In 2024 I’m planning to treat every weekend getaway like a full-blown vacation, and that is exactly what I did during our recent trip to South Bend! I recently teamed up with Visit South Bend Mishawaka for the most fun and relaxing time taking advantage of all the area has to offer.
For those not familiar with the South Bend area, it is just 2 hours north of Indianapolis, and is famously known as the home of the University of Notre Dame. I have learned over the years visiting that while that is definitely a highlight, there is so much more to it than that! My husband is actually from the area, and we are there often to visit family. It was so nice to see a different side and check out some spots we have never been before during this little getaway. With a variety of great activities, restaurants, bars and more, this was the perfect spot to spend some quality time together this winter.
If you’re looking for a low-key, under-the-radar weekend getaway in the Midwest—add South Bend to your list. Most people know it as a college town, but there’s more to explore beyond game days. Think: ice skating, a nearby state park for a scenic stroll or hike, cozy cocktail spots, a relaxing spa day, and some seriously underrated food.
I’ve included just a few of the highlights from our visit below, and each spot would be perfect to add to your South Bend itinerary this winter season:
South Bend Weekend Getaway
Ice Skating at Howard Park
Our first stop during this getaway was to Howard Park. The park’s outdoor ice skating rink area was completely renovated in 2019, and it has the nicest outdoor ice skating setup I have ever seen! With their 16,000 square foot ice trail and pond, it truly has something for everyone at any skating level. There are also fire pits, concessions, and a full restaurant located right next to the rink.
This was my first time skating on a trail, and it was so beautiful with all the glowing lights and colors! Ice skating is available throughout the cold-weather season, 7 days a week. You can get more information here.
LaSalle Kitchen & Tavern
After working up an appetite from ice skating, we took a short commute over the St. Joe River into Downtown South Bend where we had dinner at Lasalle Kitchen & Tavern. This spot is located on the third floor above LaSalle Grill. We started with a few craft cocktails—their “Plump Plum” was a favorite—and ordered a couple of small plates to share, like the duck poutine and lamb kebab. The menu leans upscale pub fare with a creative twist, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed dinner with drinks or an easygoing night of shareable bites. Next we ordered the Nueske’s Bacon Steaks (think bacon, but served like a steak) and the Mediterranean Lamb Kebab.
Overall everything was extremely flavorful, unique and delicious. I couldn’t believe we hadn’t been to this spot for dinner yet during our visits to the area! We will definitely be heading back here for dinner on our next trip.
Hammer & Quill
We ended the evening with a stop to Hammer & Quill for some after dinner drinks. If you are looking for some delicious craft cocktails in the area, then this is the perfect spot! We enjoyed a few cocktails from their winter menu while admiring their extensive bourbon selection. The accent wall made of bourbon barrel staves in the back caught our eye, and we even had the chance to sample a new bourbon available.
Spa Day at Cedar Spa
We kicked off our second day in South Bend with a spa day at Cedar Spa. Since we visited South Bend right after Christmas, we were definitely ready for some rest and relaxation, and this was just the place for that! Cedar Spa is a full-service resort-style spa located in Four Winds Casino in South Bend with over 10 treatment rooms, a couple’s suite, flotation experience, facial rooms, massage rooms and more.
We enjoyed our very first couples massage along with some relaxing and recharging in their Wind & Water Experiences. These include the steam and sauna, aromatherapy shower, and vitality pools. You do not need to be staying at the hotel to enjoy the spa, and you can check out all the spa treatments here.
Copper Rock Steakhouse
Following our spa day, we headed through the Four Winds Casino to enjoy dinner at Copper Rock Steakhouse. This place just oozes elegance from the moment you walk in, and don’t even get me started on the bread basket with a variety of butters + spread (seriously, check out the photo of it below). We tried the Oysters Rockefeller and Nueske’s Sizzling Bacon (it was a bacon themed getaway for me, clearly) for appetizers. Copper Rock offers their classic collection menu on Mondays, Thursdays and Sundays, which is three courses with different options for each course. We took advantage of this coursed menu and also opted to do the wine pairing along with it.
For the first course we enjoyed the House Salad and French Onion Soup. For the second course we had the Filet Mignon (one of the best I’ve had in a long time!) and Shrimp and Lobster Pasta. We finished the night with Creme Brulee and Chocolate Truffle Dome for the final course. All the food was absolutely delicious, and I loved each wine pairing they brought out.
Four Winds Casino South Bend
We ended our South Bend getaway by checking out The Four Winds Casino South Bend for the first time! Centrally located in South Bend, it consists of over 300 luxurious rooms, a seasonal pool, spa, six dining options, concert center, table games, live poker tables, and many more amenities.
What Food Is South Bend, Indiana Known For?
While South Bend may be best known for Notre Dame football and snowy Midwest winters, the food scene here might just surprise you. From smash-style burgers to cozy pubs and local chocolate shops, there’s plenty to sink your teeth into on a weekend getaway. Here’s a taste of what South Bend is known for—and where to try it!
Sweet Treats & South Bend Chocolate Company
Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you. The South Bend Chocolate Company is not only a local staple—it’s home to what they claim is the “World’s Largest Chocolate Store.” Whether you stop by their downtown café or visit the factory-museum combo, it’s a fun, flavorful detour.
Pubs, Breweries & Bar Food
When happy hour rolls around, head to Fiddler’s Hearth—a cozy Irish pub with hearty meals and live music—or Crooked Ewe Brewery, which pairs bold house-made beers with an inventive menu of bar food done right. Whether you’re in the mood for pints or pub fries, these are spots worth lingering at. If you’re seeking the quintessential college-bar experience in South Bend, head to The Linebacker Lounge.
Breakfast & Diner Favorites
Start your morning like a local with a stop at Nick’s Patio, a beloved South Bend diner open late (and early). If you’re looking for something a little more modern, check out Early Bird Eatery for fun twists on brunch classics and fresh coffee to fuel your day.
Overall, we had a fantastic time during out getaway to South Bend this winter, and we look forward to exploring even more during our next visit. You can begin planning your trip by visiting www.visitsouthbend.com
