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Michiana Recs
10
items My family's favorite spots in the Michiana area. We love where we live and think there is so much to offer! This encompasses South Bend, Elkhart, Niles and more!
Sections
4
Eats
Free Things To Do
Outdoors
Indoor
Eats
Don Chepe's is our go to authentic Mexican restaruant, especially on weeknights when I don't feel like cooking. They are family run and have the nicest staff. In the summer, their food truck travels around the area and we never miss when it's in our ...
Taqueria Don Chepe - Niles, MI
Jim's has the best brisket in the area, in my opinion! We love the atmosphere of the restaurant and the service is always excellent. The location is great to stop in before or after exploring downtown Niles and the other shops in the area.
Jim's Smokin' Cafe - Niles, MI
Make Corndance your next date night! Service is exceptional and the portion sizes are great. We've spent date nights, family dinners and even work holiday parties here and it's always a great meal!
Corndance Tavern
Free Things To Do
Notre Dame is an excellent spot to visit if you're looking for a free activity. The campus is beautiful no matter what time of year you visit and it's always fun to see the iconic landmarks. There are plenty of restaurants and even a hotel right on c...
University of Notre Dame
Howard Park is one of the best in the area! There's a restaurant there, which makes it the perfect spot for a day full of fun. In the summer, there's a small fountain/splash area and a playground. The winter is our favorite with fire pits and ice ska...
Howard Park - South Bend, IN
Potawatomi Park is right outside of the Zoo, making it an excellent (and free!) way to extend our day. It's a great spot to have lunch in the middle of your zoo day, if you'd prefer to pack your own over eating in the zoo. There is a splash pad and a...
Potawatomi Park -South Bend
The Mishawaka Riverwalk is great! It's a 2.5 mile loop on the banks of the St. Joseph River. Perfect for walkers, runners or bikers. It is connected to Central Park, making this a perfect stop for families.
Mishawaka Riverwalk - Mishawaka Parks
Outdoors
The Potawatomi Zoo is EXCELLENT! It's very clean and the grounds are very easy to navigate. We love stopping in the Lodge for lunch during our Zoo days. Our favorite is feeding the giraffe's, we could stand there and watch them all day long!
Potawatomi Zoo - South Bend
Fernwood is truly a hidden gem. We love spending summer days at Fernwood walking the trails and especially spending time by the river. My 1 year old absolutely loves the railway garden and could spend hours watching the trains. Our favorite holiday t...
Fernwood Botanical Garden - Buchanan/Niles, MI
Indoor
Wonderland is hard to beat, specifically for it's prices. You won't find a cheaper movie! Tickets range from $4-7 depending on the show time. Popcorn buckets are only $4 (Hello? $20+ at most movie theaters)! A perfect winter spot!
Wonderland Cinema - Niles, MI