Young woman visitor using phone in the historical museum

Here Are the Most Exciting Weekend Activities in South Bend

Do you need a break from the stress of everyday life? Consider a weekend getaway to South Bend! Our town is one of the most popular Northern Indiana getaways — and for good reason. Enjoy the performing arts, art museums, college game days, special events, and more! There’s truly something for everyone right in the heart of downtown South Bend. Read on to discover some of our favorite weekend activities in South BendWe hope these suggestions are the catalyst that gets you planning your Northern Indiana getaway.  

Top Weekend Activities in South Bend  

Below are some classic weekend activities in South Bend. Please note that these special events and businesses may be postponed and/or canceled for the 2020 season due to the circumstances surrounding COVID-19. Visit the activities’ respective sites for the latest information.  

1. Catch a Show at the Morris Performing Arts Center 

The Morris Performing Arts Center is one of the best things to do in downtown South Bend. This venue hosts a wide variety of performing arts shows. From stand-up comedy skits to off-Broadway shows, there’s sure to be something interesting coming to the Morris Performing Arts Center during your trip.  

Pair it with a reservation at one of our favorite South Bend restaurants and you’ve got the perfect date night planned! 

2. Visit the University of Notre Dame 

The University of Notre Dame is South Bend’s most iconic landmark. Notre Dame draws thousands of visitors to South Bend each year, especially during football season. If it’s your first time visiting South Bend, we recommend coming during a Notre Dame football weekend! Spend the weekend tailgating, watching football at Notre Dame Stadium, and making friends with other Fighting Irish fans.  

3. Visit Art Museums   

South Bend is also a great vacation destination for aesthetes. Our town is home to some great art museums! The South Bend Museum of Art boasts five art galleries and offers hands-on instruction. We also recommend attending one of the art museum’s special events. From poetry slams to yoga in the galleries, there’s always something fun happening at the South Bend Museum of Art.  

The Snite Museum of Art is another great option for aesthetes. This art museum, located at the University of Notre Dame, offers diverse exhibitions and collections. You can even view the museum’s virtual exhibitions before you arrive!  

4. Watch the River Lights  

The River Lights is one of the most exciting weekend activities returning to South Bend in 2021. This special event casts light sculptures onto the St. Joseph River. Guests are welcome to watch the light show from Seitz Park in downtown South Bend. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience and we can’t wait until it’s back!  

5. Stay at The Oliver Inn 

Stay at The Oliver Inn during your weekend getaway to Northern Indiana. Our bed and breakfast is a great lodging option as it’s close to our favorite weekend activities in South Bend. Our accommodations are a great place to rest your head after an exciting day on the town!  

Gertrude's Dressing Room - The Oliver Inn

Consider a stay in Gertrude’s Dressing Room. This is one of our most popular room thanks to its first-class amenities. During your stay, enjoy a queen-size bed, private bathroom with a two-person whirlpool tub and a shower, and more. It’s one of our favorite rooms and hope it will be yours, too!   

Check our availability to start planning your weekend trip to South Bend!