Mishawaka, Indiana

South Bend's neighbor to the east, Mishawaka has all the charm of a small town with the amenities of a bigger city.

Mishawaka is home to several parks that line the St. Joseph River, dozens of delicious locally-owned restaurants, a regional retail hub, and so much more.

Incorporated in 1833, the city developed along the St. Joseph River due to the area being rich with bog iron. The first factory in Mishawaka was named the St. Joseph Iron Works. Industry continued to flourish, most notably the Dodge Manufacturing Company and Red Ball-Band Footwear Company, which later became Uniroyal.

Learn more about the city’s rich history at the charming Mishawaka Historical Museum. For an immersive historical experience, enjoy an opulent B&B overnight at the former home of Ball-Band’s inventor and Mishawaka’s first millionaire, The Beiger Mansion.

Whether you’re staying at the mansion, one of the many hotels, or perhaps playing in a tournament at Mishawaka Fieldhouse, be sure to do some exploring in this area.

Downtown Mishawaka

Mishawaka Parks

Mishawaka is home to nearly 30 beautiful parks lining the St. Joseph River, connected by the Mishawaka Riverwalk, a 2.5 mile loop that encompasses both sides of the river. It’s a perfect setting to walk, run or bike and is one of the most Instagram-worthy locations around The Bend.

RELATED CONTENT: Parks

Ironworks Plaza

Adjacent to Beutter Park, Ironworks Plaza is home to the Ball Band Biergarten, just across from Sun King Brewery. Winter is exciting as Ironworks Ice Rink opens for the season. Enjoy ice skating, ice bumper cars, and more. During warmer months, the plaza is home to the Mishawaka Market.

Central Park is home to a large playground, splash pad, pickleball courts and more. You can find the summer concert series taking place on the main stage during the summer. Battell Park is home to the historic bandshell and a terraced rock garden that dates back to the 1930s. There are also tennis courts, a playground and more. Don’t forget to walk through Veterans Plaza, a powerful tribute to honor fallen soldiers.

Veteran's Plaza

Mishawaka Restaurants

Many restaurants, bars and shops are within walking distance in Downtown Mishawaka. The local dining scene is truly special with gems like Jesus Latin Grill & Tequila Bar which offers authentic Latin American flavors. Craft One Half, Mishawaka Public House, Chicory Café, Doc Pierce’s, Prized Pig and Vinyl Tap & Table are just a selection of favorites nearby.

Mishawaka Eats

Retail District of Mishawaka & Granger

Retail District of Mishawaka

Beyond local eats, you might be surprised to learn the north side of town is one of the region’s busiest retail hubs. University Park Mall anchors a stretch along Grape Road and Main Street that includes hundreds of shops. Inside the mall you’ll find major retail stores and national brands as well as several eateries.

The exterior of University Park Mall

If locally owned boutiques are more your style, there are plenty of options as well. Indiana Rug Co., is fashioned after an old-time neighborhood mercantile with a wide variety of items. They have gifts inspired by life in The Bend and the Midwest. It’s a perfect place to pick up a memorable souvenir from your visit!

RELATED CONTENT: Around The Bend: InRugCo.

Indoor Adventures in Mishawaka

While there is plenty to explore outdoors, there are great indoor adventures to jump into as well. Sky Zone, Strikes & Spares Entertainment Center, Apex Climbing Gym and Generations AdventurePlex are local favorites with an abundance of fun activities to do for all ages.

DTN - PPS - Venues - Generations AdventurePlex
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FAQ: Mishawaka

Mishawaka formed in the 1830s after the discovery of bog iron deposits. It prospered as a manufacturing city along the St. Joseph River. The city is now known for a fantastic parks system with several along the river making up the Mishawaka Riverwalk. It is also home to a regional shopping district along Grape Road and Main Street anchored by University Park Mall.

Mishawaka is in St. Joseph County, Indiana. It is adjacent to South Bend, which is to the west.

Mishawaka is the second biggest city in St. Joseph County, behind South Bend. They are connected but do have distinct boundaries.

According to The History Museum, the name "Mishawaka" is a Native American-derived word that may mean "big rapids." There are many disagreements, however, over the origin of the name. Some believe Mishawaka was a local Native American princess. This too, however, is widely disputed.

Here is the best way to think about pronouncing Mishawaka: Mish-uh-wahk-uh.