South Bend, Indiana, has changed a lot in recent years. Once struggling with a shrinking population and economic problems, the city is now booming. In 2011, Newsweek even called it one of the “Dying Cities,” but locals, including former mayor Pete Buttigieg, worked hard to turn things around. Today, South Bend is ranked among the best places to live and retire in the U.S.
Why Live or Visit Here
“South Bend is big enough to have plenty to do but small enough to feel like home,” says Alayna Wort from the South Bend-Elkhart Regional Partnership.
I’ve lived here twice—once for college and later to work—and I can say there’s never been a better time to visit or move.
Top Things to Do
-
Visit Notre Dame: See the golden-domed Main Building, walk around the lakes, and catch a show at Washington Hall.
-
Explore Downtown: Downtown South Bend is lively with bars, restaurants, and museums like the Studebaker National Museum.
-
Enjoy the Arts: Check out local shows at South Bend Civic Theatre, LangLab, or Make South Bend.
-
Get Outdoors: Bike the Link Trail, go whitewater rafting, or visit Potato Creek State Park for hiking, fishing, and skiing.
Where to Stay
-
The Morris Inn: Luxury hotel on the Notre Dame campus.
-
The Oliver Inn: Cozy historic home near downtown.
-
DoubleTree by Hilton: Central downtown hotel designed by famous architect Helmut Jahn.
-
Airbnbs & Rentals: Plenty of options, especially for group trips or football weekends.
Nightlife & Bars
-
Corby’s Irish Pub: Famous dive bar featured in Rudy.
-
Fiddler’s Hearth: Irish pub with live music and many whiskeys.
-
The Linebacker Lounge: Classic college bar for a fun night.
-
The Exchange: Late-night bar for adults with great cocktails.
Best Restaurants
-
The Lauber: Bar and grill in a former factory with a fun atmosphere.
-
Barnaby’s: Famous pizza spot since 1969.
-
Dainty Maid Food Hall: Home to local pop-up eateries like Revenant Coffee Bar.
-
Roselily: AAA Four-Diamond restaurant with tasting menus.
-
Evil Czech Brewery: Buffet-style brunch and lunch in Mishawaka.
Best Time to Visit
-
Fall: Best for Notre Dame football fans, but expect crowds and higher prices.
-
Summer: Ideal for farmers markets, outdoor fitness classes, and South Bend Cubs baseball.
Getting There
-
Air: South Bend International Airport has flights from many cities.
-
Train/Bus: South Shore Line from Chicago is easy.
-
Car: Interstate 90 and Highway 31 connect South Bend to nearby cities. Renting a car is recommended since the city is spread out.