The Mishawaka area has a number of forest preserves and outdoor recreation areas. You can picnic in one of Mishawaka's city parks, stroll along the riverfront or hike in one of the larger county parks or preserves. You might also visit the East Race Waterway in nearby South Bend. This was the first artificial whitewater rafting course in the U.S. The Mishawaka area also offers a wide selection of golf courses. If you're traveling with younger children, the Mishawaka area has a number of miniature golf courses including Putt Putt Golf and Games, State Line Mini Golf and Hacker's Golf N Games. Potato Creek State Park also offers a wide range of family activities including crafts and nature walks.
The Hanah Lindhal Children's Museum displays antique toys from around the world, fossils, artifacts and even has a fire safety training house. The museum encourages children to touch and interact with most of the exhibits. Part of the Center for History, the Kidsfirst Children's Museum is open three days a week to families and individuals. It also has school tours. Here children can see exhibits on Native American History, pioneer history and learn about historic Mishawaka characters. A trip to the South Bend Chocolate Factory is a great family treat and a good way to learn how chocolate is made.
Notre Dame is located in South Bend, the town next to Mishawaka, and hosts a number of athletic events. If you're looking for a family activity in the fall, a football game is sure to be a lively event. Basketball, tennis, hockey and a variety of other sports can also keep the kids entertained. In the summer, the South Bend Silver Hawks, a local minor league baseball team, play games in the area.
The Richard Clay Bodine State Fish Hatchery stocks fish in the St. Joseph River. A trip to the hatchery is a perfect opportunity for families to learn about this industry. You can also take the family fishing for a relaxing day on the river. Youth hunting activities are also available in the Mishawaka area. The Potawatomi Zoo is open each year from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The butterfly exhibit is particularly notable and a new otter exhibit will open in 2011.
