DESTINATION

South Bend

South Bend resident James Oliver took his place in agricultural history in 1855 when he discovered a cooling process that resulted in a smoother and more durable cast iron blade for plows. In addition to being harder, the treated steel resisted the tendency of moist earth to build up on and clog plow blades. Factories producing goods ranging from automobile parts to guided missiles represent the importance of manufacturing to the economy of South Bend.

Tippecanoe Place, now a gourmet restaurant, was the home of the Studebakers, who founded an automobile dynasty. Balancing South Bend's industrial image are its fine city parks. Leeper Park is noted for its fragrance garden; Pinhook provides a lagoon; and Rum Village has a nature center and hiking and nature trails.

The East Race Waterway is one of the first man-made white-water raceways in the world. Capable of matching the Colorado River in power, it offers kayaking and rafting during the summer. National and international competitions take place on the raceway at 126 N. Niles Ave.; phone (574) 299-4783. A fitness trail is part of a 5-mile system of interlocking parks that stretches through downtown and along the St. Joseph River.

The 5,000-seat Four Winds Field at Stanley Coveleski Regional Stadium is home to the Silver Hawks minor league baseball, other sporting events and concerts; phone (574) 235-9988.

St. Patrick's Park is a favorite spot for cross-country skiing, while Bendix Woods' sledding hill attracts low-key thrill seekers. Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park provides inner tubing, disc golf and canoeing opportunities. Nearby Potato Creek State Park has a full spectrum of recreational facilities.