South Bend – Things to do with your Team

When you think of South Bend one thing in particular probably comes to mind: the University of Notre Dame. This esteemed institution has evolved side by side with South Bend for over 175 years and has become ingrained in the city’s history in the process.

Notre Dame’s continued success as a prestigious university has encouraged students the world over to enroll there. This alone has certainly contributed to South Bend becoming the fourth largest city in Indiana. You and your team are sure to find a lot of unique attractions to enjoy while you’re there.

 

Eck Visitors Center

Start your visit to South Bend right with a stop at the Eck Visitors Center. Located on beautiful Notre Dame Avenue, the Eck Visitors Center provides an insightful look at the Notre Dame’s storied history along with helpful answers to any relevant questions you and your team might have.

The auditorium in the visitors center presents an engaging, 12-minute movie that chronicles Notre Dame’s many traditions and commitment to excellence.

Tours offered by the Eck Visitors Center provide a general overview of the university, focusing on its history, student life, and more. On the tour you and your team will get to visit Notre Dame landmarks like the Grotto, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the Golden Dome, and “Touchdown Jesus.”

Tickets for various university sporting events can be purchased if you and the team are looking to experience the Fighting Irish’s legendary school spirit for yourselves. 100 Eck Visitors Center, Notre Dame, IN 46556

 

Seven Peaks Waterpark Duneland

If you and your team are in the mood for nonstop aquatic action, visit Seven Peaks Waterpark Duneland. Located in the heart of Northwest Indiana, Seven Peaks is one of the largest waterparks in the state.

It features more than 10 waterslides, including four 70-feet free fall drop-slides and a giant half pipe tube ride. This makes Seven Peaks the place to be if you’ll be traveling to the area during the summer months. There’s also a 650,000 gallon wave pool for you to enjoy as well as kids’ areas with splash features and waterslides, group pavilions, and so much more. 1275 Waverly Road, Porter, IN 46304

 

South Bend Chocolate Company

The South Bend Chocolate Company is home to a collection of chocolate-related memorabilia that is among the largest in the world.

Focusing particularly on North American chocolate companies, their collection features rare boxes, tins, pots, and containers of every size, shape, and color. There are also posters, signs, books, and other fun memorabilia. A factory outlet store where you can buy chocolates with minor imperfections at discounted prices is located onsite as well.

The South Bend Chocolate Company also offers two kinds of factory tours. The free basic tour gives visitors the opportunity to observe behind the scenes production and packaging, learn about where chocolate comes from, and enjoy free samples fresh off the line. These tours last roughly 20 minutes, making it easy to fit into your team’s schedule no matter how busy it is.

The 45-minute “Inside Scoop” tour offers everything the basic tour does along with some other fun secrets, surprises, and more thrown in. 3300 West Sample Street, South Bend, IN 46619

 

South Bend Farmer’s Market

Prepare to have your senses captivated by the sights and aromas of freshly baked pastries, beautiful bouquets, and a bounty of seasonal fruits and vegetables as you step into the South Bend Farmer’s Market.

Established almost a century ago in 1924, the South Bend Farmer’s Market has grown into one of the largest and most diverse indoor markets in the Midwest.

Vendors and patrons alike come from far and wide to sell and purchase specialty goods found at the market’s 96 stalls. The majority of these stalls are owned and operated by families, many of which have sold their products at the South Bend Farmer’s Market for generations.

Before you go, make a point to stop by the Farmer’s Market Café located at the heart of the market. This quaint eatery has become as renowned as the South Bend Farmer’s Market itself by serving outstanding meals prepared daily from seasonal produce, fresh meats, and artisanal cheeses for over 85 years. 1105 Northside Boulevard South Bend, IN 46615

 

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The Studebaker National Museum

Got a team that loves anything and everything automotive? If so, put the pedal to the metal and head to The Studebaker National Museum during your stay in South Bend.

Opened in 2005, this state-of-the-art, 55,000-square-foot museum features three levels of incredible vehicles ranging from classic Studebaker cars to military vehicles and even carriages rode in by U.S. presidents like Abraham Lincoln and William McKinley. Fully climate-controlled galleries and storage facilities to ensure the best possible care for the collection.

The mission of the Studebaker National Museum is to honor and perpetuate the legacy of the rich industrial heritage of the South Bend area, through the display, interpretation, conservation, and preservation of Studebaker vehicles, archives, and other objects to enrich present and future generations. It’s safe to say that there’s a good chance you’ll leave this unique South Bend attraction with a newfound appreciation for the iconic automobile manufacturer. 201 Chapin Street South Bend, IN 46601

 

Potawatomi Zoo

As the oldest zoo in Indiana, it’s no surprise that Potawatomi Zoo has a lot to see, even despite its relatively small size. In fact, this quaint, 23-acre zoo features more than 400 animals. Potawatomi Zoo also features educational classes, special events, and facility rentals, so it’s easy to find something for everyone to enjoy. While there, make sure to take a spin on the Endangered Species Carousel. 500 S Greenlawn Ave. South Bend, IN 46615

 

East Race Rafting

Believe it or not, you can even enjoy white water rafting during your visit to South Bend. Located in the heart of South Bend’s lively downtown area on the east side of the St. Joseph River, East Race Rafting is a one-of-a-kind recreational facility.

As the first man-made white water rafting course in North America and one of only six in the world, the rapids you’ll be enduring on this 2,000-foot-long course rival those of the Colorado River. They can even generate waves up to six feet or higher!

East Race Rafting opens in June and closes in mid-August. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult for their voyage. 126 South Niles Ave, South Bend, IN 46617

 

Strikes & Spares

Strikes & Spares is not only a bowling and community center, but also a spectacular party venue. It’s a great place for kids to have fun and feel at home. In addition to bowling, you can also enjoy indoor go-kart tracks, blacklight mini golf, an arcade, bumper cars, and more. 5419 Grape Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46545

 

South Bend’s historic university, Notre Dame, along with the rest of its fun, unique attractions will keep you and your team busy all throughout your stay. Since it’s a college town, there are countless activities for you can take part in.  You can be sure that you won’t have time to do everything on your list in one visit, so make sure to return again soon.