South Bend Travel Guide

Named after the bend in St. Joseph River, South Bend is a popular vacation destination often known as the home of the University of Notre Dame. Here, there are a lot of fun activities for families and couples to enjoy, such as hiking trails, water sports, shopping experiences, zoos, and churches. There are also a lot of museums to learn about history and classic cars, as well as events and cultural happenings. Along with farmer’s markets and local cafés, there's a whole host of restaurants and bars for relaxing in the evenings.

Things to Do in South Bend

One of the top places to visit in South Bend is the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The church has stunning architecture with stained glass windows and beautiful murals. There is also the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, which is a shrine where visitors can enjoy a quiet moment. At the Studebaker National Museum, view automobiles and wagons from throughout the ages. There's also a historic collection of over 70 vehicles to wander around. Potawatomi Zoo is home to more than 400 animals and is the oldest zoo in Indiana.

Best Places to Stay in South Bend

You can be right in the center of all the action with a hotel or motel in Downtown South Bend.

Best Time to Visit South Bend

The best time to visit South Bend is during the summer when the weather is warm and events are held over June to August.