The Morris Performing Arts Center
The Morris Performing Arts Center is a historic and cultural landmark in the heart of downtown South Bend. Originally opened in 1922 as the Palace Theatre, it began as a vaudeville house and has hosted icons like Houdini, Frank Sinatra, and Elvis Presley. Saved from demolition in 1959 by local arts advocate Ella Morris, the venue was later restored and renamed, reemerging as the Morris Performing Arts Center in 2000.
In 2022, the Morris celebrated its 100th anniversary with a grand re-opening—ushering in a new era of performances, community events, and ongoing restoration efforts. Today, it’s home to Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and the South Bend Symphony Orchestra.
Visitors can also experience the magic behind the curtain with guided tours, offering a glimpse into the theater’s rich history, stunning architecture, and backstage secrets. With over 2,500 seats and a century of unforgettable moments, the Morris continues to anchor South Bend’s vibrant arts scene for generations to come.
Ali on the Boulevard
Ali on the Boulevard is where artistry, style, and South Bend spirit come together. Founded by local designer Allison “Ali” Oesch Patel, this boutique began as a humble 8×8 booth at the South Bend Farmer’s Market and has blossomed into a beloved storefront in the heart of the city’s art district.
Ali has been crafting one-of-a-kind, contemporary jewelry for over two decades—each piece a reflection of her passion for design and her commitment to helping customers feel effortlessly stylish. Her original collections feature pearls, gemstones, metals, and crystals—ranging from elegant and understated to bold and fashion-forward.
Inside the shop, you’ll find more than just jewelry. Ali on the Boulevard also offers apparel, accessories, and exclusive experiences like VIP parties, permanent jewelry appointments, and even private house parties for those looking to add a little sparkle to their celebrations.
Whether you’re shopping for everyday favorites or a statement piece for a special occasion, Ali’s ever-evolving collection is designed to inspire. Stop by, explore, and see why locals have fallen in love with her one-of-a-kind creations.
Dainty Maid Food Hall
Housed in the beautifully restored Dainty Maid Co. building, this vibrant culinary hub is breathing new life into downtown South Bend—one plate (and pint) at a time.
Start your day with a bold brew from Revenant Coffee, or dig into a next-level brunch at The Breakfast Club, where classics come with a twist. Sticking around for lunch? You’ll find everything from fresh, comforting favorites to bold, chef-driven bites across multiple food concepts—served up seven days a week.
And if you’re feeling festive, grab a cocktail from Hall Pass, kick back, and let the space surprise you. From art shows to dance parties to pop-up kitchens, Dainty Maid isn’t just a food hall—it’s a gathering space for the bold and curious.
Whether you’re fueling up for the day or lingering into the evening, Dainty Maid is where South Bend meets, eats, and makes something new.
Primal South Bend
Meet Christopher Neubauer. Coach Chris has an inspiring story of overcoming a personal challenge. He created a thriving business in downtown South Bend. With a passion for blending generations, Coach has created a one-of-a-kind environment. People of all ages can exercise together with a backdrop of energizing rock music.
At Primal, Chris is transforming lives by meeting people at their level and motivating them to achieve their fitness goals.
South Bend Locals @ Circa Art
Circa Arts Gallery, a sophisticated yet approachable gallery, represents local artists with an emphasis on Arts & Crafts artisans. The SBL pop-up shop turned permanent fixture within Circa Arts is where you can buy all your SBL gear. We both agree it’s a match made in heaven since every piece has a story within the gallery, just like every SBL item has a deep connection to our wonderful city.
Located in the East Bank, Circa Art and SBL @ Circa Art is a great place to venture into while you are out enjoying this treasured neighborhood that our city offers.
Howard Park
Looking for a perfect place to spend a South Bend winter day? Head on out to Howard Park and experience the winter wonderland that it offers. Take your children to play and skate as you have your South Bend Chocolate Company hot chocolate sitting by the fire pit to warm up. Or, consider it the perfect date night as you impress your significant other with your moves around the unique ice skating path and then head over to Hammer and Quill afterwards to warm up with your favorite cocktail.
FATBIRD
Fatbird is a welcoming restaurant in the heart of Downtown South Bend exploring the experience of the contemporary south.
Self-described as a Southern-contemporary-style concept, Fatbird offers options from the Eastern Seaboard and the Deep South, such as jambalaya, grilled vinegar chicken, a Cuban sandwich, and red beans and rice. The bar offers house cocktails highlighting such Southern-aligned spirits as bourbon, tequila and rum while also offering classic cocktails like the gin-based Tom Collins and a house Bloody Mary.
-Excerpt from South Bend Tribune Market Basket Columnist Mary Shown
The Early Bird Eatery
The Early Bird Eatery is a husband-wife duo who opened their doors downtown South Bend in 2018 with the mission of crafting crave-worthy brunch classics. They promise to turn up the dial with flavor, freshness, and local ingredients, and do they ever deliver! Try the shrimp and grits if you are in the mood for savory or the blueberry lemon pancakes if your sweet tooth is calling. Chef Mike and business manager Jenn consistently serve guests who are hungry for a fresh take on traditional breakfast cuisine.
Try “The Local”
Made with our South Bend Locals bourbon, nitro cold brew, amaro, and vanilla cold foam
Ragamuffin Bakery + Coffee
Abby Gillan Emmons, owner of The Ragamuffin said her ultimate life dream was to build community. As an actor living and working in New York, deep roots and building community was difficult. She decided it was time for a fresh start, and with her grandmother’s zany recipes and love for baking instilled in her, she made plans to start her own shop. Her move to South Bend was to “make a real base for my life”. Creating Ragamuffin and starting her family made her “sink those roots farther into the ground”.
We’d love to welcome you inside for an oversized cinnamon roll or toasty warm masala chai. More than just making wholesome treats, we want to get to know our neighbors and be a place where our community comes together.
The Indiana Whiskey Co.
Matt Logsdon shares some history of The Indiana Whiskey Co. and how he’s poured himself into South Bend and the craft of making whiskey. Matt jokes, “Once you know how to make a good whiskey, there’s really no reason to do anything else.” After tasting the goods we’d have to agree! You can sense the care, the process, the one-of-a-kind still, and the love of South Bend in every sip. Stop by and grab a bottle today and Matt will show you how they make this South Bend Locals favorite.
Book a Tour.
We think we’re pretty fun. And just in case we’re not, we give you the booze up front. Our tours are led by our staff, all of whom are involved in some part of the mashing, distilling, and bottling process. Tours last in the realm of 20-30 minutes (as long as you don’t get Matt going about the lore and chemistry). The best part? The fee is waived if you buy any bottle of whiskey. Yeah, we’re pretty nice too.