6 South Bend, Indiana, Region Date Night – and Day – Ideas
Grab your sweetheart and explore all this region has to offer.
Whether you’re in a relationship or searching for that special someone, the South Bend, Indiana, area has plenty of fun activities that you and your date are sure to love. Located in Northern Indiana near the Michigan border, this region is home to the University of Notre Dame, which cultivates a friendly, youthful energy that can be felt throughout the region. Couple this positive vibe with the area’s outstanding outdoor recreation, historic architecture, delectable eateries and phenomenal arts scene, and it’s easy to see why locals and visitors opt to take advantage of all there is to see and do. Ahead, discover six South Bend area date night – and day – ideas that you’re going to want to add to your calendar.
In This Article
1. The “Creative” Date
Looking for a low-pressure activity where you and your date can hang out, have fun and enjoy the sights? Grab your date – and that cute reusable tote you have in your closet – and head to the historic South Bend Farmers Market.
“We love to start at the farmers market,” says Ali Frisk of J2 Marketing in South Bend.
Open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays – as well as Fridays during the summer – the farmers market offers items like fresh produce, dairy products, meat, poultry, eggs, jams, jellies, handcrafts and artwork.
“My husband and I enjoy strolling around there, and we get our coffee and flowers for the week,” Frisk says.
Less than a five-minute walk from the farmers market is the artisan Italian restaurant Oh Mamma’s on the Avenue, where Frisk recommends you and your date split a specialty panini.
“We go in there for a panini and leave with all sorts of cheeses and olives,” she says.
And for the perfect spot to share that handheld? Frisk suggests Howard Park, which is located just a few minutes away and has chair-surrounded fire pits that’ll keep you toasty when the air is chilly.
2. The “Outdoorsy” Date
For those who love the great outdoors, the South Bend region boasts an array of green spaces, parks and trails, where couples can stroll hand in hand while enjoying the views. One option Frisk recommends is Potato Creek State Park, which is roughly 12 miles southwest of South Bend. And if one or both of you have a pup, the more the merrier.
“It’s also a great place for a picnic,” Frisk says.
Rather explore the region on wheels than on foot? As a recognized Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, the region has plenty of options, like the Indiana-Michigan River Valley Trail. This paved, 17-mile trail (34 miles round trip) connects Mishawaka, Indiana, to Niles, Michigan, and offers a smooth ride with lovely views.
“We do a lot of cycling, and we like to ride our bikes along the Indiana-Michigan River Valley Trail,” Frisk says.
When you’ve worked up an appetite, Frisk recommends stopping for a riverside bite at The Bucket, which serves up everything from fresh salads and fish tacos to smash burgers and crispy fries. Make sure to grab a refreshing cocktail at its tiki bar.
3. The “Off the Beaten Path” Date
Want to experience a taste of Austria stateside? Frisk suggests heading to New Carlisle. Located approximately 25 minutes from South Bend, this community is home to Moser’s Austrian Cafe.
“It’s incredibly delicious,” Frisk says. “It’s definitely worth the drive, which is pretty scenic, too.”
In addition to its unique atmosphere, which includes Bavarian décor, an ornate, antique metal ceiling, and staff dressed in traditional lederhosen and dirndls, the restaurant serves up several varieties of schnitzel, which you’re going to want to pair with a cold Pilsner.
If you’re looking for a fun activity before dinner, stop by Lydick Bog. This gorgeous state nature preserve offers a quiet atmosphere, where you and your date can enjoy the fresh air while observing the flora and fauna.
“It’s just a cool area where you can walk around the bog and get some steps in before you eat some heavy Bavarian food,” Frisk says.
4. The “Fancy” Date
Ditch your daily athleisure attire and slip into something sophisticated for a night of elegance. Your first stop: Capri Italian Restaurant in nearby Granger. This upscale, yet comfortable spot boasts a charming atmosphere and ambience.
“It’s located in a beautiful building,” Frisk says. “There’s a giant fireplace inside that we always love to sit by that makes everything that much better.”
Matching the sophisticated vibe is a menu full of scrumptious dishes, like veal, calamari, lobster and an array of handmade pastas. Make sure to pair a delicious Italian wine with your meal and end the evening with one of the restaurant’s mouthwatering desserts, like its crepes with Grand Marnier sauce.
After your feast, Frisk suggests heading back to South Bend and checking out the Morris Performing Arts Center, which hosts the South Bend Symphony Orchestra as well as music, dance and Broadway performances.
5. The “Timelessly Cool” Date
Are you more into classics than trends? If so, you’re in luck. The region’s Bonnie Doon Drive-In offers classic eats like burgers, pork tenderloin and its very own brand of homemade ice cream.
“Sometimes, we like to get out of the house and go there,” Frisk says. “They have amazing malts and sundaes. I love their banana boats or strawberry shortcake ice cream treats. Plus, we can take the dogs, too. It’s really a kind of no fuss, no frills kind of date night.”
6. The “Artsy” Date
If you and your date love admiring creative works, this excursion will immerse you in great art.
To begin, head to the South Bend Museum of Art, which is located downtown. Here, you can peruse multiple exhibits in its five galleries.
Plus, Frisk notes that the University of Notre Dame is launching a new museum called the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art. Slated to open in December 2023, the 132,000-square-foot complex will be surrounded by green spaces that will serve its outdoor sculpture collection. It will also include a cafe and retail space.
“This new museum is going to be a real showstopper,” Frisk says.
After you’ve soaked up all that art, head to The Lauber, which is known for its cocktails, beer collection and excellent food, from pizza and handhelds to soups and salads.
“They have the best patio and outdoor seating,” Frisk says.
This article was sponsored by the South Bend Regional Chamber and Visit South Bend Mishawaka.