20 Attractions to Explore Near Fernwood Botanical Garden

Riverfront Park set along the banks of the St. Joseph River showcases stunning views of nature and idyllic waterways. Offering splash pads, playgrounds, grills, and pavilions, families can enjoy all the amenities and activities that this beautiful riverside location has to offer. An added bonus—admission is free! Whether you’re looking to have a picnic lunch or spend the day outdoors fishing in peace and quiet, Riverfront Park is sure to make your summer daydreams come true.

Mud Lake Bog Nature Preserve is a unique natural wonder with a vast diversity of wildlife and plant life. Spanning over 250 acres, it is the largest Atlantic white cedar swamp known in the state of Michigan. The preserve’s diverse habitats provide habitat for great blue herons, sandhill cranes, beavers, muskrats and river otters among others. Aside from aquatic mammals, the preserve is also home to several snakes and turtles as well as rare insect species like wood nymph butterflies.

Fort St. Joseph was a military installation that existed in Berrien County, Michigan from 1691 to 1781. It was built by French soldiers during the French-Indian War and served as both a trading post and a military fort for many years. The fort saw much conflict throughout its existence, and faced attacks from Pontiac's Rebellion in the 1760s. After the war ended, it eventually went into disrepair and was abandoned in 1781.

The Brandywine Creek Nature Park provides visitors with an opportunity to connect with nature. Located just two miles from the intersection of I-94 and M-51, the park boasts eight acres of wetlands and forest, complete with a creek running through it and abundant wildlife. The park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking trails, kayaking excursions, bird watching platforms, various educational programming and educational opportunities.

Madeline Bertrand County Park is a 580-acre park is beautiful year-round and offers a range of recreational activities from kayaking to biking. Visitors can rent kayaks and bicycles, enjoy an invigorating hike along the lakeside trail, or explore the rolling hillsides at their own pace. During winter months, skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing are great opportunities for outdoor fun. Guests can also gather around local campfires for a cozy evening gathering with friends.

Old Rugged Cross Church is a beautiful and historic place of worship. This charming church was built in the 1800s and it continues to serve the local community with its faith-based services. Inside, visitors can bask in the peaceful atmosphere, rest in the pews, and admire stunning stained glass windows. Attached to the building is a bell that has been there since its original construction, adding to its quaint charm. The church also offers a variety of activities.

Welcome to the LaSalle Trail, a scenic and inviting pathway that winds its way through the beautiful landscapes of Indiana. This recreational trail offers a wonderful opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts, cyclists, joggers, and nature lovers to explore the region's natural beauty and enjoy a range of recreational activities.

The Dowagiac Woods Nature Sanctuary is a small oasis located between M-62 and US 12. This 105-acre sanctuary offers three miles of self-guided interpretive nature trails, providing stunning views of meadows, prairies, and wetlands. Visitors to the sanctuary can explore the area's diverse wildlife including many species of birds and butterflies, as well as mammals and reptiles. Nestled within the ancient oak groves are a variety of wildflowers that are certain to wow any visitor.

Indian Lake, is a popular getaway for locals and out-of-state visitors alike. Surrounded by gorgeous outdoor beauty, the lake provides a wealth of activities for recreational enthusiasts. Fishing is a favorite pastime among visitors thanks to the annual smelt run that attracts anglers from all around each year. For those looking to enjoy a more relaxed visit, Indian Lake offers swimming, beach-going, boating, and water skiing opportunities.

Welcome to the University of Notre Dame, an iconic institution nestled on a picturesque campus in South Bend, Indiana. Founded in 1842, the university stands as a beacon of academic excellence, spiritual vitality, and a commitment to serving the greater good. Notre Dame is renowned for its rich traditions, unwavering values, and a vibrant community that shapes leaders, scholars, and individuals dedicated to making a positive impact on the world.

Welcome to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a place of spiritual reverence and architectural splendor nestled on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. The Basilica has stood as an iconic symbol of faith, learning, and community. The neo-gothic church has 44 large stained glass windows and murals completed over a 17-year period by the Vatican painter Luigi Gregori. The basilica bell tower is 230 feet high, making it the tallest university chapel in America.

Welcome to the Snite Museum of Art, an enriching cultural destination situated in the heart of Indiana. Established in1980, the museum stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, educate, and ignite the imagination. It includes about 30,000 works of art that span cultures, eras, and media. The museum supports faculty teaching and research and through programs, lectures, workshops, and exhibitions. Students play a role as gallery guides and as student advisory members.

Loftus Sports Center is a state-of-the-art indoor sports facility on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. It is designed to host various indoor sports and activities for the university's athletic programs.Situated in South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana, Loftus Sports Center is an integral part of the University of Notre Dame's athletic infrastructure.

Notre Dame Stadium is a historic and iconic football stadium located on the campus of the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. It is a renowned football stadium known for its rich history and tradition. It has been the home of the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team since its opening.

The Joyce Center, located on the campus of the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana, is a multi-purpose arena that serves as a hub for various sports and events. It is a versatile and multi-purpose facility on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. It caters to a variety of events, including athletic competitions, concerts, and other large-scale gatherings.

Rolfs Aquatic Center is a state-of-the-art facility designed for aquatic activities, including swimming and diving. It serves as a central venue for the University of Notre Dame's aquatic programs.Situated on the campus of the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana, Rolfs Aquatic Center is easily accessible to students, athletes, and the university community.

Notre Dame Stadium, located on the campus of the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana, is a historic and iconic venue primarily known for hosting American football games.

The Arlotta Family Lacrosse Stadium is the home venue for the University of Notre Dame men's and women's lacrosse teams. It serves as the primary facility for lacrosse competitions and events.

Frank Eck Stadium is the primary home venue for the University of Notre Dame's baseball program. It serves as the official stadium for the Fighting Irish baseball team. Located on the campus of the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana, the stadium is a focal point for collegiate baseball in the region.

The Compton Family Ice Arena serves as the home venue for the University of Notre Dame's ice hockey teams. It is the primary facility for both the men's and women's hockey programs.