Explore AAA Travel
About South BendIn 1842 Edward Sorin, a priest of the Congregation of the Holy Cross, arrived at the present site of the University of Notre Dame in South Bend to head a mission for the Potawatomi Indians and start a school for both secular students and those studying for the Holy Cross Order. The university that he founded, characterized by its distinctive golden dome, is one of the state's most visited sites.
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.
Visitor Centers Visit South Bend Mishawaka 401 E. Colfax Ave. Suite 310 South Bend, IN 46617. Phone:(574)400-4009 or (800)519-0577
ShoppingUniversity Park Mall, at the junction of SR 23 and Grape Road in nearby Mishawaka, counts JCPenney, Macy's and Sears among its more than 120 stores.
Things to Do The History Museum
South Bend, IN
Top AAA Diamond Hotels
AAA’s in-person hotel evaluations are unscheduled to ensure the inspector has an experience similar to that of members. To pass inspection, all hotels must meet the same rigorous standards for cleanliness, comfort and hospitality. These hotels receive a AAA Diamond designation that tells members what type of experience to expect.
Members save 5% or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy™ points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Aloft South Bend111 N Main St. South Bend, IN 46601
Book NowMembers save up to 10% and earn Honors points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Embassy Suites by Hilton South Bend at Notre Dame1140 E Angela Blvd. South Bend, IN 46617
Book Now
Members save 5% or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy™ points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Fairfield Inn & Suiites by Marriott South Bend at Notre Dame1220 E Angela Blvd. South Bend, IN 46617
Book Now
call or visit a AAA Travel Agent Today!
Find a AAA OfficeAs a AAA member, you'll save even more. Your AAA Travel Agent will check to see if AAA Vacations is combinable with other AAA member benefits, plus cruise and tour past passenger discounts and benefits.