Chicago Day Trip Guide: South Bend, Indiana

South Bend, Indiana, is known for the University of Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish, but collegiate football isn’t the only draw: Just an hour drive from Chicago, the striking city is filled with museums, restaurants, parks and—heads up for your sweet tooth—the world’s largest chocolate store.  

Here’s a taste of what South Bend has to offer. 

South Bend Chocolate Company
Free samples, anyone?

Take a factory tour and get 10% off chocolates for the day.

Shiojiri Park
A gem across the river

Located across the river in Mishawaka, Shiojiri Park is Instagram-dreamy with more than 20 verities of large plants, 200 large boulders, four bridges, and a teahouse pavilion. 

Tippecanoe Place
Dinner in an 1880s stone mansion

Go for the classics: herb-crusted prime rib, shrimp cocktail, chicken marsala, and many more. 

University of Notre Dame
Take a walk on campus

Guided tours leave from the Eck Visitors Center, or self-guide yourself past the Golden Dome, Basilica of the Sacred Heart and the Grotto of Our Lady or Lourdes. 

Sway Coffee
South Bend's hippest café

Recharge with their totally decadent bourbon caramel latté.

Rocco's
A collegiate favorite

You can’t go wrong with this mainstay’s Italian comfort food served in a warm family setting. 

The History Museum & Oliver Mansion
No puffy shirts or petticoats required

Explore a Victorian mansion with 38 beautifully furnished rooms. Try not to get lost. 

Fiddler's Hearth
Public house vibes

A family-friendly spot with great music, good food, a cozy fireplace, loads of books and board games, and great music.