established by a group from the Missionary Church in 1947, Bethel University is located in Mishawaka. Just over 1,000 students call Bethel home. It is home to one of the most successful NAIA athletics programs in the country. Learn More
Indiana University South Bend is the largest regional campus of Indiana University with nearly 5,000 students. Campus is situated along the St. Joseph River in South Bend's River Park neighborhood. It offers nearly 100 degree… Learn More
Holy Cross is a co-ed, Catholic college located across from the University of Notre Dame. Established as a two-year college, it now offers four-year degrees in multiple disciplines. It enrolls just over 500 students. Learn More
Saint Mary's College is a four-year, Catholic women's liberal arts college. It ranks among the best liberal arts colleges in the country and enrolls students from around the world. Founded in 1844 by the Sisters of the Holy Cross… Learn More
Around the Bend
Top 10 Fall Activities in The Bend
Fall in The Bend is a pretty special time. Crisp air swoops in to South Bend and Mishawaka along…
6 Picks: Spots for Fall Color
Foliage season is almost here. Peak color around The Bend is expected the week of October 23, so…
Tailgate Your Way: Plan Your Notre Dame Pre-Game
Whether you’re planning your first game day or a gameday guru, this guide is your one-stop…
Featured
Events
"Embodying Resistance: Amazigh Indigenous Women, Colonialism, and Orientalism," Lecture by Kif-Kif Bledi director Raïssa Leï
By examining the images and narratives found in colonial archives, we will revisit the biased…
Experience
South Bend & Mishawaka
Check out our video gallery for a first-person view of our unique destination and everything we have to offer!