Mishawaka, Indiana, is a relatively safe place to live. Its low crime rate and relatively small population make it an ideal choice for people looking for a more urban setting.
In addition, there are plenty of local establishments and restaurants in the area.
The St. Joseph River is still the main draw for people in this area, with various parks and trails connecting it to the city’s other attractions. The University Park Mall is far from the University of Notre Dame and South Bend.
Mishawaka is also a wonderful place to spend time with family and friends, so we will discuss the best things to do in Mishawaka, Indiana, below!
Where is Mishawaka, Indiana?
The city of Mishawaka is located in Indiana’s St. Joseph County and is known for its nickname, “the Princess City.”
As of the census of 2020, the city’s population was 51,063.
In 2010, census data showed that the city had 17.348 square miles. Of this, 97.99% is land, and the remaining 2.1% is water.
Fun Things to Do in Mishawaka, Indiana
1. Central Park
Central Park is on the river’s edge and features a bridge leading to the dam.
This area is also home to a fish ladder, which allows trout and salmon to access their hatchery.
The park is known for its summer activities, such as the splash pad and concerts at its bandstand.
It also features lighted tennis courts, a children’s playground, basketball courts, picnic tables, and grills.
Address: The Central Park is at 295 E Mishawaka Ave, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
2. University of Notre Dame
On-campus tours are available to prospective students. These can be conducted by visiting the Eck Visitors Center.
One of the leading tours focuses on the university’s history and daily life.
It includes various areas such as the Hesburgh Library, the Basilica of the Holy Heart, and the Main Building.
The Hesburgh Library is known for its large mural called Touchdown Jesus.
Address: The University of Notre Dame is in Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States.
3. Potawatomi Zoo
Although it’s not in the park, you can still visit the Potawatomi Zoo within five minutes.
This facility celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2021. It’s the oldest zoo in Indiana. During the season, it’s open from April to October.
The zoo is known for its conservation efforts. It has over 50 species of animals from Africa that are featured in its Survival Plans. Some of these include lions, okapis, warthogs, and monkeys.
Americas feature different animals, such as bison, river otters, and alligators. The Learning Center also has habitats for invertebrates, reptiles, and primates.
One of the most popular attractions of the facility is the Australian Outback, which features a walk-through exhibit that features various animals such as wallabies, emus, and kookaburras.
Address: The Potawatomi Zoo is at 500 S Greenlawn Ave, South Bend, IN 46615, United States.
4. University Park Mall
One of the major shopping centers in the area is located in the north section of the city near the Notre Dame campus.
It’s called The Simon Property Group’s Super Regional mall.
The University Park Mall is a regional mall serving South Bend, Michigan, and Indiana areas.
It features over 120 stores. Some of these are Macy’s, Barnes & Noble, and JCPenney.
Many of the University Park Mall stores are known for their high-quality products. Some of these include Apple, Foot Locker, and Sephora.
There are also a variety of restaurants located within the mall. Some of these include LongHorn Steakhouse and Wendy’s.
In addition, the University Park Mall food court features a variety of local favorites such as Chick-fil-A and Charley’s Cheesesteaks.
Address: The University Park Mall is located at 6501 Grape Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
5. Merrifield Park
One of the most beautiful sections of the St. Joseph River is located at Merrifield Park.
This area’s waterfront is accessed by a series of houses on the south bank. This area also offers views of the river and the homes on the other side.
This park features a variety of facilities and activities, such as a swimming pool, a children’s playground, and a football and soccer field.
Other areas of the park that are also popular include a boat launch.
During the winter, the park can be visited to enjoy an outdoor ice skating facility. This facility is open from early December to February.
Address: The Merrifield Park is at 1000 E Mishawaka Ave, Mishawaka, IN 46544, United States.
6. Putt-Putt Fun Center
A large mini-golf facility known as the Putt-Putt Fun Center is also located in the city. This facility is open during the spring and fall seasons.
This area’s various attractions are designed to keep the kids entertained and not get bored. There are also no wacky obstacles, which helps improve accuracy and skill.
Address: The Putt-Putt Fun Center is located at 3615 N Main St, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
7. Merrifield Pool
The park’s other facility, which is referred to as the Olympic-sized outdoor pool, is open from June to August. This facility has lap swimming and available swim sessions.
The park’s other facility, which is referred to as the Olympic-sized outdoor pool, is open from June to August.
It features a 180-foot water slide, a basketball hoop, and a concession stand. Non-residents and residents can also purchase season passes.
Address: The Merrifield Pool is at 1000 E Mishawaka Ave, Mishawaka, IN 46544, United States.
8. The Riverwalk
The St. Joseph River flows through the city at a gentle pace, unlike the other sections of it that go through the Twin Branch and the Mishawaka dams.
The river’s inner portion is lined with various pedestrian and bicycle trails. These are located between the S Logan St. bridge and the Mishawaka Dam.
The pedestrian and bicycle trails of the river are also equipped with various features such as lighting and landscaping.
A bridge connecting the Battell and Beutter parks can additionally be found along the river.
The pedestrian and bicycle trails provide a convenient way to reach the Ironworks Plaza, which is the location of the local farmers’ market.
The market is held on Sundays from 11 am to 3 pm.
Address: The Riverwalk is in Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
9. South Bend
The city of Mishawaka is located just a couple of minutes away from the fourth-largest city in Indiana.
Unfortunately, it’s also close to other major attractions such as museums and amusement parks.
Like in Mishawaka, the St. Joseph River is a significant part of the city’s story.
Downtown South Bend can be visited through the River Lights, an interactive art installation created in 2015.
The East Race Waterway is also a popular recreational area for people who enjoy kayaking and other water sports.
Address: The South Bend is located at South Bend, IN 46634-7111, 574-520-4872, United States.
