After two years of uncertainty, there is more reason than ever to celebrate the promising future of the tourism industry.
In conjunction with U.S. Travel and the entire tourism industry, we're celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week from May 1-7 by highlighting the amazing experiences The Bend has to offer locals and visitors alike. Join us by visiting some of these attractions, small businesses and events.
Explore Parks and Trails
Kick off National Tourism Week on Sunday, May 1 with free entry into state parks across Indiana. This includes Potato Creek State Park, one of The Bend's very best spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Miles of trail and beautiful green spaces await. Check in at Potato Creek using the #OnlyinTheBend Parks Pass and you're on the way to winning prizes.
Bite into National Burger Month
Get into National Burger Month by signing up for the #OnlyinTheBend Burger Pass! We polled locals for their favorite places to get a burger and came up with a list of 20 restaurants. Every check-in using the pass during May counts as an entry to win a prize pack that includes a $50 gift card and VSBM swag.
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.
Take a Public Art Tour
The Bend's public art scene is simply underrated. Sign up for the #OnlyinTheBend Public Art Pass for a lengthy list of murals, sculptures and galleries you can visit during National Travel and Tourism Week. Check in at them using the pass and you're on the way to winning prizes.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo is Thursday, 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.
Check Out Classic Cars at First Fridays
First Fridays are always a great reason to spend an evening in downtown South Bend. Car lovers won't want to miss the one on Friday, May 6 as the Studebaker Drivers Club will be parading their classic automobiles through downtown and parking them along Michigan Street.
Order a 2022-23 Visitor Guide
If you're ready to find out more about all the things to see and do around The Bend, it's time to request a FREE Guide to South Bend Mishawaka. Our annual guide takes a deep dive into the things you have to experience while you're here.