Chapel on the campus of the beautiful University of Notre Dame

South Bend Is the Ultimate Weekend Getaway in Northern Indiana

South Bend, Indiana, is a great destination for a weekend getaway! It’s close to major metropolitan areas like Chicago, Grand Rapids, Indianapolis, and more—which makes it an excellent place to escape from the city. South Bend is full of great things to do! From corporate retreats to romantic getaways, this Northern Indiana getaway has something for every type of traveler. Check out our recommendations on what to do during your weekend getaway in Northern Indiana!

What to Do During Your Weekend Getaway in Northern Indiana

Attend a Notre Dame Sporting Event

South Bend is perhaps best known as the home of the Fighting Irish! Each fall, thousands of visitors travel to South Bend to experience a Notre Dame football weekend. Listen to the Midnight Drummer’s Circle, attend a tailgate, then head to the stadium to watch one of the best football programs in the nation! 

While football games are the most popular reason for a fall weekend getaway in Northern Indiana, we also recommend a visit to South Bend in the winter! During the colder months, Fighting Irish fans can delight in Notre Dame winter sports like Men’s and Women’s Basketball and hockey. 

Spend the Afternoon On the Green

Even amid the comradery of a Notre Dame football weekend, Northern Indiana getaways are all about relaxation. One of the best ways to unplug from the stresses of everyday life, during your weekend getaway, is to play golf! There’s a variety of South Bend golf courses for players of all skill levels. Consider Warren Golf Course at Notre Dame! This championship course regularly hosts professional talent and is a popular place to play. 

Taste Local Flavors 

Dining is an integral part of every vacation! All around the world, regions have unique cuisine that’s comprised of local ingredients and cultural traditions. From spicy Cajun dishes to Japanese fusion, South Bend is a melting pot of flavors from around the world! Be sure to dine at our favorite restaurants in South Bend during your stay. Whether you want a place to watch the game or celebrate an anniversary, there’s a South Bend dining experience for you! 

For a no-frills vibe, we recommend Fiddler’s Hearth Public House. This neighborhood pub is a great spot for delicious Gaelic eats and live entertainment. On the other hand, LaSalle Grill is our top choice for more formal affairs like birthdays and anniversaries! 

Stay at The Oliver Inn 

Spend your weekend getaway in Northern Indiana with The Oliver Inn! Our South Bend, Indiana, bed and breakfast is the perfect place to start and end each day of your stay. Begin each day of your weekend getaway with a candlelit gourmet breakfast. Our breakfast is made in-house each morning and served in our dining room, accompanied by music from our grand piano! Some of Alice’s most famous dishes include green eggs and ham pizza and sweet and spicy bacon. 

Gertrude's Bedroom

Then, head out to spend the day exploring South Bend. After your excursions, come back to your guest room at The Oliver Inn. Consider a stay in Gertrude’s Dressing Room. This popular accommodation features a queen-size bed, luxury linens, walk-in shower, and whirlpool tub!

Check our availability and start planning your Northern Indiana getaway!