Potawatomi Park — Attraction in South Bend

South Bends' best park beside the new Howard Park, which ranks no.2 due to its eradication of all the trees. Potawatomi, named after the Native American people that once lived there, is full of tall old-growth trees, so shade is easy to find, even for parking spots.

Four main features make this park unique over all others when combined. There is a fairly large zoo, the biggest outside of Chicago. It is well-kept and continuously modernized. An excellent zoo for the region. There is a playground area with excellent structures and equipment located inside a shady crop of old-growth elm, oak and maple trees. There is a wonderful conservatory that has been in operation since the 1930's (I believe, but I could be wrong). And there is a large picnick area with plenty of shelters, tables, and grills for use in a shady Grove of trees next to an open air amphitheater.

And I should also mention a fifth feature, the public vegetable garden behind the conservatory. It is large and well kept. I posted a few pictures of it...

Best park for miles. Grandkids love it. For ages up to 12. Cork base. Has splash pad. Restrooms not far. Adults get lots of exercise too either following little kids on equipment or walking around and around trying to keep the little bigger ones in sight. Zoo on other side of parking lot. Lots of picnic tables and grilled if you want to make a day of it. Ice cream truck comes down street regularly. Btw, besides tons of animals, etc. Zoo has train ride and really nice carousel. Food available in zoo. Zoo closes at 4. So not best for after school. Just hit playground and splash pad after school to really wear the...

Great place for kids of many ages - if they've got any interest in a playground, there's equipment here for them. There are several sheltered pavilions, which can be reserved for events, and grills throughout. The splash pad is nice and big, too, and a great option for kids who can't swim or don't have access to a pool.

One star reserved for cleanliness sometimes - the park's popularity and high traffic means it needs a lot of attention, which it doesn't always get. There is sometimes trash about or the remains of...