If you're looking to get the family out of the house this winter, we have some ideas for how to do so. Kid friendly activities are around every corner.

Ice Skating

Winter activities seem to officially begin when the skating rinks open. The ice trail at Howard Park in South Bend is wildly popular (as is the state-of-the-art playground). If you want to go, keep in mind that it's best to make reservations online in advance. They tend to fill up early.

Same goes for the new Ironworks Ice Rink in downtown Mishawaka. Skating at Ironworks requires an online reservation made in advance. And it's not just skating — Ironworks has ice bumper cars and Icebykes too.

Bonus idea: If there's enough snow on the ground, tubing is one of our favorite winter activities! St. Patrick's County Park, George Wilson Park and Potato Creek State Park all have tubing hills. Call the parks in advance to get the latest schedule.

Indoor Fun and Games

Sometimes the adventure goes inside.

Generations AdventurePlex: Generations AdventurePlex has activities for all ages. Laser tag, bowling, a drop tower and the arcade are great for kids. There's also axe throwing and bocce ball.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park: A family favorite, Sky Zone in Mishawaka is like the best bounce house of all time. There's are several different ways to enjoy it, from a free climb area to a toddler zone exclusively for younger children.

Strikes and Spares Entertainment Center: Bowling, mini bowling, black light mini golf, go-karts, arcade, bumper cars — those are just some of the options at this popular Mishawaka family fun destination.

Winter Days at Potawatomi Zoo

Potawatomi Zoo puts on The Gift of Lights during the holiday season, a really fun holiday lights event. Then it shifts to Winter Days, which take place during January, February and March. Stay tuned for details as they become available.

Family Friendly Food

Is there a meal more family friendly than pizza? Or tacos? What about breakfast? If you're wondering where to eat while you're in The Bend, it's time to start exploring your options.

South Bend Chocolate Co. Factory Tour and Indiana Dinosaur Museum 

Ever wanted to take a deep dive into the world of chocolate? Here's your chance. Tours of South Bend Chocolate's production facility and museum are available. You'll learn about the chocolate-making process and make a chocolate spoon at the end. Right next door is the Indiana Dinosaur Museum, a great indoor spot for kids to dig up fossils and experience billions of years of history. 

 

Explore the University of Notre Dame

There are few places more beautiful than the University of Notre Dame, especially under a fresh blanket of snow. Families often take walks to explore some of the notable campus landmarks — the Golden Dome, Touchdown Jesus, the Basilica and the Grotto — and take a few photos.

If your family loves sports, you can also catch basketball or hockey games this time of year.