10. Battell Park
Battell Park was first established in 1881. It has been listed as a historic district since 1996.
The park’s two main attractions are the Soldiers’ War Memorial and the bandshell, which was constructed in 1927.
Both of these monuments were designed in the Classical Revival style.
The park also has a five-tier cascading garden with various pools and an arched bridge.
This area was originally part of a Works Progress Administration project during the Great Depression.
Address: The Battell Park is at 301 W Mishawaka Ave, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
11. Robert C. Beutter Riverfront Park
The St. Joseph River is a popular recreational area for people who enjoy viewing the water.
Beutter Park is also known for its beautiful landscaping. This park features seven acres of land covered with various plants and trees.
The park’s main feature is its river race, a long race that ducks and other water birds usually accompany.
This event is also known to attract people due to its prominent sculpture. The River Shards, designed by Jan R. Martin, was installed in 2004.
Address: The Robert C. Beutter Riverfront Park is located at 120 Ironworks Ave, Mishawaka, IN 46544, United States.
See Also: Fun Things to Do in Elkhart (Indiana)
12. Evil Czech Brewery and Public House
The Evil Czech has a wide range of beers, including various flagships such as General George Patton and Stalin’s Dark Side.
Other notable beers that the brewery also produces include Nefarious Harbor, Three Six Hoppia, and Voodoo.
The pub’s spacious interior and the windows of its brewhouse allow customers to enjoy their favorite beers while browsing through its extensive menu.
Besides beer, the restaurant serves various food items such as burgers, sandwiches, and mac & cheese.
Address: The Evil Czech Brewery and Public House is located at 3703 N Main St, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
13. Strikes and Spares Entertainment Center
The Strikes and the Spares Entertainment Center is a multi-purpose facility that can accommodate groups of people.
It’s ideal for events such as birthday parties or family outings.
The facility features various activities such as a bowling alley, a go-kart track, and a variety of mini golf courses. It also has a bounce house and agility course.
The facility also has a snack bar and a restaurant that serves various food items such as burgers and sandwiches.
Address: The Strikes and Spares Entertainment Center is located at 5419 N Grape Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
14. Shiojiri Niwa
In 1987, the city of Shiojiri in Japan was honored with its dedicated Shiojiri Niwa garden.
This area was designed by Shoji Kanaoka, an architect who worked at Disney World’s Epcot Center.
The garden has various symbols. One of these is the Garden Bridge, which represents the connection between the world and paradise.
Another one is the zig-zag bridge, which is believed to help people avoid evil spirits.
Address: The Shiojiri Niwa is located at 450 N Niles Ave, Mishawaka, IN 46544, United States.
15. Blueberry Ranch
In addition to being a healthy food, berries are also known to be incredibly delicious.
During the summer, a local organic farm in Mishawaka, Indiana, can provide U-Pick services. This service usually starts in early July and lasts through August.
For more information about the farm, check its Facebook and website. The store also sells various berries, such as jam and pie.
Address: The Blueberry Ranch is located at 54743 Buckeye Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46561, United States.
16. Henry Frank Park
Henry Frank Park is a large park in Concord, New Hampshire. It features various trails that are accessible to people with limited mobility. There are also picnic tables and a softball field.
Address: The Henry Frank Park is in Day Road, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
17. Miami Monkey Island
Miami Monkey Island is a small island that can be accessed by boat or over a bridge.
It features various park features, such as a playground, grills, and a boat launch.
Address: The Miami Monkey Island is located at 801 N State St, Mishawaka, IN 46544, United States.
18. Cinemark Movies 14
One country’s largest movie theater chain, Cinemark Movies 14, has been recognized for its quality.
This facility offers a variety of movies and shows old favorites and the latest Hollywood films.
Address: The Cinemark Movies 14 is located at 910 W. Edison Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
19. Parkway Lanes East
At Parkway Lanes East, patrons can enjoy various games and food options through its automatic scoring system. It also features a sports bar beside the bowling center.
Address: The Parkway Lanes East is located at 1504 Chestnut St, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
20. Hannah Lindahl Children’s Museum
The Hannah Lindahl Children’s Museum was established in 1946 and featured various artifacts related to the city of Mishawaka.
It features a replica Victorian home and a Japanese tea room. It also has a mid-1800s village with a house, a post office, and stores.
Address: The Hannah Lindahl Children’s Museum is located at 1402 South Main Street, Mishawaka, IN 46544, United States.
21. Mega Play
Family fun center Mega Play is located in Concord, New Hampshire.
It features various games and activities for children and adults. It also has an indoor mini golf course.
Address: The Mega Play is at 2500 Miracle Lane D, Mishawaka, IN 46545, United States.
22. Movies 6
The small movie theater in New Hampshire known as the Movies 6 features second-run films.
It also has a game room and digital projection. When films are shown in RealD 3D, the audience can enjoy an immersive experience.
Address: The Movies 6 is located at 417-473 W University Dr, Granger, IN 46530, United States.
23. Action Park Paintball
For tournaments and casual play, Action Park provides a full-service facility. It also has a game room and a variety of group and individual rates.
Address: The Action Park Paintball is located at 11951 Harrison Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46544, United States.
24. Northern Indiana Historical Society
The Center for History of Northern Indiana is an organization that focuses on preserving and celebrating the region’s history.
It operates a children’s museum and a Victorian mansion. The organization also offers tours and exhibits.
Address: The Northern Indiana Historical Society is located at 121 S Main St, Mishawaka, IN 46544, United States.
25. South Bend Museum of Art
The South Bend Museum of Art features multiple galleries that exhibit contemporary and historical art. It also offers classes that focus on various artistic traditions.
Address: The South Bend Museum of Art is located at 120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601, United States.