Hike in The Bend
April 30, 2026

National Tourism Week in South Bend

By Jena Stopczynski

In conjunction with U.S. Travel and the entire tourism industry, we're celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week from May 3-9 by highlighting the amazing experiences The Bend has to offer locals and visitors alike.

Join us by exploring some of these attractions, small businesses and events.

Travel outside the typical

Celebrate the power of travel during National Tourism Week right here in The Bend, where the energy of the community shines through its attractions, local businesses, and welcoming spirit. Consider exploring iconic spots like the University of Notre Dame, enjoying local restaurants, shopping unique boutiques, and breaking outside of the ordinary. Tourism plays a vital role in bringing people together. It’s the perfect time to rediscover your favorite places, or experience something new. See firsthand what makes The Bend such a vibrant destination.

Explore Parks and Trails

The Bend is home to dozens of outdoor spaces for you to adventure through. If you’re looking for something a little more organized, many of our parks offer guided hikes and other types of events for visitors looking to spend time outside.

Take a Public Art Tour

The Bend's public art scene is simply underrated. Check our list of murals, sculptures and galleries you can visit during National Travel and Tourism Week in our guide to public art in South Bend, Indiana.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is Tuesday, May 5. What better way to celebrate than by visiting some of the authentic restaurants on the westside of South Bend? You can also use our guide to The Bend's best tacos to find a lunch or dinner spot. The South Bend Cubs are also hosting a Taco & Margarita Fiesta!

Head to the Ballpark

South Bend Cubs baseball games are a staple of spring and summer in The Bend. Four Winds Field is one of the best minor league ballparks in the country with delicious concessions, play areas for the kids and so much more. Check our event listings for the game schedule and promotions of the day.

Museums & Arts Around The Bend

The Bend is home to history, arts and prehistoric experiences. Natinal Tourism Week is a perfect time to explore the past and marvel the arts.

    The History Museum
    The History Museum's mission is to collect, preserve, interpret, exhibit and teach the heritage of the St. Joseph River Valley region. First organized in 1867, The History Museum is the second oldest historical society…
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    Studebaker National Museum
    The Studebaker National Museum is a state-of-the-art, 55,000-square-foot facility that opened in October 2005. The building has three levels and features fully climate-controlled galleries and storage facilities to ensure the best possible care for…
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    Indiana Dinosaur Museum
    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 3…
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    Raclin Murphy Museum of Art
    Discover World-Class Art in the Heart of Campus Step into a world of creativity, culture, and inspiration at the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art, a premier destination on the University of Notre Dame campus…
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    South Bend Civic Theatre
    South Bend Civic Theatre is the oldest, continuously- operating community theatre company in the South Bend area. South Bend Civic Theatre has grown dramatically in the past decade:Programming has increased from 6 to more…
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    Mishawaka Historical Museum
    The Mishawaka Historical Museum offers a unique glimpse into the area’s past and teaches residents and visitors to the community about Mishawaka’s rich history, dating back to 1832. Located in the heart of historic…
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    Indiana University South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center
    Born from the efforts of Indiana University South Bend students and professors, the Civil Rights Heritage Center transformed a once segregated city swimming pool into an active learning center. Through tours and regular educational…
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    Fischoff National Chamber Music Association
    Founded in 1973, the Fischoff National Chamber Music Association’s mission is to inspire lives through breathtaking performances. From hosting the nation’s largest chamber music competition to working with students directly in the schools, Fischoff…
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    53rd Annual Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition

    You're in for a musical treat as the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition kicks off with their Community Soirées around town May 7-8. You can find them at places like Howard Park Public House, Four Winds Field, Raclin Murphy Museum of Art and Cafe Navarre. Continue the fun at their competition all weekend long through Sunday, May 10. Be sure to check the schedule for dates and times!

    Zoo Luminate

    A spectacular lantern festival made of huge, luminous, artistic lanterns is decorating Potawatomi Zoo! In partnership with Tianyu, an experienced lantern festival producer, Zoo Luminate brings more than 60 lantern displays to life. The lanterns will only be on display until May 25, so don't miss out on this unique experience.

    Events Around The Bend

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    Author

    Jena Stopczynski

    Communications Manager

    Jena is the Communications Manager for Visit South Bend Mishawaka. Prior to VSBM she was the Social Media Manager as well as a photojournalist for ABC57 News. Jena graduated from the school of Communications, Information and Media at Ball State University, and was born and raised in South Bend.

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