Things To Do in South Bend & Mishawaka
As the saying goes, there's a little something for everyone around here. That's not simply a cliché — it's the truth. From can't-miss exhibits and heart-stopping outdoor adventures in South Bend to serene walks along the St. Joseph River in Mishawaka, there are endless options when it comes to planning your itinerary.
Take a look for yourself at some of the memories you can make while visiting The Bend.
Notre Dame
Find out everything you need to know – from restaurants to tours of iconic…
Outdoors & Recreation
Eager to get outside and explore? The Bend is home to dozens of outdoor spaces for…
Attractions
Surprises around every museum corner. Serenity in the quiet of expansive…
Arts, Entertainment & Culture
Colorful River Lights dancing across the water. The wonder of a violin expertly…
Shopping
The surge of adrenaline when you find a great deal. A warm coffee in…
Nightlife
Nightfall is no reason to wrap up your day of adventure in The Bend. Take a look at…
Weekend Activities in South Bend & Mishawaka
Make the most of your weekend in The Bend! From exploring scenic trails and riverfront views to catching live music, cheering on local sports, or diving into the city’s vibrant food scene, there’s something for every pace. Whether you’re after family-friendly fun, a night out with friends, or a little arts and culture, South Bend offers plenty of ways to turn a couple of days into lasting memories.
Fall Weekend Getaway in South Bend & Mishawaka
Here are some of the best things to do and places to stay during a fall getaway near South Bend and Mishawaka.
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Things to Do in Mishawaka
Discover all there is to do in Mishawaka, where small-town charm meets big opportunities for fun. Stroll the scenic Riverwalk, shop and dine at local favorites, explore the city’s parks and trails, or catch live events and entertainment. From outdoor adventures to family-friendly attractions and a growing food scene, Mishawaka offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Family-Friendly Attractions in South Bend & Mishawaka
The Bend is packed with family fun at every turn. Explore hands-on exhibits at Indiana Dinosaur Museum or the Children's Museum of South Bend, let imaginations run wild at Potawatomi Zoo, or enjoy a day of play at one of the area’s many parks and splash pads. Stroll the Mishawaka Riverwalk, catch a family-friendly show, or cheer together at a Notre Dame game. With interactive museums, outdoor adventures, and activities for kids of all ages, it’s easy to create lasting memories.
Things To Do With Kids
Many of our attractions feature something designed specifically for kids or, even better, are totally kid-centric. Sports fans, animal lovers, chocolate enthusiasts or adventure seekers…
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Dog-Friendly Things to do in South Bend & Mishawaka
The Bend is a pup-friendly destination with plenty of ways to explore together. Take a walk along the scenic East Race or Mishawaka Riverwalk, let your dog run free at local off-leash parks, or enjoy the trails and open spaces at St. Patrick’s County Park. Many restaurants and breweries welcome four-legged guests on their patios, making it easy to grab a bite or a drink without leaving your best friend behind. With so many tail-wagging adventures, South Bend is the perfect getaway for you and your dog.
Dog-Friendly Spots
Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in South Bend & Mishawaka
What’s better than a lazy Sunday brunch with your dog at your feet? There are many places…
1 Day in South Bend with Your Dog: A Summer Itinerary
It's officially summer and that means outdoor adventures are around every corner. Even better…
Seven Things To Do This Fall With Your Dog
GO FOR A WALK: The Bend is full of gorgeous walking trails from downtown all the way to Potato Creek…
Events Around The Bend
Celebration for a King
The Symphony partners with Greater St. John Missionary Baptist Church to bring music to the…
Extreme Bar Bingo Night at King’s Play Café!
Extreme Bar Bingo Night at King’s Play Café! Get ready for a wild night of laughter, competition…
Freshwater Fury: Great Lakes Shipwrecks
Freshwater Fury: Great Lakes Shipwrecks June 7 - July 12, 2026 This year marks 50 years since the…
National Theatre Live: Mrs. Warren’s Profession (2025)
Thursday, January 15, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, January 24, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. National Theatre…
Notre Dame Women's Basketball vs. Louisville
Join Notre Dame Women's Basketball as they take on Louisville at Purcell Pavilion.
Rockne: Life & Legacy
Knute Rockne is one of the most iconic of all the great legends who coached or played on Notre…
South Bend Farmers Market
South Bend Farmers Market. Enjoy a wide variety of regional vendors of seasonal produce, baked…
South Bend Scavenger Hunt: Rollin' Round The Bend
Welcome to the South Bend, Indiana scavenger hunt! Get ready for a thrilling adventure through the…
Tours of the Morris Performing Arts Center
Step behind the Morris curtain .... You may have seen a concert or Broadway show at the Morris…
Weapons (2025)
Thursday, January 15, 9:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Friday, January 16, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday…
80's Prom Party
The 80’s Prom Party begins with DJ H2 when the doors open at 7 p.m. Eastern and will feature live…
Bingo with Cats!
