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Visiting the East Bank Village in South Bend

The East Bank Village runs alongside the East Race Waterway. The East Side of Downtown South Bend is rich with local food destinations, boutique shops and unique experiences all within walking distance of the the heart of the city, and the University of Notre Dame.

East Bank Eats

Carmela's at Macri's

Our authentic Italian bistro is full of Italian classics. Enjoy rich Italian favorites like homemade…

Macri's Italian Bakery

Our authentic Italian bakery offers up fresh pastas, imported specialty foods, hearty meats and…

Island Fusion

A micro-restaurant that combines flavors of Jamaica with the culinary traditions of Trinidad &…

Dena's Kitchen LLC

"Good mood food" soul food located in The Commerce Center in Downtown South Bend.

The General Deli & Cafe

Located on the East Bank in the old General Store, the General Deli & Cafe is a comfy and casual…

Yellow Cat Cafe

Yellow Cat Cafe serves up all your diner favorites made just the way you like. From omelets to…

Rocco's Restaurant

From every corner of the US and beyond, people have found their way to Rocco's. And with good…

Cascade

Cascade presents a modern steakhouse experience with classic steakhouse fare. The chef-driven menu…

The Lauber Kitchen & Bar

A modern restaurant in the East Bank neighborhood that combines South Bend's rich history with a…

Sunny Italy Cafe

Trattoria crafting homemade sausage & Italian staples such as ravioli & veal parmagiana since 1926…

The View Tavern

Voted as having the Best Burger in Northern Indiana, The View Tavern is a 21 and over establishment…

Barnaby's South Bend

Indulge in our great-tasting pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and more. We take pride in the quality of…

Chimichurri

Argentinian restaurant specializing in empanadas and sandwiches located in the East Bank Village…

Howard Park Public House

The Howard Park Public House is a destination for simple, seasonal, and healthy food. Where food…

Corby's Irish Pub

Corby's is a local institution popular with residents, students and visitors here for the big game…

Purple Porch Co-op

Grocery | Deli | Market • Co-op focused on local, organic, and sustainably produced food

Heart-Pumping Fun in the Heart of Downtown

Get ready for an urban adventure in the heart of downtown South Bend! The East Race Waterway, North America's first artificial white water course, offers thrills that rival the Colorado River. With rapids capable of generating waves up to six feet high, this 2,000-foot-long waterway promises an exhilerating experience for everyone, from novices to pros. Beyond the rapids, enjoy over five miles of scenic, paved paths along the St. Joseph River for walking or running. Perfect for a weekend outing. Don't miss this unique blend of excitement and natural beauty right in the city.

RELATED CONTENT: Outdoors & Recreation

The Commerce Center

A historic building in Downtown South Bend turned multipurpose business building is nestled in the heart of the East Bank Village. At the Commerce Center you can enjoy being in the company adorable, adoptable cats while you sip on a coffee at the Cat Lady Cafe, listen to live jazz at Merriman's Playhouse, shop local vendors at the River Valley Market, try out a special charcuterie board by Boardgasm and delight your tastebuds with some soul food from Dena's Kitchen.

RELATED CONTENT: Things to Do in The Bend

Grab a Drink

Corby's Irish Pub

Corby's is a local institution popular with residents, students and visitors here for the big game…

The Hammer & Quill

Hammer & Quill is a relaxed local bar focusing on creative cocktails, craft beer, unique spirits…

The Bend Lounge

Enjoy tasteful food, soulful music, and live entertainment. Dress Code: - Casual on Thursday’s…

The Lauber Kitchen & Bar

A modern restaurant in the East Bank neighborhood that combines South Bend's rich history with a…

The View Tavern

Voted as having the Best Burger in Northern Indiana, The View Tavern is a 21 and over establishment…

Howard Park Public House

The Howard Park Public House is a destination for simple, seasonal, and healthy food. Where food…

Howard Park

Howard Park is a vibrant destination for locals and visitors alike. It’s a gathering place and an area for outdoor exploration. It’s fun, family-friendly and accessible. There’s something for every season.The centerpiece at Howard Park is a 16,000-square-foot ice trail and pond. It features rolling hills and soft curves as skaters glide around the loop. The bridge overlooks the ADA-accessible, state-of-the-art playground with innovative and traditional playground equipment. 

During the summer you can enjoy Howard Park's Free Summer Concert Series. Check our event listings. They also have a Community Center on site offering year-round programming and a rental space.

The park’s west edge butts up against the St. Joseph River. There’s a trail for walkers, runners and cyclists. The trail connects to a larger network of trails encompassing other downtown parks. Howard Park is also the location of Howard Park Public House and other amazing local restaurants nearby.

RELATED CONTENT: Parks Around The Bend

Howard Park Aerial Summer

The Link Trail

The Link trail connects the University of Notre Dame to the heart of Downtown South Bend. Starting with the Golden Dome at your back, hop on the trail at the corner of Angela Boulevard and Notre…

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Art Scene

There are many places to see public art as you explore Downtown South Bend's East Side. There are also art galleries and hands on experiences. At Circa Arts Gallery you can find a gallery featuring artisans and crafts from local artists, as well as the South Bend Locals shop. Stop into Fire Arts for their gallery as well as an education center offering classes to create pottery, jewelry and sculpture. Experiencing the River Lights at night is a must!

RELATED CONTENT: Art Galleries

River Lights

Unveiled in 2015 as part of South Bend’s 150 th  birthday celebrations, the South Bend River Lights are now a fixture of the downtown landscape. Vibrant color washes over the St. Joseph…

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East Bank Shopping

Ali on the Boulevard

Ali on the Boulevard is a women's jewelry, clothing and gift boutique located in the heart of South…

Inspire Me

We are a premier destination, contemporary fashion boutique located in downtown South Bend…

Purple Porch Co-op

Grocery | Deli | Market • Co-op focused on local, organic, and sustainably produced food