South Bend, Indiana, (colloquially known as The Bend) offers many of the same amenities of larger cities, but within an affordable environment. South Bend has a small-town feel, but still delivers world-class entertainment: Broadway plays, first-rate musical and performance artists at the Morris Performing Arts Center; exhibitions at the History Museum or the South Bend Museum of Art; outdoor music and arts festivals; the South Bend Farmers’ Market; and watching the South Bend Cubs, a minor league baseball team affiliate of the Chicago Cubs.
Everything from Irish pubs to fine dining are available in South Bend. French Cambodian, Lebanese, Italian, Mexican, Indian, and Vietnamese are just some examples of the international cuisines available for sampling. Craft breweries and distilleries are big in The Bend, and South Bend’s newest dining and entertainment destination, Eddy Street Commons, is just across the street from the University.
Nine miles of riverside walking and cycling trails, woodland parks, whitewater rafting and kayaking on the East Race Waterway, and Potawatomi Zoo, are all available in South Bend. Explore the quaint villages of southwest Michigan just a short drive away. Visit the beach at Indiana Dunes National Park — the only one in Indiana — or at the numerous small lakes that dot the countryside.
For the science-minded, tours can be arranged of facilities connected to Notre Dame such as the Nuclear Science Lab, the Turbomachinery Lab, the Digital Visualization Theater, the Linked Experimental Ecosystem Facility, among many others.
For conference participants looking to explore the craft beer trend in America, local breweries are core to the region’s social epicenter. Many local wineries abound, with local wines being served on menus throughout the city. And for those looking for a caffeine fix, they can perk up at the local trendy coffee shops, roasters, and nearby bakeries. Unwind over a pint and get a taste for what’s being brewed locally.
Travel
Good news: Getting to The Bend is easy. Whether you’re flying, taking the train or driving, making your way here isn’t a complicated process.
Flying
South Bend International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Indiana. It is serviced by four airlines with direct flights to 13 destinations. By flying South Bend International, you are one connection from anywhere. Further, South Bend is within close proximity to many other international airports, including Chicago, Detroit, and Indianapolis.
Train
The South Shore is an electric train line that connects South Bend International Airport to downtown Chicago with stops throughout Northwest Indiana. Amtrak also connects South Bend to major cities like Toledo, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, New York, Boston and Washington D.C.
Driving
South Bend and Mishawaka are in the heart of the Great Lakes region between Chicago, Detroit, Columbus and Indianapolis. We’re just 10 miles south of the Michigan State line and easily accessible from the Indiana Toll Road. U.S. highways 6, 20 and 31 all lead to South Bend. State Roads 2, 4, 23, 104, 331 and 933 do the same.
Bus
Greyhound and Megabus offer direct bus service from several Midwest destinations to South Bend and Notre Dame.
