Howard Park in South Bend is a vibrant destination for locals and visitors alike. It’s a gathering place and an area for outdoor exploration. It’s fun, family-friendly and accessible. There’s something for every season, but there’s no doubt it shines brightest during winter.
Ice Skating
The centerpiece at Howard Park is a 16,000-square-foot ice trail and pond. It features rolling hills and soft curves as skaters glide around the loop. There's even a bridge that overlooks an entryway to the playground. Attached to the trail, the ice pond offers a more traditional skating experience. It can be used for those learning to skate or for other activities, like broomball.
Skating season begins Nov. 25 with the Winter Open and runs through early March. Season passes are on sale now. Visitors can reserve their ice time online in advance and there are specific sessions, each lasting 80 minutes.
Dress warm: Make sure to layer up for cold temperatures. There are firepits and heaters located throughout the park.
Outdoor skate changing: Change your skates outdoors near one of the heated areas.
Leave valuables at home: Lockers will be available to rent during your session. It's best, however, to leave valuables at home.
Consider visiting during non-peak hours: For those looking for more space, consider visiting during the week.
Playground and Other Amenities
Right in the middle of the ice trail sits an ADA-accessible, state-of-the-art playground with innovative and traditional playground equipment. There are various levels and each level of it is designed specifically for different age groups from 2-12.
Kids can climb to different heights, swing and otherwise burn off a little energy while parents keep an eye on what’s happening.
Elsewhere in the park you’ll find several opportunities for fun:
The Rask Family Fountains: Coming to life during summer, the park features an interactive set of water fountains and jets. Think the famous fountains outside the famous Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas on a smaller scale. It functions as a play area for kids to escape summer heat then at night, in “show mode,” transforms into a colorful light show.
Inovateus Solar Event Lawn + Festival Lawn: As you walk toward the St. Joseph River, you’ll notice the park slopes to create a natural amphitheater. It’s designed to host concerts and performances that exceed 3,000 attendees.
Riverwalk Trail: The park’s west edge butts up against the St. Joseph River. There’s a rail for walkers, runners and cyclists. The trail connects to a larger network of trails encompassing other downtown parks.
Food + Drink
If you’re looking for a quick bite, you’ll like this – the Chocolate Café Express is a concession stand that serves the park year round. It’s specialty is hot chocolate during winter. Howard Park Public House, a full-service restaurant, is steps away from the ice trail.
But since you’re in the heart of the East Bank Village, there are other options at hand.
Northern Indiana’s best burger is just down the street at The View Tavern (for the 21-and-over crowd). One of The Bend’s best pizza places, Barnaby’s, is right across the street. You can also find fine dining at Render, sandwiches at The General and more in the immediate area.
Parking
Free street parking is available all around the park, in particular along St. Louis Boulevard. This stretch is back-in angle parking for added safety. Visitors can also park for free in the adjacent Zion United Church of Christ lot Monday through Saturday and after 1 p.m. Sunday.
