Indiana’s first zoo is the perfect place to fix your gaze on over 135 species of animals, not to mention brush up on facts about their lifespan, diet and habitat. And if you’re feeling adventurous, sign up to take part in one of the zoo’s animal encounters, where you can feed and touch bison, otters and more.

“It is the perfect size to be able to walk around and see everything with smaller children,” says Nicole Lawler, Visit South Bend Mishawaka’s director of marketing and travel media. “You can spend as much or as little time as you want. They are always adding to exhibits and changing things around to make it enjoyable.” Consider the brand-new giraffe habitat, home to four male Masai giraffes: Seymour, Maximus, Wyatt and Kellan.

You don’t have to be a student to enjoy the University of Notre Dame. Established in 1842 — over a decade before South Bend was incorporated as a city — the university boasts several iconic landmarks. Two stunning structures include the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Take a self-guided tour of the university or stop by the Eck Visitors Center for a free, student-guided tour of the campus.

Tour the region’s vibrabt art scene by downloading the #OnlyinTheBend Public Art Pass, a mobile passport that introduces users to approximately 40 pieces of public art and galleries. Feast your eyes on a collection of thought-provoking murals, gorgeous sculptures and creative works built right into the area’s landscape. Ready to get started? Snag your passport at visitsouthbend.com.