What to do and see when in town
South Bend may be best known as the home of the Fightin’ Irish, but there are plenty of things to do around town that don’t involve football. With plenty of restaurants and new shopping developments, it is becoming a destination in northwest Indiana. Whether you’re planning a reunion with college buddies or a fun family weekend, renting a home in town is a great way to experience all that the area has to offer.
Restaurants
The new Eddy Street Commons development located at the Intersection of Eddy Street and Angela Blvd is becoming an increasingly popular hang-out for students, residents and visitors. With several popular dining options, including Chipotle, Five Guys Burgers and Fries, and Hotbox Pizza, this development is a great place to grab a bite to eat before or after the game. Opening in summer 2010 is The Mark, a modern, upscale version of a classic American diner. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, The Mark promises comfort food with a twist. Owner Jonathan Lutz’s commitment to quality food and the environment drove him to contract with two local cattle farmers; The Mark will be their only customer. “We’ll be serving a full line of grass fed beef, including gourmet burgers, steak sandwiches, roasts, stews and briskets. I’m really excited,” says Lutz.
The ever famous Bruno’s Pizza (2610 Prairie Ave) might not be close to campus, but it certainly is a favored tradition for many Domer families. Known for its doughy crust and generous cheese, Bruno’s is worth the drive for many folks. “Its really good and homemade,” says hostess Micki Dennie. “I think it’s the best pizza in South Bend.”
Celebrating its third year in business, Uptown Kitchen (303 Florence Ave, Granger) serves up fresh, natural meals at affordable prices in a colorful and funky atmosphere. “We use a lot of local and organic ingredients,” says owner Jonathan Lutz. “Everything we serve is the best quality we can get.” The main focus at Uptown Kitchen is good food, made to order. “As far as I know, we are the only place in town that doesn’t have a deep fryer, heat lamp or microwave,” says Lutz. Open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week and dinner Wed-Sat, Lutz accepts reservations for any meal and suggests making one on a game weekend. “We always beef up our menus on football weekends and we tend to add some extra cool stuff,” he says.
If fine dining is what you are looking for, the Lasalle Grill (115 W Colfax Ave) is a date-night favorite. Modern American cuisine is paired with more than 300 wine choices. Manager Andrew Galloway says the restaurant is famous for its prime aged steaks and fresh seafood. He strives to provide patrons with a great dining experience when the Irish play in town. “We have live entertainment and no dress code during game weekends. Come as you are,” he says. While you won’t need a sport coat or tie, you will need to call ahead to reserve a table. “On a game weekend its hard to get in without a reservation,” says Galloway. “Reservations are the only way to prevent disappointment.”
Nightlife
Many Domers past and present won’t let a football weekend go by without a stop at The Linebacker Lounge, commonly referred to as The ‘Backer. Located just east of campus at the corner of Edison and South Bend Avenue, The ‘Backer is an easy place to meet with friends after the big game. Don’t miss out on their famous Long Island Ice Teas (as long as you’re not planning to drive home after one!).
Looking for some Irish cheer after you cheer on the Irish? South Bend boasts several Irish pubs close to campus. Corby’s (441 E Lasalle Ave) is a favorite spot for many Domers over the age of 21. With an outdoor beer garden and pool tables, it is a great place to relax with friends. Fiddler’s Hearth (127 N Main St) features live music every night and a comfortable menu of classic pub fare. Opening soon in Eddy Street Commons is Kildare’s Irish Pub. Promising to “keep your stomachs, and pints, full to your heart’s content,” Kildare’s aims to offer the true flavor of Ireland.
Family
Looking to keep the kids busy with something other than football and tailgating? Check out the Potawatami Zoo (500 S. Greenlawn Ave), named one of the top 20 zoos for families by Child Magazine. First opened in 1902, the zoo now features a wide range of animals including African lions, red pandas, and American flamingos.
The College Football Hall of Fame (111 S. Saint Joseph St) is an easy place to wander with children. “We have a plethora of activities during Notre Dame home football weekends. Football Friday’s at the Hall of Fame contain team visits, autograph sessions, book signings and player/coach tours,” says public relations manager Kristen Pflipsen. The facility also provides bus shuttles directly from downtown to campus so fans do not have to worry about parking.
Car fanatics old and young alike will enjoy a walk through the Studebaker National Museum (201 S. Chapin St), just a 10 minute drive from campus. The museum is a tribute to the only manufacturer to successfully switch from horse-drawn to gasoline powered vehicles. Although Studebakers are no longer in production, they were vital to the growth of South Bend. “If you’re from out of town the museum is a great orientation to our community,” says assistant director Peggy Soderberg. It is also a great place for the entire family. “When we get families in here, its interesting to hear the stories that come from older family members,” Soderberg says. “They start sharing family history that oftentimes kids don’t get to hear.”
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