A Local’s Guide to Spending a Weekend in South Bend (The Whiskey Way)

South Bend is an ideal weekend destination if you’re looking for a city that feels welcoming, walkable, and full of locally owned gems. With a strong food scene, thoughtful shopping, and experiences rooted in craft and community, it’s easy to fill a weekend without feeling rushed.

Here’s how to spend a relaxed and well-rounded Friday through Sunday in South Bend.

Friday: Arrive, Dine Well, and Ease In

Dinner at Brasserie 23: Start your weekend with dinner at a locally owned restaurant celebrating classic French fare, thoughtfully paired with fine wine and well-crafted cocktails. Rooted in a love of culinary craft and genuine hospitality, Brasserie 23 brings a refined yet approachable French dining experience to the heart of the Midwest.

Evening Stroll Downtown: After dinner, take a walk through downtown South Bend. The area is compact and lively, especially in the evening, with local shops, bars, and river views all within easy walking distance. It’s a great way to get oriented and set the tone for the days ahead.

Saturday: Coffee, Shopping, and a Distillery Tour

Morning: Breakfast + Walk

Breakfast at Peggs: Start Saturday with breakfast at Peggs, a beloved local spot known for generous portions and classic breakfast favorites. It’s casual, welcoming, and exactly what you want before a full day of exploring.

Explore the University of Notre Dame Campus: After breakfast, head to the University of Notre Dame for a walk around campus. Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, stroll around the lakes, and take in the architecture and peaceful grounds. Even if you’re not visiting for a game, the campus is one of South Bend’s most iconic and beautiful places.

Late Morning + Early Afternoon: Shopping

Shop at The Portage Collective: The Portage Collective is a must-visit for shopping in South Bend. This thoughtfully curated marketplace features local makers, artists, and small brands offering everything from home goods to gifts and accessories. It’s a great place to find something unique and support the local creative community.

Browse Brain Lair Books: Next, stop by Brain Lair Books, an independent bookstore known for its inclusive, community-focused approach and carefully selected titles. Whether you’re looking for a new read or just enjoy wandering through a good bookstore, this stop is well worth your time.

Lunch at Dainty Maid Food Hall: For lunch, head to Dainty Maid Food Hall. With multiple vendors under one roof, it’s perfect for groups or anyone who wants options. Grab something quick, explore different cuisines, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere before your afternoon plans.

Afternoon: DistilleryTour + Dinner

Take a VIP Here at The Indiana Whiskey Company: Spend your Saturday afternoon at Indiana Whiskey Company for a tour and tasting. The experience begins with a guided tasting, followed by a walk through the distillery led by the people who actually make the whiskey.

You’ll learn about their one-of-a-kind 100% copper pot still, how Indiana grain influences flavor, and what goes into the aging and bottling process. The tour is informative, approachable, and a standout experience in South Bend. Plan to linger in the tasting room afterward, it’s the perfect way to slow down and enjoy the afternoon.

Dinner Around the Bend

South Bend’s dinner scene offers something for every mood:

• Cafe Navarre for a  fine dining experience bringing modern Italian cuisine with Mediterranean influences.

• No. 6 Scratch Kitchen LaSalle for creative, seasonal plates made from scratch

• LaSalle Kitchen & Tavern for elevated comfort food and craft cocktails

Choose one, settle in, and enjoy a relaxed Saturday night downtown.

Sunday: Brunch, One Last Shop, and a Slow Send-Off

Morning Coffee or Light Breakfast: Keep Sunday morning easy with coffee downtown or a lighter breakfast before heading out for one last walk.

Brunch at The Early Bird Cafe: This is a great option for an elevated brunch experience with a mission of crafting crave-worthy classics with a twist.

Final Walk Along the River: Wrap up your weekend with a stroll along the St. Joseph River or through downtown. South Bend on a Sunday morning is calm and unhurried—the perfect way to ease out of a weekend well spent.

Why South Bend Is Worth the Weekend

South Bend offers a rare balance: thoughtful dining, meaningful local shopping, and experiences that feel rooted in place. From browsing independent bookstores to touring a working distillery, it’s a city that invites you to slow down, explore intentionally, and leave feeling refreshed. If you’re planning a weekend getaway that feels personal and well-paced, South Bend delivers.