Potawatomi Park

Imagine a picturesque green oasis sprawling across the eastern side of South Bend. Potawatomi Park is more than just an urban recreation area; it is a true wildlife hub in the USA, nestled between the majestic St. Joseph River and the Grand Trunk Railroad.

The park's crown jewel is the famous Potawatomi Zoo—the oldest in Indiana, having opened its doors back in 1921. Spanning over 9 hectares, it is home to more than 400 animals, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, well-maintained walking trails, and beautiful river views.

With its high ratings and AZA-accredited status, the park draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. It is the perfect spot for those seeking harmony with nature within the city, offering both educational programs and opportunities for a simple family picnic in the fresh air.

When planning your visit to Potawatomi Park, it is a good idea to save these contact details in advance to easily navigate the area or check for details on special events.

The main attraction within the park is undoubtedly the zoo, where visitors can observe rare okapi, Amur leopards, and majestic American bison. Strolling through themed zones dedicated to Africa, Asia, and the Americas, you will encounter exotic residents such as sand cats, sloths, and mongooses. A special highlight is the historic Leopard House, which preserves the architectural spirit of the 1940s.

For those looking for active fun, the park features the Zoo Train—a 1/3 scale miniature train that runs through the western part of the grounds. Another unique feature is the Endangered Species Carousel, where instead of traditional horses, you can ride hand-carved figures of rare animals. This attraction is a consistent hit with the park's younger guests.

Additionally, Potawatomi Park offers excellent opportunities for peaceful relaxation. You can enjoy a picnic in one of the green spaces, walk along the trails of the St. Joseph River, or participate in educational programs focused on species conservation. Nature lovers will appreciate the otter habitat with its unique "green" roof and the chance to see rare Sichuan takins.

Getting to the park, located at 2105 E Mishawaka Ave, is quite easy. If you are driving from downtown South Bend, a trip east on Mishawaka Avenue will take about 10–15 minutes. Free parking is available on-site, making it convenient for those traveling by car.

For those who prefer public transport, the city's TRANSPO bus system serves the area. The nearest stops are in the River Park neighborhood, just a few minutes' walk from the main entrance. If you are arriving at South Bend International Airport (SBN), a taxi ride to the park takes no more than 20 minutes (approximately 10 km).

Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the bike paths that run along the St. Joseph River. It’s an excellent way to combine a pleasant ride with a visit to the attraction. For precise navigation, we recommend using Google Maps to plot the best route from anywhere in the city.

The history of this location is inextricably linked to the region's past. The park was named after the Potawatomi tribe. The nearby St. Joseph River served for centuries as a vital transportation route, first for indigenous peoples and later for European fur traders, whose activities in the 18th century laid the foundation for the future city.

The official history of the zoo within the park began in 1921 thanks to an unusual donation. Albert Russell Erskine, then president of the famous Studebaker automobile corporation, gifted a deer to the city. This gesture marked the beginning of an animal collection that would eventually grow into one of the state's most respected zoological gardens.

Many features within the park hold historical value. In 1940, during the Great Depression, the Works Progress Administration (WPA) built the Cat House. It stands to this day and is now known as the Leopard House, home to Amur and snow leopards. Since 2014, management has been overseen by the Potawatomi Zoological Society, which continues to develop the grounds, opening modern habitats for otters and rare animal species.

To fully enjoy the zoo exhibits, ride the miniature train, and stroll through the park's shaded avenues, it is recommended to set aside about 3–4 hours. This provides enough time for a leisurely look at most enclosures and a brief rest by the river.

Families with children who plan to enjoy the rides, the carousel, and have an outdoor picnic should allow up to 5 hours for their visit. The park's grounds invite a long stay, and the abundance of play areas and fascinating animals often keeps visitors there longer than originally planned.

Potawatomi Park is open daily, making it easy to include in your travel itinerary. From Monday to Friday, the park welcomes guests from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and on Sundays, hours are extended until 11:00 PM. Please note that according to the current schedule, the park may be closed to the general public on Saturdays.

The operating hours for the zoo located within the park typically differ (usually 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM). As schedules can change based on the season or special events, visitors are strongly encouraged to check for the latest information on the official website before their trip.

Exploring the surroundings of Potawatomi Park can significantly enrich your trip. South Bend offers many interesting locations—from historic mansions to modern recreation areas—most of which are within just a few kilometers.

After a stroll through the zoo, you can explore the city's industrial heritage or visit the famous university campus. Below are some of the nearest attractions: