South Bend is a vibrant city with diversity in its arts, history, and food. Begin your stay exploring historic landmarks where you and your family can spend time exploring this wonderful city and its amazing past.
The following are some of the best landmarks in South Bend, Indiana, that you must visit.
Tippecanoe Place
The unique and enormous Tippecanoe Place in South Bend was built by Clement Studebaker in 1889 to be a showplace for his wealth. However, in 1980, this architectural marvel was repurposed into a restaurant and event center. Guests are greeted by the stone exterior and gables when they walk in through the front door. The interior is even more magnificent with extensive woodwork, elaborate fireplaces, and intricate decorative ironwork throughout, making it one of the most recognizable landmarks in Indiana.
Tippecanoe Place is the perfect spot to enjoy an elegant meal with friends and family. They have a variety of lunch and dinner menus, as well as brunch on Sundays. Reserve your table ahead because this place fills up fast.
Golden Dome – The iconic landmark
The Golden Dome has been a symbol of the University of Notre Dame’s dedication to excellence for decades. It is home to Notre Dame’s most precious possession: the 19-foot tall, 4,000 pounds Mary statue, donated by Saint Mary College students and alumnae in gratitude.
The Dome’s beauty is matched only by its history. With a gold leaf exterior, the Golden Dome stands as one of South Bend’s most visible landmarks and can be seen from nearly anywhere in downtown. It was designed by renowned architect Jacques Greber who modeled it after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, which has an identical dome. The Golden Dome was completed in 1930 and became a symbol of the University’s success through difficult times during the Great Depression and World War II when Notre Dame remained open while others closed their doors to students.
The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
A serene atmosphere envelops the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, a sacred shrine located on The University of Notre Dame’s campus. As students pass through its gates and take in the calming sights and sounds it offers, they feel an overwhelming sense that everything will be alright.
The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes is a Catholic sanctuary built in the early 1900’s. The Grotto contains three large circular pools that represent three aspects of Mary – Virgin Mother, Queen of Heaven, and Refuge of Sinners.
Wander past the prayer benches and feel at peace. The spiritual activity that unfolds in front of you will make for an unforgettable experience as devotees kneel before the shrine to give thanks and light up candles asking for blessings.
The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes is open 24 hours for the general public.
Basilica of the Sacred Heart
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is situated at the north end of Notre Dame University’s campus. Built in a Gothic style, this church was designed to be both an incredible piece of architecture and functional art. The Catholic faith played a significant role in its construction, as one can see from its amazing architecture. Just as Notre Dame University is the centerpiece of South Bend, Indiana, this church is a major landmark and destination in its own right.
The Basilica is a beautiful cathedral that welcomes all to enjoy public events and services. It is also home to a museum with incredible pieces of art and artifacts that illustrate the Catholic faith. Visitors can see stained-glass windows, carvings from around the world, sculptures depicting saints and biblical scenes, as well as ancient religious texts written in Aramaic.
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