Here at Rent Like A Champion... we love ourselves some college football. After all, since 2006, we've helped more than 70,000 fans nationwide finds homes in more than 40 towns across the country.
BUT! That doesn't mean that we can't appreciate a well rounded weekend.
Here then, are 7 things to do in South Bend, Indiana to get the most out your game day weekend...
WHITE WATER RAFTING ON THE ST. JOSEPH RIVER
What other downtown area has white water rafting?
Before you head over to take in the game, stop by the world's first man-made rapids course in the St. Joseph River - where you'll find 1,900 feet of class 2 rapids sure to delight your entire group.
Plus, after you're done rafting, pop over to a climbing wall, stroll along the beautiful walkways, or just take in the St. Joseph and downtown South Bend area.
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TOUR THE SOUTH BEND CHOCOLATE COMPANY
Listen... no trip to South Bend is complete without a stop at the South Bend Chocolate Company.
But did you know that you can go behind the scenes and learn how they create every delectable treat?
Take a guided tour through this amazing, 58,000 sq ft factory to learn the ins and outs of the chocolate-making process, the history of chocolate itself, and... of course... a taste test.
If you're interested in extending your stay, stick around for an "Inside Scoop" tour of the South Bend Company's Chocolate Museum, with one of the world's largest collections of chocolate memorabilia.
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THE STUDEBAKER NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM
This fantastic South Bend cultural attraction is home to more than 120 vehicles that tell a century-and-a-half long history of the South Bend automotive industry.
Permanent exhibitions include an original set of Studebaker Corporation vehicles, a military vehicle display, along with their Presidential Carriage Collection - within which you'll find the carriage that carried Abraham Lincoln to Ford Theatre on the night he was killed.
However, don't forget to check out their special exhibitions, which include rich and interactive opportunities to engage with history - great for all ages!
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SNITE MUSEUM OF ART
If history's not your thing, or if you're looking to stay a little closer to campus, consider a trip over to the Snite Museum of Art.
Take in the more than 28,000 works throughout the museum, including pieces from Africa, America, Mesoamerica, Europe, and more! Plus, like the Studebaker, there are plenty of temporary exhibitions that will give your group an added, special experience during your trip.
The museum is also open and free for the public - so swing by between stops around campus, and stay for as long as you want!
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Golfing anyone?
Who says you can't sneak in a round on game day weekend?
With 12 courses in the South Bend and surrounding areas, you're bound to find a tee time that works well for your group (or just for you, if you're trying to sneak away for a bit... we won't tell).
Top rate courses include Erksine Park Golf Club, Elbel Park Golf Club, and Warren Golf Course at Notre Dame - so make sure you bring those clubs next time you're in town...
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Potawatomi Zoo
If you're traveling with smaller children and need to find something to do before kickoff, consider a trip over to Indiana's oldest zoo!
Located just a 10 minute drive south of campus, Potawatomi Zoo is home to more than 500 animals spanning 23 acres, including exhibits for reptiles, birds, amphibians, invertebrates, and mammals.
And with tickets costing just $8 for children (FREE for children under 2 years or younger) and $10 for adults, it's a cost-effective way to enjoy your day!
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Catch a show at the Morris Performing Arts Center
If you're in town for an afternoon game, and are wondering what to do once the sun goes down... consider a trip over this historic South Bend theater!
Built in 1921 as a Vaudeville venue, Morris Performing Arts Center now hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, stand-up comedians, and more. Plus, with plenty of surrounding restaurants and nightlife - it's the perfect place to spend an evening after a football game at Notre Dame Stadium.
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And don't forget! If you're looking to get the most out of your stay, be sure to book one of our nearly 1,000 weekend rental homes, close to everything South Bend has to offer!
Check out our homes below...