Cats and Bingo - what more do you need? A fun-filled hour of several rounds of Bingo IN our cat…
DJ Skate Nights
We’re mixing the best beats every Friday night at DJ Skate Nights! For our 2025-2026 dates. Look…
Fondue Night!
Welcome to Fondue Night at IRONHAND Wine Bar! Join us for a cozy evening filled with delicious…
Frankenstein (2025)
Friday, January 16, at 9:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. Saturday, January 17, at 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and 6:30…
Karaoke at the Douglas
🎤 Karaoke Night – Every Other Friday! 🎶 Join us for an unforgettable evening of music…
Pints & Play Board Game Night at Round Barn Brewery & Public House
Warm up your winter with a night of board games and brews! Join us for Pints & Play, our newest…
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show - South Bend, IN
North America's largest interactive comedy murder mystery dinner theatre show is now playing in…
Welcome to The Upside Down: Trivia Night
Welcome to Upside Down Bar-Style Trivia — where Hawkins meets creativity. Test your Stranger Things…
Carnival on Ice
The carnival on ice! Enjoy your favorite carnival games while skating around Ironworks!
Dinner Murder Mystery
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening of suspense and splendor at the Dinner Murder Mystery…
Yoga in the Greenhouse at Potawatomi Conservatories
Surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful plants, you’ll practice yoga the iconic Potawatomi…
Zoo Winter Days 2026
The Zoo is open every Saturday and Sunday from January 3 through March 15 from 11 am to 4 pm for…
Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
Professor Pfinklepfunder's $1 Sunday Films Directed by Gurinder Chadha With Parminder Nagra, Keira…
Cheers Open Jam Open Mic with the Nicole London Acoustic Project, Every Sunday from 4PM to 8PM
Come Join us for a fun filled Sunday Afteroon at Cheers Bar and Grill, for Cheers Open Jam Open Mic…
From the Mountain Top to the Movement: Carrying the Vision Forward
To celebrate the 40th Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan. 19, local leaders are hosting a variety of…
Irish Music Session
Join us every Monday as local musicians gather 'round the Hearth to play traditional Irish music.
IU vs Miami Watch Party
Join us at South Bend Brew Werks to cheer on the IU Football team during their College Football…
Martin Luther King Jr Day at the Museums
The History Museum and the Studebaker National Museum are offering free admission to their museums…
January Green Drinks
We will sit at tables made from repurposed wine presses in a building that is an exciting example of…
Old-Timey Music Session
Join us at Fid's as local musicians gather around the Hearth to play Old-Timey Music!
Almost Famous (2000)
Gender and Rock Directed by Cameron Crowe With Billy Crudup, Frances McDormand, Kate Hudson Rated R…
Fitness Bootcamp
Get moving every Wednesday from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Howard Park! Fitness Bootcamp features…
Latin Wednesday
Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue & More. Beginner's lesson of 30 minutes @7 PM, followed by open…
Pinhook Painters
Pinhook Painters welcomes artists of all abilities and mediums for studio time each Wednesday from…
The Cellar Wine Bar and Kitchen 4th Anniversary Party
We are so thankful to be serving South Bend for as long as we have. It fills our hearts to bring joy…
The Music Village Community Jam
Enjoy acoustic jams with The Music Village Community Jammers, every Wednesday evening from 6-8 PM at…
Trivia at Manny's!
Manny's is teaming up with Indiana Trivia to bring the best round of trivia you can find in the East…
8 Women (2002)
Thursday, January 22, 2026 6:30 PM- 8:30 PM Learning Beyond the Classics: Grand Dames Directed by…
Notre Dame Women's Basketball vs. Miami
Join Notre Dame Women's Basketball as they take on Miami at Purcell Pavilion.
Theater Is Dead (2025)
New in the Browning Directed by Katherine Dudas ('14) With Shane West, Madison Lawlor, Colin McCalla…
Michiana Boat Show
Michiana Boat Show • January 23–25, 2026 Kick off boating season early in the heart of South…
Notre Dame Hockey vs. Ohio State
Join Notre Dame Hockey as they host Ohio State at Compton Family Ice Arena.
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (2025)
Friday, January 23, at 9:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, January 24, at 9:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m…
Winter Restaurant Weeks
Downtown Restaurant Weeks are back! From January 23 to February 8, you've got the time to taste, sip…
2nd Annual Adult Book Fair
Do you miss browsing the book fair as a kid? Well, we've got it now! You can browse books, trinkets…
7th Annual Chili Cook-off/Dessert Auction Fundraiser
7th Annual Chili Cook-off/Dessert Auction Fundraiser -- You are invited to a special "sweet and…
Crochet with Cats!
Learn to make one of these adorable coasters! Instructor Liz Narasaki will show you how to make one…