There are many wonderful aspects of life on the Andrews University campus: the scenery is beautiful (especially during springtime), there are plenty of great study spots on campus, and the bustle of student life lends to a warm environment. Aside from the beauty and warmth of the AU campus, many students find it challenging to locate off-campus experiences and activities closeby. To help remedy this predicament, I have created a list of explorations within a 30-35 minute driving radius of the Andrews campus. I hope this helps!
Bowl of Pho (Mishawaka, IN)
Bowl of Pho is a Vietnamese eatery that serves a variety of soups, noodles, and more. With plenty of vegetarian options, it is a small restaurant with great service and great food. My favorite selection from the menu is the Pho Chay, or vegetarian noodle soup. Pho Chay is a warm soup that has vegetable broth with rice noodles, vegetables, tofu, and vegetarian meatballs. The way that the flavors and seasonings all come together is remarkable. And, might I add, the basil on the side really tops everything off. 9/10 highly recommend!
Howard Park (South Bend, IN)
Howard Park is an area with various options for food and fun. The location has a newly-built play park, restaurant & mini-cafe, outdoor ice-skating during the winter, and a beautiful walkway right along the St. Joseph River. It is always nice to get out in the fresh air and enjoy the calm setting.
The Mason Jar Cafe (Benton Harbor, MI)
The Mason Jar Cafe is a great place to grab brunch with friends. What impressed me most about this spot was its friendly environment and overall great vibes. It has a homey and simple feel to it, which can be very relaxing after a long week of studying, homework, and exams. I have been to the Mason Jar several times, each time attempting to order something new ‒ but I always come back to the Goat Cheese and Grit Cakes. Yes, it is just that good. But I am sure there are many other tasty selections on the menu.
Potawatomi Zoo/Conservatories (South Bend, IN)
Potawatomi Zoo is a place I grew up visiting; it’s always had a special place in my heart. Getting out and seeing the animals can be a refreshing change of pace from the academic rigor that causes many students a great deal of stress. Closeby are the Potawatomi Conservatories, which I have yet to visit; but from pictures, it looks like a beautiful collection of botanical gardens.
Idle Hours Bookshop (South Bend, IN)
If you are like me and love to browse libraries and bookstores for their therapeutic effect, Idle Hours Bookshop is just the thing for you. It is a cute little bookshop in downtown South Bend with a variety of genres, from true crime to children's books to historical novels. You are free to wander in and out of this tranquil place as you please.
South Bend Chocolate Cafe/Downtown South Bend area (South Bend, IN)
The South Bend Chocolate Cafe is a fun place to chill that also doubles as a great study space. They have a food menu, drink menu, and dessert menu (my personal favorite). Their ice cream bar is honestly what brings me back so often. Its location right in the middle of downtown South Bend is great because it is central to other wonderful eateries and experiences. Across the street from the cafe, there are often live music sessions and other fun events for casual passersby. There is also an art studio for novices who want to try something new, like pottery or portrait painting. Not to mention the great selection of restaurants within walking distance.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.