What to do in South Bend, IN

Activities, attractions and tours

A historic building with a large wooden door, an American flag, and a flag with a coat of arms.
A large yellow building with a golden dome and a statue on top, surrounded by trees and a well-maintained garden.
A large brick building with a golden dome and a large arched entrance.
A city street with a fountain, flower baskets, a Performing Arts Center sign, and modern buildings.
A large, historic building with a prominent dome and arched windows.

South Bend Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that South Bend has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to South Bend, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to South Bend with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in South Bend

South Bend is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in South Bend, and make it a breeze to explore South Bend and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in South Bend to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to South Bend, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in South Bend.

South Bend attractions

South Bend has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in South Bend to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of South Bend.

Looking for things to do in South Bend can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of South Bend or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to South Bend attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save % or more on select activities, hotels, cars and holiday rentals.
    Learn about One Key

Recommended things to do in South Bend

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
:
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in South Bend

Stay near popular South Bend attractions

A large historic building with a prominent golden dome and arched windows.

University of Notre Dame

9.6/10 (1,970 reviews)
The iconic Golden Dome and "Touchdown Jesus" mural define this prestigious Catholic research university. Wander Gothic quads, visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, or start at the Eck Visitors Centre for guided tours.
See properties

Where to stay in South Bend

Find the best South Bend areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about South Bend
Learn more about South Bend
A city street with a fountain, flower baskets, a Performing Arts Center sign, and modern buildings.

Downtown South Bend

While visiting Downtown South Bend, you might make a stop by sights like Morris Performing Arts Center and Studebaker National Museum.

A tree-lined street with a building in the distance.

Near Northwest

Near Northwest might not have many top sights, but South Bend Civic Theater and Morris Performing Arts Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A calm river at dusk with illuminated structures and a bridge.

Northshore Triangle

Northshore Triangle might not have many top sights, but South Bend Civic Theater and Morris Performing Arts Center are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A river with a waterfall, modern buildings, and a red sculpture.

River Park

While River Park isn't home to many top sights, Potawatomi Zoo and Studebaker National Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.

A brick building with a storefront and outdoor seating area.
Photo by The Curious Zephyr
Open Photo by The Curious Zephyr

Northeast South Bend

Though Northeast South Bend may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Compton Family Ice Arena and Morris Performing Arts Center.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from South Bend

A river with a blue bridge, green trees, and buildings in the background.

Mishawaka

Frequently asked questions

Is South Bend worth visiting?
Whether you're here to experience the cultural attractions and local charm or try unique foods and venture into nature, there are plenty of things to do in South Bend.
How do I spend a day in South Bend?
When you've checked off popular attractions like Studebaker National Museum and Potawatomi Zoo, spend some time exploring the retail and food options in South Bend.
What is the top tourist attraction in South Bend?
Studebaker National Museum is one of the top tourist attractions in South Bend and deserves a place on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in South Bend?
Three days will give you time to tick off popular city sights, such as Studebaker National Museum, Potawatomi Zoo and Morris Performing Arts Centre. The average stay in South Bend is two days. If you have the time to extend your getaway, Elkhart isn't far away.
Is South Bend a walkable city?
That depends on what you want to see and do in South Bend. Several top sights, including Studebaker National Museum and Potawatomi Zoo, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of South Bend's best neighbourhoods, Roseland is 5 kms (3 miles) away from downtown, while Notre Dame is 3 kms (2 miles) away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in South Bend with kids?
Deciding what to do in South Bend with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or little ones, there are loads of family-friendly activities to keep them busy here.
What to do in South Bend for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or thrill seeker, there's no shortage of things to do in South Bend for adults including Joyce Centre and The Drop Comedy Club.
Are there free things to do in South Bend?
In South Bend, Basilica of the Sacred Heart is a popular spot for anyone wishing to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a good way to learn about the best free things to do in South Bend.