Mishawaka is a residential city that straddles the banks of the meandering St. Joseph River. It’s where locals love to spend time enjoying the vast offering of outdoor activities at dozens of parks and green spaces.
Often called the Princess City, Mishawaka takes its name from the legend of Princess Mishawaka, the daughter of a Shawnee chief.
The Riverwalk Trail follows the path of St. Joseph River and is a window into the lifestyle of the city, its parks and recreations areas. On the northern banks, Battell Park has children’s playgrounds and sports courts. It also hosts summer concerts. Central Park is popular for its picnic areas and splash pad. Cross the water to Robert C. Beutter Riverfront Park, which has perennial gardens and waterfront trails, and then drink in the tranquility of Kamm Island Park.
Downtown Mishawaka centers on Lincoln Way and its intersecting streets. Here you’ll find bars, cafés, pubs and varied dining options, from pancakes to Mexican cuisine. Appreciate eclectic architectural influences at the Queen Anne-style Dodge House, Italianate Eller-Hosford House and Greek Revival-style Ellis-Schindler House. Have fun with hands-on history and nature exhibits at Hannah Lindahl Children’s Museum.
Just a short drive to the west is South Bend. Spend a day at a museum complex that includes the Studebaker National Museum, The History Museum and Oliver Mansion. South Bend’s riverfront is home to the Morris Performing Art Center and South Bend Museum of Art.
Explore the traditions of college life in the U.S. at the nearby University of Notre Dame. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Golden Dome and Grotto of Our Lady Lourdes are notable landmarks within the picturesque campus. Experience the fever of a football match at Notre Dame Stadium or browse exhibitions at Snite Museum of Art.
Reach Mishawka by flying to South Bend International Airport or Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. Rent a car in the warm summer months for a convenient way to discover the beach towns on nearby Lake Michigan.
