South Bend, IN Tourist Attractions

South Bend, in the extreme north of Indiana, is the seat of the University of Notre Dame, founded in 1842. Features of interest on the campus are the Art Museum and the Church of the Sacred Heart, which has the oldest carillon in North America.
To the south-east of South Bend, Indian's Amish Country extends as far as Fort Wayne.

Northern Indiana Center for History

The Center for History uses audiotapes, artifacts and photographs to recreate the history of St Joseph Valley. Voyages Gallery has nine exhibits that deal with the development of the area including prehistoric times and the European settlement. The Raclin Gallery features the history of the University of Notre Dame and Kidsfirst Children's Museum offers hands-on exhibits of area history.

Copshaholm, the Oliver Mansion

Copshaholm, the Oliver Mansion, is a wonderfully restored home from the 20th Century. Located in South Bend, this attraction is a 38-room mansion complete with all the trappings of a successful 20th Century industrialist. Copshaholm, the Oliver Mansion is done in the Romanesque Queen Anne style and is clad in Indiana fieldstone. Inside are wonderful collections of original furniture, leaded glass windows, and woodwork.

Stuedebaker National Museum

The Studebaker brothers started by building quality horse carriage in South Bend and evolved into the makers of the automobile with the unique lemon-juicer style nose. This museum has a collection of gems manufactured by the Studebakers plus other interesting transportation vehicles.
In the early section are five presidential carriages, including the one used by Abe Lincoln to get to Ford's Theatre on the tragic night of his assasination.

Potawatomi Zoo

The Potawatomi Zoo, found in the pleasant town of South Bend, is a great spot for a family outing. The Potawatomi Zoo has a large number of species including mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, and invertebrates, both domestic and exotic. On site at the zoo is a train (fee not included in admission) Sydney's Café, a petting zoo, and seasonal pony rides.

South Bend Museum of Art

The South Bend Museum of Art is located in the Century Center in South Bend. The museum is one of the city's cultural hotspots and features works by local, national and international artists. The Southbend Regional Museum of Art also has a very active educational program that features a wide variety of courses that are available to the general public.

Studebaker National Museum

Fans of this iconic automobile will be most impressed when they visit the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend. On display are a variety of Studebaker vehicles, all of which have been lovingly restored to their original operating condition. Included in the collection are Lafayette's and President Lincoln's carriages.
The museum moved locations in 2005 to a new building.

College Football Hall of Fame

The College Football Hall of Fame, located in South Bend, is well worth a visit if you are a fan of college ball. This modern and exceptionally well-done attraction is sure to impress with its interactive displays and extensive collection of football memorabilia.

University of Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame was founded in 1842 on the site of an early mission. It was officially chartered in 1844.

Snite Museum of Art

Snite Museum was named for Fred B. Snite, who along with his family provided construction funds in memory of his son, Frederick Jr. Exhibits include the Alsdorf Gallery for ancient and medieval art, The Knott-Beckman Gallery for high renaissance and baroque art, the Beardsley Gallery for 20th century art, the Higgins gallery for 19th and 20th century American art, and the Travis court for Decorative arts. The collections total over 24,000 works.

Basilica of the Sacred Heart

The beautiful Basilica of the Sacred Heart is located in the pleasant city of South Bend. This ornate building can be found on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart features an impressive interior with stunning ceilings of azure blue. Near the Basilica is a bell tower that stands 74m / 230ft tall.