Welcome Home.
In and Around South Bend, Indiana
Founded in 1820 along the banks of the St. Joseph River in Northern Indiana, South Bend is our home.
Whether you’re one of our neighbors or visiting from afar, we’re glad you’re here.
We acknowledge we exist and operate on the traditional land of the Potawatomi, Peoria, Miami, and Kickapoo peoples, who have cared for this region for generations. Read our full land acknowledgement here.
We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite destinations and attractions, especially if you love nature and plants. We hope you’ll make them part of your adventure.
Go Outdoors
A spring gem! Trillium Ravine Prairie Plant Preserve boasts extraordinary beauty throughout the year. This mature, mixed deciduous forest set along a deep glacial ravine is complete with beautiful spring ephemeral flowers.
Lake Worster, quite the sight at 327 acres in size, is the park’s focal point. It’s a perfect place to take a dip on a hot summer day with its beach and boating options. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak, hike, bike and more.
Our region is packed with natural wonders to explore, from bogs and rivers to woodlands, lakes, prairies, nature preserves, and so much more.
Pictured above, carnivorous plants growing wild at Lydick Bog, one of the last remaining sphagnum bog habitats in Indiana.
Lake Michigan's might has influenced Indiana Dunes for millennia. Wind and waves have shaped the land, leaving a rich mosaic of habitats along these 15 miles of Indiana coast. Over 50 miles of trails lead through shifting sand dunes, quiet woodlands, sunny prairies and lush wetlands. Known for its striking plant and bird diversity, it's easy to find inspiration throughout the park’s 15,000 acres.
Public Gardens
2105 E Mishawaka Ave, South Bend, IN 46615
The Conservatories are a haven of tranquility within Potawatomi Park. Here, you can wander paths through lush, tropical foliage, explore the marvelous shapes and textures of succulent plants in the arid Desert Dome, or just sit quietly in the peaceful surroundings.
Leeper Park Rose Garden
907 Riverside Drive, South Bend, IN 46616
A public rose garden undergoing restoration through community volunteer efforts. Free admission, open dawn to dusk.
Photo credit: Noell Marie Hostetler
13988 Range Line Rd, Niles, MI 49120
A favorite of all who love nature—flora and fauna, Fernwood Botanical Garden is situated on the St. Joseph River in Niles, Michigan, near Buchanan in picturesque Berrien County.
1011 N Main St, Elkhart, IN 46514
Wellfield features over 20 themed garden areas, including a Children’s Garden and a Japanese “Island Garden.” Wellfield’s 36 gorgeous acres include 18 acres of lakes, streams, waterfalls and other water features.
Stay
The Oliver Inn Bed & Breakfast
630 W. Washington St. South Bend, IN 46601
Make your stay in South Bend your own at The Oliver. Choose one of 10 well-appointed rooms that best suits your needs—be it a cozy room with a view of magnificent grounds, a suite for work and relaxation, or a private, romantic getaway.
Explore a range of hotels in downtown South Bend and Mishawaka.