Things to Do in The Bend in Spring
Beautiful flowers and more sun can only mean one thing — spring is here.
As The Bend comes into bloom, it's an ideal time to get outside and explore.
Miles and miles of hiking trails and bike paths await. Adrenaline seekers can conquer and aerial ropes course. Golfers can head to our championship courses.
And that's just the beginning. Check out these can't-miss spring activities.
Hiking
If you're an outdoorsy type, we're guessing winter weather didn't keep you inside. Still, heading out for a hike during spring is a breath of fresh air. Exploring our best parks as the flowers and trees begin to bloom is extra special. Potato Creek State Park is a favorite, secluded and with miles of trail. St. Patrick's County Park, Bendix Woods and Rum Village are a couple more worth venturing to.
Potawatomi Zoo
Potawatomi Zoo is a fun destination for families. It's home to more than 400 animals — lions, tigers, rhinos, red pandas and more. There's a carousel and Zoo Train too! This spring is particularly special with a visit from Zoo Luminate, a spectacular lantern festival made of huge, luminous, artistic latnerns around the entire Zoo. There will be more than 60 lantern displays to explore from March 19-June 1.
Beer + Wine Tasting
There are few better ways to really get to know a place than by testing out some of its flavors! The Bend his home to several craft breweries where locals like to hang out and unwind. South Bend Brew Werks, Bare Hands Brewery, Crooked Ewe Brewery + Ale House and Evil Czech Brewery are some top choices. If you're looking for wine, try Ironhand Vineyard wine bar. For spirits, Indiana Whiskey is your type of place.
Golf
Golf enthusiasts start to gear up in the spring so they can head back out on the links. Our area courses are both championship caliber and wildly approachable. Warren Golf Course at Notre Dame hosted the 2019 U.S. Senior Open and is considered one of the top public courses in the Midwest. Blackthorn Golf Club hosted a Symetra Tour event for about a decade. Elbel Golf Course shows off some of our best natural landscapes. Eberhart-Petro in Mishawaka takes you over the St. Joseph River multiple times.
Museums
If you're looking to take a walk down memory lane, these are your spots. Studebaker National Museum and The History Museum tell stories unique stories about The Bend's history, whether it's through classic cars or the rise of local manufacturing or via a 38-room mansion tour.
The Indiana Dinosaur Museum is new this spring! Spend a day traveling back in time, digging for fossils, and experiencing the Buffalo Overlook! 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 bite to eat and the kids play area.
Patio Season is Back
Warmer temperatures draw people outside for all kinds of reasons, including outdoor dining. Dozens and dozens of restaurants in The Bend will open their patios as spring takes hold. Be sure to call in advance if you're unsure whether the patio at your favorite restaurant will be open.
South Bend Cubs Games
The South Bend Cubs' Opening Day is April 8 at Four Winds Field! Every homestand there are theme days and fan giveaways. In addition to Stu, the Cubs are also debuting a new female mascot, Ivy! Combined with the tiki bar and a playground and splashpad for the kids, there is fun to be had by all at the ballpark.
Shopping
The Mishawaka retail district is a regional shopping destination with a mall, multiple smaller shopping centers and dozens of other well-known stores. If you're looking to shop, it's worth exploring. And so are these other options!
South Bend Farmers Market: A favorite all year round but especially in spring when fresh fruits and veggies start to show up. This market has been around for decades and always features some of our best growers and makers.
University Park Mall: A hub in the Mishawaka retail district, the mail is a regional draw. You can find an Apple store, Build-A-Bear, J.Crew, lululemon, Michael Kors, Coach, Victoria's Secret and more.
Downtown South Bend: There are some wonderful locally owned boutiques in downtown South Bend. Try Inspire Me!, Unique Boutique International and Ali on the Boulevard.
Granger: More boutiques are located in Granger near the mall and other major retailers. Satori, Vintage Charm, Glam, Pink Pineapple and Sorella are some of the top choices.
Biking
Do you like to take your bikes wherever you go? Then you're coming to the right place. The League of American Bicyclists in 2018 named South Bend a silver level bicycle friendly community. Our paths, parks and trails are waiting. Leisurely riders can follow the Indiana-Michigan River Valley Trail all across the area. It covers 17 miles from downtown Niles, Mich., through South Bend then on to downtown Mishawaka. Most of it runs along the St. Joseph River. You'll pass restaurants, views and more along the way.
If you're more adventuresome, mountain bikers will find gold at a few parks: Bendix Woods, Potato Creek and Rum Village.
Explore the University of Notre Dame
We always recommend taking a walk through one of the world's iconic campuses, no matter the season. Spring is particularly beautiful as flowers bloom around popular landmarks. Instagrammable moments await near the Golden Dome, Touchdown Jesus, the Basilica and the Grotto.
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