Mishawaka

UP mall was always the best mall in the area, and it’s managed to hang on over the years, when other nearby shopping centers were de-malled (Scottsdale, Pierre Moran).

I used to drive through the area all the time on my Elkhart to IUSB commute, and maybe it has some identity problems, since it’s fused at the hip to South Bend. But if you visit one, you visit the other, so I’ll say it’s worthwhile.

Close to South Bend which is home to Notre Dame. Plenty of places to go shopping, a decent food selection, and Potawatomi Zoo. Potawatomi Zoo is a great little zoo for only $6. I go at least twice a year. Here’s a huge warning. Don’t go during football season if Notre Dame is having a home game unless you go before the game ends, if not, you’ll be sorry. Traffic is AWFUL after the game ends.