Why not try something new this fall? 

Discover the perfect Midwest getaway this autumn with our inspo to spending fall break in South Bend and Mishawaka. Whether you're a student, a local, or just passing through, explore the best places to eat, unwind, and make the most of the season.

RELATED CONTENT: Things to do this October in South Bend & Mishawaka

Potawatomi Zoo

Walking through the main gates at Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend reveals a sanctuary for nature lovers. Wallabies hop across open, grassy spaces. Spider monkeys move gracefully from tree to tree. Okapi enjoy a delicious helping of leaves. Lions roar. Sights and sounds abound in a family friendly environment with 400 hundred-plus animals.

Explore Area Parks

If you're the type to spend fall weekends exploring the changing colors outdoors, The Bend is your kind of place. Potato Creek State Park is an outdoor lover's paradise with miles of hiking and biking trails, plus Lake Worster at its center. You can fish and paddle out on the lake.

Rum Village Park is another favorite for hikers, disc golfers and mountain bikers.

If you want to find more places to paddle, you can do so at Ferrettie-Baugo County Park. There are also self-serve rentals at Pinhook Park in South Bend. 

RELATED CONTENT: Outdoors & Recreation

Visit the University of Notre Dame

We always recommend taking a walk through one of the world's most well-known campuses to explore its iconic landmarks, no matter the season. Fall is a spectacular time of year to visit as the leaves change. Instagrammable moments await near the Golden Dome, Touchdown Jesus, the Basilica and the Grotto.

Notre Dame Football hosts 3 major home games in October. Don't miss a shot to experience the spirit of the Fighting Irish!

RELATED CONTENT: Visit the University of Notre Dame

Indoor Fun and Games

Just in case the weather isn't up to par when you're looking for something to do:

Apex Climbing Gym: One of our newest attractions, Apex Climbing Gym is your go-to spot for an adventurous day of free climbing rock walls of various skill levels. They have lessons for newbies and plenty of options for kids, making it a fun option for trying something new.

Generations AdventurePlex: Generations AdventurePlex has activities for all ages. Laser tag, bowling, a drop tower and the arcade are great for kids. There's also axe throwing and bocce ball.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park: A family favorite, Sky Zone in Mishawaka is like the best bounce house of all time. There’s are several different ways to enjoy it, from a free climb area to a toddler zone exclusively for younger children.

Strikes and Spares Entertainment Center: Bowling, mini bowling, black light mini golf, go-karts, arcade, bumper cars — those are just some of the options at this popular Mishawaka family fun destination.

Visit the Children's Museum of South Bend

Take your little ones on an indoor adventure at the Children's Museum of South Bend. There are multiple rooms with activities that allow for children to use their imaginations. Learning, engagement and fun all under one roof!

Children's Museum

Family Friendly Food

When it's time to take a break and grab a bite to eat, is there anything more family friendly than pizza? What about tacos? Maybe you want an epic shake for dessert? We know where to find all this. Start exploring your options.

Visit the Museum District in South Bend

Perfect for the young car lover, Studebaker National Museum is a wonderful showcase of local history and classic cars. You can also take a step back in time with The History Museum’s exhibits on regional history and stop in their Kidsfirst Museum. Just down the street, the Civil Rights Heritage Center takes a look at local civil rights history.

RELATED CONTENT: Museums

Indiana Dinosaur Museum & South Bend Chocolate Factory Tours

Stepping into the Indiana Dinosaur Museum is to go back through 1.9 billion years of history. Located in South Bend near the South Bend International Airport, the museum features 43 dinosaur sculptures and 30 skeletons. Real dinosaur skin — an extremely rare archaeological find — is also on display. But it's not just a place to look. The Indiana Dinosaur Museum is an interactive attraction for adults and children alike. Where else can kids dig for their own fossils and check out a working research lab? Don't miss their Wicked Weekends all October long with Oktoberfest, HarvestFest and HalloweenFest.

Satisfy your sweet tooth by heading to the South Bend Chocolate Factory for a behind-the-scenes tour. You'll get a closer look at how the treats are made then grab a box to take home. If you’re in downtown South Bend, visit the café for a bit to eat and the kids play area.

Indiana Dinosaur Museum skeleton

Events Around The Bend

Oblates of Blues Feb 07

Oblates of Blues

One performance only! This is part of Acting Ensemble's "Poets and Playwrights" series, which…

Roofsit Trivia Night Feb 07

Roofsit Trivia Night

Help kick off Roofsit’s 30th Anniversary! Bring your team (or come solo) for a fun, family-friendly…

Winter Restaurant Weeks Feb 07

Winter Restaurant Weeks

Downtown Restaurant Weeks are back! From January 23 to February 8, you've got the time to taste, sip…

Fitness Bootcamp Feb 11

Fitness Bootcamp

Get moving every Wednesday from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Howard Park! Fitness Bootcamp features…

Latin Wednesday Feb 11

Latin Wednesday

Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue & More. Beginner's lesson of 30 minutes @7 PM, followed by open…

Pinhook Painters Feb 11

Pinhook Painters

Pinhook Painters welcomes artists of all abilities and mediums for studio time each Wednesday from…