Students have gone home for the summer, but for some, home is only a few miles from campus! Even though staying in the South Bend area can seem unadventurous, the following locations will make being “stuck at home” a lot more exciting.
1. The Well Coffeehouse – 2410 W Mishawaka Ave
It seems strange to crave hot coffee in the heat of summer, but The Well has good reasons to get your business: the drinks are delicious, cheap, and ethical. The cafe serves a variety of drinks that do not have set prices, only suggested donations, meaning you get to choose how much you pay for your latte. As if that wasn’t enough, all profits the cafe makes go straight to helping the community. Consider swapping your favorite Starbucks drink (at least once) for one from The Well. It is cheaper and it improves the community.
2. South Bend Museum of Art – 120 S St Joseph St
You may have already visited the local art museum for a field trip in elementary school, but the museum deserves a second visit. Each year the SBMA exhibits art from various artists. It has displayed the work of famous artists, such as Ansel Adams, and is currently exhibiting the work of area high school teacher and artist Jack Kapsa. Aside from displaying art, the SBMA also gives the community several ways to get involved in the process of making art. If you have nothing planned for the day, head over to the SBMA for the chance to see and create one-of-a-kind artwork.
3. The Riverwalk
The St. Joseph River runs through the heart of the South Bend community, making it a great (and unavoidable) place to visit. Every summer, several locations on the river host community events, such as concerts and parties. If you want to spend more time outdoors this summer, the South Bend/Mishawaka Riverwalk is a great place to go.
4. Cinco 5 – 112 W Colfax Ave
Craving Mexican food? Cinco 5 not only serves tacos and other Mexican meals, but several Italian and American dishes as well. Reviewers on social media sites have given it a high rating (an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars), and say that the food is delicious, reasonably priced, and the staff and atmosphere are friendly. Next time you want to eat authentic international food, stop by Cinco 5 and eat up.
Bonus: Rocket Science Ice Cream – 401 E Market St
If you want to leave the South Bend area, but can’t go too far, Rocket Science Ice Cream is the place to go. Located in Nappanee, IN, the drive out there is about 45 minutes (AKA, about 15 songs away). This ice cream shop does more than serve up everyone’s favorite cold treat: they make a show out of it. Each ice cream is made and then frozen using liquid nitrogen. This unique approach to creating your ice cream is worth the drive out there.
Whether you are a South Bend native or are just spending your summer near campus, these suggestions will help you recognize the various locations in the area that are worth visiting. You do not have to go far to have a fun and relaxing summer!
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